Ermita de Santa Cruz - Church
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Ermita de Santa Cruz

4.6
·122 reviews·Alicante (Alacant), Spain

Historic chapel offering breathtaking panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea, nestled in the charming El Barrio neighborhood.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Ermita de Santa Cruz - Church

Ermita de Santa Cruz

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic chapel offering breathtaking panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea, nestled in the charming El Barrio neighborhood.

4.6
(122 reviews)

"Lovely little spot with scenic views over the city and seaside, charming walk up little stairways through the old town."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

The walk up through the old town involves stairways and charming, uneven streets. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring!

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning panoramic vistas of Alicante and the sea.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of El Barrio neighborhood

Breathtaking panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. The climb is well worth it!

Authentic Old-World Charm

Authentic Old-World Charm

Surrounding El Barrio neighborhood

Wander through traditional architecture, colorful flowerpots, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Historic Chapel

Historic Chapel

Ermita de Santa Cruz

A beautiful, small church at the top of the neighborhood, offering a glimpse into history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Ermita de Santa Cruz is a charming spot, it's often described as a 'little church' or 'small spot.' Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid potential wedding crowds, as it's a popular venue. Check local event listings if possible.

Respecting the Space

This historic site is a popular wedding venue and a place of local significance. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of ongoing events and to 'respect the locals' as they explore the surrounding old town.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ermita de la santa cruz - #antiguaguatemala #antiguaweddings #weddingguatemala #oldchuch #uniquewedding #ancientruins #weddingvideography
rodrigozadro
891 likes • 18.7K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

The walk up through the old town involves stairways and charming, uneven streets. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning panoramic vistas of Alicante and the sea. Instagram

Ermita de la Santa Cruz, beautiful wedding venue!
saguzo.wp
35 likes • 1.3K views
Ermita de la Santa Cruz// WP: @estuardoreynaproduction Deco: @lamagnoliagt MakeUp: @paomakeupgt
losdekai
122 likes • 6K views

🤫 Be Mindful of Events

This is a popular wedding venue. Be aware of potential events and respect the privacy of celebrations. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Neighborhood

Don't just go to the Ermita; wander through the charming streets of El Barrio for authentic local charm. Reddit

Ermita de la Santa Cruz. Siglo XVII. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #antiguaguatemala #guatemala #antigua #guatemala🇬🇹 #visitguatemala #instaguate #antiguagt #travelantigua #travelgt #patrimoniocultural #patrimoniohistorico #artworld #history #ruinas #historia #arquitectura #storia #colonial #barroco #monumentos #culturalheritage #arte_mondo
adonek16
143 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

The walk up through the old town involves stairways and charming, uneven streets. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning panoramic vistas of Alicante and the sea. Instagram

🤫 Be Mindful of Events

This is a popular wedding venue. Be aware of potential events and respect the privacy of celebrations. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Neighborhood

Don't just go to the Ermita; wander through the charming streets of El Barrio for authentic local charm. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(122 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Ermita de Santa Cruz for its stunning panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea, and the charming, authentic atmosphere of the surrounding El Barrio neighborhood. The walk up through the old town is often highlighted as a rewarding experience, though some note the chapel itself can appear a bit run-down or closed.

"Lovely little spot with scenic views over the city and seaside, charming walk up little stairways through the old town to get to it."

terike

"The neighborhood exudes an authentic, old-world charm that's hard to find elsewhere. The traditional architecture, the colorful flowerpots, and the peaceful atmosphere create a truly magical.
As you wander through the streets, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. The climb is well worth it!"

Ivan Mrsic

"A beautiful, small church at the top of the El Barrio neighborhood with a fantastic view of the city."

Ivana A

What People Like

Spectacular city and sea views
Charming old-world neighborhood
Peaceful and authentic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Chapel sometimes closed/run-down

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ermita de Santa Cruz is located at the top of the El Barrio neighborhood. You can reach it by walking through the charming old town streets, which involves climbing stairways. It's a scenic trek that offers rewarding views as you ascend. Reddit

Parking directly at the Ermita is limited due to its location in the historic old town. It's best to park in a public car park in Alicante city center and walk up, or consider public transport to the lower parts of El Barrio. Reddit

While there isn't a direct bus to the Ermita itself, you can take buses to the lower parts of El Barrio and then enjoy the walk up through the picturesque streets. Check local bus routes for options into the old town area. Reddit

The walk involves stairways and inclines through the old town. While it's described as a 'charming walk,' it requires a moderate level of fitness. Take your time and enjoy the journey. Reddit

The best way is to embrace the walk through the old town, appreciating the traditional architecture and flowerpots. The journey itself is part of the charm, leading to the beautiful views at the top. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no tickets are required to visit the exterior of the Ermita de Santa Cruz and enjoy the surrounding viewpoints. It's a public space for enjoying the scenery. Reddit

The Ermita itself is a small church and may have limited or specific opening hours. It's often described as being 'closed' from the outside, but the surrounding area and views are accessible. Reddit

Due to the historic nature of the old town and the stairways involved in reaching the Ermita, it may not be fully accessible for individuals with significant mobility challenges. Reddit

Yes, the Ermita de Santa Cruz is a very popular and beautiful venue for weddings and corporate events. If you're planning to visit, be mindful of potential private events. Instagram+4

No, there is no entrance fee for the viewpoint. The panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea are free to enjoy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The primary photo opportunities are the panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea from the top. The charming streets of El Barrio also offer picturesque backdrops. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The historic chapel, charming streets, and stunning views make it an incredibly popular and photogenic location for wedding photography. Instagram+4

Late afternoons, especially around sunset, offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. However, morning light can also be lovely for capturing the city. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local Alicante drone laws and regulations before flying a drone in this historic and residential area. Instagram

It's renowned for its scenic cityscapes, romantic wedding photography, and capturing the authentic charm of old Alicante. Instagram+5

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea, exploring the historic chapel (from the outside if closed), and wandering through the charming streets of the surrounding El Barrio neighborhood. Reddit

You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how much you want to explore the surrounding neighborhood and enjoy the views. Reddit

The atmosphere is generally peaceful and charming, with a sense of authentic, old-world charm. The views contribute to a serene and picturesque experience. Reddit

As you descend back into El Barrio, you'll find local cafes and small shops. The immediate area around the Ermita is more focused on the views and the historic structure. Reddit

It's a historic chapel dating back to the 17th century, offering a glimpse into the past. Its prime location also makes it a significant viewpoint for the city. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the walk up to the Ermita de Santa Cruz involves stairs and can be a bit of a trek, it can be a fun adventure for families with older children. The journey through the charming streets of El Barrio offers visual interest, and the panoramic views at the top are a great reward. Pack snacks and water, and take breaks as needed. The connection to Parc de l'Ereta also offers more space to roam. Reddit

For families with very young children or those with strollers, the steep stairways might present a challenge. Consider the physical capabilities of your family members when planning this excursion. The experience is more about the scenic walk and the views rather than specific child-centric activities at the Ermita itself.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

The Ermita de Santa Cruz and its surroundings are a dream for photographers. The historic architecture of El Barrio, the vibrant colors of the flowerpots, and the sweeping panoramic views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. InstagramReddit The golden hour light in the late afternoon is particularly magical for capturing the cityscape. Reddit

As a popular wedding venue, it's also a prime location for capturing romantic and celebratory moments. Be aware of potential events, but even then, the surrounding streets offer fantastic photographic potential. For those interested in mapping and art, the area provides a unique canvas. Instagram

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Ermita de Santa Cruz offers a wonderfully romantic experience. The charming walk through the old town, hand-in-hand, sets a beautiful tone. Reaching the top to witness the breathtaking panoramic views together, especially during sunset, creates unforgettable moments. Reddit

This spot is also a highly desirable wedding venue, underscoring its romantic appeal. Even if you're not getting married, the serene atmosphere and stunning vistas make it an ideal location for a quiet, intimate outing. Consider extending your visit to Parc de l'Ereta for even more spectacular views. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring El Barrio

The journey to the Ermita de Santa Cruz is as much about the experience of walking through El Barrio as it is about the destination itself. This historic neighborhood is characterized by its traditional architecture, vibrant colorful flowerpots, and a peaceful atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. As you ascend, you'll navigate charming, narrow streets and stairways, each turn revealing a new picturesque scene. It's a place where you can truly soak in the authentic, old-world charm of Alicante. Reddit

Many visitors recommend taking your time to wander and appreciate the details of El Barrio. The community emphasizes the importance of respecting the locals who live here, so be mindful of noise and privacy as you explore. The climb, while requiring some effort, is consistently described as rewarding, not just for the views but for the immersive experience of the neighborhood itself. Reddit

This area is also a popular spot for mapping and art projects, showcasing the creative spirit that thrives within its historic walls. The blend of history, local life, and artistic expression makes El Barrio a unique and memorable part of any visit to Alicante. Instagram

The Ermita as a Venue

Beyond its historical significance and scenic views, the Ermita de Santa Cruz is highly sought after as a venue for weddings and corporate events. Its picturesque setting, with the chapel as a backdrop and the stunning city panorama, creates a magical ambiance for celebrations. Numerous Instagram Reels showcase elaborate setups, floral decorations, and happy couples exchanging vows against this beautiful backdrop. Instagram+5

Planners and attendees often highlight the magical ceremony and the unique atmosphere the Ermita provides. The venue's popularity means that if you're planning a visit, it's wise to check for any scheduled events to ensure a more tranquil experience. However, even with events happening, the surrounding area still offers opportunities to appreciate the site's beauty from a distance. Instagram

The venue's appeal lies in its combination of historical architecture and breathtaking natural scenery, making it a memorable location for significant life events. From intimate ceremonies to larger corporate gatherings, the Ermita de Santa Cruz offers a distinctive and visually striking setting. Instagram

Connecting to Parc de l'Ereta

For those seeking even more expansive vistas, a tip from visitors is to continue your journey from the Ermita de Santa Cruz to the Parc de l'Ereta. A stairway connects these two points, offering a seamless transition to another incredible viewpoint. Reddit

Parc de l'Ereta is celebrated for providing the most stunning views of the city, mountains, and the sunset. This extension of your exploration allows for a more comprehensive appreciation of Alicante's landscape, making your visit to the area even more rewarding. It's an excellent way to maximize your time and experience the diverse beauty the city has to offer from elevated perspectives. Reddit

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