Alicante located in the Valencian Autonomous Community has been honored as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2025.
This prestigious title was officially announced in November 2024 positioning Alicante as a premier destination for culinary tourism throughout the year.
Inaugural Showcase at ITB Berlin
To mark the commencement of its gastronomic capital status, Alicante made a significant appearance at the International Tourism Fair (ITB) in Berlin, one of the world’s leading travel trade shows.
During this event, Alicante’s rich culinary heritage was showcased to an international audience, emphasizing its commitment to promoting local cuisine on a global platform.
Culinary Excellence: The Essence of Alicante
Alicante’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in Mediterranean traditions, with rice dishes holding a place of prominence.
The city is often referred to as the “city of one thousand and one rice dishes,” offering a diverse array ranging from ‘arroz al horno’ (baked rice) and ‘arroz con costra’ (rice with a crust) to the iconic ‘arroz a banda’ (rice cooked in fish stock).
These dishes exemplify the region’s dedication to utilizing high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including extra virgin olive oil, saffron, ‘ñora’ peppers, and the distinctive ‘salmorreta’ seasoning.
The city’s commitment to culinary excellence is further evidenced by the 37 certified restaurants under the “Alicante City of Rice” quality label, ensuring exceptional standards in rice preparation.
Additionally, the introduction of the “Alicante Gourmet” brand aims to elevate the city’s gastronomic reputation on an international scale.
Strategic Promotion and International Outreach
The appointment as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy serves as a catalyst for Alicante to enhance its international tourism appeal.
The city plans to focus its external promotion throughout the year at various international fairs and through targeted actions, including destination presentations in countries such as Italy, France, Sweden, and Poland.
This strategic approach aims to attract a diverse range of tourists, showcasing Alicante’s rich culinary offerings and cultural heritage.
Germany: A Key Market for Growth
Germany has been identified as a significant market for Alicante’s tourism sector.
The numerous direct air connections between Germany and Alicante facilitate travel, making it an accessible destination for German tourists.
By leveraging its gastronomic appeal, Alicante aims to captivate German visitors, offering them an authentic and enriching culinary experience.
Comprehensive Tourism Promotion: Beyond Gastronomy
While gastronomy remains a focal point, Alicante’s promotional efforts at ITB Berlin also highlighted other key tourism segments:
- MICE Tourism: Alicante is positioning itself as an attractive destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), offering state-of-the-art facilities and services to cater to business travelers.
- City Breaks: The city’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant urban life, and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for urban weekend getaways, appealing to tourists seeking short but immersive experiences.
During the ITB Berlin fair, representatives from the Alicante City&Beach Tourism Board engaged in approximately twenty meetings with tour operators and tourism companies.
These interactions aimed to forge partnerships and collaborations to boost Alicante’s visibility and attractiveness in the global tourism market.
Conclusion
Alicante’s designation as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2025 serves as a testament to its rich culinary heritage and commitment to excellence.
By leveraging international platforms like ITB Berlin, the city aims to solidify its position as a top gastronomic destination, attracting tourists from around the world to experience its diverse and delectable offerings.
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