Car Rental Alicante Airport

Get behind the wheel and embark on a Costa Blanca adventure through historic villages and along inspiring coastal roads.

After collecting your rental car from Alicante Airport, follow the coastal N-332 route northbound to head into the city. The journey usually takes around 20 minutes. You’ll see many sights along the way, including Santa Bárbara Castle on the hilltop, the Port of Alicante and many glorious golden beaches.

You have numerous options for parking in Alicante. On-street parking in the centre is limited to two hours, and spaces can be limited. But even if the central spaces are full, you’ll likely find a space around the port, where two large parking lots are available.

If you fancy spreading your wings and journeying further afield, the artistic city of Valencia is approximately two hours’ drive away. Take the highway north up the Orange Blossom Coast to explore the city’s thriving cultural scene and beautiful cityscape.

You could also head south-west to Murcia. This laidback provincial capital is only around one hour’s drive from Alicante via the A-7 highway, making it the ideal choice for a day trip. Make sure you visit the famously decadent cathedral and the crumbling hilltop castle when you’re there.

Motorists in Spain drive on the right-hand side and wearing a seatbelt is a legal requirement. The maximum speed on major highways is typically 120km/h, on other routes in non-built up areas it is usually around 90km/h, and it generally drops to 50km/h in towns and cities, though some residential zones and city centre routes may have limits as low as 20km/h. Always keep an eye on signs as this can vary.

The routes are relatively well maintained in this region, especially near the towns and cities. There are numerous toll routes in and around Alicante, however, so it’s a good idea to carry some loose currency in the car.

Boasting a long and fascinating history that spans more than seven centuries, the city of Alicante is rich with things to see and do.

Coupled with blissful Mediterranean sunshine, white-sand beaches and vivid blue waters, it’s clear to see why this is such a popular vacation spot.

Historic architecture

Walk around Old Town and you can’t help but admire the Baroque and Rococo buildings, giving you the feel for vintage Spain. This charming part of the city is adorned with winding hillside staircases lined by palm trees and fragrant window boxes full of blooming flowers. It’s a beautiful place to explore at your leisure – and there’ll be no shortage of picture-perfect shots to capture along the way.

It’s here you’ll find the 17^th-century San Nicholas Cathedral – instantly recognisable by its blue roof tiles. Just a few minutes’ walk away is the Basilica of Santa Maria. This is the oldest sacred building in the whole of Alicante, built in the 16^th century. The lavish stone carvings are a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with a distinctly Valencian touch.

Arguably the most impressive feature in Alicante is Santa Bárbara Castle, which dates even further back. This 9^th-century fortress claims the premier hilltop spot, delivering sublime coastal views. If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk up the winding path to reach the summit of the mount. Alternatively, driving is an equally fulfilling experience.

Picturesque dining

From premium restaurant chains to rustic street food, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds in the city’s Mulle Levante wharf area.

Feast on fresh seafood and tuck in to tapas against the backdrop of yachts bobbing in the harbour. Not sure what to order? Paella’s an obvious choice – it’s said to be the finest in Spain.

The Old Town doesn’t disappoint for fantastic places to eat, either. International restaurants fill the streets with mouth-watering aromas, catering to a full range of tastes. However, if you’d rather blow your budget on souvenirs and experiences, you’ll find some fine family-friendly restaurants along the promenade.

Beaches and natural wonders

Blessed with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, the Costa Blanca coastline is heaven for sun worshippers. Playa del Postiguet is the most central beach, located next to the marina. The earlier in the morning or later in the evening you make it down, the more peaceful it’s likely to be. You might want to avoid the peak time of Sunday, when locals head down and join the tourists to make the most of the weather.

Up the coast, Playa del Coco is usually a little quieter – perfect for an afternoon of reading and relaxing. If it’s adventure you’re after, drive out of the city to San Juan beach where you can get stuck into some serious water sports. There’s also an abundance of shops and bars nearby.

Drive half an hour north from Alicante to discover the incredible Canelobre Caves. Hailing from Jurassic times, these underground chambers are estimated to be around 145 million years old. Head inside to see the towering stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by lights in all the colours of the rainbow.

Whether you’re staying locally or exploring the wider region, uncover the greatest sights and attractions this remarkable area has to offer with car rental at Alicante Airport.