Car rental at Alicante Airport (ALC)

Alicante Airport is the primary air gateway to Spain’s sunny Costa Blanca. Just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) from Alicante, the ride into town by car takes around 15 minutes, give or take. The airport itself is sleek and modern, centered around a single terminal called NAT. Inside, you’ll find 96 check-in desks, 40 gates—15 with airbridges—and 16 baggage carousels keeping things moving. Whether you’re after a quick bite, a shopping fix, or a quiet moment in a VIP lounge, the amenities cover all bases. It’s a vital travel hub for the region, welcoming millions of passengers each year from across Europe and beyond. The airport handles over 15 million passengers annually. You can find more information on the airport’s official website: Alicante Airport

Touching down at Alicante Airport and need a set of wheels? You’re in luck. The main terminal’s arrivals hall has several car rental desks right where you need them—no wandering around. Once you’ve grabbed your luggage, just follow the signs, and you’ll be there in minutes. Some companies are based right inside the terminal, while others run a handy meet-and-greet service that whisks you off to nearby off-site locations. If that’s your plan, head to Level -2 for the shuttle pick-up. It’s a seamless process that gets you out of the airport and on the road to the Costa Blanca in no time.

Understand the mileage policy. Some rentals limit how far you can drive, and going over can hit your wallet hard. If you’re planning to explore the Costa Blanca or venture deeper into Spain, go for unlimited mileage and drive worry-free.

Know the cancellation terms. Things don’t always go to plan, so check that your rental includes free or flexible cancellation. That way, if something shifts last minute, you won’t be stuck paying for a car you no longer need.

Return the car on time. Running late can cost you. Avoid last-minute stress and plan to be back with time to spare. A smooth return saves you money and keeps the end of your trip hassle-free.

Choose the right car for your trip. It’s not just about looks. If you’re winding through old town alleys, smaller is smarter. But for longer journeys or family travel, go for something roomier and more comfortable. Think practically, not just stylistically.

Read the rental agreement carefully. Don’t breeze through the fine print. Check what’s covered, what’s not, and when charges might creep in. A quick read can save you from surprises that turn a great trip into a frustrating one.

Santa Bárbara Castle. Sitting high on Mount Benacantil, this ancient fortress watches over Alicante like a timeless guardian. The views are breathtaking, and every stone whispers stories from Spain’s rich and rugged past. History buffs, this one’s for you.

Explanada de España. This lively promenade, with its wave-patterned tiles and rows of swaying palms, feels like the soul of the city. It’s where Alicante comes alive—music in the air, local stalls, and the sea just steps away.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ). More than a museum, MARQ is a deep dive into Spain’s story, from prehistoric times to the present. The interactive exhibits make the past feel vivid, personal, and surprisingly fun.

Postiguet Beach. Just a stone’s throw from the city center, this sun-drenched beach blends urban energy with seaside calm. Sink your toes into golden sand, listen to the waves, and let Spain’s Mediterranean magic do the rest.

Tabarca Island. A peaceful escape from the mainland, this tiny island packs charm by the boatload. Think crystal-clear water, quiet coves, and seafood so fresh it might’ve been swimming just minutes ago. Absolute bliss.

Villajoyosa. Just 35 minutes from Alicante, Villajoyosa feels like a splash of sunshine on the coast. Wander through its candy-colored streets, treat yourself to local chocolate, and soak up the laid-back beach vibe.

Altea. Only 40 minutes away, Altea is pure Mediterranean charm. Think whitewashed houses, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and views that make you stop mid-step. Don’t miss the iconic blue-domed church watching over it all.

Guadalest. About 1 hour from Alicante, Guadalest looks like a postcard brought to life. Perched on a dramatic rock ledge, this tiny village is packed with charm, history, and a view that’ll leave you speechless.

Murcia. After just 1 hour and 10 minutes on the road, Murcia greets you with grand plazas, sun-warmed stone, and the scent of tapas in the air. The baroque cathedral alone is worth the trip.

Cartagena. In 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll step into the layered history of Cartagena. From Roman amphitheaters to buzzing waterfront cafés, this coastal city blends past and present with effortless Spanish flair.