Tips when renting a car at Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)
- It's worth booking in advance, especially in summer, at Easter, and on long weekends – even more so if you want a specific car category.
- Always bring your driver's licence and a credit card in the main driver's name. If you're travelling from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit can be helpful.
- Driving is on the right, and the main access to the airport is via the N-338, which connects to the A-70 and N-332 – the key roads for getting around the Costa Blanca.
- Some sections of the AP-7, further south or towards Cartagena, are still toll roads. Ask your rental company whether your vehicle includes an electronic toll device or if you'll need to pay at the booths.
- A small car is more than enough for getting around Alicante and the coastal towns. If you're travelling with a lot of luggage or with family, it may be worth upgrading to an SUV.
- Inspect the car carefully and take photos when you pick it up and when you return it.
Why Rent a Car at Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)
Alicante Airport is the perfect starting point for exploring everything the Costa Blanca has to offer. With a rental car, you can be in the city of Alicante in just 15–20 minutes, and from there it's easy to drive to Benidorm, Altea, Calpe, Torrevieja, or inland villages elsewhere in the province without relying on public transport or organised excursions.
Inside the terminal, you'll find a wide range of national and international rental companies, with desks in the arrivals area and clearly signposted car parks. You can collect your car as soon as you land and be on your way to the coast or the countryside within minutes.
Driving from Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) – Getting Started
Alicante Airport is about 12 km from the city center, and the drive usually takes 15-20 minutes. Most drivers take the A-70 or the N-332 together with the N-338, following signs for "Alicante".
Common routes include:
- Elche – around 20 minutes via the N-338 and A-70, it's ideal if you're staying there or want to visit its famous palm grove.
- Benidorm – about 40-45 minutes via the AP-7 or the A-70/E-15, perfect if you're looking for beaches and lively nightlife.
- Torrevieja and the Vega Baja – roughly 40-45 minutes following the N-332, a coastal road with views of the sea and nearby salt lagoons.
- Northern Costa Blanca (Altea and Calpe) – between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes via the AP-7, combining motorway stretches with scenic coastal roads.
Explore Alicante and the Costa Blanca from Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)
From Alicante Airport, a rental car makes it easy to reach the city center and many other spots along the Costa Blanca. It's an ideal launchpad if you want a mix of beach time, urban sightseeing, and short trips to nearby towns.
In and around Alicante:
- Old town and Explanada de España – stroll along the promenade by the harbour and explore the Santa Cruz quarter.
- Santa Bárbara Castle – enjoy panoramic views over the entire bay from the hilltop fortress.
- City beaches – such as San Juan or El Postiguet, both well connected by road.
Recommended day trips and scenic routes
- Northern Costa Blanca – Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Altea, and Calpe: link colourful towns and quiet coves, stop for a swim, have lunch by the sea, and take in the views.
- Inland Alicante – visit places like Sax, Villena, and Biar, or drive up towards Alcoy and the Sierra de Mariola, ideal if you want to mix history with hiking.
- Elche and Crevillente – Elche's palm grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the area also offers museums, countryside walks, and excellent local food. Great if you’re looking for something cultural but relaxed.
- Santa Pola and Guardamar salt flats – drive through landscapes of dunes, marshes, and lagoons where you can spot birds such as flamingos and herons. It's an easy car trip with well-marked roads and several viewpoints where you can pull over.
