Alicante is the capital of the Costa Blanca — a vibrant city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, famous for its beaches, its castle, and a nightlife that draws visitors from across Europe. It is a city of extraordinary contrasts — the modern waterfront, the medieval Santa Bárbara Castle, the historic Barrio de Santa Cruz, and the contemporary art of the MACA museum. Alicante is also the gateway to the Costa Blanca, with resorts like Benidorm, Calpe, and Jávea, and the inland towns of the Marina Alta. Hiring a car here lets you explore the coastline, the mountains, the vineyards, and the historic cities of the region.
We compare Avis, Hertz, Europcar and local operators in Alicante. Compact cars start around €15/day in low season and €30–€45/day in summer.
Why Hire a Car in Alicante
- Santa Bárbara Castle: A medieval castle on Mount Benacantil, overlooking the city and the sea. The views from the top are spectacular, and the history spans from the Moors to the Napoleonic Wars.
- The Explanada de España: A waterfront promenade of 6.5 million marble tiles, lined with palm trees, cafes, and street performers. It is the social heart of Alicante.
- The Barrio de Santa Cruz: The old town, with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and colourful flowers. It is a charming area to wander, especially in the evening.
- The Beaches: Alicante has excellent beaches — Playa del Postiguet (in the city centre), San Juan (a long stretch of sand to the north), and Albufereta (a quieter cove).
- Benidorm: 45 minutes north. The most famous resort on the Costa Blanca, with high-rise hotels, a vibrant nightlife, and two long beaches.
- The Algar Waterfalls: 1 hour north. A series of waterfalls and natural pools in a beautiful gorge. It is a popular spot for swimming and hiking.
- Guadalest: 1 hour inland. A mountain village perched on a pinnacle, with a castle, a museum, and stunning views of the reservoir and the mountains.
- The Wine: The Alicante wine region produces excellent red wine, particularly Monastrell. The wineries of the Vinalopó Valley offer tastings.
Driving in Alicante
Spain drives on the right. The A-7 and AP-7 motorways connect Alicante to Valencia, Murcia, and the rest of the coast. The roads are excellent. Speed limits are 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on main roads and 50 km/h in towns.
Parking in Alicante is in multi-storey car parks — expect €10–€15 per day. At the beaches, parking is along the road.
Booking Tips for Alicante
- Book 4–6 weeks ahead for summer.
- If visiting the Algar Waterfalls, arrive early to avoid crowds.
- GPS is useful — the mountain roads are winding.
- If combining with Valencia, the drive is 2 hours north.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire in Alicante
Is Alicante worth visiting? Yes — it is a vibrant, beautiful city with a stunning castle, excellent beaches, and easy access to the Costa Blanca.
Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine for the coast and main roads.
Can I use my EU driving licence? Yes — EU licences are valid in Spain.