How To Get To Alicante: Your Awesome Travel Guide
If you’re wondering how to get to Alicante for some much-needed sunshine, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered.
This guide makes planning your journey straightforward, whether you’re travelling by flight, train, sea or road. I’ll cover transport options, tips for booking and what to expect on arrival.
I’ll also share advice on local transport options and must-see spots to explore. No confusion, just clear steps for an unforgettable trip to Alicante, Spain’s Costa Blanca.
How To Get To Alicante By Plane
Direct Flights to Alicante
How to fly to Alicante is simple. And thanks to its international airport, there are plenty of direct flights to Alicante from the UK and beyond.
Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is around 9 km from the city centre, making it very convenient for visitors.
Flight Times and Airline Options
Flights from major UK airports like London, Manchester, and Birmingham regularly land in Alicante. Popular airlines flying to Alicante include:
Direct flights from London Gatwick, Luton, and Manchester
Direct flights from London Stansted, Manchester, and other regional airports
Serves destinations such as Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham
Seasonal flights from London Heathrow and Gatwick
A typical flight takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes from the UK to Alicante.
Cost
Flight costs can vary, but on average, a one-way ticket can range from £30 to £150 depending on the season. Summer months are almost always more expensive. I’ve bought a return trip for as little as £30 in January (when it was still 22 degrees Celcius!)
To get the best deal, I recommend using Skyscanner to compare flight prices. Booking in advance or flying during off-peak months can help you find low-cost flights to Alicante.
Tips on Finding Low-Cost Flights
Alerts
Set up alerts on Skyscanner to track prices for your preferred dates
Flexibility
Be flexible with your dates – mid-week flights tend to be cheaper
Go Direct
Check budget airlines using Ryanair’s Fare Finder and EasyJet for great deals.
By following these tips, you can score an affordable flight and begin your journey to Alicante. For more detailed guidance on how to find cheap flights, grab my free guide.
How To Get To Alicante By Rail Or Road
If you’re travelling within Spain or Europe, there are several efficient and comfortable transport options to reach Alicante.
How to Travel to Alicante by Bus from other Spanish cities
The FlixBus network offers convenient bus services to Alicante from several of Spain’s major cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.
The bus journey from Valencia to Alicante takes around 2 hours, while from Madrid, it’s about 4 hours.
These buses are relatively cheap, with tickets starting from around €10-€25 depending on the route and booking time.
How to Get to Alicante by Train
Alicante has a well-connected railway station, Estación de Alicante. High-speed trains (AVE) from Madrid to Alicante take approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. The train from Valencia to Alicante takes just over 1 hour.
Train tickets can be purchased online via Renfe or Omnio, which is how I find cheap train tickets, or at the station. Prices start at €20 for budget options. For comfort and speed, I recommend the Euromed or AVE services.
You can even travel by train from London to Alicante via the Eurostar, and then connecting through France and Spain.
How to Get to Alicante by Car
If you’re keen on driving, Alicante is accessible by car from several major Spanish cities.
Alicante directions from Madrid are simple. You can take the A-3 and A-31, which will bring you to Alicante in about 4 hours. From Valencia, it’s just an hour and a half via the AP-7 highway.
Both drives are straightforward, and parking is generally available around the city centre. Although I recommend checking parking options online in advance to avoid any hassle.
How To Get To Alicante By Boat
Alicante is a popular destination for cruises, and possible to visit by boat from other Mediterranean countries. There are three typical ways of sailing into the city’s port:
Public Transport Ferries
There are regular ferries between Alicante and several cities along the Spanish Mediterranean coast, including Ibiza and Formentera.
These ferries can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on your departure point.
Cruise Ships
If you’re on a cruise, Alicante’s port is a common stop on Mediterranean itineraries.
The cruise terminal is well connected to the city centre, and you can easily find a bus or taxi to get into town.
Scenic Boat Tours
Once in Alicante, taking a scenic boat tour is a fantastic way to explore the coastline.
Several operators offer boat trips along the Costa Blanca, with highlights including views of the Santa Barbara Castle and local beaches.
How To Get To Alicante City – Transport From The Airport
Once you’ve landed at Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), you’ll need to know how to get to Alicante city centre. And it’s easy – once you know how. The airport is well-connected to Alicante by bus, taxi, and private transfer services.
Public Transport
The C6 bus is the most popular and affordable option for getting into Alicante. It even offers free Wi-Fi and USB charging points. Here’s everything you need to know:
Finding the Bus Stop at the Airport
From departures, head up the stairs or escalator to arrivals. Once you exit the arrivals hall, the C6 bus stop is clearly marked right outside. Buses run every 20 minutes between the hours of 5.40am and midnight, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Scheduled Days and Times
The C6 bus runs daily from 5.40am to midnight, making it a convenient option for most flight arrivals.
Cost and How to Pay
A one-way ticket costs €4.50 for adults and €1 for over 65s, and you can purchase it at the ticket machine or directly from the bus driver by cash or card.
If travelling with others, it’s often cheaper to buy a Bono Bus airport pass card. It costs €2 for the card, plus €12.50 to top it up with 10 journeys. However, frequent promotions make the 10 journeys up to half price. And you can use the same card for multiple passengers at the same time, offering great savings for families and friends. Top-ups are valid for two years, so can also be saved for a future trip.
Where to Get Off
The C6 bus passes several key locations in Alicante, including:
- For Alicante Train Station, look for the Estacion de Trenes Avenida de Salamanca s/n stop.
- For the city centre, including Mercat Central d’Alacant (market) and ‘Mushroom Street’, get off at Alfonso El Sabio.
- For Postiguet Beach or to take the lift to Santa Barbara Castle, use the Plaza Puerta del Mar stop.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the airport. A typical ride from the airport to the city centre takes about 20 minutes and should cost around €20-€30.
Radio Tele Taxi Alicante is a good local service for pre-booking. They can be contacted by WhatsApp on +34 671 101 611, or click below to connect.
A taxi is ideal if you have heavy luggage or simply prefer a quicker, more direct transfer.
Private Transfer
If you’re looking for convenience and comfort to journey to Alicante, a private transfer is a great choice.
Companies like Get Your Guide offer pre-booked transfers. These cost around €15-€20 per person, with prices depending on the type of vehicle and number of passengers.
You’ll be met at the airport and driven directly to your hotel or destination in about 20 minutes.
How To Get Around In Alicante
Getting around in Alicante is easy and affordable. Once you’re in the city, there are plenty of public transport options as well as taxi services.
Local Public Transport
Alicante has an excellent public transport system, including buses and trams. A single bus ticket costs about €1.45, and the tram system is perfect for travelling along the coast.
If you plan on using public transport frequently, consider purchasing a Bonobus Tourist Card. These give 24, 48 or 72 hours unlimited use of TAM urban bus lines (red buses), TAM intercity bus lines (blue buses) and tram lines between Alicante, Playa de San Juan and Campello. These usually cost between €13 and €18, but again are often discounted.
Taxi Services
You can hail a taxi on the street. Or use apps like Cabify or Uber to book rides as well as local firms. A typical ride within the city costs around €5-€10.
Bicycle or Scooter Rentals
For a more eco-friendly way to explore, you can rent a bicycle. Or whizz around on an electric scooter through apps like Hopp (€0.95 to start then €0.25 per minute).
What To See In Alicante
Once you’ve figured out how to get to Alicante, you’ll want to make the most of your time there.
The city offers an exciting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. My Alicante travel guide below details some must-see attractions.
Santa Barbara Castle
Located on a hilltop, Santa Barbara Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city and admission is free. Guided tours are also free and are hosted twice a day in English (and twice in Spanish).
And if you want to know how to get to Alicante’s main attraction, you can reach it by walking up the hill. If that doesn’t appeal, you can take the shuttle minibus or use the lift. The lift fee is €2.70 per person, or free for pensioners and children under 5, and covers both ways. Full details for the shuttle minibus and guided tours can be found on the castle website.
Personally I’d recommend using the lift to go up to the castle, and walking back down. The walk takes you through the old town (El Barrio) to see charming spots like ‘House With The Blue Pots’. This was one of my favourite spots in the old town.
Marina
A stroll along Alicante Marina is an essential activity for anyone visiting the city. This picturesque area stretches along the coastline, offering incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea. I loved looking at all the majestic yachts docked at the marina.
The marina is also home to a range of excellent waterfront restaurants and cafes. And these offer everything from fresh seafood to tapas and cocktails. In the evening, some bars and restaurants host live music, making it a great place to enjoy a drink.
If you want to see the coastline close up, there are several boat tours that depart from the marina. You can choose from relaxing sailing tours from 1 hour to all day excursions. Or opt for a more adventurous speedboat trip,to visit hidden coves, beaches, or even spot marine life like dolphins.
Beach
One of Alicante’s main draws is its beautiful Postiguet Beach, located on the edge of the city centre. This golden-sand beach is perfect if you want to relax, swim, or take in the Mediterranean sun.
The beach has sunbeds and parasols available for you to rent as well as kayaks and paddleboards. And there are opportunities for volleyball and water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing.
The beach has foot showers and is well served by local beach bars. Here you’ll find food, drink and snacks including ice cream.
Mushroom Street
Alicante’s Carrer de la Rambla is what’s commonly referred to as Mushroom Street. It’s quirky and vibrant, and offers a unique blend of local life, artistic expression, and creative shops.
The name “Mushroom Street” comes from the striking, large mushroom-shaped structures that are part of the street’s distinctive street art. It’s become an Instagram-worthy destination in its own right.
Carrer de la Rambla is also the perfect place if you want to shop or find food and drink. You can also enjoy frequent local events and performances, from live music to pop-up markets.
Explanada de España
One of Alicante’s most famous landmarks is the Explanada de España. This grand promenade runs parallel to the marina and is lined with palm trees.
The defining feature of this boulevard, as you can see, is its striking floor mosaic. It features marble tiles arranged in a flowing, wave-like pattern of red, white, and black.
The Explanada de España is dotted with cafes, kiosks and vendors selling art, jewellery, and local crafts. So you can enjoy a coffee while watching local street performers and musicians or pick up a unique souvenir.
What To Do In Alicante
Alicante is a city that’s brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. While you can explore on your own, sometimes it’s worth joining a guided tour or activity to discover hidden gems.
1. Tuk Tuk Tour
Explore the top sights effortlessly on this personalised tour while expert guides share fascinating local insights.
The tour includes Plaza Puerto del Mar, Santa Barbara Castle, Alicante Old Town, Playa San Juan and more. The vehicle is electric so it’s eco-friendly. And it seats four people, so it’s ideal for families or those with limited mobility.
Prices start at €100 for the full 3-hour tour. Book in advance on Get Your Guide to secure availability and avoid ticket queues.
2. Alicante Kayaking & Snorkelling Adventure
For an active and outdoor experience, the Kayak & Snorkelling Adventure is an absolute must. It’s the perfect way to discover Alicante’s coastline and enjoy spectacular views as you explore hidden coves and caves.
Even if you’ve never kayaked or snorkelled before, the guides give safety instructions so it’s suitable for beginners.
The experience lasts 3-4 hours and costs approximately €40-€50 per person. Book your place in advance through Get Your Guide.
3. Paella and Sangria Workshop with Market Visit
No trip to Alicante would be complete without mastering the art of paella, Spain’s iconic dish. And, of course, sipping on refreshing sangria.
The Paella and Sangria Workshop offers a hands-on experience in both cooking and tasting. Start with a guided visit to a local market, where you’ll pick fresh ingredients before heading to the kitchen. Under the guidance of an expert chef, you’ll learn how to prepare a traditional paella. Then add to it a delicious sangria you’ve crafted yourself.
The workshop lasts approximately 3.5 hours, and prices start from €49 per person, including the market tour, cooking class, and meal. Be sure to book your spot ahead of time via Get Your Guide.
Where To Stay In Alicante
Alicante offers a wide range of accommodation options, whether you’re looking for budget-friendly choices or something more luxurious.
The city has excellent transport links, plus beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks. So it’s a perfect place to base yourself while exploring the region.
Here are my top hotel picks for a range of budgets:
Best For Budget: Ibis Alicante
- Great location near the train station.
- The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception and bar. Rooms have air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
- Rooms cost from €45 per night.
Best For Couples: Melia Alicante
- Mediterranean views, perfect for romantic getaways.
- This hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, restaurants and a rooftop bar where you can watch the sunset over the marina.
- Rooms cost from €100 per night.
Best For Familes: Hotel Alicante Golf
- A peaceful family-friendly retreat just outside the city centre.
- Features an outdoor pool, golf course, a kids’ club, several restaurants a large garden area.
- Family rooms cost from €85 per night.
Where To Travel To From Alicante
Alicante is a great city to explore. But it’s also ideally located for a variety of amazing day trips.
With its excellent transport links, you can easily visit some of Spain’s hidden gems – think coastal towns, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes.
Here are five nearby places worth visiting, along with practical information on how to get there from Alicante using public transport:
1. Benidorm – Beaches and Nightlife
Benidorm is one of the most famous holiday destinations on Spain’s Costa Blanca.
Benidorm is known for its lively atmosphere, golden beaches and vibrant nightlife. But it also has a beautiful old quarter, El Casco Antiguo. Here you can wander through narrow streets and discover quaint shops and cafes.
How to get there:
Bus
The ALSA bus service runs frequent direct services from Alicante Bus Station to Benidorm. The journey takes around 45 minutes and buses run every 30 minutes throughout the day. A one-way ticket costs around €5.
Train
You can take the C1 train from Alicante Train Station to Benidorm. This journey takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes, and the train runs regularly throughout the day. Tickets are about €5-€6.
2. Guadalest Valley – Stunning Mountain Views and Historic Castle
Guadalest is a unique and breathtaking mountain village that offers spectacular views over the surrounding valley and lake.
The main attraction of this charming village is the Guadalest Castle. Perched high on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the valley below.
How to get there:
Bus
There is an ALSA bus service from Alicante Bus Station to Guadalest. The journey takes around 1 hour 10 minutes, and buses run multiple times per day. Tickets cost about €7 one way.
Car
If you prefer to drive, Guadalest is about 1 hour away by car. There are plenty of parking options near the castle. And driving there gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
3. Elche – UNESCO-Listed Palm Groves and Parks
Elche is a fascinating city, particularly famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palm Groves, which cover over 2,000 hectares. This lush green oasis is one of the largest in Europe, dating back to the Moorish period.
Elche also boasts beautiful parks, such as Parque Municipal and the Huerto del Cura. Both are perfect for a relaxing stroll and I loved exploring the winding pathways lined with tropical flora.
The Basilica de Santa Maria and the Archaeological Museum are also worth visiting if you’re a history enthusiast.
How to get there:
Bus
To reach Elche, take an ALSA bus from Alicante Bus Station. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes, and buses run regularly throughout the day, with a cost of approximately €3-€5.
Train
You can also take a train from Alicante Train Station to Elche. The journey is quick, taking about 20 minutes, and trains run frequently. Tickets cost about €3-€5 one way.
Check out these other beautiful places to visit in Spain, if you’re visiting Alicante as part of a longer tour of the Mediterranean.
Tips For Travelling To Alicante
These five Alicante sightseeing tips will help you make the most of your time exploring cultural highlights and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.
1. Embrace the Siesta Tradition
Alicante, like many cities in Spain, follows the traditional siesta culture, particularly in the afternoon. This means that many shops, businesses, and even restaurants may close between 2PM and 5PM, reopening later in the evening.
If you’re used to non-stop activity, use this time to explore quieter parts of the city enjoy a meal or refresh for the evening.
2. Stay Hydrated and Sun Protected
Alicante enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers, making sun protection essential. Even during the spring and autumn months, it’s important to keep hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Make sure you have a reusable water bottle and wear a hat. And always use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harsh rays, even in winter.
3. Visit Top Attractions In Alicante Early
To make the most of your visit, it’s best to arrive at Alicante’s popular attractions early. This is especially true in the summer months when it can get quite hot and crowded later in the day.
Arriving early allows you to explore while avoiding the heat and crowds. Then you can enjoy these historical landmarks at a more relaxed pace.
Conclusion
How to get to Alicante is easier than you might think. Whether you’re flying in from the UK, taking the bus or train, or even cruising in from another Mediterranean destination.
Now you know the transport options from the airport to the city centre, your journey to Alicante will be hassle-free. Once you arrive, you’ll have access to incredible sights, activities, and an unforgettable cultural experience.
So, stop thinking about how to get to Alicante and plan your visit today. Check out my travel resources page for my go-to links for flights, transport, and tours!
Travel Planning Tools
Check out my free travel itinerary printable and my favourite travel resources to kick-start planning your trip to Alicante!
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