Alicante is the gateway to Spain's stunning Costa Blanca and one of Europe's most popular car rental destinations. The combination of reliable sunshine, affordable rental rates, excellent motorways, and a coastline stretching from Dénia to Murcia makes it ideal for a driving holiday.
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) is Spain's fifth-busiest airport, located 12 km southwest of the city. The rental car centre is a dedicated building connected to the terminal by a free shuttle bus (every 5 minutes). The facility is modern and well-organized, with all major companies plus Spanish operators like Goldcar, Record Go, and Centauro.
Alicante offers some of Europe's cheapest car rental, with economy cars available from €8-€15 per day in the low season. Even peak summer rarely exceeds €25-€30 per day. However, carefully check the insurance terms, especially with budget operators who may have high excess levels.
The Costa Blanca has both tolled and free motorways running parallel to each other:
The Costa Blanca enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. April-June and September-October are optimal: warm without extreme heat, less traffic, and lower rental prices. July-August brings temperatures above 35°C and the coast is crowded with European holiday-makers. Winter (November-March) is mild and pleasant for driving, with daytime temperatures of 15-20°C and very cheap rental rates.
Spanish drivers on the coast are generally relaxed. The main roads are excellent, with well-marked motorways and clear signage in Spanish. Speed limits are 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on conventional roads, and 50 km/h (or 30 km/h in residential zones) in towns. Speed cameras are common and fines start at €100 for exceeding the limit by 20 km/h or less.
Fuel costs around €1.45-€1.65 per litre, among the most affordable in Western Europe. Gasolineras (petrol stations) are plentiful along the coast. Self-service stations at supermarkets (Mercadona, Carrefour) offer the best prices.
Alicante is a hub for budget rental companies that advertise extremely low rates but recoup through extras. Watch out for:
Always photograph the car thoroughly, check reviews, and consider full excess waiver insurance from a third party before arrival.
Parking is generally easier and cheaper here than in northern Spain. Most beach towns have large free parking areas within walking distance of the seafront, though these fill up by mid-morning in July-August. Underground garages are affordable. In Alicante city, the Mercado Central garage is convenient for the Old Town. For beach days, arrive before 10:00 in summer or park further back and walk.
You can pick up a rental car at these airports near Alicante:
Download our free PDF guide to driving in Spain — parking tips, toll info, and more.
| Zone | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Centro (Blue Zone) | €1.50-€2.00/hr | City centre streets around the Explanada and Old Town. Maximum 2 hours. Enforced Mon-Fri 9:00-13:30, 17:00-20:00, Sat 9:00-13:30. |
| Extended Blue Zone | €1.00-€1.50/hr | Surrounding areas including the port district. Less restricted hours. |
| Underground Garages | €12-€18/day | Garages at Puerta del Mar, Mercado Central, and Plaza de los Luceros. Good value compared to other Spanish cities. |
| Airport Parking | €8-€15/day | Long-stay and short-stay options at ALC. Book online for discounts. |
Traffic note: Alicante is relatively easy to drive in compared to larger Spanish cities. The main congestion points are the A-7 coastal motorway during summer weekends and the approach roads to Benidorm. The city centre has some pedestrianized zones around the cathedral and castle areas. Parking in the Barrio de Santa Cruz (Old Town) is essentially impossible — the streets are too narrow for cars. Beach areas (Playa de San Juan, Postiguet) have paid parking that fills quickly in summer. Speed cameras are common on the AP-7 toll motorway.
Compare car rental prices in Alicante → →Book your Alicante rental online at least 2 weeks ahead — airport desk walk-up prices are typically 30-50% higher.
Compare prices from top rental companies at ALC pickup locations.
A dramatic mountain valley with a castle perched on a needle of rock above a turquoise reservoir. The charming village has quirky museums and stunning views of the Marina Baixa mountains.
Spain's smallest permanently inhabited island, a former pirate haven with crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, excellent snorkelling, and fresh seafood. Drive to Santa Pola for the ferry.
Home to Europe's largest palm grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 200,000 palm trees. The Huerto del Cura garden is spectacular. Also famous for the ancient Iberian bust, the Lady of Elche.
Rental companies in Spain charge $15-30/day for excess reduction at the desk. Standalone policies cover the same thing for a fraction of the cost — and you can buy before you go.
Reduce your excess to zero from $49/trip
Save up to 70% vs rental desk insurance
These policies reimburse you if the rental company charges your card for damage. They do not replace the rental company's basic insurance (CDW/TP) which is always included.
Book now and get free cancellation on most rentals.
Data and regulations verified against official sources. Last checked 2026-04-27.
Download our free PDF guide to driving in Spain — parking tips, toll info, and more.
Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.