Car Hire Alicante

Alicante car hire opens up Spain’s Costa Blanca, one of Europe’s most popular coastal destinations. With over 200 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, from the vibrant city beaches of Alicante to the dramatic coves of Calpe and the family-friendly shores of Benidorm, this region offers something for everyone. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore hidden beaches, mountain villages, and the interior that most tourists never see.

Why Hire a Car in Alicante?

Alicante city offers a charming old town, the impressive Santa Barbara Castle, and the Explanada de España promenade. But the real draw of the Costa Blanca lies beyond the city. The beaches and coves of the coastline stretch from Denia in the north to Torrevieja in the south. The mountain villages of Guadalest and Altea offer traditional Spanish culture. And the interior province offers dramatic landscapes like the Penon de Ifach rock and the waterfalls of Algar.

A car transforms your holiday. You can reach beaches that public transport doesn’t serve, explore mountain villages at your own pace, and escape the resort crowds for authentic Spanish experiences. The Costa Blanca’s excellent roads connect everything efficiently, from the N-332 coastal road to the AP-7 motorway.

Beyond the coast, the province of Alicante offers extraordinary variety. Elche, with its UNESCO-listed palm grove, is 20 minutes away. The caves of Canalobre are 30 minutes inland. And for longer trips, Valencia is 90 minutes north, and Murcia is 60 minutes south.

Tips for Renting a Car in Alicante

• Book automatics early: Most Spanish rentals are manual. Automatics are limited and book out quickly in summer (June to September).
• Watch for toll roads: The AP-7 motorway is tolled in some sections. The N-332 coastal road is free but slower.
• Park outside old towns: Historic centres like Altea and Guadalest have narrow streets and limited parking. Use designated car parks on the outskirts.
• Fill up in cities: Fuel is cheaper in towns than at coastal resort stations. Fill up before heading to remote beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Spain?

EU licence holders can drive without additional documents. Visitors from outside the EU need an International Driving Permit alongside their regular licence.

How far is Benidorm from Alicante?

Benidorm is approximately 45 kilometres from Alicante – about 45 minutes by car via the N-332 or AP-7.

Which beaches are best near Alicante?

Postiguet Beach is in the city centre. San Juan Beach stretches for kilometres north. The coves of Calpe and the beaches of Altea are about 45 minutes north. For quieter beaches, head south to Cabo Roig or north to Denia.

Use the search above to compare Alicante car hire prices and explore the Costa Blanca’s beaches and hidden coves.