Car Hire at Alicante Airport (ALC) – Everything You Need to Know
Hiring a car at Alicante Airport is one of the best ways to explore the Costa Blanca region at your own pace. Whether you’re heading to the beaches of Benidorm, the historic streets of Altea, or the mountain villages inland, a rental car gives you freedom and flexibility. This guide covers everything you need to know about hiring a car at Alicante Airport.
Car Hire Companies at Alicante Airport
Alicante Airport (ALC) has a wide range of car rental providers, both international and local. Most of the major companies have desks within the terminal building, making pickup quick and easy. Car hire desks are located on the ground floor of the arrivals area.
On-site car hire companies
These include:
- Goldcar
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Avis
- Hertz
- Record Go
- Centauro
Using an on-site company has the advantage of being convenient and time-saving, as you will reach the customer service desk within a short time of stepping off the plane. On the downside, you may pay slightly higher prices for the privilege and during busy periods, you may be faced with long queues.
Off-site rental companies
These companies operate from locations near the airport and offer a free shuttle bus to and from the terminal. While they are a bit more difficult to reach, they may offer some great deals and may have better availability, especially during peak season.
TIP:
If you’re looking for speed and convenience, choose an in-terminal provider. If saving money is a priority and you’re not in a rush, off-site companies are worth considering.
How and When to Book Your Hire Car
Booking your car in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months. You can compare prices and deals on our price comparison platform, or directly via the provider’s website.
Benefits of booking ahead:
✔ Better rates
Car hire prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, especially during peak seasons. Booking early often means accessing lower daily rates and special deals or discounts.
✔ More car options
When you book in advance, you’ll have a wider choice of vehicles, whether you want a compact car, SUV, or automatic. Last-minute bookings may leave you with limited or less suitable options.
✔ Faster pickup
Pre-booked rentals usually mean your paperwork is processed ahead of time. This helps reduce waiting time at the rental desk and speeds up the handover process, allowing you to get on the road sooner.
Requirements for Hiring a Car in Spain
To hire a car in Spain, you must meet certain age and documentation requirements. These may vary slightly by rental company, but the following are the general rules:
- Driving licence: A valid driving licence is required. EU and UK licences are accepted without issue. Non-EU drivers (e.g., from the USA, Canada, or Australia) may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their national licence. Check with your rental company before booking.
- Age requirements: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held a full driving licence for 1–2 years. Some providers set the minimum age at 23 or 25, especially for certain vehicle categories. Drivers under 25 may be charged a young driver surcharge.
- Identification: A valid passport or national ID card is required to confirm your identity and eligibility.
- Credit card: Most companies require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but may involve stricter conditions or a higher deposit.
| ✅ Car hire checklist: ☐ Full driving licence (check if an IDP is needed) ☐ Passport or national ID ☐ Credit card in the driver’s name ☐ Minimum age and driving experience met ☐ Print or digital copy of your booking confirmation |
Note: Requirements can vary between providers. Always read the terms and conditions before booking, especially regarding licence validity, IDP rules, and payment methods.
What You Should Know Before Booking Your Hire Car
Fuel Policies
Car hire companies usually offer one of the following fuel policies. It’s important to understand the differences so you know what to expect and can avoid extra charges.
| FUEL POLICY | HOW IT WORKS | PROS | CONS |
| Full-to-Full | Car is provided with a full tank; you return it full. | ◦ Pay only for what you use ◦ No extra fees | ◦ Must refuel before return ◦ Risk of charges if tank not full |
| Full-to-Empty | You prepay for a full tank; return the car as empty as possible. | ◦ No need to refuel ◦ Convenient for early flights | ◦ No refund for unused fuel ◦ Often includes inflated fuel costs |
| Pay-on-Return / Mixed | Return the car with any fuel level; company refuels and charges you afterwards. | ◦ Flexible ◦ Good for very short rentals | ◦ Often comes with high refuelling fees ◦ Lack of transparency about pricing |
Our recommendation:
Choose Full-to-Full whenever possible. It’s usually the most transparent and cost-effective option. Just make sure to refuel before returning the car and keep your receipt in case of disputes.
TIP:
There are several petrol stations within a short distance of Alicante Airport, making it easy to refuel before drop-off. Please see below for details.
Petrol stations near Alicante Airport
- Galp (Tangeria): Located approximately 2 km south of the airport along the A‑7, with pumps in both directions. Note: drivers from AP‑7 may need to loop via Santa Pola to access it.
- Estación de Servicio El Altet (Repsol/Campsa): Accessible via the N‑332 toward Santa Pola, this station is also only a few minutes from the airport and open 24 hours.
- Gran Alicant (N‑332): Roughly 8 km south along the N‑332, frequently used by travellers approaching from the south, with a large forecourt and attendant service
Car Hire Insurance
When renting a car in Spain, basic insurance is usually included. However, it’s important to understand what is covered, what isn’t, and whether you should consider additional protection. Here’s a comparison table summarising the different car hire insurance options available at Alicante Airport, along with what’s included, the pros and the cons:
| INSURANCE TYPE | WHAT IT COVERS | PROS | CONS |
| Basic Insurance (included) | Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Third-Party Liability | ◦ Included in most rentals ◦ Meets legal requirements | ◦ Leaves you with high excess (€800–€2,000) ◦ Doesn’t cover glass, tyres, keys, etc. |
| Super CDW / Full Cover (from rental company) | CDW & TP with reduced or zero excess Often includes glass, tyres, roadside assist | ◦ No out-of-pocket cost for damage ◦ Easy claims via rental desk | ◦ Can double rental cost ◦ May include unwanted extras |
| Third-Party Excess Insurance (bought online) | Reimburses CDW/TP excess Often includes glass, tyres, underbody, etc. | ◦ Much cheaper than insurance bought at rental desk ◦ Broader coverage | ◦ You pay first and claim later ◦ Slower reimbursement process |
What’s usually not covered
Even with full insurance, some things are often excluded:
- Damage from negligence (e.g. drunk driving or off-roading)
- Lost keys or wrong fuel usage
- Interior damage or personal belongings theft
- Unauthorised drivers
Tips for managing car hire insurance
- Always read the policy terms carefully before buying.
- Take photos/videos of the car at pickup and return.
- Ask clearly what is and isn’t covered before signing at the desk.
- If using third-party cover, keep all receipts and documentation in case of a claim.
Extras & Avoiding Hidden Fees
Extras and hidden fees can increase the cost of your car hire enormously. Therefore, when comparing prices, watch out for additional charges, for example, due to:
- Additional drivers
- Young driver surcharges
- GPS and child seats
- Out-of-hours pickup/return fees
TIP
Many airlines allow you to bring your own child car seat free of charge.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Your Hire Car
A smooth pick-up and drop-off experience can make a big difference to the start and the end of your holiday. At Alicante Airport, car hire desks are located in the arrivals hall of the terminal building. After clearing customs, follow the signs for “Car Rental” or “Alquiler de Coches”. Here’s what you need to keep in mind when collecting and returning your hire car at Alicante Airport:
Car Hire Pick-Up & Drop-Off Checklist
| ✅ PICKING UP YOUR CAR ☐ Find the rental desk → In-terminal providers: desks in the arrivals hall → Off-site providers: meet shuttle at designated area outside the terminal ☐ Have documents ready → Booking confirmation (printed or digital) → Driving licence and passport/ID → Credit card in main driver’s name ☐ Inspect the vehicle → Check for scratches, dents, or interior damage → Take photos/videos of the car (all sides + dashboard) → Confirm any damage on the rental agreement ☐ Ask about return instructions → Location of drop-off → Procedure for after-hours return → Emergency contact number If picking up out of hours ☐ Confirm your provider offers out-of-hours service ☐ Provide your flight number when booking ☐ Check for extra fees and pick-up instructions |
| ✅ DROPPING OFF YOUR CAR ☐ Return the car to the correct location → In-terminal: P1 car park, follow “Car Rental Return” signs → Off-site: company’s depot, allow time for shuttle back ☐ Check for late return policies → Allow extra time during busy travel periods → Arrive 30–45 minutes before airport check-in if off-site ☐ Inspect and document the car → Fill out return paperwork (if staff are present) → Take final photos of the car, fuel gauge, and mileage → Keep a copy of the final rental receipt After-hours drop-dff ☐ Park in designated return area ☐ Lock the car ☐ Drop keys in the secure key box ☐ Email confirmation (optional but recommended) |
Driving in Alicante & Costa Blanca
Driving in and around Alicante is generally straightforward, especially for visitors familiar with European road conditions. The road network is well-developed, and signage is clear and consistent. However, it’s always a good idea to familiarise yourself with local rules and customs before setting off.
Basic Driving Rules in Spain
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road, and overtake on the left.
- Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers.
- Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless you have a fully hands-free system.
- Children under 135 cm in height must travel in a child seat or booster, appropriate to their size and weight.
Speed Limits (Unless Signposted Otherwise)
- Motorways (Autopistas/AP): 120 km/h
- Main roads (Carreteras): 90 km/h
- Urban areas: 30–50 km/h
Speed cameras (both fixed and mobile) are common, especially on the AP-7 and near towns, so it’s important to observe speed limits at all times.
Parking in Alicante & Tourist Areas
- Blue zones (zonas azules): Pay-and-display; time-limited parking during business hours (often free in the evening and on Sundays).
- White lines: Usually indicate free parking.
- Yellow lines: No parking.
Some towns and beach areas can be very busy in peak season, so you may want to use a public car park (aparcamiento público) for convenience and peace of mind.
Motorways and Toll Roads
- The AP-7 motorway connects Alicante with coastal towns like Benidorm, Altea, and Torrevieja.
Parts of the AP-7 were previously toll roads but have become free in recent years, although a few short stretches may still require payment. - If your hire car is equipped with a toll transponder, check whether charges are added to your bill automatically or must be paid manually.
Fuel Types and Availability
- Fuel stations are common and easy to find in towns and along motorways.
- Unleaded petrol (gasolina sin plomo 95 or 98) and diesel (gasoil) are the most common fuel types.
- Self-service pumps are widely used; most accept cards, but some may require pre-payment or assistance from staff during off-hours.
Navigation Tips
- A sat-nav or navigation app (like Google Maps or Waze) is helpful, especially in rural or mountainous areas.
- Mobile coverage is generally good, even in smaller towns and villages.
- Make sure your rental includes a charging cable or phone holder if using your mobile for directions.
Top Destinations to Visit by Car from Alicante
Hiring a car at Alicante Airport opens up a wide range of day trips and short breaks along the beautiful Costa Blanca and beyond. Whether you’re after sandy beaches, historic towns, or scenic mountain drives, here is a selection of the fantastic places you can easily visit from Alicante in your hire car:
Benidorm – approx. 45 minutes (via AP-7 or N-332)
Benidorm is one of Spain’s most iconic coastal resorts. Known for its lively nightlife, sandy beaches, and high-rise skyline, it also offers a surprisingly family-friendly side with attractions like Terra Mítica theme park, Aqualandia water park, and the Mundomar animal park.
Great for: Families, beach lovers, and nightlife enthusiasts
Altea – approx. 1 hour (via AP-7)
Altea is a picturesque coastal town famous for its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and stunning blue-domed church. Its charming old town offers a relaxed atmosphere, with local art galleries, cafés, and sea views around every corner.
Great for: Art, culture, and a quieter seaside escape
Guadalest – approx. 1 hr 15 mins (via CV-70)
This hilltop village, perched above a reservoir, is one of the most scenic spots in the region. Explore the historic castle, visit quirky local museums, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and turquoise lake.
Great for: History lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts
Elche (Elx) – approx. 20 minutes (via N-340)
Known as the “City of Palms”, Elche is home to Europe’s largest palm grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Huerto del Cura botanical garden, the Altamira Palace, and the city’s vibrant local markets.
Great for: Cultural sights and half-day trips close to the airport
Torrevieja – approx. 45 minutes (via AP-7 or N-332)
Torrevieja offers a laid-back coastal vibe with attractive beaches, a lively seafront promenade, and two famous salt lakes—one of which turns pink in summer. The town is also known for its natural parks and walking trails.
Great for: Relaxation, coastal scenery, and nature walks
Inland Drives & Mountain Villages
Explore the inland regions of the Costa Blanca for a more authentic experience. Villages like Jalón, Castell de Castells, and Villena offer beautiful drives, local wineries, and peaceful rural landscapes.
FAQs – Alicante Airport Car Hire
Can I rent a car without a credit card?
Some car hire companies accept debit cards, but it’s less common and usually comes with restrictions. You may face a higher deposit, be required to purchase the company’s full insurance, or be limited to certain vehicle types. It’s best to check with your chosen provider in advance.
Is it easy to drive in and around Alicante?
Yes, driving in the Alicante region is generally straightforward. Roads are well-maintained and clearly signposted. Traffic is moderate outside of city centres and peak holiday times. Do keep in mind that local drivers can be assertive, especially on roundabouts.
Which car hire company is cheapest at Alicante Airport?
Prices vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and how far in advance you book. Budget-friendly options often include providers like Goldcar, Centauro, and Record Go, though these may come with stricter terms. Use a comparison website to find the best current deals.
Can I return the car outside office hours?
Yes, many rental companies offer an out-of-hours return service. This typically involves parking the car in a designated area and leaving the keys in a secure drop box. Always confirm the procedure when picking up the car, and take photos of the vehicle’s condition just in case.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If you hold a UK or EU driving licence, you can drive in Spain without an IDP. However, drivers from some non-EU countries (such as the USA, Canada, or Australia) may require one. Check with your rental provider before travelling.
What should I do if I have an accident or breakdown?
All hire cars should come with basic roadside assistance. In case of an accident or breakdown, call the emergency number provided by the rental company, and if needed, contact the local police (112 is the emergency number in Spain). Always notify your hire company as soon as possible and complete any required paperwork.
Final Tips for a Smooth Experience
Hiring a car at Alicante Airport opens up countless opportunities to explore the stunning Costa Blanca. With a bit of planning, it’s easy, cost-effective, and rewarding. Remember to:
| ☑ Book early, especially in summer ☑ Take photos of the car at pickup and return ☑ Understand your insurance coverage ☑ Refuel before returning to avoid charges ☑ Keep all rental documents and receipts |
We wish you a safe journey and a fantastic time with your hire car!
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