Getting Around in Alicante

Getting around Alicante is a breeze, especially if you're exploring the historic center, the coastal areas, or the more modern parts of downtown. Everything a tourist could want is packed into a pretty compact area, making it perfect for walking.

If you want to pick up the pace or venture out to the suburbs or nearby beach towns, you've got plenty of options. The city has a good bus network, five tram lines, taxis, and some great cycling routes.
You can also rent various vehicles, cars, motorcycles, you name it, either at the airport or from rental spots around the city.

Getting Around on Foot

Alicante is a wonderfully walkable city, especially in the area between the train station and the old town, which also includes the waterfront and harbor promenade. Walking is hands down the best way to soak up the atmosphere of the harbor docks, beach promenade, old town, and the newer parts of the city center.

The most interesting spots and best attractions are clustered around Plaza Puerta del Mar [on map]. If you want to explore the city without needing public transport, pick accommodation within about a mile or so of this square. Another bonus if you're flying in: the airport bus drops you right at this plaza, making it super convenient for arrivals.

Getting Around by Public Transport

If you're looking to cover more ground quickly or venture further afield, Alicante's public transport network has got you covered with its trams and buses.

The tram is your best bet for hitting the beaches, it runs underground through the city center, giving it a metro-like feel.
Buses are another solid option, perfect for short hops around downtown but also great for reaching areas beyond the city limits, especially those spots where the tram lines don't go.

Tram

Alicante's tram system (TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante) is a bit of a hybrid, in the city center, it actually runs underground like a metro.
It's a super convenient way to check out the city's main attractions and explore some charming spots in the surrounding areas.

The tram network has five lines that'll take you along the coast and inland.

One of the most popular destinations along the tram route is Benidorm, famous for its stunning beaches and buzzing nightlife. You can hop on Line L1 from Alicante city center and you're there. Another great day trip option is El Campello, a lovely little coastal town. Take Line L3 to get there and soak up the laid-back beach vibes. Line L4 will get you to the popular San Juan Beach, a huge stretch of sand with tons of restaurants and activities. Line L9 starts in Benidorm and takes you further along to see Altea's traditional white houses and Calpe's famous sights, including the impressive Peñón de Ifach rock formation. The L9 line ends at the historic town of Denia, where you can explore the fortress and wander around the charming harbor.

The Alicante tram website has a handy journey planner that'll help you figure out the best route from wherever you are to where you want to go.
You'll also find several websites online where you can download and check out Alicante's public transport route map, plus see all the stations on different routes.

Tickets and prices

When you're traveling on the tram lines, ticket prices depend on which zones you're crossing. Round-trip tickets usually work out a bit cheaper than buying two separate one-way tickets.
If you're planning to hop between lots of different zones, consider getting a day pass, it's valid for all zones.
You can buy tickets from the machines or ticket offices at the stations. The prices are pretty reasonable.

Buses

Getting around on Alicante's bus network might feel a bit trickier than hopping on the tram, and for many visitors, the only bus ride they'll take is the airport bus between the airport and the city center.
You can check the latest info on the link above, but as of writing, the airport bus (line C6) runs between the airport terminal and downtown every 20 minutes, every single day of the year. The bus also stops at Renfe train station and other key spots around town where you can easily switch to different tram lines. Some of the stops include Alfonso X El Sabio, Plaza de los Luceros, and Vázquez de Mella.

For more details about bus routes, including maps and timetables, check out the Vectalia website (they're the company that runs the buses) or search around online.

Taxi

Getting around Alicante by taxi is super convenient, especially if you're just hopping between spots in the city center or nearby areas for those quick, few-kilometer trips. You'll pretty much always find taxis available, just head to any taxi stand or ask your hotel or restaurant staff to call one for you.

Uber works here just like you'd expect, and you might be pleasantly surprised to find it's often cheaper than in other major European cities. Of course, prices fluctuate based on the time of day and demand, as they do everywhere with ride-sharing apps.

Besides Uber, you can also use Cabify and Free Now, which have become quite popular throughout Spain.

Cycling and Bike Rentals

Cycling is a fantastic way to explore Alicante and its surroundings.
When biking around, you'll want to stick to the waterfront areas, the harbor, and neighborhoods outside the city center. The busy streets in the newer parts of downtown aren't really bike-friendly, so it's best to avoid them.

Renting a bike is super easy once you're there. You'll find bike rental shops throughout Alicante and all along the Costa Blanca. Many of these places also rent out motorized vehicles if that's more your speed. As of writing this, the city is working on revamping its bike-sharing system, which sounds pretty exciting. If you're interested in using shared city bikes, it's worth doing a quick Google search for the latest updates on the project.

Looking for some cycling inspiration? Check out GetYourGuide, where you can browse different organized bike tours and cycling excursions available in Alicante.

Renting a Car, Scooter, or Motorcycle

Looking to rent a car in Alicante? The airport is your best bet to get started. You'll find plenty of rental companies right there. Check out the airport's website for a complete list of all the rental agencies operating there.
If you're after something with a bit more pizzazz, why not consider renting a scooter or motorcycle?