Alicante city center is about 9 km northeast of the airport.

About Alicante City Center

Alicante is one of Spain\'s most appealing mid-sized cities, combining a well-preserved medieval old town, beautiful beaches, and a lively restaurant scene beneath the dramatic silhouette of the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. Perched atop Mount Benacantil, this Moorish fortress dominates the city and offers sweeping views of the coastline and the distinctive Explanada de España — a palm-lined waterfront promenade with its iconic wavy marble mosaic floor.

The Barrio de la Santa Cruz, the old quarter at the foot of the castle, is a labyrinth of narrow streets painted in vibrant colors, with bougainvillea cascading from wrought-iron balconies. The Central Market (Mercado Central) is a stunning Art Nouveau building selling fresh seafood, local produce, and spices. Postiguet Beach, right below the castle, offers city-center sunbathing with mountain views.

Alicante\'s gastronomy centers on rice dishes — the city claims to make the best arroz a banda and caldero in Spain — along with fresh seafood, turrones (nougat from nearby Jijona), and horchata. The city is also a gateway to the Costa Blanca resorts and the palm groves of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nearby Landmarks

Castillo de Santa Bárbara Explanada de España Postiguet Beach Central Market

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $20-25
Time 15-20 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $15-20
Time 15-20 min

Outside arrivals

Train (TRAM Line L1)

Cost $4
Time 30 min
Frequency Every 20-30 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow signs from the terminal to the TRAM station (5-min walk). Take Line L1 direction Luceros.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $20-25 15-20 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $15-20 15-20 min Budget-conscious, app users
Train $4 30 min Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

After midnight, taxis from the airport cost EUR 15-22 to the city center and are available around the clock. The C6 bus does not run overnight. Cabify and local taxi apps work in Alicante. The Explanada and old town areas are lively and well-lit until late, especially in summer.

Luggage Tips

The C6 bus has space for luggage under the bus and in the aisle. For the tram (Line 1), there is room for bags but it can be crowded during peak hours. Taxis are the most comfortable option with multiple suitcases. The walk from the bus stop at Muelle de Poniente to old town hotels is short and flat.

Accessibility

Alicante Airport is fully accessible. The C6 bus has low-floor boarding and wheelchair ramps. The Explanada de España promenade is flat and fully accessible. The old town has some steep, narrow streets. The elevator to Castillo de Santa Bárbara from Postiguet Beach makes the castle wheelchair accessible. Taxis include adapted vehicles on request.