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Getting Around Costa Blanca

Getting Around Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca Valencia And Murcia, Spain Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Extensive local bus networks function within and between towns. Major cities like Alicante, Benidorm, and Torrevieja have comprehensive urban bus services. Long-distance coaches connect smaller small towns and villages. The TROLLEY Metropolitano de Alicante is a contemporary light rail and tram system. It serves Alicante city and extends along the coast northwards to Benidorm and Dénia. It also runs southwards to El Campello.

The TRAM system includes different lines (L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L9), each serving specific routes and destinations. The LIGHT rail provides a scenic way to travel along the coast. Public transport generally operates from early morning, around 6 AM, until late evening or midnight. Frequency varies by line and time of day. In cities, services typically run every 10-30 minutes during peak times.

Ticketing & Hubs

  • Single tickets aboard buses (we only take cash) or TRAM station ticket machines.
  • Móbilis Card (Alicante) for urban buses provides discounted fares.
  • Bono Viaje (TRAM) provides savings for multiple journeys, especially multi-zone.
  • Alicante hubs: Luceros (TRAM, bus), Mercado (TRAM), Estación de Autobuses (long-distance buses).

Mobile Apps

Download Moovit, TAM Alicante, or the TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante app for real-time information.

Accessibility

Newer buses and TRAMs are designed with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.

Validate Tickets

Always validate your ticket or card when boarding buses or trams to prevent fines.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxi Services
  • Taxis are typically white cars with a green light on the roof, indicating availability.
  • You can hail a taxi on the street or find designated taxi stands by main attractions.
  • Cash is always accepted; many taxis now accept credit and debit cards.
Ride-Sharing & Fares
  • Cabify is more prevalent than Uber in many Spanish cities, including parts of Costa Blanca.
  • Bolt also gains presence in some areas.
  • Metered taxi fares based on distance and time; additional fees for airports or traveling at night.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Minimum age typically 21; valid license and credit card needed.

Motorcycle Rental

Available in tourist towns; valid motorcycle license required.

Bicycle Rental

Numerous shops rent bikes (road, mountain, e-bikes).

Book Ahead

Book rental cars in advance, especially during peak season.

Driving & Cycling Laws

The minimum age for renting a car is typically 21. Some companies may require drivers to be 25 or older for certain car categories or charge a young driver's surcharge. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available in many tourist towns. Spain boasts an excellent modern system of roads.

Driving Laws & Roads

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road; seatbelts are mandatory for all.
  • Speed limits: ABOUT 75 mph (motorways), 90 kilometers per hour (national roads), 50 km/h (urban).
  • Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal.
  • Parking: Blue (paid), Green (resident), White (free, rare). Underground car parks available.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Dedicated cycle lanes are increasing in cities and coastal routes.
  • Greenways (Vías Verdes) are converted railway lines providing safe, flat cycling paths.
  • Always wear a helmet when cycling and adhere to traffic in the town laws.
  • Be aware of traffic, especially on roads without dedicated lanes.

Walking & Cycling

  • Many old town centers are pedestrianized or have restricted vehicle access.
  • Coastal promenades (Paseos Marítimos) offer flat, scenic routes for walking or jogging.
  • Guided walking tours are available, often focusing on history or gastronomy.
  • Self-guided tours are possible with maps or smartphone apps.
  • The Costa Blanca is generally safe for people on foot and on bikes.
  • Exercise caution in poorly lit areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Major cities provide tour buses, including hop-on-hop-off services, for convenient sightseeing.

Boat Trips

Numerous boat trips depart from coastal towns for sightseeing and excursions (e.g., to Tabarca Island).

Santa Bárbara Castle Lift

An elevator from Postiguet beach takes visitors directly to the castle; return trip ~€3.80.

Accessibility Services

Spain has regulations promoting accessibility. Many newer public transport vehicles, specifically trams and city buses, include accessibility in their design. Major attractions and hotels are increasingly accessible.

Public Transport Accessibility

  • Newer city buses are designed with accessibility in mind.
  • TRAMs (light rail) feature ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
  • Older buses may hold limited accessibility.
  • Check with the specific transport provider for particular needs.

Attraction & Hotel Access

  • Major attractions and lodgings are increasingly accessible.
  • Older historical sites may present challenges due to stairs or uneven surfaces.
  • Advisable to check the specific venue's accessibility information before your visit.
  • Overall accessibility continues to improve across the region.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Offline Maps

Plan your routes using offline maps on your phone.

Saves data and works without internet.

Multi-trip Cards

Purchase a multi-trip card for frequent public transport use.

Saves money and time on fares.

Validate Tickets

Always validate your ticket or card when boarding buses or trams.

Prevents potential fines.

Walking & Cycling Areas

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones
  • Alicante's Barrio de la Santa Cruz and Altea's old town are ideal for leisurely strolls.
  • Coastal promenades (Paseos Marítimos) offer flat, scenic routes.
  • Self-guided tours using maps or smartphone apps provide detailed exploration.
Cycling Routes
  • Cities feature an increasing number of dedicated cycle lanes.
  • Greenways (Vías Verdes) offer safe, flat, and scenic cycling paths.
  • The Vía Verde del Maigmó is great for laid-back rides through natural landscapes.

Safety Considerations

  • Use licensed taxis to ensure safety; confirm driver and vehicle for ride-sharing.
  • Ensure the ride meter is on or agree on a fare before starting your journey.
  • The Costa Blanca is generally safe, but exercise caution in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Some very narrow streets in old towns may prove challenging for cyclists due to crowds.
  • Always assess the safety of a path before proceeding.
  • Helmets are mandatory for both riders and passengers on motorcycles.
  • Illegal parking can result in significant fines or your automobile being towed.
  • Older historical sites may pose challenges for mobility due to stairs or uneven surfaces.

Accessibility & Further Options

Beyond standard options, the Costa Blanca holds unique methods of transport that make your travel experience more enjoyable. These are often geared towards sightseeing or specific excursions.

Specialized Transport

  • Tour Buses and Hop-on-Hop-off services exist in major cities like Alicante.
  • Boat Trips from coastal towns are mainly for sightseeing, not daily transport.
  • Santa Bárbara Castle Lift (Alicante) offers quick access to the fortress.
  • These options enhance your travel experience.

Accessibility Notes

  • Newer public transport vehicles are designed with accessibility in mind.
  • Major attractions and hotels are increasingly accessible.
  • Check specific venue's accessibility information before visiting older historical sites.
  • Spain's regulations promote accessibility across its transport and tourist infrastructure.

City Sightseeing Tours

Hop-on-hop-off services in major cities like Alicante offer a convenient way to see the main sights.

Coastal Boat Trips

Numerous boat trips depart from coastal towns for seeing the sights and excursions to nearby islands.

Castle Access Lift

The Santa Bárbara Castle lift provides a quick and accessible way to reach the stronghold from the beach.

Accessible Features

Public Transit
  • Many new public transport cars are mobility-friendly.
  • City buses and trams include accessibility features.
  • Always confirm specific access at older venues.
Sites & Hotels
  • Major attractions and accommodations are increasingly accessible for visitors.
  • Older historical sites may hold challenges due to stairs or uneven terrain.
  • Check venue-specific accessibility information before your visit.

Your Travel Plan

Whether by air, land, or sea, reaching the Costa Blanca offers varied experiences. Public transport networks, taxis, and rental options ensure smooth local travel.

Embrace walking and riding a bicycle for an immersive journey, and explore unique ways to travel for added adventure.