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How to Get to Costa Blanca

How to Get to Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca Valencia And Murcia, Spain Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports

The Costa Blanca is served by three main airports, each offering access to different parts of the region. These gateways make arrival convenient for many travelers.

Airport Details

  • Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC): Main airport, 9 km southwest of Alicante city.
  • Valencia Airport (VLC): North of Costa Blanca, serves Valencia city and northern parts.
  • Murcia International Airport (RMU): South of Costa Blanca, serves southernmost parts.

Airlines & Routes

Major European airlines offer frequent flights, linking the Costa Blanca to numerous European cities. Direct flights from North America to ALC, VLC, or RMU are rare. Most long-haul travelers connect via major European hubs.

Flight Information

  • Prices That change with the season: Highest prices in July and August; lowest prices November to March.
  • Book Flights: Book well early for better deals, particularly during peak season.
  • Airport Facilities: Duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental services, ATMs, free Wi-Fi.

Alicante Airport Bus

The C-6 bus connects directly to Alicante city center. It operates every 20 minutes plus expenses approximately €3.85.

Taxi Services

Taxis are available outside the terminals. A ride to Alicante city center typically costs around €20-€25.

Private Transfers

Pre-booked services are widely available. These are a convenience, especially for groups or late arrivals.

Transfer Options from Airports

Alicante Airport ALC

  • Bus: C-6 bus connects directly to Alicante city center, €3.85.
  • Taxi: Available outside terminals, ~€20-€25 to city center.
  • Tram/Train: C-6 bus connects to Luceros tram station. No direct train.
  • Car Rental: Desks for major companies inside the terminal.

Valencia VLC & Murcia RMU Airports

  • Valencia Airport: Metro lines 3 and 5 connect to Valencia city center.
  • Murcia Airport: Bus connections serve Murcia city and Cartagena.
  • Taxis and car hire is available at both VLC and RMU.
  • Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Airline & Route Insights

Major European Carriers

Ryanair, EasyJet, Vueling, TUI, British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, and Air Europa offer frequent flights.

Long-Haul Connections

Most long-haul travelers fly into Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN), then connect via domestic flight or high-speed train.

Popular Origin Countries

Frequent connections come from major cities in the U.K., Ireland, Germany, and Scandinavian countries.

Land Transportation

Train Services Renfe

Spain’s national rail operator, Renfe, offers various train services. High-speed trains (AVE/Alvia/Euromed) connect Alicante (Alicante Terminal station) to major Spanish cities. Regional trains connect Alicante to Murcia, Villena, and other provincial towns.

Connections

  • Madrid: Approximately 2.5-3 hours from Alicante.
  • Barcelona: About 4.5-5 hours from Alicante.
  • Valencia: Easily reached in about 1.5-2 hours.

Long-Distance Bus Options

ALSA is the main national bus company. It offers extensive connections throughout Spain from Alicante and major Costa Blanca towns. You can travel to Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Murcia, and many other places. Major the towns have central bus stations, like the Estación de Autobuses de Alicante.

Bus Travel Insights

  • Buses often prove more economical than trains for medium distances.
  • They also serve a wider network of destinations, especially smaller towns.
  • Bus journeys are slower than high-speed trains.

Self-Driving Requirements

The minimum driving age within Spain is 18. You need to have a valid driving license. EU/EEA licenses are fine. Other licenses may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Obtain your IDP in your home country before departure. A credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit is necessary.

Car Rental & Companies

  • Car rentals are available in airports and major cities (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise, Goldcar, Centauro).
  • Book in advance for better rates and availability, especially during peak season.
  • Consider full insurance coverage to avoid unexpected costs. DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.

Driving Laws & Roads

Drive on the right-hand side of the road in Spain. Seatbelts are required for all. The speed limit is typically 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways, 90 km/h (56 mph) on national roads, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas. Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal.

Road Conditions & Parking

  • Spain has an excellent network of motorways (autopistas, marked AP-) and national roads (autovías, marked A-).
  • Motorways often have tolls.
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive in city centers. Pay attention to parking signs for blue (paid), green (resident), and pale (free) zones.

Border Crossing & Safety

  • Spain shares land borders with France, Andorra, Portugal, Gibraltar, and Morocco.
  • As a Schengen Area member, border controls between Spain and other Schengen countries are typically relaxed.
  • Be aware of aggressive drivers in urban areas and narrow streets in old towns.
  • Illegal parking can result in significant fines or your vehicle being towed.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports mirror those at airports for non-EU/EEA citizens.
  • River transportation is not a travel option in Costa Blanca.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Ports

For some travelers, arriving by sea offers an unique experience, especially from the Balearic Islands. Alicante and Dénia serve as main ferry hubs, connecting to various islands.

Port Details

  • Alicante Port: Significant cruise port, ferry services to Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca).
  • Dénia Port: Significant ferry hub, frequent services to Balearic Islands (Balearia operates fast options).
  • Torrevieja Port: Mainly a marina, limited commercial ferry services.

Immigration & Connections

Immigration procedures at seaports mirror those at airports. Standard Schengen entry and exit procedures apply for non-EU/EEA citizens. Be ready to present your passport and any required documents. Ports are typically well-connected to local mass transit, including buses and taxis.

Onward Travel

  • Have your passport and boarding pass ready for immigration.
  • Ports are within walking distance of city centers, making onward travel easy.
  • The Costa Blanca region does not have significant navigable rivers for passenger transport.

Departure Timing

International Flights: Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. Flights Within the schengen area: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.

Exit Fees

Spain does not impose specific exit fees or taxes. These costs are usually included in your ticket price.

Check-in & Security

Online check-in is recommended. Prepare for standard airport security checks and passport control.

Departure Information

Airport Facilities

Major airports like Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport offer various facilities for departing travelers. These amenities assist with passing the time before your flight.

Amenities Available

  • Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
  • A range of restaurants for dining options.
  • Common rooms for a more comfortable wait.

Station Amenities

Bus and train stations also provide basic amenities for travelers. These facilities ensure a degree of comfort during your waiting period.

Available Services

  • Cafes for a quick snack or drink.
  • Waiting areas for relaxation before departure.
  • Confirm your flight status before leaving for the airport.

Departure Logistics

Check-in Online

This saves time and allows you to proceed directly to security if you have no checked bags.

Security Preparation

Have liquids and electronics ready for inspection at security checkpoints.

Passport Control

Non-EU/EEA citizens go through passport control upon departure. Have your passport and boarding pass ready.

Smooth Departure

Prepare for your departure from the Costa Blanca to facilitate a smooth journey home. Confirm your flight status and have all documents ready.