Alicante Airport Car Rental - Complete Guide
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport (IATA: ALC) is the fifth busiest airport in Spain, serving over 15 million passengers annually. Located just 9 kilometers southwest of Alicante city centre, the airport is the main gateway to the Costa Blanca region, including popular destinations like Benidorm, Torrevieja, and Calpe.
Car rental at Alicante airport is available from multiple international and local suppliers. The rental desks are located in the arrivals hall of the main terminal building, making pickup straightforward after collecting your luggage. All major car hire companies operate at Alicante International Airport, offering everything from economy cars to luxury vehicles and minivans.
Booking car rental in Alicante airport with no deposit means you can secure your vehicle without tying up funds in a security hold. This is particularly useful for travellers who prefer not to provide credit card deposits or want to keep their available credit for other travel expenses. The no deposit option is available on selected vehicles and booking terms - check the specific conditions in your reservation.
Airport Information and Location
Terminal Details
- Airport code: ALC (IATA), LEAL (ICAO)
- Official name: Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport
- Terminal: Single passenger terminal
- Car rental desks: Arrivals hall, ground floor
- Parking: Adjacent to terminal building
Distance from Airport
- Alicante city centre: 9 km (15 minutes)
- Benidorm: 55 km (40 minutes)
- Torrevieja: 45 km (35 minutes)
- Murcia: 75 km (50 minutes)
- Valencia: 170 km (1 hour 45 minutes)
How to Pick Up Your Rental Car at Alicante Airport
The car rental process at Alicante International Airport is efficient and well-organized. Follow these steps for a smooth pickup experience:
- Arrive at the terminal: After collecting your luggage, head to the arrivals hall on the ground floor.
- Locate your rental desk: Car hire desks are clearly signposted in the arrivals area. All major suppliers have counters in the same zone.
- Present your documents: You will need your booking voucher, valid driving licence, passport or ID, and payment card. International visitors should have their passport and home country licence plus an International Driving Permit if required.
- Complete the paperwork: The rental agent will explain the terms, insurance coverage, and fuel policy. Review everything carefully before signing.
- Collect your vehicle: Most cars are parked in the adjacent multi-storey car park. The agent will provide directions and the parking bay number.
- Inspect the car: Before leaving, check the vehicle condition and note any existing damage on the rental agreement. Take photos if needed.
The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes, though it may be longer during peak travel periods. Booking in advance and having all documents ready speeds up the procedure considerably.
Vehicle Types and Options at Alicante Airport
Car rental Alicante International Airport offers a comprehensive range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets:
- Economy cars: Small hatchbacks ideal for city driving and couples. Fuel-efficient and easy to park. Popular models include Fiat Panda, Opel Corsa, and Seat Ibiza.
- Compact cars: Slightly larger than economy, suitable for small families. Good balance of space and fuel economy. Common choices are VW Polo, Peugeot 208, and Renault Clio.
- Mid-size and family cars: Comfortable sedans and estates with more luggage space. Ideal for longer trips and families of 4-5. Includes models like VW Golf, Ford Focus, and Seat Leon.
- SUVs and 4x4s: Higher driving position and more interior space. Useful for exploring rural areas or mountain regions. Available in compact, mid-size, and large options.
- Minivans and people carriers: 7-9 seater vehicles for large families or groups. Models include Seat Alhambra, VW Sharan, and Mercedes Vito.
- Luxury and premium cars: High-end vehicles from brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz. Available but at a premium rate.
- Convertibles: Perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean climate along the Costa Blanca coastal roads.
No deposit car rental at Alicante airport is typically available across economy, compact, and mid-size categories. Availability of no deposit options for luxury vehicles and large SUVs varies by supplier and season.
Driving from Alicante Airport - Routes and Roads
Alicante International Airport has excellent road connections to the surrounding region. The airport is directly accessible from the A-70 motorway, which connects to the wider Spanish highway network.
To Alicante city centre: Take the A-70 north then merge onto the N-340 or AP-7 motorway. The journey is straightforward and takes approximately 15 minutes in normal traffic. Follow signs for "Alicante Centro" or "Explanada".
To Costa Blanca resorts: For Benidorm, take the A-70 to the AP-7 toll motorway heading north. The AP-7 is a modern highway with excellent road surfaces. Alternatively, use the free N-332 coastal road which takes longer but offers sea views. For Torrevieja and southern destinations, take the AP-7 south or the N-332.
Parking at the airport: If you are returning to the airport, car rental return areas are clearly marked in the multi-storey car park. Follow signs for "Car Rental Return" or "Devolucion Coches de Alquiler". Allow extra time during peak periods as queues can form at the return check-in.
Most roads in the Alicante region are well-maintained. The AP-7 motorway requires payment of tolls - these are charged at toll booths along the route. Keep coins or a credit card ready. Speed limits are generally 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on open roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas unless otherwise posted.
Practical Information for Renting at Alicante Airport
| Minimum driver age | Usually 21 years, some suppliers require 23 or 25 for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharge often applies under age 25. |
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| Driving licence requirements | Valid licence held for minimum 1 year. EU licences accepted directly. Non-EU visitors may need an International Driving Permit - check with your supplier. |
| Payment methods | Credit or debit card in the main driver's name. Some no deposit options accept debit cards. Cash payment upfront is not typically accepted. |
| Insurance coverage | Basic CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) usually included. Consider additional excess reduction or full coverage depending on your needs. Check what is included in your booking. |
| Fuel policy | Most rentals use "full-to-full" - collect with full tank, return full. Some suppliers offer "full-to-empty" but this is usually more expensive. |
| Cross-border travel | Driving to Portugal or France usually permitted but must be declared at booking. Check specific terms. Travel to Morocco not normally allowed. |
| Popular destinations | Alicante city, car rental Spain, no deposit car hire Spain |