Alicante Airport: The complete traveller’s guide
I fly from Alicante Airport at least once a year, with the last time being July 2026, so it has prompted this article which we hope will be useful for future travellers.
Happy travels!
Alicante Airport Guide
Whether you’re flying home after visiting family, heading off on holiday or welcoming friends to Spain, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) is one of the country’s busiest and most popular airports. Serving millions of passengers each year, it offers flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.
For many residents living along the Costa Blanca, in Murcia and even further afield, Alicante Airport is the preferred choice thanks to its wide range of airlines, extensive route network and straightforward layout. With just one easy to navigate passenger terminal, it’s generally easier to use than many larger European airports.
This guide brings together everything you need to know before you travel, from parking and public transport to drinking water fountains, shops, restaurants, accessibility and facilities for passengers travelling with pets. We’ll also share practical tips to help make your journey as smooth as possible.
We’ll keep this guide updated regularly, so you can check it for the latest information before you travel.
Alicante Airport at a glance
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) is Spain’s fifth busiest airport and the main international gateway to the Costa Blanca. It serves millions of passengers each year, connecting Alicante with destinations across Europe as well as a number of domestic Spanish routes.
It was recently ranked as one of the best airports in Europe according to travel portal Holidu. You can click here to read the full list
Operated by Aena, the airport has just one terminal, making it much easier to navigate than many larger European airports. Whether you’re arriving, departing or collecting family and friends, everything is located within the same modern terminal building.
Quick facts
- Official name: Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport
- IATA code: ALC
- ICAO code: LEAL
- Operator: Aena
- Number of terminals: One
- Distance from Alicante city: Approximately 9 km
- Distance from Benidorm: Approximately 58 km
- Distance from Torrevieja: Approximately 62 km
- Distance from Murcia city: Approximately 75 km
The airport is particularly popular with European travellers, with year-round services operated by airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, British Airways, Vueling, TUI Airways, Norwegian and Eurowings.
Its compact layout means check-in, Security, shops, restaurants and departure gates are all under one roof, making it one of Spain’s easiest major airports to use.
Getting to Alicante Airport
Whether you’re driving yourself, being dropped off or using public transport, Alicante Airport is well connected to the surrounding region. I do it by ALSA Bus from Northern Almería usually, which is a really cost effective way of getting there and you only have to change buses once (at Murcia Bus Station).
By car
The airport is located just off the N-338, with quick access to both the A-70 and AP-7 motorways. Journey times are approximately:
| From | Approximate driving time |
|---|---|
| Alicante city | 15 minutes |
| Elche | 20 minutes |
| Benidorm | 40 - 45 minutes |
| Torrevieja | 45 - 50 minutes |
| Murcia | 50 - 60 minutes |
| Almeria province | Around 2 hours and 30 mins |
Times are approximate and merely intended as a guide. Other factors will cause the times to vary.
As with any major airport, it’s worth allowing extra time during the summer months, school holidays and bank holiday weekends.
Parking at Alicante Airport
If you’re driving, Alicante Airport offers several parking options depending on the length of your trip and how close you want to be to the terminal.
We’ll update the prices in this guide regularly, but it’s always worth booking online in advance if you know your travel dates. Advance bookings are often cheaper than paying on arrival, particularly during peak travel periods.
The main parking options include:
General Parking (P1)
The main multi-storey car park is directly opposite the terminal building and is connected by covered walkways. It’s the most convenient choice for most travellers and is ideal for shorter stays.
Ideal for long weekends, business trips, meeting arriving passengers
Long Stay Parking
If you’re travelling for a week or more, the Long Stay car park is often the most economical option. A free shuttle bus connects it with the terminal, with journey times of just a few minutes.
Ideal for your annual holiday, longer trips, any travellers looking to reduce parking costs
Express Parking
Perfect if you’re collecting someone or dropping them off for a short period. This car park is located very close to the terminal and is designed for quick visits rather than extended stays.
Disabled parking
Blue Badge holders will find dedicated accessible parking spaces close to the terminal entrances. These spaces provide step-free access into the airport and are clearly signposted.
Electric vehicle charging
Charging points are available within the airport parking facilities for electric vehicles. Availability can vary, so it’s sensible to check before travelling if you’ll need to recharge during your trip.
Spain Buddy Tip: If you’re travelling during the busier periods, such as Easter, summer or over Christmas, be sure to reserve your parking online as early as possible. Not only can it save money, but it also guarantees you a space when it all gets a little hectic.
- Book direct with AENA
- Book with ParkVia (highly recommended – we use them a lot, especially in the cities and airports)
Getting to and from Alicante Airport
Whether you’re heading to the Costa Blanca, Murcia or beyond, Alicante Airport is well connected by bus, taxi, private transfer and hire car. The right option depends on your destination, budget and whether you’re travelling during the busy holiday season.
By bus
The airport is served by several regular bus routes, making it an affordable way to reach many popular destinations.
C6 Airport Bus
The C6 bus provides a frequent service between Alicante Airport and Alicante city centre, stopping at Alicante Bus Station, Alicante Railway Station and several locations along the route.
This is the easiest option if you’re connecting with trains or staying close by. The buses are located right outside the main entrance.
Long-distance coaches
Several coach companies operate direct services from Alicante Airport to towns and cities across the region and into neighbouring provinces, including popular destinations such as:
- Benidorm
- Torrevieja
- Murcia
- Cartagena
- Santa Pola
Some routes operate all year, while others increase in frequency during the summer tourist season. Always check timetables before travelling, particularly if you’re arriving on a late evening flight.
By taxi
Official taxis are available from the rank immediately outside the Arrivals hall, 24 hours a day. Fares can vary depending on your destination, traffic and the time of day, but as a rough guide:
| Destination | Approximate fare |
|---|---|
| Alicante city | €20 - 30 |
| Elche | €25 - 35 |
| Benidorm | €75 - 95 |
| Torrevieja | €60 - 80 |
| Murcia | €90 - 120 |
Additional charges may apply for late-night journeys, public holidays or larger vehicles.
Private transfers
If you prefer to have someone waiting for you when you land, private airport transfers are widely available. These are particularly popular with families travelling with children, groups sharing the cost, passengers with lots of luggage, anyone arriving late at night when other transport types aren’t appropriate. Most drivers will meet you inside the Arrivals hall with a name board before escorting you to your vehicle.
Car hire
If you’re planning to explore the Costa Blanca or travel further into Spain, hiring a car from the airport can be a convenient option.
Most major international and Spanish rental companies have desks within the terminal, while vehicle collection is only a short walk away in the adjacent car parks.
As availability can become limited during the summer months, booking in advance is usually recommended.
Picking someone up
If you’re meeting arriving passengers, keep an eye on the live flight information before setting off, as delays are not uncommon during busy periods.
Drivers can use the airport’s designated parking areas while waiting, rather than stopping on the access roads, where waiting is not permitted.
If your passengers haven’t yet collected their luggage, it can often be more economical to wait nearby until they confirm they’re ready to be collected.
Spain Buddy Tip: If you’re collecting friends or family, ask them to message you once they’ve picked up their luggage. It could save you paying for more parking than you need.
Inside the terminal
One of Alicante Airport’s biggest advantages is its simple layout. With just one passenger terminal, it’s easy to find your way around, even if it’s your first visit.
Clear signs throughout the building direct passengers to check-in, Security, departures, arrivals and baggage reclaim, while information screens provide live flight updates in several languages.
The terminal is modern, spacious and fully accessible, with lifts, escalators and moving walkways helping passengers move between different levels.
Check-in
If you’ve already checked in online and are travelling with hand luggage only, you can head straight to Security.
Passengers with hold luggage should make their way to their airline’s check-in desks, which are clearly displayed on the departure screens throughout the terminal.
Most airlines recommend arriving:
- Short-haul flights: At least two hours before departure.
- Long-haul flights: At least three hours before departure.
During school holidays, Easter and the summer season, allowing a little extra time is always a good idea, particularly if you’re parking, returning a hire car or travelling with children.
Security
Once you’ve checked in, you’ll proceed through the airport’s central Security checkpoint.
Like all airports, you’ll need to remove larger electronic devices from your hand luggage if requested and comply with current restrictions on liquids, aerosols and gels.
Although Security is generally efficient, queues can become much longer during the early morning departure wave, when many flights leave within a relatively short period.
If you’re travelling during peak periods, it’s worth arriving with plenty of time to spare rather than assuming you’ll breeze straight through.
Fast Track Security
Passengers who want to reduce waiting times can purchase Fast Track Security or receive access through certain airline tickets, airport lounge bookings or travel memberships.
A dedicated lane allows eligible passengers to bypass the main queue, although everyone still undergoes the same security screening.
Fast Track can be particularly worthwhile during the busy summer months or if you’re travelling on one of the airport’s popular early morning departures.
After Security
Once you’ve passed through Security, you’ll enter the main departures area, where you’ll find the majority of the airport’s shops, restaurants and passenger facilities.
Flight information screens are positioned throughout the departures lounge, and most gates are within a comfortable walking distance. Some gates are located a little further away, so it’s worth keeping an eye on boarding announcements rather than leaving it until the last minute.
The departures area also offers plenty of seating, charging points, toilets, baby-changing facilities and accessible amenities, making it a comfortable place to wait for your flight.
Spain Buddy Tip: If you’re travelling with only cabin baggage, checking in online before you arrive can save valuable time. You may be able to walk straight from the terminal entrance to Security without needing to queue at the check-in desks.
Free drinking water fountains at Alicante Airport
With the cost of bottled water at airports often attracting criticism, you’ll be pleased to know that Alicante Airport provides several free drinking water fountains where you can refill a reusable bottle.
If you’re travelling with hand luggage only, bringing an empty water bottle through Security is a simple way to save money while reducing single-use plastic.
Before Security
At the time of writing, drinking water fountains are limited before Security. If you’re arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare, it’s usually easier to wait until you’ve passed through Security before filling your bottle.
After Security
Most travellers will find the free water fountains located throughout the departures area after passing through Security.
One of the easiest to find is immediately after the Security checkpoint. After entering the departures lounge, turn left and you’ll see a drinking water fountain positioned near the seating area, making it a convenient stop before browsing the shops or heading to your departure gate.
Additional fountains are available elsewhere in the departures area, particularly as you make your way towards the boarding gates. If you’re unsure where the nearest one is, look for the blue drinking water signs or ask a member of airport staff.
(Insert photo: Water fountain immediately after Security.)
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes. Alicante Airport’s drinking fountains are connected to the public water supply, and the water is safe to drink.
Many travellers comment that Alicante’s tap water is perfectly acceptable for drinking, although the taste can vary slightly depending on the time of year and the treatment process. If you’re used to bottled water, you may notice a slight difference in flavour, but it’s no different from the tap water supplied throughout the local area.
Can I take water through Security?
Current airport security rules mean you cannot normally take bottles containing more than 100ml of liquid through the Security checkpoint.
The easiest solution is to carry an empty reusable bottle in your hand luggage and fill it once you’ve entered the departures area.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid buying unnecessary plastic bottles before every flight.
Water fountain locations
- Just after Security, as pictured
- In the shopping section
- Gate B
- Gate C
Spain Buddy Tip: If you’re travelling during the summer, fill your bottle as soon as you’ve passed through Security. The fountains nearest the main seating areas can become busy shortly before boarding peaks, especially during the morning rush.
Shops at Alicante Airport
Whether you’ve forgotten a travel essential, want to pick up a last-minute gift or simply fancy a bit of duty-free shopping, Alicante Airport has a good selection of shops both before and after Security. The largest choice is available once you’ve entered the departures lounge.
As with many airports, individual retailers may change from time to time, so we’ll keep this section updated as shops open, close or relocate.
Shops before Security
If you’re arriving early or meeting someone at the airport, you’ll find a small selection of shops in the public departures area before Security.
These typically include:
- Convenience stores for snacks and drinks
- Newsagents selling books, magazines and travel accessories
- Gift shops
- Travel essentials such as adaptors, headphones and toiletries
- A pharmacy for last-minute healthcare items
Although the choice is more limited than after Security, there’s enough to pick up any essentials before your flight.
Shops after Security
Once you’ve passed through Security, you’ll find the airport’s main shopping area.
Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, local delicacies or simply something to help pass the time before boarding, there’s plenty to browse.
Duty Free
The Duty Free store is one of the largest retail outlets in the departures lounge and stocks a wide range of products, including:
- Spirits, wines and beers
- Perfume and cosmetics
- Skincare and beauty products
- Chocolates and confectionery
- Tobacco products (where permitted)
- Gift sets
- Travel exclusives
Prices can vary, so it’s worth comparing before assuming Duty Free is the cheapest option.
Fashion and accessories
Several stores sell clothing, handbags, sunglasses, footwear and travel accessories from well-known international brands.
Whether you’ve forgotten something at home or simply fancy treating yourself before your flight, you’ll find plenty of options.
Books, magazines and travel essentials
Need something to read on the plane? The airport’s newsagents stock:
- Books
- Newspapers
- Magazines
- Children’s activity books
- Travel pillows
- Phone chargers
- Earphones
- Snacks and bottled drinks
They’re also a useful stop if you’ve forgotten smaller travel items.
Gifts and local products
If you’ve left souvenir shopping until the last minute, you’ll still have plenty of choice. You’ll find a selection of:
- Spanish wines
- Olive oil
- Sweets and chocolates
- Local delicacies
- Alicante-themed gifts
- Toys
- Postcards
Many products are specifically aimed at travellers looking to take a little piece of Spain home with them.
Spain Buddy Tip: If you’re buying local food products as gifts, make sure they’ll be allowed into your destination country, particularly if you’re travelling outside the EU. Restrictions can apply to products containing meat, dairy or fresh produce.
Passenger facilities
Alicante Airport offers a wide range of facilities designed to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Whether you need to charge your phone, connect to Wi-Fi or simply find a quiet place to relax before your flight, you’ll find plenty of useful services throughout the terminal.
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Alicante Airport, allowing passengers to browse the internet, check emails or stream entertainment while waiting for their flight.
To connect, simply select the airport’s Wi-Fi network on your device and follow the on-screen instructions.
If you’re planning to work while you wait, it’s worth arriving with a fully charged device, as power sockets near seating areas can be in high demand during busy periods.
Charging points
Charging stations and power sockets can be found throughout the departures lounge, allowing passengers to recharge phones, tablets and laptops before boarding.
As availability is limited during peak travel periods, it’s often worth plugging in as soon as you find a free socket.
If you’re travelling with several devices, bringing a small multi-port USB charger can be particularly useful.
Airport lounge
If you’d prefer somewhere quieter to wait for your flight, Alicante Airport’s VIP lounge offers a more relaxed environment away from the busy departure gates.
Depending on your ticket or membership, VIP lounge access may be included with your flight. Alternatively, many travellers choose to purchase entry in advance.
Facilities typically include:
- Comfortable seating
- Complimentary snacks and drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Free Wi-Fi
- Charging points
- Flight information screens
- Newspapers and magazines
- Air-conditioned surroundings
If you have a long wait before your flight or simply enjoy a quieter atmosphere, lounge access can be well worth considering. I’m yet to enjoy VIP Access as yet, but will update this article when I do.
Smoking areas
Smoking is prohibited throughout the terminal building, except in designated smoking areas.
Passengers wishing to smoke should follow the airport signage to the appropriate outdoor smoking zones once they have passed through Security. Sorry but I didn’t check where those were when I last travelled through.
Using electronic cigarettes and vaping devices is also restricted to designated smoking areas.
Toilets and baby changing
Toilets are located throughout both the public areas and the departures lounge.
Accessible toilets are available throughout the terminal, while baby-changing facilities can be found in several family-friendly washrooms.
If you’re travelling with young children, family toilets provide a little extra space and convenience before boarding.
One of my favourite experiences while travelling is listening while Little Princess chatters away to her Mama in the loo. There’s usually a level of excitement from littlun while poor Mama has been up for 48 hours straight, trying to organise the family pre-trip.
Luggage wrapping
For added peace of mind, a luggage-wrapping service is available within the terminal. Having your suitcase professionally wrapped can help protect it from scratches, keep it secure during transit and make it easier to identify on the baggage carousel. While many travellers don’t feel it’s necessary, it can be a useful option if you’re transporting fragile items or simply want an extra layer of protection.
Cash machines and currency exchange
Cash machines (ATMs) are located throughout the terminal, both before and after Security.
Currency exchange services are also available for passengers arriving from or travelling to countries outside the eurozone. As exchange rates at airports are not always the most competitive, you may find better rates by arranging your currency before travelling.
Spain Buddy tip: I travel with my Wise and Revolut cards, which allow me to work with multiple currencies and it gives great exchange rates too.
If you’re thinking of opening a Wise account, using our referral link may earn us a small reward from Wise at no extra cost to you.
Lost property
Misplaced something during your journey?
If you’ve left an item within the airport terminal, contact Alicante Airport’s Lost Property office as soon as possible.
If your luggage has failed to arrive, you’ll need to report it to your airline or the baggage handling company before leaving the baggage reclaim area. They’ll provide you with a reference number so you can track the progress of your case.
Spain Buddy Tip: Before travelling, take a quick photo of your suitcase. If your luggage goes missing, having a recent picture can make it much easier to describe to the baggage handling team.
Accessibility and special assistance
Alicante Airport is designed to be accessible for all passengers, with a range of facilities and assistance services available for those with reduced mobility or additional needs.
The terminal offers step-free access throughout, with lifts, ramps and escalators providing easy access between all levels. Accessible toilets are located throughout the building, while designated parking spaces are available close to the terminal entrance for Blue Badge holders.
Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
If you need extra help during your journey, Alicante Airport provides a free assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).
This can include help with:
- Checking in and dropping off luggage
- Passing through Security
- Boarding and disembarking the aircraft
- Collecting baggage on arrival
- Moving through the terminal
To ensure assistance is available, it’s recommended that you request it through your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before your flight.
Hidden disabilities
Not all disabilities are visible. Alicante Airport participates in Aena’s accessibility programme, offering support to passengers with hidden disabilities as well as those with physical mobility needs.
If you think you’ll need extra time or assistance while travelling, don’t hesitate to contact your airline before you fly.
Accessible facilities
Throughout the terminal you’ll find:
- Step-free access
- Accessible toilets
- Lifts between floors
- Reserved seating in waiting areas
- Dedicated parking spaces
- Assistance points located outside the terminal
If you’re unsure where to go on arrival, airport staff are generally happy to point you in the right direction.
Travelling with pets
If you’re flying with your dog or cat, it’s important to plan ahead. Every airline has its own rules regarding pet travel, and requirements can vary depending on your destination.
Within the terminal, pets must remain under control at all times. Dogs should be kept on a lead unless they’re travelling in an approved carrier, while smaller pets should remain in a secure travel container where required by the airline.
Before you travel
Depending on where you’re flying, your pet may need:
- A microchip
- A valid pet passport or Animal Health Certificate
- Up-to-date rabies vaccination
- Tapeworm treatment (for certain destinations)
- An airline-approved travel carrier
Always check your airline’s requirements well before your departure date, as documentation rules can differ between countries.
Assistance dogs
Recognised assistance dogs are generally permitted to accompany their handlers throughout the airport and, subject to airline policies and destination requirements, may travel in the aircraft cabin.
If you’re travelling with an assistance dog, notify your airline in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements.
You should check the laws in Spain regarding assistance dogs, and especially regarding “Emotional support animals in Spain” – just because their role is recognised in your own country, does not guarantee that they will be in Spain.
Pet relief facilities
Alicante Airport provides designated pet relief areas for travelling animals. If your pet needs a comfort break before the flight, allow a little extra time to locate these facilities before checking in or after arriving at the airport.
(We’ll update this section with precise locations as we confirm them.)
Spain Buddy Tip: Flying can be stressful for pets as well as their owners. Arriving a little earlier than usual gives everyone time to settle, stretch their legs and avoid feeling rushed before the journey begins.
Useful tips from frequent travellers
After using Alicante Airport countless times over the years, we’ve picked up a few habits that make travelling that little bit easier.
- Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing through Security.
- Check in online whenever possible to save time at the airport.
- Book parking in advance, particularly during the summer and school holidays.
- Keep your passport or travel documents somewhere easily accessible rather than buried in your hand luggage.
- Download your boarding pass to your phone before leaving home, but consider carrying a printed copy as a backup.
- Charge your devices before arriving, as power sockets can be busy during peak periods.
- If you’re collecting someone, wait until they’ve collected their luggage before entering the airport car park.
- Keep an eye on the departure screens, as gate numbers can sometimes change.
Travelling through Alicante Airport is generally a straightforward experience, and a little preparation can make it even smoother.
Frequently asked questions
Whether you’re flying for business, returning home after a visit or setting off on your next adventure, Alicante Airport is one of Spain’s most straightforward airports to use.
Its single-terminal layout, excellent transport links and wide range of shops, cafés and passenger facilities make it a convenient gateway to the Costa Blanca and beyond.
With a little planning… whether that’s booking your parking in advance, bringing an empty water bottle or checking in online before you leave home – you can make your journey even smoother.
We’ll continue to review and update this guide regularly to ensure the information remains accurate, so be sure to bookmark it before your next trip through Alicante Airport.
Extra reading:
Elle, along with Alan, is the owner of Spain Buddy and the busy web design business – Spain Web Design by Gandy-Draper.
Born a “Norverner”, she then spent most of her life “Dann Saff” before moving to Spain in 2006. Elle’s loves are Alan, the internet, dogs, good food, and dry white wine – although not necessarily in that order.
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Information correct at time of publication.