Driving from Alicante Airport to Benidorm: What You Should Know Before Your Journey
Benidorm is one of the most popular destinations for travellers arriving at Alicante Airport. The city is famous for its Levante and Poniente beaches, impressive skyline, extensive hotel selection, well-developed tourist infrastructure and convenient location on the Costa Blanca.
If you are planning a holiday in Benidorm, renting a car allows you to travel independently from the airport to your hotel without relying on public transport schedules. It also gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding coastline throughout your stay.
The journey itself is relatively short. The distance from Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport to Benidorm is approximately 57-61 kilometres, depending on your chosen route and exact destination.
In this guide, we explain how to drive from Alicante Airport to Benidorm in a rental car, which road to take, whether tolls apply, where to park and what to consider when planning your return journey to the airport.
How Far Is Benidorm from Alicante Airport?
Under normal traffic conditions, driving from Alicante Airport to Benidorm takes approximately 40-50 minutes.
The main route details are:
- Distance: approximately 57-61 km;
- Usual driving time: 40-50 minutes;
- Main route: A-70 / AP-7 towards Benidorm and Valencia;
- Alternative route: N-332 along the coast;
- Final destination: your exact hotel, apartment or parking address.
The journey may take longer during summer, at weekends, on public holidays, during roadworks or when traffic is particularly heavy.
Remember that your flight's landing time and the moment you actually drive away from the rental company's office are two completely different things. Somewhere in between, there is passport control, baggage collection, vehicle collection, paperwork and several other achievements of modern civilisation.
Why Rent a Car at Alicante Airport for a Trip to Benidorm?
A rental car is particularly convenient if Benidorm is not the only destination you intend to visit.
During your holiday, you can independently explore places such as:
- Altea;
- Villajoyosa;
- Calpe;
- El Castell de Guadalest;
- Albir;
- Alicante;
- other towns, beaches and natural attractions along the Costa Blanca.
Having a car is also useful for families with children, travellers carrying plenty of luggage and visitors staying in apartments outside the main tourist areas.
However, if you intend to spend the entire week beside the hotel swimming pool without going anywhere else, it is worth comparing car rental with a direct bus or airport transfer.
After all, a rental car offers its greatest advantages when you actually use it rather than simply admire it from your hotel balcony every morning.
What Should You Do After Landing at Alicante Airport?
If you have already booked a rental car, follow your rental company's collection instructions after landing.
The usual procedure includes:
- Leaving the aircraft;
- Passing through passport control, if required;
- Collecting your luggage;
- Checking messages from the rental company;
- Contacting the office or shuttle service according to the instructions;
- Travelling to the vehicle collection point;
- Completing the rental agreement;
- Inspecting the car before departure.
If you are travelling with children or carrying a large amount of luggage, allow additional time between landing and actually beginning your journey by car.
How to Collect a SOLO rent a car Vehicle After Landing at Alicante Airport
SOLO rent a car provides a shuttle service from Alicante Airport terminal to the company's office in the El Altet area.
According to SOLO's collection instructions, after collecting your luggage you should:
- Go down to level -2, following the Transfer Bus signs;
- Exit towards the express parking area;
- Proceed to the meeting point between pillars 43 and 47;
- Contact the shuttle service on +34 610 78 79 20;
- Wait for the transfer to the rental office.
Always check the latest collection instructions in your booking confirmation before travelling.
The SOLO rent a car office in Alicante is located at:
El Altet, Polígono 2, núm. 83, 03195 Alicante.
Once the paperwork is completed and you have collected the vehicle, you can begin your journey towards Benidorm.
What Should You Check Before Leaving the Rental Office?
Before driving on unfamiliar roads, spend a few minutes checking your rental vehicle.
Make sure you verify:
- The details in your rental agreement;
- The agreed return date and time;
- The fuel policy;
- The current fuel level;
- The mileage;
- The correct fuel type;
- The condition of the bodywork, windows and wheels;
- The position of the mirrors and driver's seat;
- The air conditioning;
- The child seat, if one was booked;
- The absence of unexpected dashboard warning lights.
Take photographs of the vehicle from every side. If you notice any damage that is not recorded in the collection documents, inform a member of staff before driving away.
For more practical advice, read our article How to Photograph a Rental Car at Pickup and Return.
The Main Route from Alicante Airport to Benidorm
For a direct journey from Alicante Airport to Benidorm, the expressway route via the A-70 and AP-7 heading north is generally a convenient option.
After collecting your rental car:
- Enter the exact address of your accommodation in Benidorm into your navigation system.
- Leave the El Altet area towards Alicante / A-70.
- Follow the current road signs towards Benidorm / Valencia.
- Take the AP-7 section recommended by your navigation system.
- Use the appropriate exit for your destination in Benidorm.
- Continue to your hotel, apartment or previously selected parking area.
The correct exit depends on your exact destination, whether that is Levante, Poniente, Rincón de Loix, the city centre or another neighbourhood.
It is therefore more practical to enter your accommodation's complete address rather than simply selecting Benidorm as your destination.
Do You Have to Pay Tolls on the AP-7 Towards Benidorm?
As of September 2026, the standard AP-7 route from the Alicante area towards Benidorm is toll-free.
In December 2025, the Spanish government also approved free use of the AP-7 Circunvalación de Alicante. This allows drivers to use that section without paying the toll previously charged there.
However, it is important to remember that the AP-7 designation covers a very long motorway, and different sections may have different toll arrangements.
If you plan to travel considerably beyond the usual Alicante - Benidorm route, check the conditions for the specific motorway sections you intend to use.
It is also worth checking current traffic information before departure, as some navigation applications may occasionally display outdated toll information.
Alternative Route via the N-332
If you are not in a hurry and would prefer to travel closer to the coast, you can consider a route using the N-332.
This road passes through several coastal areas and allows you to include a stop along the way if you wish.
However, keep in mind:
- Lower speed limits on certain sections;
- Local junctions and roundabouts;
- Possible routes through built-up areas;
- Heavier traffic during the tourist season;
- A potentially longer journey compared with the expressway.
For a straightforward transfer after a long flight, the expressway route is usually more convenient.
However, if you arrive in the morning, have plenty of time and want to begin discovering the Costa Blanca immediately, the alternative coastal route can also be an interesting option.
Is It Worth Stopping in Alicante on the Way to Benidorm?
If your main objective is simply to reach your hotel, there is no particular need to drive into central Alicante.
Doing so may increase the journey time and create the additional task of finding somewhere to park.
However, if you would like to begin your holiday with a walk around Alicante, visit the Explanada de España promenade, have lunch or explore the city, you can include a stop in your itinerary.
In that case, find a suitable parking area in advance and make sure your luggage is not visible inside the car.
There is absolutely no need to introduce the contents of your suitcase personally to the entire surrounding neighbourhood.
Which Rental Car Should You Choose for the Alicante Airport - Benidorm Route?
You do not need an SUV or a particularly powerful vehicle for this standard road journey.
Your choice should mainly depend on the number of passengers, luggage and your plans for the rest of the holiday.
For One or Two People
A compact car is generally convenient both for the journey and for parking in Benidorm afterwards.
If you are travelling with relatively little luggage, a particularly large vehicle may be completely unnecessary.
For Families with Children
Pay attention to boot capacity, the number of seats, child seat installation and overall passenger comfort.
This is particularly important if you intend to visit different beaches, supermarkets and neighbouring Costa Blanca towns throughout your stay.
For Groups of Friends
Consider not only the number of passengers but also the number and size of suitcases.
Four people and four large suitcases do not necessarily fit inside a car that looked wonderfully spacious in the booking photograph.
For a Longer Holiday
If you plan to rent the vehicle for several weeks, consider seat comfort, fuel consumption, interior space and ease of parking.
The largest available car is not automatically the most practical option, particularly when you need to find parking in a busy tourist city every day.
What Should You Consider If Your Flight Arrives Late at Alicante Airport?
If your flight arrives in the evening or at night, check in advance whether vehicle collection is available at your expected arrival time.
Confirm:
- The office opening hours;
- The shuttle instructions;
- What to do if your flight is delayed;
- The appropriate contact telephone number;
- Whether late collection is possible under your booking conditions;
- The address of your accommodation in Benidorm;
- Your hotel or apartment check-in arrangements.
Once you have collected the vehicle, configure your navigation system before leaving the parking area.
If you are unfamiliar with the route, choose a straightforward expressway journey. There is no particular need to learn the car's multimedia system, find the correct exit and explain to your passengers why they still cannot see the sea, all at the same time.
What Should You Do If Your Flight Is Delayed?
If your flight is delayed, inform the rental company as early as possible.
Even if you already provided your flight number when making the booking, an additional message can help the company coordinate vehicle collection and the shuttle service.
It is useful to provide:
- Your booking number;
- The main driver's surname;
- Your flight number;
- The new estimated landing time;
- The approximate time you expect to leave the terminal.
A delayed flight does not automatically mean the car can be collected at any time of day or night. This depends on your booking conditions and the rental company's confirmation.
Is the Alicante Airport - Benidorm Route Suitable for Drivers New to Spain?
For someone who already feels confident behind the wheel, this route is normally relatively straightforward.
Much of the journey uses a modern road network, and the direction towards Benidorm is clearly signposted.
Nevertheless, before setting off, it is worth:
- Setting up your navigation system;
- Checking the applicable speed limits;
- Familiarising yourself with the vehicle's transmission;
- Adjusting the driver's seat and mirrors;
- Avoiding mobile phone use while driving;
- Maintaining a safe following distance;
- Avoiding sudden lane changes if you miss an exit.
If you miss your exit, simply continue along the permitted route until you can safely change direction.
Navigation systems can recalculate routes. There is absolutely no need to test a rental car's ability to reverse along a motorway.
Where Should You Stay in Benidorm: Levante or Poniente?
Before driving to Benidorm, it is useful to understand which part of the city your accommodation is located in.
Levante
Levante is one of Benidorm's best-known tourist areas.
It offers a popular beach, numerous hotels, restaurants, shops and entertainment facilities.
If you are staying in this area, check whether your hotel has its own parking facilities, as finding an available street parking space can be difficult during the busy season.
Poniente
Poniente also offers a long beach, a promenade, residential complexes and tourist accommodation.
If you intend to use your rental car regularly, it is worth choosing accommodation with a private garage or convenient parking nearby.
City Centre and Old Town
Benidorm's old town is particularly pleasant for walking, visiting restaurants and exploring the city. However, not all streets are freely accessible to vehicles or suitable for parking.
If your accommodation is located in the old town or a restricted traffic area, ask the property in advance where you can stop to unload your luggage.
Where Can You Park in Benidorm?
Parking is one of the main practical considerations for travellers arriving in Benidorm with a rental car.
The city offers street parking, underground car parks, regulated parking zones and free public parking areas.
Benidorm City Council publishes an official list of Aparcamientos Gratuitos. The municipal parking network includes locations in different parts of the city, such as:
- Avenida de Inglaterra;
- Avenida Beniardá;
- Via Parque / Avenida Cuba;
- The area around the bus station;
- Other parking areas serving Levante and Poniente.
Access conditions, availability and possible restrictions should be checked shortly before your journey.
You can find current municipal information on the Benidorm City Council - Free Parking Areas website.
What Does Zona Azul Mean in Benidorm?
Zona Azul refers to a regulated parking zone. Parking in these areas may require payment or be subject to time restrictions under the applicable local rules.
Before leaving your vehicle:
- Check the road signs;
- Read the information about operating hours;
- Confirm the available payment methods;
- Check the maximum permitted parking duration;
- Keep proof of payment where applicable.
Do not assume that coloured road markings are simply an artistic decision made by the local council.
Do You Need to Consider Restricted Traffic Areas in Benidorm?
Yes. Before driving into central Benidorm, take into account local traffic restrictions, pedestrian streets and the applicable Zona de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE) rules if your route passes through a designated area.
Having a rental car does not automatically grant permission to enter every street.
If your hotel is located within a restricted access area, contact the property in advance to confirm whether and how you may drive up to unload your luggage.
Information about the ZBE is available on the official Benidorm City Council website.
Can You Get Around Benidorm Without Using Your Rental Car Every Day?
Yes. If you are staying in a central neighbourhood and intend to spend most of your time at the beach, many everyday journeys can be completed on foot or using local transport.
However, a rental car becomes particularly useful if you want to:
- Visit neighbouring towns;
- Spend time at less crowded beaches;
- Explore mountain areas;
- Travel comfortably with children;
- Organise shopping independently;
- Avoid depending on excursion and transfer schedules.
When choosing your accommodation, consider how frequently you intend to use the vehicle and make sure you investigate parking arrangements.
Where Can You Go on a Day Trip from Benidorm by Rental Car?
Benidorm is a convenient base for independent trips around the Costa Blanca.
Villajoyosa
A smaller coastal town known for its colourful houses, beaches and pleasant old-town atmosphere.
It is suitable for a short trip or a relaxed walk lasting several hours.
Altea
One of the Costa Blanca's most recognisable towns, with whitewashed houses, narrow streets and beautiful Mediterranean views.
It is particularly suitable for a relaxed walk or an evening visit.
Calpe
Calpe is famous for the striking Peñón de Ifach rock, its beaches and coastal scenery.
It can easily be combined with Altea as part of a separate day trip.
Guadalest
If you would like a change from beaches and prefer mountain scenery, consider visiting El Castell de Guadalest.
This small historic village offers viewpoints, a castle and impressive views over its reservoir.
For additional inspiration, see our article about visiting Guadalest by rental car from Alicante.
Which Is Better: Rental Car, Bus or Private Transfer?
There are several ways to travel from Alicante Airport to Benidorm.
The most suitable option depends on the number of passengers, budget, luggage, arrival time and your plans for the rest of the holiday.
Rental Car
A rental car is particularly suitable for travellers who intend to use the vehicle not only for the airport transfer but also throughout their holiday.
Its main advantages include route flexibility, luggage capacity according to the chosen vehicle category and the ability to visit neighbouring towns independently.
Bus
A bus may be a convenient option for one or two travellers with relatively little luggage, particularly if the timetable matches their arrival time.
Check current departure schedules, stops and ticket prices before travelling.
Private Transfer
A private transfer is suitable for travellers who want to reach their accommodation directly but do not intend to drive during their stay.
If you want to explore the Costa Blanca, however, a rental car provides greater independence throughout the trip.
How Much Fuel Will You Need from Alicante Airport to Benidorm?
Actual fuel consumption depends on the chosen vehicle, engine, transmission, driving style, traffic conditions and use of air conditioning.
As the route is approximately 60 kilometres each way, it is a relatively short journey for most modern passenger cars.
There is no need to fill the tank specifically before leaving the rental office unless your rental's fuel policy or the current fuel level makes this necessary.
The important things are to check the remaining driving range and know which type of fuel the vehicle requires.
How to Prepare for the Return Journey from Benidorm to Alicante Airport
The return journey should be planned in advance, particularly if you have an early morning flight.
Before leaving Benidorm, check:
- The rental end time;
- The exact vehicle return address;
- Current traffic conditions;
- Whether final refuelling is required;
- The time needed for vehicle inspection;
- The key return procedure;
- The onward journey to the terminal.
Do not assume that a distance of 60 kilometres automatically means you can leave your hotel only one hour before airport check-in closes.
Aircraft generally do not participate in discussions about how optimistically you planned your journey.
Where Should You Refuel Before Returning the Rental Car?
If your rental agreement requires refuelling before return, choosing a petrol station along the final part of the route towards Alicante Airport is particularly convenient.
There are several petrol stations around El Altet and Torrellano close to the airport.
Before the final refuelling:
- Check the required fuel level;
- Confirm the correct fuel type;
- Choose a petrol station along your route;
- Keep the fuel receipt;
- Photograph the dashboard after refuelling.
Do not leave the search for a petrol station until the final five minutes before returning the vehicle.
For more practical information, read our article Where to Refuel Before Returning a Rental Car at Alicante Airport.
Where Should You Return a SOLO rent a car Vehicle After Your Holiday in Benidorm?
If your agreement specifies Alicante as the return location, follow the address and instructions in your booking confirmation.
The SOLO rent a car return point is located in the El Altet area:
El Altet, Polígono 2, núm. 83, 03195 Alicante.
Do not automatically drive directly to the passenger terminal, as the vehicle return point and airport terminal may be located in different places.
If your return takes place outside normal office hours, inform the company in advance and follow the instructions provided.
You can find a more detailed explanation in our article Rental Car Return at Alicante Airport: Step-by-Step Guide.
Common Mistakes When Driving from Alicante Airport to Benidorm
Common mistakes include:
- Not checking the exact address of the rental office;
- Confusing the flight's landing time with the actual rental car departure time;
- Failing to inform the rental company about a flight delay;
- Not inspecting the vehicle at collection;
- Ignoring luggage capacity when choosing a car;
- Entering only Benidorm into the navigation app instead of the complete accommodation address;
- Not checking the hotel's parking facilities;
- Ignoring local traffic restrictions;
- Driving all around Benidorm searching for a free parking space;
- Failing to plan the return journey to Alicante Airport;
- Leaving final refuelling until the last few minutes;
- Confusing the rental car return point with the airport terminal.
Most of these mistakes can be prevented before departure. Fifteen minutes of preparation will not make your holiday any less spontaneous, but it will significantly reduce the probability of beginning it with the question: “Why exactly have we ended up here?”
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving from Alicante Airport to Benidorm
How far is Benidorm from Alicante Airport?
Approximately 57-61 kilometres, depending on the selected route and exact destination.
How long does it take to drive from Alicante Airport to Benidorm?
Usually around 40-50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. During the tourist season or in heavy traffic, the journey may take longer.
Which road is most convenient for driving to Benidorm?
For a direct journey, the expressway route via the A-70 / AP-7 heading north is generally convenient.
Do I need to pay tolls on the AP-7?
As of September 2026, the standard AP-7 route towards Benidorm is toll-free. For other journeys, check the conditions of the specific motorway sections you intend to use.
Can I travel via the N-332 instead?
Yes. The N-332 is an alternative route running closer to the coastline, although the journey may take longer.
Where is the best place to park in Benidorm?
It is most convenient to check parking at your hotel or apartment in advance. Benidorm also has a municipal network of free public parking areas.
Do I need a large rental car for this journey?
Not necessarily. Most passenger cars are suitable for this route. Choose the vehicle category according to the number of passengers, luggage and your further travel plans.
Can I collect a rental car after a late flight arrival?
This depends on your booking conditions, office opening hours and confirmation from the rental company. If your flight is delayed, inform the company of the new expected arrival time as early as possible.
Can I visit Guadalest by rental car from Benidorm?
Yes. Benidorm is a convenient starting point for visiting Guadalest and numerous other Costa Blanca attractions.
Where should I return the car before my flight home?
At the return point specified in your rental agreement. SOLO rent a car uses its office in the El Altet area near Alicante Airport.
Rent a Car at Alicante Airport for Your Benidorm Holiday with SOLO rent a car
If you are planning a holiday in Benidorm and would like to explore the Costa Blanca independently, you can book a vehicle with SOLO rent a car in advance for collection at Alicante Airport.
After landing, customers can use the company's shuttle service to travel from the terminal to the office in the El Altet area, according to the collection instructions. Before your trip, check the latest collection information and prepare the necessary documents and a physical bank card belonging to the main driver that meets your booking conditions.
When choosing a vehicle, consider the number of passengers, luggage, child seats, rental duration and your planned excursions.
From Benidorm, it is convenient to visit Villajoyosa, Altea, Calpe, Guadalest and many other Costa Blanca destinations by car. A rental vehicle allows you to choose your departure times, stops and the length of each excursion independently.
Before your return flight, make sure you check the agreed rental end time, fuel policy and SOLO rent a car return address in Alicante.
A rental car should make your holiday easier, not become another tourist attraction that you have to search for in a different car park every day.
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