The assumption that you need a hire car to enjoy the Costa Blanca is one of the most persistent myths in Spanish travel. The region's main tourist destinations are well connected by an excellent and very affordable network of trains, buses, trams, and ferries.
The TRAM: Alicante's Coastal Rail Network
The TRAM d'Alacant is arguably the most enjoyable way to travel along the northern Costa Blanca without a car. This modern light railway connects Alicante city with Benidorm, Altea, Calpe, and Dénia. The journey from Alicante to Benidorm takes around 1 hour 20 minutes and costs just a few euros. The views along the coastal sections — where the tram hugs the clifftops above the sea — are genuinely spectacular.
Alsa Long-Distance Coaches
For destinations to the south of Alicante — including Torrevieja, Santa Pola, Guardamar, and Elche — the Alsa coach network is your best friend. Modern, air-conditioned coaches run regular services between Alicante's central bus station and all the main southern resort towns. The journey from Alicante to Torrevieja takes approximately one hour and costs around €5 one-way.
Ferries and Boat Services
One of the most charming ways to travel along the southern Costa Blanca is by ferry. Regular services connect Alicante city with the island of Tabarca, and in summer months additional services operate between Torrevieja, Santa Pola, and Guardamar. The ferry from Alicante to Tabarca takes 45 minutes and is a genuinely magical experience.
Cycling
The Costa Blanca has invested significantly in cycling infrastructure in recent years, and a growing network of dedicated cycle paths connects many of the main coastal towns. Many holiday villas and apartment complexes offer bicycle hire, and several specialist hire companies operate in the main resort towns.
Tips for Car-Free Travel on the Costa Blanca
- Download the TRAM app for real-time tram schedules and ticket purchasing.
- Book Alsa coach tickets in advance online to guarantee your seat during busy periods.
- Stay centrally: choose a holiday apartment or villa within walking distance of a beach and a supermarket.
- Allow extra time: public transport is generally reliable but build in a little flexibility for connections.
- Consider a hire car for just one or two days if you want to explore inland mountain villages.
Getting around the Costa Blanca without a car is not just possible — it can actually enhance your holiday experience, freeing you from the stress of driving on unfamiliar roads and hunting for parking spaces on a busy August afternoon. Browse car-free holiday apartments in Benidorm, Alicante and Torrevieja →