Driving along the Alicante coast means immersing yourself in a landscape where the blue of the Mediterranean competes with the gleam of skyscrapers—a short but intense journey that connects two of the most vibrant destinations in the Valencian Community in barely a heartbeat.
How to Get from Alicante to Benidorm: Quick Overview
The fastest and most flexible option for traveling from Alicante to Benidorm is a private car, covering the 45 km in just 35 minutes, although the bus offers an affordable and direct alternative ideal for those who prefer not to drive.
If you’re traveling with bulky luggage, in a group, or simply value the freedom to stop whenever you like, a private vehicle is the top recommendation for this traveler profile. On the other hand, if you’re looking to save money and avoid the stress of traffic or parking at your destination, the bus network is robust and efficient. There is no direct train option on this route, unlike other national connections, so your choice essentially comes down to the road—whether behind the wheel or in a comfortable bus seat.
By Car from Alicante to Benidorm
The driving route mainly follows the A-31 motorway, known as the Autovía de Alicante (Alicante Motorway), which is toll-free and connects both points smoothly.
This road is the backbone of transport in the area, allowing you to cover the 45 km distance in a record time of 35 minutes under normal traffic conditions. As a toll-free motorway, the cost of the journey is limited exclusively to fuel and vehicle wear and tear, making it highly competitive compared to other options if traveling with companions. The drive is straightforward, with well-defined lanes passing through urban and suburban areas before reaching the coast. It’s worth noting that, although the estimated time is short, traffic volumes can slightly increase journey times during high season, especially when approaching the entrance to Benidorm.
By Bus from Alicante to Benidorm
The bus is a viable and direct option with an approximate duration of 45 minutes and prices ranging between 5 and 12 euros per journey.
Several operating companies cover this line frequently, most notably Alsa, La Unión de Benisa, S.A., and Beniconnect. This variety of operators usually guarantees a good range of schedules throughout the day, facilitating mobility for both tourists and residents. The bus journey duration is slightly longer than a private car—45 minutes compared to 35—due to intermediate stops and station access. The price range of 5 to 12 euros makes it a very economical option, especially for solo travelers who don’t want to bear the rental or fuel costs of their own vehicle. The departure stations in Alicante and arrival stations in Benidorm are usually centrally located, making it easy to access points of interest as soon as you step off the bus.
Recommended stops along the way
The route offers several verified points of interest where you can stop to soak up the local atmosphere before reaching your final destination.
- el Campello: This coastal town is an excellent stop for those seeking a more relaxed vibe than Benidorm. Located right on the route, it boasts a pleasant seafront promenade and is known for its deep connection to the sea, making it an ideal midway point to stretch your legs.
- Sant Joan d’Alacant: Strategically situated along the way, this area combines residential zones with coastal access. It is a common passing point that allows you to observe the transition from Alicante’s urban landscape to the more tourist-oriented areas to the north.
- Mutxamel: Although it lacks a direct coastline like Benidorm, this is a key municipality on the overland route. Stopping here lets you experience local life in the province of Alicante away from the mass tourist spotlight, offering a more authentic perspective of the region.
- la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa: Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque stops before reaching Benidorm. Famous for its brightly colored houses and rich seafaring history, it is a must-see if you have the time. Its proximity to the main route makes it a minimal detour with maximum visual reward.
- Sant Vicent del Raspeig / San Vicente del Raspeig: This municipality is located at the start of the route, very close to Alicante. It is a logical stop if you are departing from the northern part of Alicante city, serving as a connection point between the capital and the highway leading towards the northern coast.
Where to stay in Benidorm
Benidorm offers a wide variety of accommodation areas to suit different budgets and travel styles, from the bustling city center to the tranquility of the outskirts.
For travelers looking to be in the heart of the action, the Levante area is the predominant choice. This is where most of the high-rise hotels, nightlife, and direct access to the most famous beach are concentrated. Prices in this area tend to be higher, especially on the beachfront, but the convenience of having everything within walking distance is unbeatable. On the other hand, the Poniente area offers a slightly more family-friendly and quieter atmosphere, ideal for couples or families who prefer more leisurely sunset strolls. Accommodations here range from holiday apartments to chain hotels, with price ranges that can be more competitive than in Levante.
If you are looking for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, the Casco Antiguo (Old Town) or Centro is an interesting option. Although it is further from the sand, it allows you to enjoy local cuisine in traditional bars and has a historic charm that contrasts with the skyscrapers. Finally, for those traveling by car and prioritizing absolute rest, there are residential areas on the outskirts or on the slopes of the surrounding hills, where you can find villas and apartments with panoramic views, though this means relying on a vehicle to get around the city.
Where to eat along the route
The gastronomy of the province of Alicante is rich and varied, offering traditional dishes that define the culinary culture of the area between Alicante and Benidorm.
- Arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock): This is the star dish of the Marina Baixa area and the province as a whole. It is a seafood rice where the grain is cooked exclusively in a powerful fish and seafood stock. The unique feature is that it is served ‘a banda’, meaning separately from the fish, allowing you to enjoy the intense rice first and then the seafood, often accompanied by a good homemade alioli.
- Coca amb tonyina (tuna pastry): Typical of the L’Alacantí area, this savory pie is the perfect snack to take on the road. Its thin, crispy dough is filled with tuna, onion, and pine nuts, creating an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. It is a staple during the Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John) festival, but is enjoyed all year round.
- Olleta alicantina (Alicante-style stew): If you are traveling in the colder months, this robust stew is the ideal choice. It is a traditional winter dish made with legumes, vegetables, and pork. Its consistency and warmth make it the perfect food to combat the cold and regain energy after a day of exploring.
- Turrón de Jijona/Alicante (nougat): You cannot talk about sweets in this province without mentioning its emblematic nougats, especially those from the Jijona area. Made with toasted almonds and honey, they are the perfect gift. It is important to distinguish between Turrón de Jijona, which is soft, and Turrón de Alicante, which is hard and crunchy.
- Fondillón: For wine lovers, this is a gem of the province of Alicante. It is a noble, naturally sweet wine made from overripe Monastrell grapes. Its aging process over many years gives it a character unique in the world, perfect for pairing with desserts or enjoying as a digestif.
- Pilotes de dacsa (cornmeal dumplings): A very traditional dish from the Marina Baixa area. These are meatballs made with corn flour, beans, meat, and vegetables. They are often served in local broths or stews, providing a rustic and comforting flavor that reflects the region’s resourceful cooking.
Frequently asked questions about the Alicante-Benidorm route
How long does it take to get from Alicante to Benidorm?
Travel time depends on the mode of transport chosen: by car it takes approximately 35 minutes to cover 45 km, while the bus journey takes around 45 minutes.
Which is cheaper, the train or the bus?
Currently there is no direct train option to Benidorm, so the bus is the most economical public transport alternative, with prices ranging between 5 and 12 euros.
Is it worth renting a car?
Yes, it is worth it if you plan to make several of the recommended stops along the route, such as Villajoyosa or El Campello, as it gives you total freedom, although the bus is sufficient if you are only going from point A to point B.
When is the best time to travel?
The best time depends on your interests: in winter to enjoy dishes like Olleta alicantina and avoid crowds, or in summer to take advantage of the coastal stops, although with more traffic on the A-31.