Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), also known as El Altet, is Spain’s fifth busiest airport and the main gateway for millions of tourists visiting the Costa Blanca every year. Benidorm, located approximately 58 kilometers from the terminal, is the undisputed capital of the region, often referred to as the “Spanish Manhattan” due to its impressive skyline of skyscrapers and sandy beaches. The journey from the airport to this vibrant resort usually takes between 40 and 60 minutes, depending on the chosen mode of transport. There are several proven ways to cover this route – from economical city buses and the scenic tram route to luxury private transfers and taxis.

1. Direct Bus (ALSA) – Best Value for Money

The direct connection operated by Spain’s largest bus company, ALSA, is the most popular and efficient way for individual tourists to reach Benidorm. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and have large luggage compartments, making the journey very comfortable even with large suitcases.

• Travel time: The journey usually takes 45 to 55 minutes, depending on traffic on the AP-7 motorway.
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately 9.65 EUR, while a return ticket (ida y vuelta) costs around 17.95 EUR. Children under 4 often travel at a significant discount or for free (it’s worth checking this when booking).
• Frequency and hours: During the summer season, buses run every 30–60 minutes. The first service from the airport usually starts around 08:00 AM, and the last one around 11:00 PM (it’s worth checking the current schedule for the specific day before your flight).
• Where to find the stop? After collecting your luggage, head to Level 2 (Departures). The bus stops are located outside the terminal. Look for bays marked with the ALSA logo (usually these are the last bays on the platform, from number 30 upwards).
• Where to buy a ticket?
  • From the driver: You can pay with cash or a contactless card when boarding the bus (subject to seat availability).
  • At vending machines: Blue ALSA ticket machines are located inside the terminal near the exits and on Level 2.
  • App and website: This is the most reliable method. By purchasing a ticket on alsa.es or via the mobile app, you are guaranteed a seat on a specific service. You simply show the ticket to the driver on your phone screen.

Stop locations in Benidorm: The ALSA bus stops in two key locations:

1. Avenida de Europa: This stop is located close to the center and the famous Levante beach. It is ideal for most tourists heading to hotels in the tourist zone.
2. Estación de Autobuses (Main Bus Station): The final stop, located slightly further from the coast, at the entrance to the city (near the motorway). Convenient if your hotel is in the northern part of the city or if you plan to transfer to a city taxi.

2. Private and Shared Transfers (Shuttle) – “Door-to-Door” Convenience

If you want to avoid the stress of finding your way from the bus station to your hotel, door-to-door transfers are the perfect solution. These services are provided by specialized companies such as BeniConnect, Shuttle Spain, or global platforms like Hoppa or Suntransfers.

• Shared Shuttle: This is the most cost-effective option for solo travelers or couples who value convenience. It works similarly to a “communal taxi” – after arrival, you go to the company’s office at the airport (Level 0) and are then directed to a bus that drops passengers off at designated hotels or apartments in Benidorm.
  • Cost: Approx. 12–18 EUR per person.
  • Time: It may take slightly longer than the bus (approx. 60–90 min) as the driver may make stops at other hotels along the way.
• Private Transfer: A premium option for families, larger groups, or those who value their time. The driver usually waits in the arrivals hall with a sign with your name (a “Meet & Greet” service).
  • Cost: Prices start at approx. 65–80 EUR for a passenger car (up to 4 people).
  • Advantage: No waiting for other passengers and a direct route to your door. You can order a child seat during the booking process.
• Booking Process: These services are not available “off the street.” You must book them online in advance (ideally at least 48 hours before your flight). You will need to provide your flight number, allowing the company to monitor any delays, and the exact address of your accommodation.

Why is it worth it? Unlike the ALSA bus, a shuttle will take you directly to your hotel door, which is invaluable if your accommodation is located on the steep hills of the Rincon de Loix district or deep within the old town.

3. Tram (TRAM Alicante) – Low-Budget and Scenic Option

This is an ideal solution for travelers who are in no rush and want to enjoy Mediterranean landscapes. Although the airport itself does not yet have a direct rail connection, traveling by tram (the so-called Trenet) is easy thanks to an efficient transfer in Alicante.

1. Step 1: C6 Bus to Alicante city center: After leaving the terminal on Level 2, board the blue C6 line bus. It runs every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day. Your destination is the Luceros stop (the main transport hub in Alicante). The ticket costs 3.85 EUR and you can buy it directly from the driver (card or cash). The journey to Luceros takes about 20–25 minutes.
2. Step 2: Line L1 (Red) from Luceros station: At the Luceros underground station (very modern and well-signed), transfer to Line L1 (red), which runs directly to Benidorm. Trams usually depart every 30 minutes (always at .11 and .41 past the hour during the day).
   • Tickets: Benidorm is in Zone C. A tram ticket costs approx. 3.75 EUR (if you don’t have a city card). Tickets are purchased from machines at the station or inside the tram.
   • Comfort: Line L1 trains are suburban trains – they are air-conditioned, have toilets, and designated areas for bicycles and larger luggage.

• Travel time: The entire trip (bus + transfer + tram) takes between 90 and 120 minutes.
• Advantage (Views): After leaving the Alicante urban area, the tram travels right along the seashore. The section between El Campello and Villajoyosa offers some of the most beautiful views on the Costa Blanca – the tracks run right along cliffs and sandy coves.
• Tip: In Benidorm, the tram stops at the main station (Benidorm), from where you can walk into town or transfer to a local city bus or taxi.

4. Taxi or Uber/Cabify

The fastest and most comfortable option available 24/7.

• Travel time: approx. 40 minutes.
• Taxi cost: The official metered price (Radio Taxi Elche) is usually 70–85 EUR, depending on the time of day (night and weekend rates are more expensive).
• Uber/Cabify: Prices are dynamic but usually hover between 60 and 90 EUR.
• Where to find them? The official taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals hall exit (Level 0).

5. Car Rental – Full Independence

Renting a car is the best option for those who treat Benidorm only as a base to explore the charming corners of the Alicante province. Having your own car allows you to reach places inaccessible to public transport, such as picturesque mountain villages or hidden coves.

• Why is it worth it? There are plenty of attractions around Benidorm: the town on the rock Guadalest, the fairytale Altea with its white houses, the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls, or theme parks (Terra Mítica, Aqualandia). With your own car, you aren’t limited by schedules.
• Companies: You will find a wide selection of rental companies at the airport. Firms such as Record Go, Centauro, Europcar, Sixt, or Goldcar have offices directly in the terminal (Level 0 or -1) or offer free shuttle buses to nearby parking lots (often cheaper, “off-site” options).
• Route and tolls: Getting to Benidorm is very simple. From the airport, head for the AP-7 motorway (Autopista del Mediterráneo). Crucially, for several years now, this motorway has been completely free of charge. An alternative is the N-332 national road, which is more scenic but passes through town centers, significantly increasing travel time.
• Important tips:
  • Fuel: The most favorable option is the “Full-to-Full” policy (you collect it with a full tank and return it full).
  • Parking in Benidorm: This is the biggest challenge. Finding a free spot in the center is nearly impossible. It’s worth checking if your hotel offers parking or using paid underground car parks (approx. 15–25 EUR per day).
  • Documents: An EU driving license is sufficient, along with a credit card in the name of the main driver (some companies accept debit cards if you purchase full insurance).

Summary and Recommendations

Which option to choose? My recommendation:

• If you are traveling alone or as a couple (Budget-conscious): Choose the ALSA bus. It is the most sensible compromise between price and time. If you don’t have massive luggage, the short walk from the Avenida de Europa stop to your hotel will save you plenty of money for evening tapas.
• If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a senior: Definitely book a Shuttle (e.g., BeniConnect). Benidorm is a city with varied terrain – the Rincon de Loix district has steep inclines that can be exhausting with a 20kg suitcase. The door-to-door service takes this problem off your shoulders.
• If you are traveling in a group of 3-4 or with children: Go for a taxi or private transfer. When splitting the cost between 4 people, the price will be around 18-20 EUR per head—not much more than the bus—and you gain peace of mind, no waiting in the heat, and transport right to your door. For families with small children, this is the only option for a stress-free transition from the airport to an air-conditioned room.
• For fans of views and “slow travel”: Choose the C6 + Tram combination. This route is an attraction in itself. Ideal if you land early in the morning and want to start your holiday by admiring the blue sea from the train windows.