The Costa Blanca, with its stunning coastline, charming villages, and bustling cities, is a fantastic destination to explore by car. Renting or driving your own vehicle gives you the freedom to visit hidden beaches, scenic mountain roads, and lively coastal towns at your own pace. However, before hitting the road, it’s essential to be prepared for tolls, traffic conditions, parking costs, fuel prices, and other practical aspects of driving in this beautiful Spanish region.
Tolls and Road Fees in Costa Blanca
Spain has both free and tolled highways, and the Costa Blanca is no exception. If you plan on using motorways (autopistas), here’s what you need to know:
- AP-7 Highway – This was previously a toll road but became free to use from January 2020 between Alicante and the French border. However, some sections still require payment, particularly around Valencia and towards Murcia.
- Toll Costs – If you take the AP-7 south of Alicante towards Cartagena, expect to pay around €5–€10 depending on the distance traveled.
- Alternative Routes – If you prefer avoiding toll roads, you can use the N-332 coastal road, which is free but may have more traffic, especially near major cities.
Traffic Conditions and Roadblocks
Traffic in Costa Blanca can vary depending on the season and time of day. Here are the key points to consider:
- Summer Traffic – The busiest months are July and August, when tourists flood the region. Expect congestion near Benidorm, Torrevieja, and Alicante, especially on weekends.
- Rush Hours – In cities like Alicante, Elche, and Benidorm, peak traffic occurs between 7:30–9:30 AM and 5:30–8:00 PM.
- Road Closures & Construction – The Spanish government frequently upgrades roads, so check navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for updates before your trip.
- Mountain Roads – If you’re heading to areas like Guadalest or the Jalon Valley, prepare for narrow, winding roads that require extra caution.
Parking Fees and Availability
Finding parking in Costa Blanca depends on the location. Some towns have ample free parking, while others, like Alicante and Benidorm, have stricter regulations.
- Street Parking:
- Blue Zones (Zona Azul) – Paid parking areas in most cities and towns. Fees range from €1–€2 per hour.
- White Zones – Free parking, but these spaces fill up quickly.
- Green Zones – Reserved for residents; avoid parking here unless permitted.
- Public Parking Lots & Garages:
- Underground parking garages are available in most city centers. Expect prices between €1.50–€3 per hour or €15–€25 per day.
- Beach Parking:
- During peak season, finding a parking spot near the beach can be challenging. Some beach areas offer paid parking for around €5–€10 per day.
- Benidorm’s New Smart Parking System:
- Benidorm has introduced a smart parking system in some areas, where you pay via an app rather than a ticket machine.
- Alicante Parking Tips:
- Parking in the city center can be difficult, but areas near the port and train station offer paid options starting from €2 per hour.
Fuel Prices and Where to Refuel
The cost of fuel in Spain fluctuates, but here are some general guidelines:
- Diesel: Typically ranges between €1.50–€1.70 per liter.
- Unleaded 95 Octane: Expect to pay €1.60–€1.80 per liter.
- Unleaded 98 Octane: Higher-performance fuel costs around €1.80–€2.00 per liter.
- Cheaper Fuel Stations: Gas stations at large supermarkets (like Carrefour, Alcampo, and Mercadona) tend to have slightly lower prices than those on highways.
Other Important Considerations When Driving in Costa Blanca
- Speed Limits: Spain strictly enforces speed limits. Be mindful of the following:
- Urban Areas: 30–50 km/h
- Secondary Roads: 90 km/h
- Highways: 120 km/h
- Fines & Traffic Cameras: Speed cameras are common, and fines can be expensive. If caught speeding, you can pay online for a discount within the first 20 days.
- Roundabouts & Signage: Spain uses many roundabouts. Always give way to cars already in the circle.
- Drink-Driving Laws: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 mg/ml (lower for new drivers). Police frequently conduct random breathalyzer tests.
- Emergency Numbers: In case of an accident, dial 112 for emergency assistance.
Is Renting a Car Worth It?
If you’re planning to explore Costa Blanca beyond the main cities, renting a car is highly recommended. Here’s why:
✔️ Freedom to explore places like Guadalest, the Jalon Valley, and lesser-known beaches.
✔️ More cost-effective than taxis for long-distance travel.
✔️ Easy access to mountain and countryside routes that are not well-served by public transport.
🚗 Rental Prices: Expect to pay between €25–€50 per day for a basic car, with higher rates in peak season.
Final Thoughts
Driving around Costa Blanca is a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant cities. While there are tolls, traffic hotspots, and parking costs to consider, the convenience of having your own vehicle makes it a worthwhile option. Plan ahead, use navigation apps to avoid congestion, and enjoy the scenic coastal and countryside routes that make this region a perfect road trip destination! 🚘🌅
Hey there! I just wanted to ask if you ever have any trouble with hackers?
My last blog (wordpress) was hacked and I ended up losing several
weeks of hard work due to no back up. Do you have any
solutions to prevent hackers?
Feel free to visit my web blog – Take a look