When December arrives, Alicante changes its skin. Lights take over the streets, the smell of nougat and spices fills the air, and that unique Christmas spirit—lived here under the sun—spreads from the old town all the way up to the Santa Bárbara Castle.
If you’re thinking about a different kind of holiday, without stress or crowds, this guide walks you through every step so you can experience it to the fullest. And trust us: renting a car in Alicante is the best way to make it happen.
Why Choose Alicante at Christmas?
While half of Spain needs heavy coats and the cold slows down every plan, Alicante offers a sunny Christmas, with mild temperatures and the perfect weather for strolling around. Ideal whether you’re traveling as a couple, in a group, or on the family trip of the year.
From mid-November until Epiphany, the city transforms: outdoor markets, light shows, record-breaking nativity scenes, ice rinks, concerts. A schedule so full that no matter how many days you stay, there will always be something to do (or repeat).
The Perfect Plan Starts With a Car
If you want to visit nearby towns, go shopping outside the city centre, discover quieter beaches, or simply improvise plans along the way, renting a car is your ticket to freedom: no timetables, no limits, no depending on anyone.
With Moovers it’s easy: pick up your car at Alicante Airport, head straight to your plans without queues or endless paperwork, and rely on a team that helps you with whatever you need. Whether you’re traveling with kids, lots of luggage, or just eager to get started, it’s a solution designed for you.
What to See in Alicante During Christmas
City Hall Square: Lights, Giant Tree and Shows
The heart of Alicante’s Christmas. Here you’ll find the famous light-up tree, more spectacular every year, and a dazzling display of illumination that makes every evening look like a postcard. Perfect for strolling, taking photos or simply soaking it all in.
Ice Rink and Giant Slide
Right next to the marina, close to the Explanada promenade. The ice rink and huge inflatable slide are Christmas classics enjoyed by both children and adults. And if you’re staying outside the city centre, driving there is easy—no circling around endlessly.
Giant Nativity Scene and Nativity Route
Not an exaggeration: the largest nativity scene in the world is in Alicante and is officially recognised by Guinness. It’s located in City Hall Square, but don’t stop there. If you rent a car, you can follow a complete nativity route through San Vicente, San Juan and Elche—each stop offering a different festive surprise.
Christmas Markets
From the craft stalls on La Rambla to the Christmas market on the Explanada, the hardest part will be leaving empty-handed. And if you’d like to extend the route, hop in the car and head to the San Vicente Outlet or the Gran Vía and Plaza Mar 2 shopping centres. Perfect for finishing your gift list (or treating yoursel
Christmas Getaways Near Alicante
With a car, the possibilities multiply. Here are some day trips that will gift you a whole new Christmas in just a few hours:
- Alcoy: home to the oldest Three Kings Parade in Spain. Living history.
- Jijona: aquí nació el turrón. Y lo celebran con feria y museo incluido.
- Guadalest: a mountain village decorated like a storybook.
- Elche: Christmas among illuminated palm trees. One of a kind.
Practical Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
- Book your car in advance. Christmas is high season, and it shows.
- If you’re coming with a group or children, choose a spacious and comfortable vehicle.
- Plan your itinerary: some events have restricted traffic zones, but with a car you can park nearby and move around freely.
- Check holiday schedules. On December 25th, January 1st and 6th, everything changes.
Ready to Experience a True Alicante Christmas?
Alicante doesn’t slow down in December. Quite the opposite—it lights up differently. With sunshine, yes, but also with tradition, culture and a genuine festive spirit. Our advice: explore without rushing, improvise when you feel like it, and let each day be different. Rent a car in Alicante with Moovers and discover what it means to enjoy a Christmas with no strings attached. No clocks. No maps.