Are you coming to Alicante and planning to explore it by car? Great choice! Driving in Alicante gives you the freedom to discover beaches, nearby villages, and hidden gems at your own pace.
But be careful — driving as a tourist has its challenges.
At Moovers, we’ve spent years helping travelers who arrive full of excitement… and questions. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide: how to drive in Alicante, including local rules, common fines, and safety tips you won’t find just anywhere.
This article is for you — to help you avoid surprises, stay safe, and enjoy every kilometer with peace of mind.
1. Introduction to Driving in Alicante
Before we dive into rules, fines and tips, here’s a quick overview of what to expect when driving in Alicante:
- Just like the rest of Spain, you drive on the right-hand side.
- City center streets can be narrow, with roundabouts, lots of intersections, and steady pedestrian traffic.
- In summer, traffic can be heavy, especially near the coast, harbor, and city entrances/exits.
- Some areas have special regulations, especially the Old Town and Low Emission Zones.
- Highways and main roads (like the N-338, which connects the airport to the city) are usually well maintained and clearly marked.
The N-338 is one of the main national access roads in the area.
Now, let’s go over the rules, fines, and smart tips that can save you trouble on the road.
2. Local Driving Rules You Should Know
2.1 Speed Limits
Knowing the speed limits is key. Below are standard limits (always follow local signs):
| Road Type | Usual Speed Limit |
| Urban areas | 50 km/h (or lower in residential areas) |
| Residential/narrow streets | 20–30 km/h |
| Conventional roads (outside towns) | 90 km/h |
| Highways / expressways | 100–120 km/h, depending on the stretch |
Important: Speed cameras (fixed and average speed) actively monitor roads across Alicante province.
2.2 Right of Way & Roundabouts
- In general, drive on the right, overtake on the left (unless signs indicate otherwise).
- In urban areas, vehicles coming from the right usually have priority — unless indicated differently.
- In roundabouts, cars already inside have right of way.
Use your right indicator to signal when exiting. - Watch out: Some roundabouts have pedestrian crossings just before or after the exit, so you may have to stop even mid-turn.
2.3 Low Emission Zones (LEZ) & Local Restrictions
Alicante has introduced a Low Emission Zone (ZBE) called AlicanTeCuida.
As of 2025, it doesn’t impose general restrictions on all vehicles — but the Old Town does have limited access areas, reserved for residents or authorized vehicles.
So, if you’re driving a standard rental car, you’re generally free to drive through most of the city.
However, this may change in the future, so it’s best to check for updates before your trip.
In the Old Town, some streets are for residents only, with barriers, cameras, or guards controlling access.
2.4 Seatbelts, Helmets & Safety Basics
These rules are universal, but worth repeating:
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Not wearing one can result in a fine.
- Child seats: Children must use an approved restraint system appropriate to their height/weight, and sit in the back whenever possible.
At Moovers, we offer certified child seats for rent when you book:
Baby seats: €10.95/day (max €98.55 per rental)
Boosters: €9.95/day (max €89.55 per rental)
The renter is responsible for installation. In case of loss, theft, or non-return, the full cost applies. - Phones: Holding your phone while driving is illegal. Only hands-free systems are allowed.
- Alcohol limit: 0.5 g/L of blood alcohol. For new or professional drivers, the limit is lower.
- Littering (like throwing cigarette butts or paper out the window) is also fined — even passengers can be penalized.
2.5 Parking, Regulated Zones & Towing
The blue zone (paid parking) is common in the city center and commercial areas. You must: Buy a parking ticket
Respect time limits
Park within designated hours
Use the Moviltik app to pay for parking, extend time without returning to your car, and manage everything from your phone.
More info 👉 www.moviltik.es
If you park illegally (on sidewalks, in loading zones, or resident-only areas), you risk:
- A fine
- Having your car towed
In the city center, parking spots are often tight. Drive like a local: take your time and be patient.
3. Most Common Fines in Alicante
These are the top fines we’ve seen tourists get — and how to avoid them:
- Speeding – especially in areas with radar enforcement.
- 📌 New: Alicante has recently added new fixed and average-speed cameras.
- Illegal parking – like parking in pedestrian zones or reserved spots.
- No seatbelt – a very common infraction with a financial penalty.
- Phone use – holding your phone is one of the top tourist mistakes.
- Running red lights / ignoring signs – especially in complex intersections downtown.
- Drunk driving – strictly penalized in Spain, with high fines.
- Passenger violations – yes, even passengers can be fined for throwing litter out the window.
In short: follow speed limits, park properly, keep your phone away, and drive responsibly. That’s your best shield against problems.
4. Essential Safety Tips for Tourists Driving in Alicante
Here’s where our years of experience at Moovers come in. These tips will help you drive safely and confidently:
4.1 Adapt to the Environment
Alicante’s roads are a mix of wide avenues and narrow alleys. In the Old Town, expect cobblestones and tight turns.
Always reduce speed and stay alert. In summer, heat and glare affect visibility. In rain, braking distance increases — keep your distance.
4.2 Don’t Trust GPS Blindly
GPS is helpful, but it might send you through pedestrian-only or restricted areas (especially downtown).
Pay attention to signs, and when in doubt — stop and ask.
4.3 Plan for Traffic
Avoid peak hours:
Morning: 8–10 am
Afternoon: 6–8 pm
Also watch for traffic buildup near beaches and tourist areas in high season. If you can, drive early or late in the day.
4.4 Avoid Distractions
Loud music, loose paper maps, and phones all create distractions. Stay focused, especially at roundabouts and crossings where pedestrians can appear unexpectedly.
4.5 Understand Insurance & Excess
When renting your car, review the insurance excess — the amount you pay in case of damage.
If possible, add extra coverage to reduce or eliminate the excess — it’s worth the peace of mind.
4.6 Suggested Scenic Routes
Alicante offers beautiful drives worth exploring:
- Costa Blanca toward Altea, Benidorm or Calpe — stunning Mediterranean views and coastal roads.
- Inland drives — discover charming villages, towers, and quieter mountain routes.
- Nearby beaches — Playa de San Juan, El Campello… great access, though parking can be tough in high season.
Plan ahead, and avoid wandering unknown areas without maps or apps.
5. Step-by-Step Driving Plan for Tourists in Alicante
Here’s a practical overview from pickup to return:
- Pick up your car
- Inspect the vehicle with the agent — note any dents or scratches.
- Confirm insurance, mileage limits, fuel policy, and extra charges.
- Head to your first destination
- Drive calmly at first to get used to local traffic.
- Avoid restricted streets — especially in the Old Town.s.
- During your trip
- Follow speed limits, especially near towns.
- Watch for pedestrians — they often have priority, even without lights.
- At night, slow down on rural roads — unexpected hazards may appear
- Parking in the city or tourist spots
- Look for regulated (blue zone) parking and pay the fee.
- In busy areas, plan ahead and use public car parks.
- Never leave valuables visible in the car.
- Returning the car
- Return it on time and with the correct fuel level.
- Do a final check with the agent for new damages.
- Keep your final receipt.
6. FAQ – Driving in Alicante as a Tourist
Do I need a special license to drive in Alicante as a tourist?
No. If you have a valid license from your country (and in some cases an International Driving Permit if it’s not in Latin alphabet), you’re good to go.
Can I drive from Alicante to other provinces/regions?
Yes, unless your rental contract says otherwise. Check for any limits and make sure your insurance covers longer trips or crossing regions.
Do I need to pay tolls in Alicante or nearby routes?
No tolls within Alicante city. Some highways in the Valencia region may have tolls depending on the route. Check in advance.
What if I get a fine after returning the car?
The rental company may receive the fine and charge it to your name or card. That’s why driving responsibly is key.
What should I do if I have a minor accident or damage?
Call the rental company’s roadside assistance right away. Take photos, note license plates and insurance info, and file a report.
Never leave the scene without documentation..
7. Final Thoughts – Drive Smart & Enjoy Alicante
Driving in Alicante can be a fantastic experience — if you know what you’re doing.
At Moovers, we’ve seen that informed, well-prepared tourists enjoy stress-free trips… while those who improvise often deal with fines, towing, or headaches.
If you rent with us, we’ll be happy to help:
We can provide maps, route suggestions, updates on restricted zones, and answer any questions about your car or route.