If you’ve got a layover in Alicante, don’t let it go to waste sitting at ALC. The city, in Spain, is within easy reach — roughly 50 minutes by Bus C6. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave ALC:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Spain. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Alicante takes about 50 minutes by Bus C6. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from ALC to Alicante
From ALC, the Bus C6 gets you to Alicante in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Bus C6 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near ALC
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At ALC, you’ll find bag storage at Left-luggage service is located on level 0 of the terminal building, near the arrivals area, operating 24 hours..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Alicante:
Transport to the city and back runs about $11 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $22 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $43 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Alicante.
How to Spend Your Time in Alicante
If you head into Alicante, here are two things worth checking out:
Santa Bárbara Castle is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Explanada de España is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Alicante.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ALC, check out Sala Ifach VIP Lounge or Duty-Free & Terminal Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Alicante, local travelers recommend El Portal Taberna & Wines. If you have time for a second stop, La Taberna del Gourmet is another popular pick.
Back at ALC, Taberna Gambrinus is the go-to. Dehesa SantamarÃa rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ALC should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Spain and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at ALC
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ALC, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Alicante doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from ALC, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.