Compare automatic car hire prices at Alicante Airport, check availability and choose the right vehicle size for your trip.
Why Automatic Cars Are Popular with UK Travellers
Many UK families and groups prefer automatic cars for comfort and ease on unfamiliar roads. Automatic cars remove the need for clutch control in traffic and on long drives.
Alicante Airport serves both holidaymakers and business visitors, so automatic vehicles are often in demand for group trips and airport pickups. This demand rises sharply in summer and during city events.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
At Alicante Airport you can find a wide range of automatic vehicles. Choices include economy hatchbacks, medium family cars, compact SUVs, and 7 Seater or 8 Seater models for larger groups.
Major brands and local operators maintain fleets at the terminal arrivals hall. For some budget operators a shuttle transfer to an off-site lot is used instead. Check your voucher to confirm collection details.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| City traffic | Better for stop-start driving | More control on hills |
| Fuel economy | Similar for modern models | Often slightly better on older cars |
| Ease for visitors | Easy for unfamiliar roads | Requires gear familiarity |
Main takeaway: automatic cars reduce driver strain in city traffic and on busy coastal roads.
What to Expect When Renting an Automatic
Most rental counters sit in the arrivals hall on Planta 0. Agents will process documents and tell you where to collect the car.
If your supplier uses an off-airport lot the shuttle pick-up is usually at the designated bus area below the terminal. Allow 10 to 20 minutes extra for the shuttle transfer.
- Bring passport, driving licence and credit card in lead driver name.
- International licences often require an IDP for non-EU licences. Check requirements before travel.
- Inspect the car carefully and photograph any existing damage.
| Extra | Typical Cost | Can It Be Avoided? |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel charges | €30–€80 | Yes. Choose full-to-full policy |
| Excess reduction insurance | €8–€20 per day | Sometimes. Use third-party cover |
| One-way fee | €20–€150 | No, when returning to another location |
Main takeaway: extra charges vary widely. Check the booking terms and your card insurance.
Tips for Choosing the Right Car
Pick a car that fits passengers and luggage. For a family with two suitcases a compact or medium hatch often fits. For small groups or golf clubs choose an estate or compact SUV.
Consider parking and road width when choosing a vehicle. Narrow streets in old towns such as Elche and smaller coastal villages benefit from compact cars. If you plan long motorway trips pick a car with cruise control and good fuel economy.
| Item | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel policy | Avoid surprise refuelling fees | Prefer full-to-full |
| Collection point | Saves time on arrival | On-site counter vs shuttle |
| Child seats | Legal requirement for young children | Pre-book seats and specify age |
Main takeaway: check the collection point and the fuel policy before you finalise the booking.
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Daily rates vary by season, vehicle type and booking lead time. Typical estimates are:
- Economy automatic: €25–€50 per day.
- Family hatch / compact SUV: €40–€80 per day.
- 7 Seater or 8 Seater: €70–€140 per day.
Summer months and public holidays push prices higher. Alicante Airport reported record passenger growth, so expect higher demand in peak months and during popular school holidays.
Book early and compare offers. Use the official airport pages for up-to-date company locations and opening hours. See the airport car hire directory on Aena for company contacts.
Final Advice Before Booking
Allow time for queues at the arrivals hall during peak travel times. Alicante Airport handled record monthly traffic in recent Januarys, so counters get busy at peak times. Plan a buffer of 30 to 60 minutes when you land.
Remember the airport links directly to the N-338 and the A-70, giving quick access to the coast. From central Alicante the drive is about 11 km and usually 15 minutes in light traffic. Expect longer journeys in summer afternoons.
Check whether your chosen company stores cars in an off-site lot. Off-site collection can add 10 to 20 minutes. If you have an evening arrival double-check opening hours in advance.
FAQs — Alicante Airport Automatic Car Hire
Where are the car rental desks at Alicante Airport?
Most desks are in the arrivals hall on Planta 0 next to baggage exit. Confirm your supplier on your voucher.
Do some companies use a shuttle from the terminal?
Yes. Some budget and off-site suppliers use shuttle buses from the lower bus level. Expect a short transfer.
How long does it take to pick up a hire car?
Allow 20 to 40 minutes for paperwork and inspection. Add 10 to 20 minutes if a shuttle is needed.
Is an International Driving Permit required?
Drivers from outside the EU should check IDP rules before travel. Requirements depend on your licence origin.
Are child seats available at the airport?
Yes. Book child seats with the hire company before arrival to guarantee availability.
Can I refuel at the airport?
Yes. Fuel stations are nearby and some off-site return locations have their own refuelling options. Check fuel policy to avoid charges.
Is parking at the terminal easy for returns?
There are dedicated rental return bays and short-stay parking options. Aena added express parking to speed quick pick-ups and drop-offs.
When is demand highest for automatic cars?
Demand peaks in June to September and during school holidays. Recent winter months have also shown strong demand.
How do I reach the main roads from the airport?
The airport links to the N-338, then the A-70 and AP-7 for the coast and wider region. Driving to Alicante city centre takes about 15 minutes.
