Every pocket of Alicante holds something new to discover. And it starts the second you leave the airport. Make your way along the N-332, which hugs the glittering coastline, and it’ll lead you straight into the heart of the city. The speed limit is generally 50 km/h in the centre of town, although a number of 30 km/h zones have been introduced to calm traffic. As you explore the region further and take to its extensive network of motorways and dual carriageways, you’ll find the speed limit will increase to 120 km/h and 100 km/h respectively.

The freedom that hiring a car gives you is endless in Alicante, with a bounty of sandy beaches and charming Spanish towns to explore. Take a drive along the Mediterranean coast on the A-7 and AP-7 to visit two of the country’s finest cities - Valencia and Barcelona. One boasting contemporary and futuristic gems, the other a dreamy and otherworldly collection of ‘modernista’ architecture.

For a change in scenery, but one that’s closer to Alicante, travel an hour north along the A-7 to Calp. Here you’ll find Roman baths and the towering edifice that is Penon de Ifach – a 600 metre high granite rock that rises from the sea. Or switch it up and drive south along the N-332 and enjoy beautiful sea views all the way to Torrevieja, brimming with beaches.

While using the Spanish road network, you’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road and all passengers must wear a seatbelt at all times. If you’re on a family trip with little ones in tow, be aware that under-12s can’t sit in the front passenger seat.

Embrace the Alicante experience. Get your fix of vitamin D along the sun-drenched Costa Blanca coastline, eat your way through the region’s gastro greats and unravel the history etched into the city. With a hire car, you can do all of this and more.

Alicante’s art and architecture

History hounds have plenty of attractions to sniff out in Alicante. Climb the hill to Castillo de Santa Bárbara, the 9^th century fortress looming over the city. Wander along the honey-toned ramparts and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean sparkling in the sunshine. Seek out Museo de la Ciudad de Alicante within the complex to learn more about the city’s heritage.

Amble back down the mountain in the direction of Basílica de Santa María, the 18^th century church in the heart of the old town. Take snaps of the flamboyant façade and head inside to see the nave’s contrasting minimalist Gothic design. Art enthusiasts should also venture next door to enjoy the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante. Meander through the baroque townhouse, the city’s oldest surviving civil building, and admire more than 800 pieces of art on display. Revel in key pieces from some of Spain’s greatest 20^th century artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miro.

Sports, shops and soaking slides

Numerous hobbies and passions are catered for in Alicante, whether you’re an avid foodie or can’t get enough of sport.

Golf fans, grab your clubs and rejoice – Alicante has a plethora of courses for you to choose from. Take on one of the local greens - Real Club de Golf Campoamor Resort is said to be one of the best and is only an hours’ drive south of Alicante.

If you’re on holiday with children, journey north to Aqualandia, home to Europe’s highest standing slide and 15 water rides. Watch your kids squeal with delight as they take on the wave pool, float around the lazy river or grab a rubber ring and descend down the rapids.

Shopaholics can spend a leisurely evening perusing clothes in Alicante city centre. Make your way to Gran Via Mall and pick up new wares, with more than 100 high street stores to choose from. For a more traditional shopping experience, saunter through the old town, where you can purchase jewellery, shoes and dresses from local boutiques.

Gourmets will be spoilt for choice in Alicante. If you’re keen to enjoy a taste of local cuisine, settle down at Cervecería Sento and indulge in a delicious sampling of tapas. Feast on succulent squid, try the juicy meatballs and bite into tasty morcilla – similar to black pudding, but softer and with a hint of spice.

For ultra-fresh seafood, make for Pesca al Peso. While the interior looks humble, the dishes truly pack a punch. Simply select from house specialities, including whitebait, sardines and swordfish – and the chefs will prepare it just the way you like.

Cruise the Costa Blanca

Pack your hire car with all your beach essentials and head out onto Alicante’s coastal roads. This sun-kissed province is peppered with brilliant beaches, from popular stretches to out-of-the-way dunes you can call your own for the day.

Drive north along the A-70 and N-332 to Playa La Caleta de Villajoyosa. A hidden gem frequented mostly by locals, this stretch of pebbly beach is as secluded as they come in Costa Blanca. Dive into the sapphire waters to cool off from the sunshine, or explore the craggy rock pools to see which sea creatures you can spot.  

Roll down the windows and enjoy the sea breeze as you drive to Playa de la Fossa in Calpe, a historic town perched on the coast. Feel the sand between your toes as you wander along this Blue Flag stretch and take to the immaculate waters for a leisurely swim. Back on land, amble along the promenade and eat out at one of the atmospheric seafood restaurants as the sun begins to set.

Whether you intend to stay in Alicante or would like to explore more of Costa Blanca, a hire car is the perfect way to do it. Get behind the wheel and this wonderful, sun-blessed part of the world opens up to you.