Cheap flights from Bilbao to Alicante

When flying from Bilbao, you'll arrive at Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), situated approximately 9 kilometres south-west of the city centre. The journey into Alicante is straightforward, with several reliable transport options available.

The most economical choice is the AIBUS airport shuttle service, which runs frequently throughout the day and takes approximately 25–40 minutes to reach the city centre, depending on traffic. A single ticket costs around €6–7. If you prefer greater convenience, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available outside the terminal, typically taking 15–20 minutes to reach your destination, though expect to pay approximately €20–25.

Alternatively, you may rent a car at the airport for greater flexibility in exploring the surrounding region. The journey from Bilbao to Alicante via flight is considerably quicker than alternative travel methods, and most visitors find the transition from airport to city centre seamless and efficient.

Arriving in Alicante from Bilbao brings you to a city brimming with cultural and natural attractions. The iconic Castle of Santa Barbara dominates the skyline from atop Mount Benacantil, offering panoramic views across the Mediterranean and the surrounding urban landscape. This 16th-century fortress is one of Spain's most impressive coastal fortifications and is freely accessible to visitors.

Beyond the castle, the heart of Alicante is best explored on foot. The cobbled streets of the historic Old Town wind past the Basilica of Santa María, a stunning Gothic church dating back to the 14th century. The Explanada de España—a magnificent tree-lined promenade running parallel to the waterfront—is perfect for leisurely strolls. The city's beaches, particularly Playa del Postiguet, provide excellent swimming opportunities just minutes from the centre.

• Castle of Santa Barbara
• Basilica of Santa María
• Explanada de España
• MARQ Archaeological Museum
• Playa del Postiguet
• Marina district

The journey from Bilbao to Alicante introduces you to the rich culinary traditions of Spain's eastern coast. Rice dishes reign supreme here, with paella and arroz a banda—rice cooked in fish stock—featuring prominently on local menus. Esgarraet, a traditional Alicantine salad combining salt cod, orange, and olive oil, is a refreshing starter worth seeking out.

Fresh seafood dominates much of Alicante's dining culture, with boquerones en vinagre (marinated anchovies) and grilled espetos (sardines) available at beachfront chiringuitos and traditional tapas bars. Espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas) offers a warming vegetable alternative. For something distinctly sweet, turrón—a nougat confection originating from nearby Jijona—makes an excellent souvenir, whilst agua de Valencia, a local cocktail blending cava and vodka, is the perfect aperitif.

Dining in Alicante ranges from casual beachside eateries to fine-dining establishments, with most offering exceptional value compared to northern European standards.

• Paella
• Arroz a banda
• Esgarraet
• Boquerones en vinagre
• Turrón
• Agua de Valencia