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Explore the Route from Madrid to Alicante with Ease

Start your journey in Madrid and experience the scenic drive to the vibrant city of Alicante. Enjoy the flexibility of a one-way car rental.

Can I rent a car from Madrid to Alicante?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Madrid to Alicante. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for ES residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Spain national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year.

    Notes: Spanish digital version of the driving license is acceptable. The driving's license must be shown from the official DGT App.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, UnionPay, and Discover. Additional card types supported include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 11.72 per day capped at US$ 351.89 for the rental or US$ 14.07 per day, depending on the rental provider.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • EU Driving Licence
    • Full driver's license issued in Spain

    Notes: Spanish digital version of the driving license is acceptable. The driving's license must be shown from the official DGT App.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, UnionPay, and Discover. Additional card types supported include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 11.72 per day capped at US$ 351.89 for the rental or US$ 14.07 per day, depending on the rental provider.
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How much does renting a car from Madrid to Alicante cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 38/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 46/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 58-US$ 187US$ 0-US$ 352US$ 114-US$ 266Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 79-US$ 266US$ 0-US$ 129US$ 167-US$ 319Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 81-US$ 294US$ 0-US$ 366US$ 172-US$ 432Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 65-US$ 233US$ 0-US$ 365US$ 138-US$ 309Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 271-US$ 353US$ 0-US$ 159US$ 369-US$ 435Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 122-US$ 239US$ 0-US$ 398US$ 204-US$ 396Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • Understand one-way fees: Check if the rental company charges a one-way fee, as this may significantly impact your booking cost.
  • Review drop-off locations: Ensure the drop-off point in Alicante is conveniently located and accessible for your needs.
  • Choose the right vehicle: Select a car suitable for your journey, considering factors like fuel efficiency and luggage space.
  • Verify cross-border restrictions: Confirm if additional permissions are needed in case your route crosses national borders.
  • Plan for rental duration: Align your rental period with your travel timeline to avoid unnecessary costs.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route in advance: Clearly outline your journey from Madrid to Alicante, including any stops or detours along the way.
  • Check for additional services: Consider extras like GPS navigation or child seats if they enhance your travel comfort.
  • Know the road regulations: Make yourself familiar with driving rules and regulations in Spain.
  • Avoid peak travel times: Book your rental well in advance to secure the best deals, especially during holiday seasons.
  • Keep track of fueling options: Ensure you are aware of fuel station locations on your route to avoid inconvenience.
  • Be mindful of the rental return time: Returning the car on time can help you avoid late fees and ensure a smooth process.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof of a full tank.

Use recommended fuel types to ensure vehicle performance.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost for the route is approximately €1.60 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Limit the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Madrid Parking

Parking in central Madrid can be challenging and expensive.

Consider using public parking garages for safer parking.

Street parking may require a parking permit in some areas.

Alicante Parking

Alicante offers several public parking garages near the city center.

Street parking is available but may be limited during peak hours.

Use parking meters for short-term parking needs.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like Parkopedia and Parclick can help locate parking spaces.

Consider using the official municipal parking app for real-time availability.

Some apps allow pre-booking of parking spaces for convenience.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic and Efficient Driving Routes:
Madrid to Alicante via A-3
Direct Highway Route 4 hours 20 minutes

A fast and convenient route connecting Madrid to Alicante through well-maintained highways with scenic countryside views.

Madrid , Cuenca , Albacete , Alicante
Madrid to Alicante via AP-36 and A-31
Alternative Express Route 4 hours 35 minutes

An alternative route with slightly less traffic, passing through several charming towns.

Madrid , Ocaña , La Roda , Alicante
Madrid to Alicante via CM-400 and N-330
Scenic Country Route 6 hours

A longer, scenic journey through historic towns and diverse landscapes.

Madrid , Toledo , Teruel , Alicante
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a car suitable for your route and group size; consider upgrading for added comfort on longer journeys.

Plan Your Stops: Research key points of interest along the route to make the most of your travel experience.

Fuel Up Strategically: Check fuel prices and stations along the route to avoid running low in remote stretches.

Take Breaks: Schedule regular rest breaks to stay alert and enjoy roadside sceneries.

Inspect the Rental Car: Document the car’s condition before departing to avoid misunderstandings upon return.

Understand Local Traffic Laws: Familiarize yourself with Spanish traffic rules and signage to ensure a safe journey.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When planning a one-way car rental from Madrid to Alicante, it is critical to select a company offering competitive services tailored to your needs. Ensure the company allows for one-way travel and offers suitable rates and benefits.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$ExcellentExtensive Wide selection of vehicles , Highly-rated customer service
Enterprise$GoodModerate Affordable pricing options , Flexible pickup and drop-off policies
Sixt$$$ExcellentExtensive Luxury car options , Premium service
Avis$$Very GoodExtensive Comprehensive insurance options , Numerous drop-off locations
QEEQ

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

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24/7 Customer Services

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Madrid and Alicante Rental Car Center Information

Operating Hours:

Both Madrid and Alicante car rental centers are typically open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, seven days a week.

Location of Rental Car Centers:

Madrid: Near the Atocha train station. Alicante: Located at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport.

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttle service available to and from designated pick-up points.

Transportation Information:

Well-connected via public transit and highways for convenient travel.

Pro Tips for Madrid–Barajas Airport(MAD) Car Rentals

Book your rental car in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability for one-way trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a car at one location—Madrid, in this case—and return it to a different location, such as Alicante. This is a convenient choice for travelers who do not plan to return to the original rental location.

Are there any additional fees for one-way car rentals?

Yes, many car rental companies apply a 'one-way fee' or 'drop-off charge' for returning the car to a different location than where it was picked up. This fee varies by company and route, so check with your rental company for precise details.

What are the key considerations for choosing a rental car for this route?

Consider the size of the car needed, fuel efficiency for cost savings on the 400-kilometer drive from Madrid to Alicante, luggage capacity, and safety features. Check the rental terms for mileage limits and included insurance.

What documents are required to rent a car in Spain?

Typically, you'll need a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit (for non-EU licenses), a credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit, and a passport for identification.

How long does the drive from Madrid to Alicante take?

The driving distance between Madrid and Alicante is approximately 400 kilometers, which typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

Ready to Book Your Madrid to Alicante Adventure?

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