AD | When you’re planning your next holiday and dreaming of golden beaches, historic sites, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Spain has to be near the top of your list. And Valencia and Alicante are two of the most popular destinations for a holiday to remember. If you want to get the best experience however, you do need to plan ahead. From getting about with ease to enjoying the best of the local culture, here’s how to enjoy stress-free travel in Valencia and Alicante, and ensure your holiday is memorable for all the right reasons.
Top Tips for Stress-Free Travel in Valencia and Alicante
Getting Around Valencia
Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, is famous for its sunny climate, fragrant orange trees, gorgeous beaches, historic old town, and for being the birthplace of paella. One of the best ways of getting around is by car, and with Valencia Airport car hire made simple, your trip will be off to a great start. Public transport can feel overwhelming, be time-consuming, and limit your ability to explore the hidden gems of the region. But with a hired car, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary.
Getting Around Alicante
Alicante is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, international restaurants, and is the gateway to Spain’s Costa Blanca – well-known for its golden sandy beaches and warm water. Renting a car here can make all the difference. Stress-free car rental at Alicante Airport allows you to bypass taxi queues and bus schedules. And then the stunning coastline, traditional villages, and lush countryside are yours to explore at your own pace.
Book Early
To secure the best rates and availability, it’s a good idea to book your car rental well in advance of your trip. This not only guarantees you a wider selection of vehicles but also means no last-minute rush and possibly being disappointed with not getting what you want when you arrive.
Choose the Right Vehicle
Think about the type of activities you want to do during your holiday and go for a car that suits your needs. Whether you’re aiming to explore the coastal towns, visit local markets, marvel at the historic sites, or drive to picturesque viewpoints, having a comfortable and reliable vehicle is key.
Research Local Traffic Rules and Parking Options
Familiarising yourself with local rules of the road and knowing where to park will save you time and stress, and make your driving experience in Valencia and Alicante much smoother.
Downloading some reliable navigation apps on your phone before you travel will help you plan your routes. And if you do get lost, you’ll be able to find your way back more easily.
Pack Light and Smart
Don’t overpack! Stick to the essentials and go for versatile clothing that works for various activities and weather conditions. Spain’s mild climate means you can pack light layers and comfortable shoes – ideal for both city strolls and beach days. Packing smart also means you’ll have enough room in your rental car for everyone’s belongings. Don’t forget the travel basics like chargers, adaptors, and a small first-aid kit for unexpected hiccups.
Time Your Visits to Attractions
Avoiding crowds is one of the best ways to keep your holiday hassle-free. Popular attractions like Valencia’s Oceanogràfic and Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, or Alicante’s Explanada de España and Castell de Santa Bárbara can get busy, especially during peak seasons.
Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when crowds are thinner, and the weather is cooler. Booking tickets in advance can also save you hours of waiting in line. Many attractions offer skip-the-line options online, which means more time to relax and enjoy stress-free travel in Valencia and Alicante.
Embrace the Siesta Lifestyle
One of the joys of visiting Spain is adapting to the local pace of life. Embrace the siesta culture and take a mid-afternoon break to recharge. This isn’t just a cultural quirk, it’s a great way to avoid burnout during a busy travel itinerary. Take time to relax in your hotel, enjoy a leisurely meal, or even take a short nap. By evening, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to experience Valencia and Alicante’s vibrant nightlife.
Explore Beyond the Cities
Valencia and Alicante are both fantastic cities, but their surrounding areas are just as interesting. Having a rental car opens up a world of opportunities for day trips. In Valencia, consider driving to the charming village of Xàtiva with its hilltop castle, or the gorgeous beaches of Gandia. From Alicante, head to Guadalest, a picturesque mountain town, or Calpe, famous for its towering rock formation and clear waters.
With a car at your disposal, exploring off the beaten path often leads to unexpected discoveries and spontaneous stops for family-run restaurants and scenic viewpoints. Not something you can do so easily with public transport.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart
Travelling often means long days of walking, sightseeing, and exploring, so staying hydrated is crucial. Carry a refillable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste. Many public areas in Spain have fountains with drinkable water.
Stock up on local snacks like almonds, olives, or a bocadillo (Spanish sandwich) to keep your energy up. Stopping for a leisurely meal is always a good idea, but having snacks on hand is a good idea so you won’t be caught hungry between stops.
Learn Some Basic Spanish Phrases
While most people in Spain speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way. Simple greetings or phrases like “Por favor” (please) and “Gracias” (thank you) show respect for the local culture and can make interactions smoother and contribute to stress-free travel in Valencia and Alicante.
If you’re driving, understanding words like “salida” (exit) or “peaje” (toll) can also make getting around easier. Most rental cars will have GPS, but knowing these key terms will help too.
Stay Flexible and Enjoy the Journey
Lastly, remember that even the best-laid plans can often go awry. Whether it’s a delayed flight or unexpected weather, staying flexible can help you enjoy stress-free travel in Valencia and Alicante. Try and view these moments as opportunities – perhaps to discover a cosy café or enjoy an impromptu walk along the beach. After all, the joy of travel often lies as much in the journey and the memories you create as it does in the final destination, don’t you think?
Have you ever been to Valencia or Alicante? If yes, what are your favourite memories? If not, would you add them to your bucket list now?
* This is a collaborative post – please see my Disclaimer.
I loved your idea to rent a car in Valencia. This would be such a fun place to explore, and having a car really does offer so much flexibility. However, it’s easy to get lost in a new place, so your tip for knowing some Spanish is a must!
Thank you, Heidi, and yes, learning a few phrases in the language of the country you’re visiting makes all the difference. 🙂