If you’re looking to visit some of the most beautiful towns along the Costa Blanca without the hassle of driving, the Alicante tram (TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante) is worth checking out. I’ve put together this complete guide to help you make the most of this fantastic transport system that connects you to local villages and amazing towns which make for memorable day trips from Alicante.
The Alicante tram is modern, clean, air-conditioned, and incredibly easy to use – even if you don’t speak Spanish. It’s one of the best ways to get around the Costa Blanca, and I’ll share everything you need to know about routes, timetables, and the fantastic destinations you can reach.
About the Alicante Tram
The Alicante tram system is a modern light rail network that connects Alicante city with towns and beaches all along the Costa Blanca. It’s been running since 2003 and has become the go-to transport option for both locals and tourists wanting to avoid the stress of driving and parking.
The trams are spacious, air-conditioned, and run on dedicated tracks, which means they’re not stuck in traffic like buses. You’ll find English options on the ticket machines, and the system is really straightforward to use.
Alicante city has many tram stops within the city:
- Luceros
- Mercado (Market)
- MARQ-Castillo
- Sangueta
- La Marina
- Puerta del Mar
Alicante tram lines and routes
The tram network has several lines that you’ll find useful for exploring the coast:
Line 1 (Alicante to Benidorm)
This is the main tourist line that takes you from Alicante city right through to Benidorm, stopping at some fantastic towns and beaches along the way. Key stops include:
- El Campello (beautiful beaches)
- Villajoyosa (visit for the rows of colourful houses and the local Valor chocolate factory)
- Benidorm (Costa Blanca’s most famous resort town)
Total duration: About 70 minutes from Alicante to Benidorm
Lines 3 & 4 (Local destinations)
These lines are perfect for reaching nearby beaches and are particularly popular with tourists:
- Line 3: Connects to El Campello
- Line 4: Takes you to Playa de San Juan, one of Alicante’s most popular beaches
Line 9 (Benidorm to Dénia)
You will need to travel on the L1 to Benidorm, then you can hop onto the L9 line which connects Benidorm with the northern Costa Blanca towns, taking you through some absolutely stunning scenery.
Key stops include:
- Benidorm
- Altea (white-washed old town)
- Calpe (famous for Calpe rock)
- Dénia (historic port town)
Total duration: About 90-120 minutes from Benidorm to Dénia (longer when replacement buses are in operation)
Alicante tram timetable
The trams run regularly throughout the day, making it easy to plan your trips.
Operating hours:
- Service times vary by line and day of the week
- Main routes run from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late evening (around 10:00 PM)
- Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes on main routes during peak times, with some routes running hourly
- Live updates: Check the official TRAM website for real-time departures and any service updates
I always recommend checking the live timetables before you travel, especially if you’re planning to catch the last tram back – you don’t want to get stranded!
Buying tram tickets and prices
Getting tickets is really straightforward. You can buy them from machines at every station, which have English language options and accept both cash and cards. Ticket types:
- Single tickets: From €1.45 for short distances
- Return tickets (ida y vuelta): Same price as two singles but more convenient
- 10-trip cards: Great if you’re staying longer
- Day passes: Perfect for multiple trips in one day
Sample return prices from Alicante (prices subject to change):
- To El Campello: Around €3.50
- To Villajoyosa: Around €4.20
- To Benidorm: Around €5.50
- To Altea: Around €7.80
- To Calpe: Around €9.20
I always go for return tickets as they’re more convenient, and you don’t have to worry about buying another ticket for the way back.
Where to visit on the Alicante tram
El Campello
Just 20 minutes from Alicante, El Campello is perfect for a relaxing beach day. The town has lovely sandy beaches, a charming fishing port, and some excellent seafood restaurants right on the waterfront.
The tram drops you off within walking distance of the beach, and there’s a lovely promenade where you can stroll and enjoy the sea views. It’s much quieter than Benidorm but still has all the facilities you need. Tram time: 20 minutes from Alicante
Villajoyosa
This delightful town is famous for its brightly coloured houses that line the seafront – they make for incredible photos! Villajoyosa is also home to the Valor chocolate factory, where you can take tours and sample some of Spain’s finest chocolate. The Villajoyosa tram is near the centre of the city.
The old town is lovely to wander around, with narrow streets and traditional Spanish architecture. The beaches here are excellent too, with golden sand and clear water. Tram time: 35 minutes from Alicante
Benidorm
Love it or hate it, Benidorm is an experience! This famous resort town has incredible beaches, a buzzing nightlife scene, and loads of family attractions including Terra Mítica theme park and several water parks. You’ll arrive the main Benidorm tram station called Benidorm, and if you want to switch to L9, its easy as changing over to a different platform in the station.
The tram drops you right in the centre, making it easy to reach both Levante and Poniente beaches. I’ve written a whole guide for things to do in Benidorm.
Tram time: 70 minutes from Alicante
Altea
This is one of my absolute favourite stops on the tram network. Altea’s old town is stunning, with white-washed buildings cascading down the hillside and the famous blue-domed church that you can spot from miles away.
The town has a completely different feel from the busier resort areas – it’s artistic, peaceful, and perfect for a leisurely lunch overlooking the Mediterranean. The beach is lovely too, with crystal-clear water and a backdrop of mountains.
Calpe
Calpe is dominated by the massive Peñón de Ifach rock that rises dramatically from the sea. You can climb the Peñón de Ifach for incredible views, though it’s quite a challenging hike.
The town has excellent beaches in Calpe and some of the best seafood restaurants on the Costa Blanca. The tram station is a bit outside the centre, but it’s only a 15-minute walk or short bus ride to reach the main beaches and town.
Tram time: 120-130 minutes from Alicante (via Benidorm)
Dénia
At the northern end of the line, Dénia is a historic port town with a lovely old quarter, impressive castle, and ferry connections to Ibiza and Formentera. The town has a lot to explore, including amazing tapas restaurants, Denia Castle and plenty of Denia boat trips along the coast.
Dénia (or Gata) also makes a great base for visiting nearby Jesús Pobre which is a short car drive away, its a charming inland village known for its Sunday market and traditional Spanish atmosphere.
Tram time: Up to 180 minutes from Alicante (via Benidorm), especially when replacement buses are in operation
Practical tips for using the Alicante tram
Buy return tickets – They’re the same price as two singles but more convenient, and you won’t have to queue again for your return trip. Check last tram times – The final departures are around 10pm, but this can vary by destination. Always check before you head out for the day.
Check ticket validation – Most tickets from machines are already validated for immediate use. Only certain types like multi-trip cards need stamping before boarding. Bring sun protection – Many tram stops have limited shade, so a hat and sun cream are essential during summer.
Allow extra time – While trams are generally punctual, allow a bit of extra time for connections if you’re changing lines. Keep tickets safe – You’ll need to show your ticket if inspectors board, so don’t throw it away until your trip is complete.
Quick reference guide
| Destination | Time from Alicante | Return Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Campello | 20 minutes | Around €3.50 | Beach day, seafood |
| Villajoyosa | 35 minutes | Around €4.20 | Colourful houses, chocolate factory |
| Benidorm | 70 minutes | Around €5.50 | Theme parks, nightlife, beaches |
| Altea | 100-110 minutes | Around €7.80 | Old town charm, art galleries |
| Calpe | 120-130 minutes | Around €9.20 | Peñón de Ifach, seafood |
| Dénia | Up to 180 minutes | varies | Historic sites, ferry to islands |
The Alicante tram opens up the entire Costa Blanca for easy day trips without the stress of driving. From the artistic streets of Altea to the famous rock of Calpe, you can experience the best of this stunning coastline at your own pace. Just pack some sun cream, buy your return ticket, and get ready to discover some of Spain’s most beautiful towns!
