Train service
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
The Interrail Global Pass can be used for travel from London to Alicante, but UK residents cannot use it for the portion of the journey within the UK. The Interrail One Country Pass is not applicable for travel across multiple countries, so it would not be valid for this journey from London to Alicante. The Eurail Pass can be used by non-EU residents for the entire journey from London to Alicante, including travel within the UK.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Alicante by train at the Alicante-Terminal station, you have several options to explore the city using local transportation. The Alicante TRAM is a popular choice, offering scenic routes along the Costa Blanca. The main TRAM station closest to the train station is at Luceros, just a short walk from Alicante-Terminal. Here, you can catch several lines to key destinations such as the beach area, tourist attractions like the Castle of Santa Bárbara, or even further up the coast to towns like Benidorm. The TRAM operates frequently, making it a convenient way to get around.
For more immediate and direct travel within the city, taxis are readily available. You can find taxi stands outside of the train station or hail one on the streets. Taxis in Alicante are metered, providing a straightforward and reliable way to reach your destination quickly. Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify also operate in Alicante, offering app-based booking and cashless payment options. These services can be arranged directly from your smartphone, often providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.
While Alicante does not have a metro system, the local bus network, operated by SuBús, covers the city and surrounding areas extensively. Buses are a good option if your destination is not easily reachable by TRAM. Tickets can be purchased onboard or using rechargeable cards for more frequent travel. Buses are an economical option for navigating the city, and routes and times can be checked online or at bus stops. Together, these options provide a comprehensive and efficient way to explore Alicante and its surroundings.
Onward connections
Alicante serves as a significant hub within Spain's rail network, providing efficient domestic and limited international train connections. Domestically, one of the most popular routes is the high-speed AVE service to Madrid. This service connects Alicante's Estación de Alicante-Terminal with Madrid's Puerta de Atocha in about two hours and thirty minutes, offering multiple departures daily. There is also an Intercity service to Barcelona, which travels via Valencia and takes around four and a half to five hours, making it a popular choice for those traveling to Catalonia. Additionally, Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, offers regional services to cities such as Murcia and Valencia, providing convenient access to these destinations. Internationally, while Alicante doesn't have direct international rail services, travelers can connect through Madrid or Barcelona to access broader European rail networks. From Barcelona, for example, one can connect to French cities like Paris and Marseille via high-speed TGV trains. This makes connecting through Spain's major cities a practical approach for international travel by train from Alicante.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Alicante is generally during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is typically pleasant with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the city's beautiful beaches and historical sites without the overwhelming heat of the peak summer months. Additionally, prices for accommodations and train travel are often lower than during the high summer season, which can help in managing your travel budget.
In terms of activities and festivals, Alicante hosts Las Hogueras de San Juan in late June, a vibrant festival marking the arrival of summer with bonfires, fireworks, and parades. Visiting during this time can provide a unique cultural experience. Autumn offers a quieter atmosphere with numerous local festivals and wine harvest events in the region, allowing you to experience local culture more intimately.
Moreover, the train journey to Alicante during these periods is usually comfortable and scenic, avoiding the high foot traffic typical in July and August when most European travelers are on holiday. Thus, the combination of moderate climate, reasonable prices, and cultural activities make these periods ideal for visiting Alicante by train.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from London to Alicante?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the route from London to Alicante are dynamic. Demand influences prices significantly. Higher demand leads to higher prices. Ticket flexibility is another factor. More flexible tickets tend to cost more. Booking time affects prices as well. Early bookings usually offer lower prices. Seasonal changes can impact fares. Holidays and weekends often see price increases. Competition with other transport modes can alter prices.
What trains run from London to Alicante?
There are no direct trains from London to Alicante. SNCF operates trains from London to Paris. SNCF operates trains from Paris to cities in southern France. There are no SNCF trains from southern France to Alicante. Flixbus operates buses from London to various destinations. Flixbus may have bus routes from London to Alicante. Check Flixbus schedules for bus availability.
How long does the train from London to Alicante take?
According to EveryRail, the train from London to Alicante takes 14 to 15 hours.
When is the best time to travel from London to Alicante?
Avoid peak tourist season for fewer crowds. Mid-week travel often has lower prices. Early morning trains can be less busy. Check for major events that may increase demand. Flexibility with travel dates can offer better deals. Booking in advance usually secures better prices.
What’s the best route or train to take from London to Alicante?
Flixbus runs direct bus services from London to Alicante. No direct train services operate on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from London to Alicante?
According to EveryRail, if you are a resident of the EU or an eligible European country, you can use an Interrail Global Pass for travel from London to Alicante. If you are not a resident of these areas, a Eurail Global Pass would apply. No One Country Pass covers this route as it involves travel between different countries.