- Must visit
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante (MACA)
Leading contemporary art museum with a strong 20th-century collection in a restored historic building.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Portbou to Alicante
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Portbou to Alicante among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $75. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 7h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $75, and a bus costs an average of $193.
Distance: 295 nautical miles (548 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$193 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest | $135 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 50m Average total duration Fastest 7h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 28m Average total duration 9h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Portbou to Alicante is a train with an average price of $76.
This is compared to other travel options from Portbou to Alicante:
A train is $117 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Portbou to Alicante costing on average $193.
The fastest way to travel from Portbou to Alicante is by bus with an average journey time of 7h 20m.
Other travel options to Alicante take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portbou and Alicante including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portbou to Alicante among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Portbou to Alicante by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Portbou to Alicante
SpainSpain
Take a ferry from Portbou to Alicante and enjoy the approximately 295 nautical miles (548 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $75
Distance 295 nautical miles (548 km) |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $75
Complete guide to Alicante
Things to do in Alicante
Discover the best of Alicante — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Alicante trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante (MARQ)
Archaeological museum with acclaimed interactive displays covering prehistory to modern Alicante.
- Recommended
Museo de Bellas Artes Gravina (MUBAG)
Fine arts museum in an 18th-century palace, featuring Alicante artists and regional painting collections.
- Must visit
Explanada de España
Alicante's iconic waterfront promenade with mosaic paving, palms, and constant seaside city life.
- Must visit
Barrio de Santa Cruz
Historic old quarter of whitewashed lanes climbing toward the castle, full of character and viewpoints.
- Must visit
Playa del Postiguet
Popular city beach and promenade area beside the old town, excellent for walks and classic coastal views.
- Gluten-free
Arroz A La Alicantina
Alicante’s signature rice dish, cooked in fish stock with seafood or meat. It is central to local Sunday meals and showcases the region’s rice tradition.
- Gluten-free
Arroz Al Horno
Rice baked in the oven with stock, tomato, chickpeas, and often pork or sausage. A hearty Valencian classic widely eaten in Alicante homes.
- Gluten-free
Arroz Con Atún Y Calabaza
Traditional Alicante rice made with tuna, pumpkin, and ñora pepper. It reflects the city’s coastal pantry and old home-style cooking.
Monastrell
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative Mediterranean tasting menus in an elegant contemporary setting.
El Portal Taberna & Wines
Historic traditional venue famous for Alicante tapas, cured fish, and local wines in a classic, lively old-town setting.
La Taberna Del Gourmet
Well-known seafood and rice restaurant near the marina, valued for fresh fish, shellfish, and polished but approachable service.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: lodging rises in summer, but tapas, local transit, and casual dining stay fairly affordable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; taxis are usually rounded up.
Alicante Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.45
- Day pass
- €12.00
To the city center
Alicante-Airport -> Plaça dels Estels, Alicante
- Distance
- 11 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on Alicante city buses. Keep your ticket until the end of the journey.
- TRAM d'Alacant uses zonal fares, so check your zones before travel. Airport access is by C6 bus, not by tram.
FAQs: Ferry from Portbou to Alicante
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portbou to Alicante by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Alicante, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Portbou to Alicante.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Portbou to Alicante.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Portbou to Alicante is possible with with . We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need book your travel to the departure port check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portbou and Alicante including taking a train and bus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Alicante are:
- Santa Bárbara Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea
- Explanada de España, a picturesque promenade lined with palm trees and vibrant mosaic tiles
- Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing a collection of 20th-century Spanish art
- Basilica of Santa Maria, the oldest active church in Alicante with Gothic and Baroque architectural elements
- Mount Benacantil, a prominent hill offering hiking trails and stunning views of the city.
The best things to do in Alicante include:
- Postiguet Beach, a popular urban beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming
- Tabarca Island, a small island perfect for a day trip with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring
- Alicante Central Market, a bustling market where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce
- Canelobre Caves, impressive caves with stunning stalactite formations
- Take a scenic boat tour along the Costa Blanca coastline.
Since both Portbou and Alicante are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portbou to Alicante among Omio's users.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Alicante, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include overcharging in taxis without meters and unofficial currency exchange booths with unfavorable rates. It is advisable to use authorized services and remain vigilant in busy spots to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular ferries to and from Alicante and Portbou
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