The Levante region of Spain, encompassing the stunning Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida, is not only a popular destination for tourists but also a vibrant area for those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle. Thanks to its strategic location and well-connected airports, accessing Levante from major European cities is convenient and straightforward. Here’s an overview of the primary airports in Alicante and Murcia, their facilities, and their top European connections.
1. Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)
Overview:
Alicante-Elche Airport, often referred to simply as Alicante Airport, is the gateway to the Costa Blanca and one of Spain’s busiest airports. Located just 9 kilometers southwest of Alicante, this airport serves millions of passengers every year, particularly during the summer months. Known for its efficient facilities and modern design, Alicante Airport provides travelers with a wide range of services, including car rentals, dining options, and duty-free shopping.
Key European Connections:
Alicante Airport offers extensive connections to major European cities, with frequent flights to and from popular destinations, especially in the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia. The following cities have strong, regular connections to Alicante:
- United Kingdom: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, Liverpool
- Germany: Berlin, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Munich
- France: Paris, Lyon, Marseille
- Netherlands: Amsterdam, Eindhoven
- Scandinavia: Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki
- Belgium: Brussels
- Italy: Rome, Milan
With many low-cost airlines operating from Alicante, including Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling, travelers have a range of affordable options for reaching the Costa Blanca.
2. Región de Murcia International Airport (RMU)
Overview:
Located in Corvera, about 25 kilometers south of Murcia city, Región de Murcia International Airport (often called Corvera Airport) is a newer addition to the region’s transportation infrastructure. Opened in 2019, this airport replaced the older Murcia-San Javier Airport as the main hub for the Murcia region. While smaller than Alicante Airport, Murcia International is growing in popularity and offers an increasingly diverse range of flights.
Key European Connections:
Corvera Airport connects with a number of European cities, with an emphasis on seasonal flights catering to tourists visiting the Costa Cálida. Popular destinations include:
- United Kingdom: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow
- Ireland: Dublin
- Belgium: Brussels
- Norway: Oslo
- Morocco: Casablanca (for those seeking a connecting North African route)
With Ryanair, Jet2, and TUI as some of the primary carriers, Región de Murcia Airport provides a convenient alternative for those heading to the Murcia region or the southern part of Costa Blanca.
3. Valencia Airport (VLC)
Overview:
Though technically outside the Levante region, Valencia Airport is still a popular gateway for travelers heading to the northern parts of the Costa Blanca, especially areas like Denia and Jávea. Located approximately 8 kilometers from Valencia city center, this airport serves as a key international hub with a mix of European and domestic connections.
Key European Connections:
Valencia Airport is well connected to a number of European cities, providing travelers with frequent options to reach the northern Levante:
- United Kingdom: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh
- Germany: Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf, Berlin
- France: Paris, Marseille, Nantes
- Italy: Milan, Rome
- Switzerland: Zurich, Geneva
- Netherlands: Amsterdam
- Portugal: Lisbon, Porto
Valencia Airport also offers a variety of airlines, including Iberia, Lufthansa, KLM, and Air France, making it ideal for international travelers looking to explore both the Levante coast and the larger Valencia region.
4. Transport and Accessibility
All three airports are conveniently located near major motorways, making it easy to reach popular towns along the Levante coast by car or bus. Alicante and Valencia airports are well connected by public transport, including buses and train options, while Murcia offers shuttle services to key destinations in the region. Additionally, Alicante Airport has a direct tram connection to downtown Alicante, which provides links to other Costa Blanca towns like Benidorm and Denia.
With these well-connected airports, accessing the Levante region from major European cities is easier than ever. Whether you’re planning a vacation to the Costa Blanca or a longer stay along the Costa Cálida, the airports in Alicante, Murcia, and Valencia ensure you’re only a short flight away from experiencing the best of Mediterranean Spain.
