19/12/2021
Embarking on a journey along Spain's stunning Costa Blanca often involves navigating between its charming coastal towns. A common query for many British holidaymakers and residents alike is the cost and convenience of travelling from the historic port town of Dénia to the vibrant resort of Benidorm. While the thought of a swift taxi might spring to mind, understanding all available options, including public transport and self-drive, can significantly enhance your travel experience and budget planning.
Understanding Your Travel Options from Dénia to Benidorm
Connecting Dénia and Benidorm, two popular destinations, offers a variety of transport choices, each with its own advantages in terms of cost, speed, and comfort. Whether you prioritise saving pennies, reaching your destination quickly, or enjoying the scenic route, there's an option tailored for your needs. The road distance between these two points is approximately 51.2 kilometres, a relatively short hop that can be surprisingly diverse in its travel methods.
The Alicante Metro Tram: An Economical and Scenic Choice
For those mindful of their budget and keen to soak in the coastal scenery, the Alicante Metro Tram, often simply referred to as the TRAM, presents an excellent solution. This narrow-gauge railway operates a frequent service between Dénia and Benidorm Intermodal, typically running hourly. The journey is remarkably affordable, with tickets costing between €2 and €4. You can expect the ride to take around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Dénia to Benidorm, or 1 hour and 23 minutes in the reverse direction.
It's crucial for travellers to understand that the TRAM system is distinct from Spain's national RENFE train network. Therefore, you won't find TRAM services departing from the main RENFE train station in downtown Alicante. Furthermore, for those arriving at Alicante Airport, there is no direct TRAM station. To access the TRAM from the airport, you'll first need to take the C6 Alicante airport bus. This bus service conveniently takes you directly to the FGV Tram streetcar station at Plaza Puerta del Mar in Alicante, a picturesque location in the city's harbour area. The bus journey itself takes approximately 45 minutes, with Plaza Puerta del Mar being the final stop.
Once aboard the TRAM, you're not just travelling; you're embarking on a journey through the stunning Costa Blanca landscape. The route from Alicante to Dénia, passing through Benidorm, stops at numerous charming towns and villages along the coastline, including Albufereta, El Campello, Vila Joiosa, Altea, Calpe, Benissa, Teulada, and Gata. While this makes for a wonderfully scenic trip, it's worth noting that the total travel time from Alicante city centre to Dénia via TRAM can be around 3 hours and 10 minutes, with connections and potential waiting times between line changes. For a direct Dénia to Benidorm journey, however, it remains a swift and pleasant option.
As of previously updated information, a one-way ticket from Alicante to Benidorm cost around €3.35, with a return ticket at €5.70. For the full journey from Alicante to Dénia, a one-way fare was approximately €6.55, and a return ticket €11.15. These figures provide a good benchmark for the affordability of the TRAM system.
Bus Services: A Direct Alternative
Should the multi-stop nature of the TRAM not appeal, or if you prefer a more direct road journey without driving yourself, bus services offer a viable alternative. There is a direct bus service departing from Benidorm Estación De Autobuses and arriving in Dénia. These services operate daily, typically departing every three hours. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a longer ride than the tram but potentially more direct depending on your exact departure and arrival points within each town. While specific ticket prices for the Dénia-Benidorm bus route were not detailed, bus travel in Spain is generally very cost-effective, often comparable to or slightly more than the tram for similar distances, but providing fewer stops and a more direct route.
Driving Yourself: Freedom and Scenery
For those who value independence and the opportunity to explore at their own pace, hiring a car and driving from Dénia to Benidorm (or vice versa) is an excellent choice. The road distance is 51.2 km, and depending on traffic and your speed, this drive can take less than an hour. However, the true beauty of this option lies in the freedom to discover the incredible coastal area between these two towns. The route is dotted with small towns and stunning ocean views, making it perfect for a leisurely day trip or an extended adventure.
Starting your drive from Benidorm and heading north towards Dénia, you'll encounter a string of captivating destinations:
- Albir: One of the first stops, Albir is a modern tourist town with a welcoming hometown feel. It boasts a lovely promenade perfect for a stroll, offering views stretching almost to Calpe. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the main street, ideal for a coffee or a bite to eat.
- Altea: Right next to Albir, Altea is a truly gorgeous town perched on a hill. Its iconic blue-domed church, superb views over the ocean, charming squares, and artisan shops make it a must-visit. Don't miss the old town area, brimming with unique gift and craft shops.
- Calpe: Famous for the majestic Calpe Rock (Peñon de Ifach), this oceanside town is a haven for seafood lovers. Explore its working fishing harbour, enjoy fresh catches at local restaurants, or wander through the old town with its art galleries, museums, and tapas bars. Calpe's two enormous promenades offer ample space for leisurely walks.
- Javea: A very pretty town further up the coast, Javea is known for its charming old town, a beautiful beach area, and a small port. It features a wonderful fresh food market, a Gothic church, and some of the region's best scuba diving spots, thanks to its clear waters and diverse marine life.
- Dénia: Upon reaching Dénia, take time to explore its beautiful main street, lined with bustling cafes, restaurants, and bars. The town's 11th-century castle offers a fascinating museum and panoramic views. Visit the historic Iglesia de la Asuncion church, or consider taking the daily ferry to Ibiza for another adventure.
Each of these towns offers a distinct character and a wealth of activities, making the drive from Benidorm to Dénia far more than just a commute; it's an immersive experience into the heart of the Costa Blanca.
What About Taxis? Estimating the Cost
While the provided information does not give specific taxi fares from Dénia to Benidorm, it's a common and convenient mode of transport for many, particularly those with luggage or seeking direct door-to-door service. Given the road distance of 51.2 km, a taxi journey will be considerably more expensive than public transport options like the tram or bus. Taxi fares in Spain are regulated, but they vary based on factors such as the time of day (day vs. night rates), public holidays, luggage supplements, and the number of passengers. Generally, you can expect a taxi fare for this distance to be in the region of €70-€100, though this is an estimate and can fluctuate significantly.
The convenience of a taxi lies in its flexibility and directness, eliminating the need for transfers or adherence to public transport timetables. However, this comes at a premium. For an accurate quote, it is always best to contact local taxi services in Dénia or Benidorm directly, or use a ride-hailing app if available in the area, which often provides upfront fare estimates.
Comparative Travel Options: At a Glance
To help you decide, here's a quick comparison of the main ways to travel between Dénia and Benidorm:
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost | Approx. Journey Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alicante Metro Tram | €2 - €4 | 1h 20m - 1h 23m | Economical, scenic, frequent, direct train connection |
| Direct Bus | Varies (typically low) | 2h 20m | Direct road route, less frequent |
| Self-Drive / Rental Car | Fuel + Rental Cost | Approx. 1 hour (direct) | Flexible, scenic route, stops along the way |
| Taxi | Est. €70 - €100+ | Approx. 45m - 1h (direct) | Door-to-door convenience, fastest direct |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about travelling between Dénia and Benidorm:
Q: Is there a direct train from Dénia to Benidorm?
A: Yes, there is a direct train (TRAM) service departing from Dénia and arriving at Benidorm Intermodal. It's part of the Alicante Metro Tram network, not the national RENFE system.
Q: How long does it take to get from Dénia to Benidorm by public transport?
A: By TRAM, it takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. By direct bus, the journey is about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Q: How far is Benidorm from Dénia?
A: The direct distance is 49 km. The road distance is slightly longer, at 51.2 km.
Q: Can I get to Dénia or Benidorm directly from Alicante Airport by train?
A: No, there is no direct train or TRAM station at Alicante Airport. You must first take the C6 airport bus to Plaza Puerta del Mar in Alicante city centre, and from there, you can connect to the TRAM network.
Q: Is the TRAM a good option for airport transfers?
A: While economical and scenic, the TRAM involves a bus transfer from the airport and can take a considerable amount of time (e.g., over 3 hours to Dénia from Alicante Airport). For a simple airport-to-hotel transfer, direct bus services from Alicante Airport are often advised as a quicker and more straightforward option where available.
Q: What towns can I visit along the TRAM route to Dénia?
A: The TRAM stops at numerous towns and villages, including Albufereta, El Campello, Vila Joiosa, Benidorm, Altea, Calpe, Benissa, Teulada, and Gata, offering ample opportunities for exploration.
Q: Are there any scenic stops if I drive between Dénia and Benidorm?
A: Absolutely! The coastal road is incredibly scenic. You can stop at charming towns like Albir, Altea, Calpe, and Javea, each offering unique attractions, beautiful beaches, and delightful dining options.
In conclusion, travelling from Dénia to Benidorm offers a spectrum of choices to suit every preference and budget. While taxis provide ultimate convenience, the tram and bus services offer economical and often scenic alternatives. For the adventurous, a self-driven journey unlocks the beauty of the Costa Blanca's charming towns and breathtaking coastal views. Whichever mode of transport you choose, your journey between these two Spanish gems is sure to be an integral part of your memorable holiday experience.
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