The bustling port city of Alicante is the perfect place to get out and explore the rest of the Costa Blanca thanks to its nearby airport, and numerous beach resorts to stop off along the way.

As one of most popular Spanish holiday destinations, and a growing commercial destination, the road links from the City of Light are excellent and connect it to several other provinces. The A-7 motorway links Cadiz in western Andalusia to Tarragona in the north-eastern Catalonia region.

There is also a toll motorway, the AP-7, which runs along the entire Mediterranean coast from the French border in the north-east to the region of Andalucia in the south-west, passing through Malaga, Valencia and Barcelona.

When driving in Spain, you will use the right hand side and give way to traffic from the left. The maximum speed limit on motorways (autopistas) is 75mph (120km/h). On dual carriageways (autovias), the speed limit varies from 49 - 87mph (80 – 140km/h), so it's best to look out for the signs.

You'll need to be careful to avoid prohibited or restricted parking zones when in built-up areas, and these will be signed or the curbs will be painted yellow. In some areas, where spaces are marked blue you'll need to buy a ticket to park there.

As the driver you will be responsible for making sure that all passengers wear seat belts, whether in the front or back of the vehicle. Children under the age of 12 must sit in the rear.

With its fortress, port and golden beaches Alicante is an attractive Mediterranean city that sits on Spain's “white coast" – the Costa Blanca.

Discover a castle with a view

Santa Barbara castle overlooks the city and harbour from its lofty position on Mount Benacantil. If you want to take a closer look at the fort or check out the views for yourself, you will find lifts conveniently installed inside the hill – or you can drive.

Stroll along the esplanade

A key feature of Alicante is the elegant promenade of Explanada de Espana, and taking a stroll along its white, red and black tiles is a popular past time. At peak season the area comes to life with market stalls, street music and bustling cafes that spill out into the street. You can sample the region's seafood or paella, or browse the independent boutiques.

Take a trip back in time

If you want to learn more about the local area start with the Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ), which is home to artefacts dating back nearly 100,000 years. There are three galleries where you can explore the techniques used by archaeologists to discover the past – whether out in the field, in urban conurbations or underwater. You can also go on a journey through the different ages of man from prehistory right through to contemporary times – to get a full flavour of Alicante's past.

Dance the night away in the old quarter

The narrow streets and colourfully painted houses add to the atmosphere in Alicante's old quarter – Barrio de la Santa Cruz – that is renowned for its lively night scene and distinctive character. Here you will find an abundance of restaurants and cafes serving local specialities.

Soak away the day at the baths

Situated underground in the old Convent de la Merced – which now serves as the Church of San Pedro – the Arab Baths in Elche are one of the last-standing examples of Islamic public architecture that live on today in the Valencian community. The Muslim baths long-served as a meeting place as well as somewhere to relax and enjoy a massage with fine oils. Built around 1150, they were opened to the public once again in 1998 following their restoration. You may feel like you've stepped back in time here, as sounds and effects are played to recreate the ambience of the original baths.

Appreciate the architecture

So many of the historical buildings which formed part of the Alicante landscape hundreds of years ago are still standing today. The Cathedral of El Salvador is a striking Gothic church with three doors – one of which is Renaissance in style. The Basilica of Santa Maria is another example of a Gothic-style church well worth a visit. The oldest active church in Alicante, it is situated just a short drive from the centre.

Alicante is a diverse city worth a visit in its own right but also a gateway to the wider Costa Blanca area. Offering the best of both worlds, the City of Light holds a magic charm for all visitors whether you prefer relaxing on the beaches or exploring the cultural sights – and renting a car will help you get the most out of your visit.