The Costa Blanca is a brilliant place to explore by road in your Alicante hire car. Around every corner it seems that there’s a charming white-washed Andalusian village to see or a glorious swathe of coastal scenery to discover. From the airport, take the A-70 north to find the incredible Santa Bárbara Castle, and from the same road you’ll also find the Archaeological Museum of Alicante, which will be able to give you an insight into the city’s fascinating history.

With Alicante as your base, why not take the opportunity to drive north up the Orange Blossom Coast to Valencia via the E-15 north - a wonderful city with a reputation for art and culture. Or, head south along the A-7 through the stunning terrain to the university city of Murcia for an altogether different taste of Spain. Of course, the freedom of a hire vehicle gives you the chance to sample plenty of beaches and, in Alicante and surrounding areas there’s no shortage of Mediterranean havens. Pack a picnic, throw a towel in the boot and get going.

Spain is a right-hand drive country and its roads are relatively well-maintained, particularly in more urban areas. One important point to remember when setting off for a trip from Alicante is that there are many toll roads in Spain. When you see the word ‘péage’, prepare for a toll, which will most likely be between 1.50 and 6 euros.

The maximum speed on Spanish motorways is 75mph (120km/h). In non-built up areas the limit is usually 55mph (90km/h), dropping to 31mph (50km/h) in towns and cities. In Spain, it's illegal to travel without a seatbelt, whether you’re in the front or rear seats of a car, and whatever your age.

Alicante is an extremely popular tourist destination, and with good reason - excellent weather, a marvellous Mediterranean coastline and welcoming locals. However, there is more to Alicante than just simple pleasures. The city has a history that stretches back thousands of years, a fact that can be seen in its architecture and in the heritage its people are so proud of. Alicante is also your gateway to the Island of Tabarca, which is a dedicated Mediterranean Marine Reserve, so those with a love of nature are well catered for in this lively city. Hire a car here and you can tick off every single sight.

Taste the local delicacies

For many, Alicante is synonymous with long evenings spent partying, dining or late-night dancing with friends. But, for a slightly more chilled evening out, head waterside to the city’s Muelle de Levante wharf, where you’ll also find an array of quality restaurants.

Food in Alicante is generally of a high standard and menus are built around an abundance of fresh seafood and fish, plus a generous helping of saffron-infused rice. Whether you want to spend the evening nibbling on tapas, or you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, you’ll find it here.

One local delicacy you must try is Horchata, a slightly sweet milky drink made using ground almonds and tigernuts. If you’re lucky enough to visit Alicante in late June, be sure to attend the Hogueras de San Juan Festival, or the ‘night of burning’. On this evening a party spirit pervades as, across the city, people welcome summer solstice with the burning of papier-mâché statues.

The endless beaches

The Costa Blanca has built an entire economy on the strength of sun, sand and sea. Your only challenge is deciding which of Alicante’s glorious Blue Flag beaches best suits you. Perhaps San Juan de Alicante will get your vote. A large, fine-sanded beach that’s as popular with local families as it is visiting ones, this is the region's beach of choice.

If you don’t want to stray too far from the city itself, make it Postiguet Beach, which is right by the marina. For a quiet day, and to escape the crowds, La Almadraba Beach is ideal, easily reached in your hire car, and the waves are as serene as the atmosphere on shore. For something a little different, check out the coves at Cabo de la Huerta.

The historical intrigue

Beyond the beaches, Alicante has a more serious side. The city’s Old Town Quarter is your first stop for a taste of Spain in days gone by. From 17th century San Nicholas Cathedral to the wonderfully Gothic Santa Maria Basilica, complete with its Baroque and Rococo flourishes, there is much to please the eye.

However, when it comes to dramatic historical buildings in Alicante, it’s the Castillo de Santa Bárbara that really steals the show. With stunning panoramic views of the city, sea and surrounding countryside, this incredible 16th century castle is perched majestically high on a hill but is well-worth the climb. Culture, cuisine and sun await in Alicante, so grab your hire car from the airport and make the most of every minute.