Alicante Safety Guide
Is Alicante Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Alicante and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Alicante crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Alicante, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, Alicante is remarkably safe during daylight hours. Basic awareness is all you need. Evenings require increased attention, though main tourist areas remain generally secure.
Robberies and Theft: low
Armed Robberies:
Assaults:
Corruption: heightened
Drug Issues: moderate
Beggars: low
Vandalism: low
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: low
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Taxi Overcharge Scam (High Risk) - Some taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter, especially at the Alicante Airport or in popular tourist areas like Explanada de España, and demand a flat rate that's significantly higher. To avoid this, always use official taxi stands, insist on the meter, or use ride-hailing apps for transparency in pricing.
Fake Charity Collectors (Medium Risk) - In crowded tourist spots such as the Postiguet Beach area, scammers may approach you claiming to be collecting for charities, often using emotional stories to guilt you into giving. Politely refuse and avoid engaging, or donate only to verified organizations.
Restaurant Bill Trick (Medium Risk) - In some restaurants around the city, especially in the Old Town, diners may receive bills that include unexpected service charges or higher prices than those displayed on menus. Always check the menu prices before ordering and ask for clarification about any charges upon receiving your bill.
Street Performance Contributions (Medium Risk) - You may encounter street performers in areas like the Esplanade or near Santa Barbara Castle who perform elaborate acts and then demand money right after. It's best to enjoy the show without feeling pressured to pay; simply walk away if approached aggressively for funds.
Currency Exchange Scams (Low Risk) - Some currency exchange booths in tourist-heavy areas, like at the Alicante Port, may offer rates that appear attractive but come with high hidden fees. Always check the total amount you will receive after fees before completing any exchange and consider using ATMs for a better rate.
Sunbed Rental Swindle (Low Risk) - At popular beaches like San Juan, some vendors may falsely advertise low prices for sunbed rentals that later come with surprise fees for additional services. When renting, confirm all costs upfront and avoid any unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true.
Fake Charity Collectors (Medium Risk) - In crowded tourist spots such as the Postiguet Beach area, scammers may approach you claiming to be collecting for charities, often using emotional stories to guilt you into giving. Politely refuse and avoid engaging, or donate only to verified organizations.
Restaurant Bill Trick (Medium Risk) - In some restaurants around the city, especially in the Old Town, diners may receive bills that include unexpected service charges or higher prices than those displayed on menus. Always check the menu prices before ordering and ask for clarification about any charges upon receiving your bill.
Street Performance Contributions (Medium Risk) - You may encounter street performers in areas like the Esplanade or near Santa Barbara Castle who perform elaborate acts and then demand money right after. It's best to enjoy the show without feeling pressured to pay; simply walk away if approached aggressively for funds.
Currency Exchange Scams (Low Risk) - Some currency exchange booths in tourist-heavy areas, like at the Alicante Port, may offer rates that appear attractive but come with high hidden fees. Always check the total amount you will receive after fees before completing any exchange and consider using ATMs for a better rate.
Sunbed Rental Swindle (Low Risk) - At popular beaches like San Juan, some vendors may falsely advertise low prices for sunbed rentals that later come with surprise fees for additional services. When renting, confirm all costs upfront and avoid any unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
If you're renting a car, the penalties aren’t based on your passport's color, but there are some important notes. Firstly, renting a car doesn’t shield you from the dreaded €100 fine in Spain for not carrying your EU Driving License. If you happen to get caught in a speed trap, that fine might be automatically forwarded to you via some kind of ticketing system. 🚗💨
Here’s the good news: there’s a warning sign before every speed camera in Spain, making it super clear. Just remember, if you're driving attentively in Spain, the chance of receiving a ticket for speeding isn’t high. 🛑
However, the police sometimes run mobile patrols, catching drivers unaware. Imagine an unmarked police car set up with radars just a few hundred meters down the road. It can feel like playing a game of cat and mouse! Such cases are rare, though, and usually, the locals just reduce their speed.
Bottom line: keeping a steady pace under local limits will keep you safe from getting into trouble. 🚙✨
Now for some specifics about fines in Spain:
- Speeding over 30 km/h will cost you around €100.
- If you speed between 40 to 50 km/h over, expect to pay €300.
- If you're caught going 100 km/h in a 50 zone, you could face a €500 fine, and for 101 km/h, it jumps to €600.
- Don’t get caught for talking on your phone; that will hit your wallet for €200.
- And alcohol? If you're over the 0.25 mg/ml limit, fines could reach €1500 depending on how much over the limit you are. 🥴
Plus, if you’re a foreigner and get ticketed, you must pay right then and there, with a bonus— you can get a 50% discount if you pay within 21 days. Simple, huh? 😅
So, avoid any mishaps or "adventures" on the road—drive smart and stay safe out there! 🚦 »