Alicante, Spain
Smoking policy at Alicante, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport (ALC)
Warnings & Caveats
Smoking in airport toilets will trigger smoke alarms and result in an on-the-spot fine, plus potential delays that could cause you to miss your flight. Vaping indoors is also prohibited under Spanish law and carries the same risk of triggering alarms and fines. The Budweiser Bar terrace does not open until just after 6:00 AM, so it may not be accessible for very early departures.
Alicante Airport (ALC) has a clear no-smoking policy inside the terminal building, in line with Spanish law. The only airside smoking option is the outdoor terrace attached to the Budweiser Bar near Gate C38, which requires a purchase to access. A second airside option opened in February 2026: the Wetherspoon pub in the non-Schengen area, which has its own smoking terrace.
Before Security
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the terminal landside. Your only option is to step fully outside the building before check-in or before going through security.
Exit through the main terminal doors to smoke on the pavement or designated outdoor areas outside the building.
If you have already checked in, bear in mind that re-entering and clearing security takes time. Do not leave it too late or you risk missing your flight.
Arriving passengers must clear passport control and collect baggage before they can smoke outside.
After Security
There are two airside smoking spots, both requiring a purchase:
Budweiser Bar Terrace (near Gate C38): This is the original airside smoking area, open since autumn 2020. It is an outdoor terrace with views over the runway and the Mediterranean. You must buy a drink or food item to access it. Traveler reports note it does not open until just after 6:00 AM, so early-morning departures may find it closed. A small bottle of water was the cheapest purchase option (around €1.80 reported in 2021, around €2.30 for water in 2024). The terrace is located at the far end of the terminal, in the corner between the C and B gates. Non-Schengen travelers may need to pass through an additional passport check to reach the B gates area.
Wetherspoon Pub Terrace (non-Schengen area, near B gates): Opened in February 2026, this is Spain's first Wetherspoon. It has an adjoining outdoor smoking terrace and is reported to open earlier and close later than the Budweiser bar. Prices are described by travelers as cheaper than the Budweiser bar. It is approximately one minute's walk from the B gates, where most UK flights depart.
Vaping Rules
Vaping is treated the same as smoking under Spanish law. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are not permitted inside the terminal building. Using a vaping device indoors risks triggering smoke alarms, which can result in an on-the-spot fine and potential delays that could cause you to miss your flight.
Smoking Fines
Smoking in the toilets is strongly discouraged. Smoke alarms are fitted in the bathrooms, and triggering one will result in a hefty on-the-spot fine plus procedural delays.
Bottom Line
Smoke outside before entering the terminal if you can; airside, head to the Budweiser Bar terrace near Gate C38 or the new Wetherspoon terrace near the B gates, but budget for a drink purchase and check opening times for early flights.
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