Starbucks

Gate-side caffeine in NAT before security queues build

This Starbucks sits in Alicante’s NAT terminal, handy for a last coffee before short-haul flights on carriers like Vueling or Ryanair. It runs typical airport hours aligned with the main departures bank, so early morning departures around 06:00 usually catch it open. Figure standard Starbucks pricing with an airport bump: expect around €3–€4 for a tall latte and €2–€3 for basic brewed coffee.

You’ll recognize the full European Starbucks lineup here: espresso drinks, Frappuccinos, and seasonal specials that rotate every few months. Food is the usual mix of pre-made sandwiches, wraps, and pastries. A croissant or muffin sits in the €2.50–€4 range, while sandwiches land closer to €5–€7. It’s grab-and-go friendly, so you can be in and out in under 10 minutes if the queue is short.

Seating is limited and often fills up during the 07:00–09:00 wave of Schengen departures, especially near the NAT terminal windows. If all tables are taken, take your drink toward the nearby common seating by the gates, which usually has spare chairs except in peak summer holiday weeks (July–August). Power outlets are hit-or-miss; don’t count on charging a laptop here before a 3-hour hop to the UK or central Europe.

Payment is straightforward: they accept credit and debit cards, contactless, and major mobile wallets, plus euro cash. If you care about loyalty points, the Spanish Starbucks app typically works, but check the QR code on the counter and your app region settings before banking on Stars for that €4 cappuccino. Lines move at normal Starbucks speed: about 5–10 minutes when there are 6–8 people ahead of you.

Practical tip: if your NAT departure board shows boarding in under 25 minutes, grab a simple espresso or filter coffee here and skip custom drinks that can slow things down during the morning rush.