WHAT TO DO IN ALTEA – THINGS TO DO AND SEE + TRAVEL TIPS
Altea is a charming town in Alicante, Spain, that should be on your list when visiting Costa Blanca. Located between Valencia and Alicante, Altea is a perfect place to visit on a day trip.
When I booked my trip to Alicante, I had no idea what or where Altea was. But after some research, I found out about this gem, and after seeing the pictures, I immediately added it to my Costa Blanca itinerary. All I can say is that I am so glad that I did. And here you will find out about the best things to do in Altea along with some quick travel tips for your trip.
ALTEA TRAVEL TIPS
Altea is a city and municipality located north of Alicante and just around 10 kilometers from Benidorm and Calpe. With about 22,000 inhabitants it is a rather small town. Especially the old town – the area we focus on today – rather feels like a village.
Whitewashed houses, colorful flowers against white walls, and pretty ocean views – yes, Altea has a touch of Greece in it. While the old town, located on a small hill, is tiny and there are not many attractions per se, it is a great place to visit and makes a wonderful day trip from Alicante (Benidorm or Valencia).
I will keep this post short and sweet (because there is not too much to talk about). Along with all the images, you will also find out how to get to Altea and what to expect when you are there.
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When to Visit Altea
We visited Altea in November – the streets were mostly empty (apart from a big group of seniors), and the weather was nice and mild. However, I guess the best time to visit is between March -June, and September to early October. Apparently, Altea is not overrun by tourists – however, it has become more popular and busy. So, it is a great place to visit even in high season.
How to Get to Altea
The best way to get to Altea is by tram from the bigger cities nearby. Altea has a tram station, so whether you get to Altea from Benidorm or Alicante, it is the easiest and most convenient transport mode. A return ticket from Alicante is only about 10€, less from Benidorm.)
It takes about one hour from Alicante, but the tram ride is lovely, with great views of the beaches and towns included. Once you are out of the tram, you will see the blue dome, so head toward the hills (it is just a short uphill walk), and you are there.
Where to Stay in Altea
We did not stay in Altea but in Alicante. However, personally, I would have loved to stay in Altea in hindsight. Watching the sunrise in the mornings must be great – also you are close to other places in Costa Blanca – like Benidorm, Alicante or Valencia.
- If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Altea, then check out SH Villa Gadea. It is a luxury accommodation close to the town center. The views look great, and the overall ratings make it look like a great place to stay near/in Altea.
- If you are looking for a more budget-friendly place in Altea, check out FH Altea Centro Historico. It seems like a wonderful place if you don’t need luxury and need a clean place to stay. Then this could be the place to stay.
- Click here for accommodation in Alicante.
- Click here for accommodations in Benidorm.
What to Do in Altea in One Day
What to do in Altea? Where to go and what to see? While there is no real to-do list, and thus, this is not a typical Altea itinerary, I recommend not rushing through the village.
STROLL THE STREETS OF THE OLD TOWN
You could easily overlook many small and narrow streets, so take your time when strolling the area.
VISIT THE CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION
The market square is also home to the Church of Our Lady of Consolation (this is such a small town, but the church is large and ornate as in much bigger cities).
VISIT THE MARKET SQUARE
You will also find restaurants and cafes (which are even open during the slow season). We were lucky as we had some musicians who played music -behind the market square. Like us, a big tourist group of seniors listened to the music – and some ladies danced Flamingo. Even though we visited in November, this felt like a busy and fun Mediterranean travel destination.
ENJOY THE VIEWS
As the old town is located on a hill, there are quite good views that you can enjoy. Mirador de la Plaza de la Iglesia is just one place to enjoy the views.
There are several restaurants and cafes for more great views.
SPEND TIME AT THE BEACH
If you walk down and pass the train station, you will also find a little cute beach. On a warm day, I suggest spending more time here (there are also restaurants and cafes) as you will be “done” within a few hours in Altea.
CATAMARAN CRUISE
From Altea, catamaran cruises are quite popular – Set sail from Altea Port across the Mediterranean Sea while enjoying some drinks and watching the sunset. This could be the perfect way to end the day with your friends and loved ones. Check out prices for a catamaran cruise in Altea.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON YOUR ALTEA ITINERARY
Small but extremely cute – this is Altea, one of the most beautiful places in Costa Blanca. There are not tons of places to visit and yet it makes a perfect day trip or even a great base – Altea seemed to be the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the perks of slow travel.
Altea is – without question – very unique, but here is another very unique destination at Costa Blanca.
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