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If you’re planning a trip to Spain’s Costa Blanca and looking for a great day trip from Alicante, Altea should be high on your list. In this post, I’ll dive into the best things to do in Altea, whether you’re up for exploring, eager to soak in some local culture, or just want to sit back and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. This charming coastal town offers gorgeous views, a rich cultural scene, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for unwinding.
Is Altea, Spain touristy? It will depend on the time of year but yes, Altea can be very touristy. Although even with the crowds, Altea retains its charm and can still feel like a genuine Spanish town.
Before I list the best things to do in Altea, I’ll go over a few things to note that will assist you when planning your trip.
Where is Altea in Spain?
Altea is located on Spain’s eastern coast, along the iconic Mediterranean Sea, in the province of Alicante. It’s also a part of the Costa Blanca region, known for its beautiful beaches and small coastal towns.
Altea is located about 10 kilometres north of Benidorm and around 58 kilometres northeast of Alicante city. The town is easily accessible from Alicante, making it a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways.
Altea History
It’s probably no surprise but Altea has a rich history, stretching back thousands of years. There’s evidence of settlements dating back to Iberian and Roman times. The town’s strategic location along the Mediterranean made it an attractive spot for various civilizations, including the Moors, who left a clear mark on the architecture.
Then during the medieval period, Altea grew as a fortified town, with its iconic church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, becoming a central landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions today. The town’s old quarter, with its beautiful narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and cobblestone paths, show its Moorish influence and medieval past.
Over the centuries, Altea evolved from a small fishing village into an artist’s haven, attracting painters, writers, and musicians in the 20th century. Today many of the stores in Old Town sell incredible artwork and bohemian clothing & jewelry.
When is The Best Time to Visit Altea?
The best time to visit Altea depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. If you want to enjoy warm weather, relatively clear skies, and a vibrant atmosphere, then late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal. During these months, the weather is warm, perfect for exploring the town, relaxing on the beaches, and strolling along the promenade. Plus, you’ll also avoid the peak summer crowds.
During Europe, summer, particularly July & August, Altea can get very busy. The town fills up with tourists, and the beaches get crowded. The weather is of course hot, often reaching the high 30s°C, making it perfect for tanning and swimming. But for some, these high temperatures can become uncomfortable.
If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting in the winter (December to February) offers mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 10-18°C. While I’d say it’s too cold for swimming, the town is peaceful, so you’d be able to explore Altea without the hectic summer crowds.
The Best Things to Do in Altea
Altea may not be packed with countless activities, but that’s exactly what makes it such a special place to visit. It’s a town that encourages you to slow down, take it easy, and soak in the charm of this beautiful Spanish town.
Here’s a list of the best things to do in Altea to make the most of your visit;
Explore Altea’s Old Town
Once you arrive, wander through Altea’s Old Town. This historic town is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses and the best beautiful bougainvilleas. Old Town is high on the hill so the views are stunning, and the area is full of quaint spots where you can stop for a coffee or browse local art galleries and jewellery shops.
Visit Plaza de la Iglesia
In the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find Plaza de la Iglesia, a charming square that’s the perfect place to stop for lunch or just sit and soak up the atmosphere. The plaza is surrounded by traditional buildings and has great views of the sea.
Admire the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo
Altea’s iconic blue-domed church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, is a must-visit. It’s so beautiful and was my favourite site from Altea. The church is best admired from the outside but entry is free so it’s worth looking inside as well.
Construction on the Church began around 1901 and was completed in 1910. The distinctive blue and white domed roof is an iconic symbol of Altea and one you definitely can’t miss.
Enjoy Some Shopping
Take your time browsing the local shops, where you’ll find everything from handmade crafts to unique clothing. Altea is well known for its artistic community and this is reflected in the lovely clothing, jewellery and home-wares you can purchase in and around Altea Old Town.
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Relax on the Beaches
Altea’s coastline is a part of the Costa Blanca and these beaches are the perfect spots to hang out after exploring Old Town.
There are multiple beaches to choose from but one that is nice and close to Altea Old Town is Playa La Roda. This beach is only 2km away and there’s street parking available in front of the beach. Playa La Roda is a pebble beach so if you aren’t from this part of the world, it can offer a unique beach experience!
Walk the Beach Promenade
Another one of the best things to do in Altea is take a stroll along Altea’s beach promenade. It’s a lovely way to take in the sea breeze and enjoy views of the coast. The Promenade is an easy, flat walk with plenty of opportunities to stop for a drink or a bite to eat along the way.
Visit the Street Market (on Tuesday)
If your visit to Altea falls on a Tuesday one of the best things to do while in town is visit the local street market. It’s a vibrant place to pick up fresh produce, local delicacies, and even a few souvenirs.
The market is open from 8 am to 1 pm, weather permitting. And, is located in a large parking area next to the Cami de l’Algar. Which is a 15-minute walk from Plaza de la Iglesia.
Take a Sunset Cruise
For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a sunset cruise. You could be watching the sun fall below the horizon while sailing on the Mediterranean. Imagine getting uninterrupted views of Altea and being out on the water would be the perfect way to end your day in Altea.
Get Your Guide has a highly-rated sunset boat tour for a very reasonable price. Click here to check it out!
A day out in Altea, it’s all about taking things slow and savouring the simple pleasures. Whether you explore the charming streets in Old Town, enjoy the beaches, or just relax in a plaza, I’m sure you’ll leave feeling refreshed.
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Recommend Hotels in Altea
Portal Vell Altea – La Barreta
Hostal Boutique Casa del Mar Altea
How Long to Spend in Altea
The amount of time you’d spend in Altea depends on what you want to experience. If you’re visiting as part of a day trip from Alicante or another nearby town, a full day is enough to explore the highlights.
However, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the charm of Altea, two to three days will allow you to fully appreciate its culture and atmosphere.
Things to do in Altea ~ In Conclusion
Altea may not be overflowing with tourist attractions, but that’s exactly what makes it such a wonderful place to visit. Whether you’re exploring the old town, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying a stroll along the promenade, the simple pleasures are what stand out when spending time in Altea.
So when I’m asked, is Altea worth visiting? I will always say yes. The best things to do in Altea revolve around soaking in its beauty and enjoying the laid-back lifestyle. If you’re planning a trip to Spain’s Costa Blanca, or nearby Alicante be sure to add Altea to your itinerary, because it’s an absolute stunner!
I hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your time in Altea.
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
Hello! I’ve heard about Alicante before, but I have never heard about Altea. The town looks fabulous! Is it difficult to get there from Barcelona?
Hey Julia, thanks for your comment. The best option would be to fly to Alicante then it’s a 45 minute drive from the airport to ALtea
Altea looks amazing. I’ll put it on my travel list for Spain.
It looks like such a great little town to spend a few days in. It’s much more my style than large cities. Could you live here for a month as a digital nomad?
yeah definitely, I don’t see why not 🙂 It’s such a lovely place
Altea sounds like the perfect place to visit for a break during a busy travel itinerary! Soak in the best of what the Mediterranean has to offer with no rush. Definitely adding to my list!
I have not explored this part of Spain yet but after reading your post, I would like to. I love really charming villages. Is there a specific time when it’s less busy?
I guess just avoid peak season. I was there at the start of May and it was busy, but nothing crazy. Still very pleasant to wander around
How long do you think you need to properly explore old town? Looks amazing!
Just for Old Town, you would need at least one full day
This town looks like a relaxing place to spend a few days on the beach. I love exploring places like that. I can’t wait to visit the coast of Spain.