Things To Do
in Altea

Altea is a picturesque coastal town located in the province of Alicante, Spain. Known for its stunning whitewashed buildings and charming narrow streets, Altea offers a blend of traditional Spanish culture and modern artistic flair. The town is famed for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene, which includes numerous galleries and craft shops.

With a mild Mediterranean climate, it attracts visitors year-round who come to enjoy its scenic views and relaxed atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Altea's Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Altea's Old Town, visiting the iconic blue-domed church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while taking in the views of the Mediterranean.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the local artisan shops and galleries that line the cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Altea Market, which takes place on Tuesdays.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a seaside dinner at a restaurant along the promenade, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Sierra de Bernia mountain range, which offers stunning views and well-marked trails.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at one of Altea's beaches, such as Playa de la Roda, where you can sunbathe or swim.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, then experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a bar or live music venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$2
🍦Ice cream cone$3
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$100
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal views and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and artistic scene
  • Pleasant Mediterranean climate year-round
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Some areas may be hilly, making it challenging for those with mobility issues
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Me gustaría..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Altea

Visit one of these nice places.

The Blue Domes of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo

Capture the iconic blue domes of the church against the backdrop of the sky, especially stunning at sunset.

Altea's Promenade

A perfect spot for capturing vibrant coastal views and lively beach scenes, particularly during the golden hour.

Sierra de Bernia

The panoramic views from the hiking trails provide breathtaking opportunities for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Altea

Altea's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Mediterranean flavors and modern gastronomy, making it a haven for food lovers.

Altea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Paella

A classic Spanish rice dish cooked with saffron, vegetables, and a variety of meats or seafood.

Must-Try!

Tarta de Santiago

A traditional almond cake from the region, often topped with powdered sugar and the cross of Saint James.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Altea Market

Held every Tuesday, this market offers fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Altea has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Rainfall is more frequent in autumn and winter, while summers are mostly sunny and dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; close friends may greet with a kiss on both cheeks.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and remember to say 'Buen Provecho' before meals.

Personal Space

Spaniards tend to stand closer during conversations, so don’t be alarmed by the proximity.

Safety Guide

Safety

Altea is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and being cautious in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Altea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town's gardens in bloom.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures, making it perfect for beach activities, although it can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, providing a peaceful atmosphere for sightseeing.

Winter

Winter is mild, making it a great time for hiking and enjoying local festivals without the summer heat.

Nightlife Guide

Altea at Night

Altea's nightlife is vibrant but laid-back, with options ranging from cozy bars to lively music venues. Many bars offer live music, especially in the summer months, and there are several clubs for those looking to dance. The atmosphere is friendly, with locals and tourists mingling, creating a welcoming environment.

Hiking in Altea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bernia Ridge Trail

A moderate trail offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains, suitable for experienced hikers.

Cerro de Toix Trail

A scenic trail that provides panoramic views of Altea and the Mediterranean, ideal for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Altea by plane.

Alicante–Elche Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Altea, this airport offers numerous international flights and is the main gateway for travelers visiting the Costa Blanca.

Getting Around

Walkability

Altea is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a compact area. The charming narrow streets of the Old Town are best explored on foot, and the promenade along the beach is perfect for leisurely strolls. However, some areas, particularly those leading to the hills, may be steep and require good walking shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Altea has a diverse population, including a mix of Spanish locals and expatriates from various countries, contributing to a multicultural atmosphere.

Tourists

The town attracts a wide range of tourists, from families to retirees, particularly those seeking a peaceful retreat along the Mediterranean.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Spain, with local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Water Sports

Due to its coastal location, Altea offers various water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Altea is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist season. Public transportation options include buses that connect Altea with nearby towns and cities. Walking and cycling are popular ways to navigate the town due to its compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Altea.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options as they may not be prominently listed.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, but it's best to check with the staff to ensure safe dining.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Altea is good, with several medical clinics and a local hospital. Emergency services are available, and many healthcare professionals speak English. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide