Things To Do
in Altea
Altea is a sun-kissed coastal town on the Costa Blanca known for its iconic blue-domed church and whitewashed houses. Its old town climbs a gentle hill above a sheltered harbor, offering panoramic views of the sea. The town blends traditional Valencian charm with a relaxed, artistic vibe, filled with cafes, boutiques, and sea salt air.
Visitors come for scenic strolls, cultural events, and easy access to beaches and nearby Benidorm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Altea and settle into your accommodation with a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional whitewashed buildings. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Explore the picturesque Old Town, known as 'Altea la Vieja', where cobblestone streets lead to the vibrant blue domed church. Visit local artisan shops and galleries showcasing handicrafts and paintings inspired by the stunning coastal landscape. Take some time to relax at a nearby beach, enjoying the sun and surf.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant along the coast, savoring freshly caught dishes while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. After dinner, wander along the promenade and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the horizon. Perhaps end the evening with a gelato from a nearby gelateria.
Begin your day with a visit to the Palau Altea, a cultural center that hosts various exhibitions and performances. Attend a morning workshop to learn about local crafts or music, offering insight into the vibrant culture of Altea. Fuel your creativity with a light breakfast at the café within the center.
After an enriching morning, head to the local market to browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and unique souvenirs. Engage with the friendly vendors and sample some local delicacies, including fresh olives and cheeses. Spend some time relaxing at a park, people-watching and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
Experience a magical evening at one of the town’s open-air restaurants, featuring live traditional music. Taste some of Altea's exquisite wines paired with traditional dishes made from local ingredients. Walk back to your accommodation under the starry sky, reveling in the enchanting ambiance of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛒Grocery groceries | $40-70 per week |
| ⛽Gas (fuel) | $1.80-2.20 per liter |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful old town with blue-domed church and whitewashed houses
- Coastal scenery and proximity to Benidorm for day trips
- Relaxed atmosphere and walkable streets
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer
- Narrow streets and limited parking in the old town
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Altea
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic blue-domed church perched above the harbor, a quintessential Altea photograph.
Winding cobblestone lanes, whitewashed houses with blue shutters and abundant flowers create photogenic scenes.
Seafront walkway with views of the marina, turquoise water, and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Altea
Altea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seafood rice cooked in a separate broth and served with a flavorful, saffron-infused stock.
Must-Try!
A traditional fish and rice stew from the Marina Baixa featuring tender seafood and a hearty, comforting broth.
A noodle-based seafood dish cooked with a seafood stock, similar to paella but using short pasta noodles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, seafood, local cheeses, and seasonal specialties; look for weekly street market stalls nearby.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Lunch around 2–3 pm and dinner after 9 pm; greet locals with a friendly 'hola' or 'buenos días' and dress modestly in churches.
Safety
Tipping in Altea
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some small shops or markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and peak tourist crowds; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and enjoy cooling sea breezes along the marina.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; towns are quieter, making it ideal for peaceful strolls and museum visits.
Lush gardens and pleasant temperatures; perfect for long walks, outdoor dining, and market visits.
Altea at Night
Hiking in Altea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal-mountain ridge with rewarding views; popular among hikers and real scenery lovers.
Airports
How to reach Altea by plane.
Main international gateway serving the Costa Blanca; about 60-70 minutes by car from Altea.
Larger international airport serving the region; about 120-150 kilometers north of Altea.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Alicante-speaking residents with traditional roots and community-oriented culture.
Seasonal and permanent residents from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular along the coast.
Ridge hikes in nearby hills and scenic coastal cycling routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose veggie-friendly dishes like grilled vegetables, salads, and arroz with vegetables; most spots can adapt rice dishes or offer pesto, tomato, and olive oil-based options.