Altea is a charming town located in the province of Alicante, known for its blue-domed church and stunning Mediterranean views.
Growing up on the Costa Blanca, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Altea many times and I’m excited to share my insider knowledge with you to help you plan the best trip.
Where is Altea?
Altea is situated approximately 9.8 kilometres from Benidorm and 11.2 kilometres from Calpe.
It’s 45 minutes from Alicante airport by car, and 1 hour and 30 minutes from Valencia airport.
What to see in Altea
Altea is divided into several distinct areas, each offering unique experiences.
Old Town
The Altea Old Town is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and the iconic blue-domed church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo at the very top of the hill.
This part of the city is perfect for strolling, exploring artisan shops, and enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Old Town is usually quiet during the day but gets much busier in the evenings as people visit the bars and restaurants in the area.
Mirador de los Cronistas de España
You can find Altea’s mirador at the top of the old town near the church, offering panoramic views of the town, the distant Albir, and the Alfaz del Pi.
The viewpoint is open to the public and there is no charge to visit.
Serra Gelada Natural Park
Serra Gelada Natural Park offers a fantastic escape with its rugged cliffs, stunning views, and diverse flora and fauna. The park is perfect for hiking, with two trails offering varying levels of difficulty.
The most popular trail is the Faro de l’Albir, an easy hike which leads to a lighthouse with breathtaking views of the coastline. The other trail is harder and travels to the mountain top, as well as an option to walk all the way to Benidorm.
Altea beaches
Some of the best beaches in Altea include Playa de la Roda, known for its clear waters and vibrant atmosphere, and Playa de Cap Blanch, a quieter spot ideal for a peaceful day by the sea.
What to Do in Altea
There are plenty of things to do in Altea which you shouldn’t miss.
Nuestra Señora del Consuelo (Iglesia de Arriba)
“Nuestra Señora del Consuelo”, also known as the “Iglesia de Arriba” (upper church), stands at the top of the hill of the Casco Antiguo. It’s the church with the iconic blue domes. It should be high up on your list of places to visit!
Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo is free to enter.
Festivals
Timing your visit to coincide with one of Altea’s festivals, such as Moros y Cristianos in September, can create a much more memorable experience.
Shopping in Altea
Shopping in Altea can be a delightful experience, whether you’re browsing boutique shops in Old Town or exploring the local market for fresh produce and handicrafts.
There is a local market on Tuesdays, which sells food, clothes, leather goods and jewellery. It’s located on the Aparcamiento, and I’ve embed the map below.
Dining Out
There are so many fantastic authentic restaurants in Altea. As its located
The seafront has plenty of restaurants and bars. Dining out at the seafront will be more expensive as its the touristic hub which comes with an excellent view!
One of my favourite all-time spots is the daily menu at L’Espill which contains a starter, a main including seafood paella, with a fantastic sea view.
The old town has some incredible restaurants with equally magnificent views
If you’re feeling fancy, Michellin Star French restaurant Oustau de Altea is an absolute must.
Nightlife
Altea hasn’t got a huge nightlife focus like its neighbouring towns Benidorm or Calpe. Most Altea locals visit Benidorm for nights out and to visit clubs as it is a 15-minute drive away or 15-minute tram ride. If you’re looking for a big night out, that’s the place to go!
Theres still plenty of bars open till the very late hours to have drinks and cocktails with stunning views. You’ll find plenty of terraced bars on the beachfront, and more local bars in the inner town.
There is also a fantastic beer-tasting activity at the local microbrewery called Cervezas Althaia, located in the Old Town.
For more details, read our guide to nightlife in Altea.
Altea’s Climate
Altea enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal destination for travellers year-round.
During the summer months, from June to September, average temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C. These months can occasionally see temperatures soar to 35°C, so make sure to stay protected from the sun and stay hydrated.
Winter in Altea is typically mild, with temperatures averaging 10°C to 15°C. It’s not uncommon to experience occasional warm days even in the colder months, making it a pleasant time to visit as well.
Practical Information
Navigating Altea is made easier with various transportation options.
How can I travel around Altea?
If you’re staying in the centre, Altea is quite a walkable city, especially if you’re staying in the Old Town area.
Taxis are also readily available to take you around Altea and other towns nearby, although these will be more expensive. Renting a car will always offer more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city.
There’s a very convenient tram that runs through the town every hour and stops at other major places around the Costa Blanca, including Alicante, Benidorm, Calpe, and Denia. Tickets are very affordable for round trips.
Do they speak English in Altea?
Although Spanish is the predominant language, most locals speak English, especially in tourist areas like restaurants and bars.
Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be beneficial and appreciated by the locals.
Accommodation
If you’re looking to stay in Altea, I would recommend staying in the centre of the town.
Accommodation options range from charming boutique hotels in the Old Town to villa rentals that offer privacy and convenience for longer stays or family trips.
Popular accommodations include Hotel Tossal d’Altea and SH Villa Gadea, both offering excellent amenities and locations.
When is the best time to visit Altea?
The best time to visit Altea depends on your preferences. The summer months from June to September are the most popular, with plenty of activities and perfect swimming weather. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during April-May or October, when the weather is milder, and the crowds are thinner.
