Altea Benidorm and Villajoyosa from Valencia

Exploring the Costa Blanca: A Detailed Look at the Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa Tour from Valencia

Taking a day to explore some of the most distinctive towns along Spain’s Mediterranean coast can be a fantastic way to see a different side of Valencia’s surroundings. This guided tour, offered by Valencia Forever, promises visits to villages bursting with color, stunning panoramic views, and cultural landmarks—all wrapped into a 9-hour adventure. With a focus on authentic experiences and expert guides, it aims to give visitors a taste of local life, history, and scenic beauty.

What we especially like about this tour is the personalized service, including hotel pick-up, which helps avoid the hassle of figuring out transportation. Plus, the itinerary balances sightseeing with free time, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere, snap photos, and enjoy some local gastronomy.

A potential consideration is the short time allocated at each stop—which, while efficient, might leave some travelers wishing for a bit more time to explore each town at a leisurely pace. Still, for those wanting a well-rounded snapshot of the coast without the hassle of planning, this trip hits many marks.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sights, scenic views, and authentic town atmospheres—especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want to experience different facets of the Costa Blanca in one day.

Key Points

• Variety of Towns: Visit colorful Villajoyosa, bustling Benidorm, and tranquil Altea, each offering unique charm.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Marcela and Joaquim add depth with interesting commentary and help with photos.
• Cultural & Scenic Stops: From chocolate factories to Orthodox churches, the tour provides diverse cultural insights.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Includes hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport for a stress-free day.
• Time Management: Short but well-paced visits, with free time for shopping and photos.
• Value for Money: At roughly $115, entrance to attractions like the Chocolate Museum is included, offering good value.

The Full-Day Adventure: Breaking Down the Itinerary

Villajoyosa: A Burst of Color & Sweet Traditions

The journey kicks off in Villajoyosa, known for its bright, pastel-colored buildings that line the seaside streets. This town’s vibrant appearance makes it a photographer’s dream and a lively spot to start the day.

You’ll spend about 90 minutes here, led by a guide who will walk you through the charming streets and introduce you to its famed chocolate-making history at the Chocolate Factory Museum. Travelers like Oleksandr and Joseph have highlighted how engaging and informative these visits are, with Oleksandr praising the guide’s “interesting information” that made the visit memorable.

While the time is limited, the focus on this town is just enough to get a feel for its cheerful vibe and history. And, of course, many visitors enjoy the opportunity to buy local chocolates—so bring some extra cash if you want to indulge.

Benidorm: The Skyscraper City & Coastal Views

Next, the tour moves to Benidorm, the tourist hub of Alicante, renowned for its impressive skyline. With dozens of skyscrapers, it’s the third most concentrated city of tall buildings in Europe after London and Milan.

Here, you’ll get a 45-minute stop to enjoy panoramic views from a viewpoint often called the “balcony of the Mediterranean”. The view is a highlight, with visitors like Cara appreciating the “great views” even during the off-season.

While Benidorm is famous for its lively nightlife and beaches, this sightseeing stop is more about appreciating its modern development and impressive coastline from above. It’s a quick glimpse, but enough to appreciate its scale and vibrancy without feeling rushed.

Altea: The Calm Coastal Escape

The highlight for many is Altea, a town that seems to slow down time. Known for its whitewashed buildings, narrow cobbled streets, and serene atmosphere, Altea exudes an authentic Mediterranean vibe.

Spending around two hours here allows you to wander, take photos of the iconic dome, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers like Joseph and Edilberto mention how guides like Marcela make the town more meaningful, sharing insights into its history and charm.

Expect to see local artists, quaint cafes, and perhaps even some street performers, all against a backdrop of mountains meeting the sea. This stop is ideal for those seeking a bit of tranquility and beauty away from the busier tourist spots.

The Orthodox Church & Final Stops

Before returning to Valencia, the tour visits the Russian Orthodox Church of San Miguel Arcangel, a unique landmark. Built from materials brought from the Ural Mountains, it offers a different cultural perspective and serves as a peaceful end to the day.

The visit lasts about 20 minutes, and travelers find it visually beautiful and spiritually calming. Many reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, making these moments more enriching.

Finally, the group stops at the Torres de Serranos for a brief pause or photo opportunity before heading back to Valencia, completing the roughly 100 km journey.

Transportation, Group Size & Overall Value

This tour offers air-conditioned transportation in a comfortable vehicle, making the long drive between towns pleasant even in warm weather. With a maximum group size of 7 travelers, the experience feels intimate and personalized, giving you more opportunity to ask questions and interact with the guide.

At $114.64 per person, this includes entrance to the Chocolate Museum, which is a worthwhile addition for chocolate lovers or those curious about regional traditions. The tour’s logistical setup—hotel pickup and drop-off—adds to its convenience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with public transportation or who prefer to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own.

While lunch isn’t included, the scheduled free time allows you to choose a local restaurant or grab a quick bite during the day.

Authentic Experiences & Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviewers emphasize the knowledgeability and friendliness of guides like Marcela and Joaquim. One reviewer called Marcela “the best guide I’ve had in years,” highlighting her personable approach and wealth of interesting information.

The views along the coast have also impressed visitors; Cara W mentioned “tons of great views even in the off-season,” meaning this tour is worthwhile year-round. The chance to see the “dome of the Mediterranean” in Altea or enjoy photos at the scenic viewpoint in Benidorm are added touches of the trip’s appeal.

Some travelers wished for more time at each stop, especially in Villajoyosa and Altea, but overall, the schedule strikes a good balance between sightseeing and free exploration. The compact group size also enhances the experience, making it easier to get personalized attention and helpful assistance with photos.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour’s mix of cultural sights, scenic views, and relaxed pace makes it well-suited for first-time visitors to Valencia looking to get a taste of the Costa Blanca without overextending themselves. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided commentary, as the guides tend to be knowledgeable and personable.

It also appeals to travelers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic town atmospheres and some free time for shopping or lunch. If you’re a lover of picturesque towns, panoramic vistas, and cultural landmarks, this trip will likely tick many boxes.

However, if you prefer a very slow, detailed exploration of each location or have limited mobility, you might find the short stops somewhat rushed. But overall, the experience provides good value and a genuine glimpse into some of the region’s most charming spots.

Summary

To sum it up, the Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa tour from Valencia offers a well-balanced, engaging way to discover the diverse personalities of Spain’s Mediterranean coast. With expert guides, scenic views, cultural stops, and smooth logistics, it provides a memorable day filled with authentic experiences.

It’s best suited for those who value guided insights, want to see a variety of towns in one day, and enjoy a friendly, small-group environment. The inclusion of attractions like the Chocolate Museum adds extra value, making it a worthwhile choice for visitors looking to maximize their time and see the best of the Costa Blanca.

Plan ahead to secure your spot, as bookings are on average made 78 days in advance, and this trip fills up quickly with travelers eager to explore this beautiful stretch of Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up from your hotel or place of stay in Valencia, making the day hassle-free from start to finish.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, from around 8:00 am pickup to return in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are the stops at each town long enough to explore comfortably?
The stops are designed to give a good overview, with Villajoyosa and Altea offering about 90 minutes to 2 hours each—enough to walk around, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere, though not for a deep dive into every detail.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, entrance to the Chocolate Museum is included, but other attractions like the Orthodox church are part of the sightseeing experience without additional charges.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 7 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is there free time for lunch?
Lunch is not included, but you will have free time during the day to eat at your own pace.

What is the quality of transportation?
Transportation is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, offering comfort during the drives between towns.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled in time.

This guided day trip offers a curated look at some of Spain’s most picturesque and culturally significant towns along the Costa Blanca. With knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, and manageable group sizes, it provides a well-rounded, authentic experience suited for many travelers seeking a memorable day outside Valencia.