From Albir & Benidorm: Calpe Old Town and Port Day Trip

Exploring Calpe’s Old Town and Port on a Day Trip from Benidorm

If you’re looking for a quick escape from the buzz of Benidorm, a day trip to Calpe offers a charming blend of colorful streets, spectacular natural sights, and delicious seafood. This tour, priced at just $21 per person, packs in two distinct stops—Calpe’s historic old town and its lively port area—giving you a well-rounded taste of this seaside gem.

One thing we really like about this experience is how it combines both cultural charm and natural beauty. The narrow, winding streets of Calpe’s old town are full of character, with brightly painted houses and intriguing street art. Plus, the chance to see the iconic Peñon de Ifach rock looming over the bay adds a dramatic backdrop that’s worth the trip alone.

However, a possible consideration is the logistics of the tour — some reviews mention that the schedule and timing can feel a bit rushed or inconsistent, especially with pick-up points and last-minute changes. This may affect those who prefer a more leisurely or flexible exploration.

This trip suits travelers who want an affordable, guided introduction to Calpe, especially if you’re short on time but eager to experience the highlights of this scenic coastal town.

Key Points

• Affordable price: At $21, it offers good value for a half-day guided tour with free time to explore.
• Two distinct stops: Enjoy the charming old town and the bustling port area, each offering different vibes and sights.
• Scenic views: Expect stunning vistas of the bay and Peñon de Ifach, perfect for photography.
• Flexible free time: You get around 1 hour in the old town and 2 hours at the port, enough to explore or relax.
• Transport included: Comfortable coach ride from Benidorm makes for an easy day without the hassle of driving.
• Potential scheduling issues: Some reviews mention changes in timing and limited time at each location, so be prepared for a possibly tight schedule.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The Journey from Benidorm to Calpe

The coach departs from various meeting points in Benidorm, including Los Pelicanos, with the trip lasting approximately 40 minutes. The route takes you along the Mediterranean motorway past Altea, offering occasional glimpses of the gorgeous coastline and the bay of Altea. The scenery alone is worth the ride, with sweeping views of the Mediterranean and the rugged coastline.

First Stop: Calpe Old Town

Once you arrive in Calpe, your first stop is the old town, where you’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to wander through the photogenic streets. This area is a treasure trove of charm—with winding lanes lined with brightly colored houses, street art, and small museums. The narrow streets are perfect for those who love exploring on foot, discovering little cafes, artisan shops, and lively squares.

The reviews hint that this part of the trip can feel a little rushed, but it’s enough time to soak in the atmosphere and snap some photos. We love the idea of wandering aimlessly, stumbling upon hidden corners, and experiencing the authentic vibe of Calpe’s historic heart.

Second Stop: Calpe Port Area

A quick 10-minute coach ride takes you to the port area, where you’ll have about 2 hours of free time. This is arguably the highlight for many visitors. The port is bustling with seafood restaurants, cafes, and boats bobbing in the water. The star of the scenery is the Peñon de Ifach, a towering limestone rock that rises 332 meters above the sea—an unmissable sight that offers a dramatic contrast against the blue sky.

Here, you can choose to relax on the Playa de la Fossa beach, with its golden sands and inviting waters, or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Many reviews mention that this is a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a seafood lunch, or simply watch the world go by.

Some visitors expressed frustration over the schedule, noting that the departure times were changed last minute, leading to shorter stays. One reviewer mentioned that they only spent around three hours in Calpe, so if you’re a slow explorer or want more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit hurried.

What You’ll Miss and What You’ll Gain

While the tour doesn’t include meals, the port area’s seafood restaurants make it easy to find a good bite. You’ll love the views of the bay, with many choosing to relax at the beach or take photos of the iconic rock.

The journey back to Benidorm typically begins around 4:30 PM, giving you a relaxed afternoon without feeling overly rushed.

Transport and Practical Details

The coach is spacious and air-conditioned, making the roughly 40-minute drive comfortable, especially on warm days. The tour is suitable for all, including those using wheelchairs, as it’s wheelchair accessible.

Timing-wise, you’ll need comfortable shoes for walking in the old town’s narrow streets, sunscreen, and a hat for protection. Bringing water and snacks is advised, especially if you prefer a more flexible experience or want to skip the busy cafes.

The tour is offered in English, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding an element of flexibility.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer remarked, “The boarding point was Los Pelicanos at 10:05, then multiple stops, and finally in Calpe at 11 o’clock. An hour in the old city, then to the harbor.” This gives a realistic picture of how the schedule can feel quite tight, and timing adjustments might occur unexpectedly.

Another noted, “We only spent about 3 hours in Calpe because of the schedule delay and last-minute changes,” highlighting that if you’re eager to explore at a leisurely pace, this might not be ideal.

However, many appreciate the stunning views and the chance to see Calpe’s charming streets and natural landmark in one affordable trip, making it a good choice for those wanting a snapshot rather than an in-depth tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick, guided taste of Calpe’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or planning extensive itineraries. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but want to see the iconic Peñon de Ifach and enjoy a walk through a picturesque old town.

If you love scenic coastal views, vibrant street scenes, and a relaxed port atmosphere, this trip will likely meet your expectations. However, if you prefer a more leisurely exploration, or are wary of schedule changes, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay in Calpe independently.

The Sum Up

This Calpe day trip offers a straightforward way to get a glimpse of one of Spain’s most scenic coastal towns. For a modest price, you’ll experience its charming streets, iconic natural landmark, and lively port area—all with the convenience of round-trip transportation from Benidorm.

While the schedule might feel a bit rushed, the stunning views and authentic atmosphere make it worthwhile. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer guided tours, value affordability, and want a quick cultural and scenic fix without the fuss of organizing transportation or activities themselves.

If you’re happy to accept some timing limitations and enjoy exploring at a brisk pace, this tour can be a highlight of your Costa Blanca adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is accessible and suitable for all age groups, including families and seniors, especially since it’s wheelchair accessible.

How long is the coach ride?
The drive from Benidorm to Calpe lasts around 40 minutes, offering scenic views along the Mediterranean motorway and coastal road.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sunscreen, a hat, water, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery and colorful streets.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the package, but there are plenty of seafood restaurants and cafes at the port area where you can eat.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes in Calpe’s old town and roughly 2 hours at the port area, which is enough to explore or relax.

Is the schedule flexible?
Not particularly. Some reviews mention last-minute schedule changes, so be prepared for a possibly tight timetable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

This tour offers an authentic peek into Calpe’s vibrant streets and stunning natural sights—ideal for those wanting a quick, picturesque escape from Benidorm.