Full Day Tour to Altea, Benidorm & Villajoyosa from Valencia

Travelers seeking a day filled with scenic coastline, vibrant towns, and cultural surprises will find this guided tour from Valencia to Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa offers an engaging mix of sights and experiences. With a well-balanced itinerary that combines sightseeing, local flavor, and a touch of history, this tour promises a full day of discovery — all for around $96 per person.

What really makes this experience stand out is the chance to see three distinctly different towns, each with its own personality: from the artisanal charm of Altea to the lively skyscraper skyline of Benidorm and the colorful, chocolate-scented streets of Villajoyosa. The inclusion of a chocolate factory visit, with tastings included, adds a sweet twist that appeals to all ages.

That said, some might find the pace a little tight, especially with limited time in each town, and it’s worth noting that the tour is best suited for those comfortable with busy schedules and walking. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit rushed. However, if you want to tick off multiple highlights in one go, it’s a smart choice — especially if you’re keen to learn about local art, architecture, and culinary treats.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an organized, informative day out without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Families with children over 10, couples, or solo explorers who enjoy a mix of culture, scenery, and comfort will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Diverse towns: Visit Altea, Villajoyosa, and Benidorm, each with unique vibes and landmarks.
• Scenic coastal views: Enjoy spectacular sea vistas across the Costa Blanca.
• Cultural insights: Explore art-filled streets, a chocolate factory, and a Russian Orthodox church.
• Expert guides: Led by knowledgeable guides fluent in Spanish, English, and German.
• Value-packed: Includes transportation, guided tours, and chocolate tasting for the price.
• Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins in Valencia, with five convenient pickup locations such as Torres de Quart, Torres de Serranos, and the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers to join without unnecessary detours. The group travels comfortably in a minibus, with headsets provided, ensuring you won’t miss a word of the guide’s commentary even if you’re sitting at the back.

The journey to Villajoyosa takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the landscape and get excited about the day ahead. The timing is well-paced: enough to settle in but not so long as to cause fatigue.

Villajoyosa: Chocolate, Color, and Coastal Charm

The first stop, Villajoyosa, is famous for its brightly painted houses lining the seafront, making it feel like stepping into a rainbow. Here, you’ll get to visit a chocolate factory, which is a delightful highlight — especially for those with a sweet tooth. The factory tour includes tastings, allowing you to indulge in local chocolates and learn about their production.

Guests have mentioned that the factory visit is well-organized and enjoyable, with reviewers praising the “really good chocolate factory tour” and the opportunity to sample delicious treats. Walking along the beaches, you’ll be able to admire the vibrant color palette of the houses, making for stunning photos and a relaxed stroll.

Benidorm: From Fishing Village to Skyscraper City

Next, a quick 20-minute drive takes you to Benidorm, a city that has undergone an incredible transformation from a humble fishing village into a modern hub of high-rises and nightlife. You’ll get a brief guided tour to understand its rapid development, and there’s time to admire the skyline and perhaps grab a quick look at the beaches.

One reviewer appreciated the balance here: “the amount of time spent in each of the three towns was judged perfectly,” which indicates that the visit to Benidorm is enough to appreciate its scale without feeling rushed.

Altea: Art, Charm, and the “Blue Domed” Church

The highlight for many is Altea, often called the “Dome of the Mediterranean” due to its striking blue-domed church that dominates the skyline. This small town exudes artistic flair, with cobbled streets lined with galleries, shops, and cafés. You’ll have around two hours here, plenty of time for a gentle walk through its artistic streets, enjoy views of the sea and mountains, and perhaps pick up a handcrafted souvenir.

Guests have praised guides like Marcela, who seem to strike the right balance of commentary and free time. One review notes, “Marcela did both the driving and giving the commentary,” and that she organized the chocolate factory tour efficiently. Such personalized attention adds a lot to the overall experience.

The Russian Orthodox Church: A Cultural Surprise

Completing the day, the group visits the first Russian Orthodox Church built in Spain. Its monumental architecture offers a striking scene and a chance to explore a different religious and cultural space—something that might feel like stepping into a storybook. The 110-minute visit ensures you have enough time to appreciate its details, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

The tour lasts around 9 hours, with plenty of time allocated for each stop. It’s designed with small groups (limited to 8 people), which encourages a more intimate and flexible experience. The price includes transportation, a professional guide, headsets for clear commentary, and the chocolate tasting — all of which contribute good value for the money.

Meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or enjoy the local eateries in each town. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended because you’ll be walking on cobblestones and exploring different terrains.

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind if your plans change. Booking now and paying later offers flexibility, ideal for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially mentioning Marcela as a fantastic host who balances storytelling with organization. One reviewer said, “Our tour guide Marcela was fantastic. She did both the driving as well as giving the commentary… All in all, it was a great day.” Such feedback suggests the guide’s role is pivotal in making the day memorable.

The chocolate factory tour also receives high marks — described as enjoyable and well-organized. Expect to learn about the local chocolate-making process and indulge in some tasty samples.

Views and photo opportunities are plentiful, with many reviewers mentioning the picturesque streets and viewpoints. The colorful houses of Villajoyosa and the blue-domed church in Altea are especially appreciated for their photogenic qualities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience caters well to those who want a full, varied day out with minimal planning. It’s ideal for travelers interested in art, architecture, coastal scenery, and local culture, especially if they enjoy guided tours that offer educational tidbits along the way.

It’s suitable for families over 10 years old, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized attention. However, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues, very young children, or anyone sensitive to long hours on a bus.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Valencia to Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and sweet indulgence. With knowledgeable guides, a well-paced itinerary, and the chance to experience three very different towns, it’s an engaging way to see the Costa Blanca beyond the usual tourist spots.

While the schedule is tight and some may wish for more time in each place, the value for the price and the variety of experiences make it a compelling choice for those wanting an organized, informative, and fun day out.

The highlights — from the colorful streets of Villajoyosa and the artistic charm of Altea to the modern skyline of Benidorm — ensure you’ll leave with plenty of memories and photos. If you like learning about local culture, enjoying coastal views, and sampling delicious chocolates, this tour fits the bill.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers over 10 years old, as the schedule and walking involved may be tiring for younger children.

How long is the drive between stops?
The longest drive is about 1.5 hours to Villajoyosa, with shorter trips between other locations, making the day manageable.

What languages are the guides fluent in?
The guides speak Spanish, English, and German, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during the free time in each town.

How much time do we spend in each town?
Expect around 3.5 hours in Villajoyosa, 45 minutes in Benidorm, and about 2 hours in Altea, plus time at the church.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transport is by minibus with headsets provided, ensuring a comfortable and engaging ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven surfaces.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor exploration are advised.

Will I get enough time to explore each place?
Yes, the schedule is designed to give you a good balance of guided sightseeing and free time, but it’s still a busy day.

This tour offers a valuable window into the vibrant, picturesque, and flavorful side of the Valencian coast, making it a memorable addition to your Spanish adventure.