Alicante Charming Villages Tour: Villajoyosa and Altea

Imagine wandering through two of Spain’s most picturesque villages, each with its own distinct personality, on a day trip from Alicante. For just $88 per person, this small-group tour (max 8 people) offers a relaxed, intimate way to experience some of the region’s most charming scenery, history, and local flavor. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit Villajoyosa, famous for its brightly hued houses and chocolate industry, and Altea, with its whitewashed streets and stunning mountain views.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personal attention you get from a small group ensures you’re not just a face in the crowd. Second, the chance to see a family-run artisan chocolate factory in Villajoyosa adds a delicious local touch — a sweet highlight for many. On the flip side, a consideration for some travelers might be the limited time in each village, as the tour is paced to give you a good feel without rushing.

This tour is perfect if you’re after an authentic, laid-back glimpse of Costa Blanca’s best-kept secrets — ideal for those who love charming streets, scenic coastal views, and a taste of local life. It caters well to travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, scenery, and good food, with most reviews praising the guide’s friendliness and knowledge.

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Key Points

Small group size ensures a personalized experience and more interaction.
Visiting Villajoyosa includes a chocolate factory visit, perfect for sweet tooths and learning about local industry.
Altea’s whitewashed streets and church with blue and white tiles provide iconic photo opportunities.
Seaside walks and palm-lined promenades create a relaxing atmosphere.
Flexible free time allows you to explore each village at your own pace.
Great value considering the guide, transportation, and included activity.

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Exploring Villajoyosa: The Colorful Seaside Town

We loved the way Villajoyosa’s brightly painted houses contrast sharply against the blue sea. This town, often called La Villa by locals, is a feast for the eyes and feels like stepping into a living postcard. The narrow, winding streets are filled with charm, offering both local history and a lively market atmosphere.

A highlight here is the artisan chocolate factory. Visitors who enjoy sweet treats will appreciate the opportunity to learn about the town’s long-standing chocolate industry. The factory visit is included, and you’ll get to taste a variety of chocolates — a real treat that many reviews mention as a memorable part of the day. If you happen to visit on a day when the factory is closed (noted as Sundays), the tour will skip this part, but the other highlights remain.

Walking along the seafront promenade, you’ll feel the fresh ocean breeze. Many travelers comment on how authentic and charming Villajoyosa feels, especially compared to more touristy spots. It’s a perfect place to snap photos of the colorful facades and soak in the relaxed seaside vibe.

Discovering Altea: The Whitewashed Gem

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Altea, often called the “white city” because of its immaculate, whitewashed buildings. The streets are cobblestone and labyrinthine, inviting exploration at your own pace. As you stroll through the town, you’ll find palm-lined squares perfect for a leisurely coffee or a quiet moment.

The blue and white tiled church is a highlight, perched atop the town and offering panoramic views of the Serra de Bèrnia mountains and the Mediterranean. Many visitors mention how picturesque and serene Altea feels — a true retreat from the busier tourist spots. You’ll also have some free time here to browse local shops or sit in a café that catches your eye.

The town’s microclimate makes it particularly pleasant. The combination of sea breezes and mountain air provides a comfortable atmosphere, making the walk around Altea a pleasure no matter the season.

Transportation and Tour Logistics

The tour begins outside the Hotel Melia, where you’ll meet your guide a few minutes early to ensure a smooth departure. The vehicle has been praised as comfortable and well-maintained, making the drive between villages enjoyable. The small group format (up to 8 people) allows for more personalized conversations and flexibility, which many reviews note as a real advantage.

The total duration of the tour is designed to give enough time in each village for sightseeing, dining, and shopping without feeling rushed. Expect to spend about half a day exploring Villajoyosa and Altea, with some free time to enjoy local cafes or browse shops.

The visit to the chocolate factory is included in the price, and you’ll be back at the original meeting point by late afternoon. For those booking on a Sunday, note that the factory is closed, so the tour focuses solely on the villages.

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The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with comments like “Alberto was fantastic and very knowledgeable,” and “the guide was very good and informative.” Many travelers mention how beautiful the towns are and how the scenic drives and views enhanced the experience.

The value for money is another common theme, especially considering the included factory visit, comfortable transportation, and small group size. For just $88, many feel they get a well-rounded look at the region’s beauty and history.

One reviewer summed it up saying, “This tour was amazing! The towns were so beautiful and unique in their own way. We had just enough time in each town to eat, shop and enjoy the surroundings.” Others enthused about the delicious chocolates, the stunning vistas, and the excellent guide who made sure everyone felt comfortable and informed.

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A Balanced View: Considerations for Travelers

While the tour offers a well-paced, intimate look at Villajoyosa and Altea, some might find the time in each village slightly limited if they prefer more relaxed, unhurried exploration. The early start and the drive between locations also mean you’ll be balancing scenic sightseeing with a structured schedule.

Plus, if you’re visiting on a Sunday, be aware that the chocolate factory is closed — though this doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience, as the villages themselves are still worth exploring.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love picturesque towns and are interested in a combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and a bit of indulgent chocolate. It’s ideal for those who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and a relaxed pace. If you’re keen on photography, local food, and authentic Spanish villages, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also perfect for day-trippers from Alicante who want to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy some seaside serenity without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail. Food lovers and those curious about regional crafts will particularly enjoy the chocolate factory visit.

The Sum Up

The Alicante Charming Villages Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience of two standout Costa Blanca towns. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas, colorful streets, and a taste of local life. The inclusion of a chocolate factory visit and flexible free time make it both fun and enriching — especially at a reasonable price.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value small group intimacy, authentic local atmosphere, and scenic coastal scenery. It’s a delightful way to see beyond the city center and discover some of Spain’s most charming coastal villages without feeling rushed.

Whether it’s your first visit to the region or a repeat trip to explore new corners, you’ll likely leave with great photos, a satisfied palate, and a collection of pleasant memories. If you love exploring authentic towns, enjoy good food, and want a blend of scenery and history, this tour will deliver a lovely slice of Costa Blanca life.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately half a day, allowing enough time to explore both Villajoyosa and Altea at a leisurely pace.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers guide services, transportation, and entrance to the artisan chocolate factory. Free time in each village is also part of the experience.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can I visit the chocolate factory if I’m there on a Sunday?
No, the factory is closed on Sundays, so the tour will focus entirely on exploring Villajoyosa and Altea.

How comfortable is the transportation?
The vehicle has received positive remarks for comfort and reliability, making the scenic drive between villages enjoyable.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?
Yes, the tour includes free periods in both Villajoyosa and Altea for you to walk around, shop, or relax in cafés.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it a good option for families, especially those interested in local culture and food.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, if you want an authentic taste of Costa Blanca’s charming villages without the hassle of self-driving, this tour offers great value and memorable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: