Altea Benidorm and Villajoyosa from Valencia

Experience the Mediterranean’s Charm with the Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa Tour from Valencia

This full-day excursion offers a delightful sampler of the Costa Blanca’s most distinctive towns—Villajoyosa, Benidorm, and Altea—all just a few hours south of Valencia. For about $114.64 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly 9-hour journey that includes a comfortable, air-conditioned ride, guided tours, and some free time for shopping and dining. The tour is organized by Valencia Forever, with a small group size capped at 7 travelers, allowing for a more personal and flexible experience.

What really makes this tour stand out are two key features: first, the expert guidance that brings each town’s character and history to life, and second, the stunning coastal views you’ll get from several vantage points, especially in Benidorm. The tour’s pacing is well-balanced, giving you enough time to explore each town without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop—some travelers might wish for longer in towns like Villajoyosa or Altea, especially if they’re keen to soak in more local ambiance or shop more extensively. But overall, this trip suits those who want a taste of the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic coastal drives, cultural insights, and authentic small-town vibes. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want to see the diversity of Spain’s Mediterranean coastline in one day.

Key Points

• Vibrant Villajoyosa offers colorful buildings and a famous chocolate factory museum.
• Benidorm provides sweeping coastal views and a lively, modern skyline.
• Altea is a peaceful town with a charming old town and the iconic dome.
• Small group size enhances personalized attention and flexibility.
• Guides are highlighted for their knowledge and friendly attitude.
• The tour offers free entrance to key attractions but leaves time for personal exploration.

A Deep Dive into the Coastal Charm and Cultural Highlights

When we first heard about this tour, what caught our attention was how it manages to combine scenic beauty, cultural richness, and modern vibrancy all in one day. It’s a quick escape from Valencia that still manages to give you a meaningful glimpse of the coast’s diversity.

Villajoyosa: Bright Colors and Sweet History

The day kicks off with a guided walk through Villajoyosa, a town renowned for its vividly painted buildings that line narrow streets. This is the place to appreciate small-town Mediterranean charm, and your guide will undoubtedly point out the stories behind these colorful facades, which make for fantastic photo opportunities.

A highlight here is a visit to the Chocolate Factory Museum, where you’ll learn about the region’s sweet legacy. One reviewer pointed out, “We enjoyed having our guide Marcela, who made the town more meaningful,” emphasizing how knowledgeable guides add value to each stop. The museum visit, which lasts about 90 minutes, is free and offers a sweet, engaging insight into Villajoyosa’s history with chocolate—a tradition that helped shape the town’s identity.

Benidorm: The Modern Coastal City

Next, you’ll head to Benidorm, famous for its impressive skyline and stunning seaside vistas. Often mistaken as just a tourist hub, Benidorm’s skyscrapers are a testament to its popularity, making it the third European city in terms of skyscraper density after London and Milan.

Your brief visit (about 45 minutes) involves enjoying panoramic views of the coastline, which many reviewers have praised. One wrote, “We loved the views from the balcony of the Mediterranean,” highlighting how even a short stop here can be visually rewarding. This is an excellent opportunity to snap some pictures, especially if you’re into architecture or coastal scenery.

Altea: Tranquility and Mediterranean Soul

The town most praised for its serene atmosphere and stunning old town is Altea. With about 2 hours allocated, you’ll have enough time to stroll through its charming streets, admire the dome-shaped church, and soak in a relaxed, timeless vibe. Many travelers find Altea’s calm ambiance perfect for unwinding after more bustling towns.

One review summed it up well: “Altea transmits calm and where time seems to stand still,” which is exactly what makes it the perfect spot for a peaceful break. This town is ideal for those who seek authentic local flavor and picturesque views.

The Orthodox Church: A Unique Cultural Stop

Adding a spiritual dimension to the tour, you’ll visit Iglesia Ortodoxa Rusa San Miguel Arcangel, Spain’s first Orthodox church built with materials from the Ural mountains. This site provides a glimpse into the region’s diverse cultural influences and is regarded as a beautiful spiritual meeting place. The visit lasts about 20 minutes, with the entrance fee included.

Many travelers appreciated this stop, appreciating its architectural beauty and cultural significance. It’s a quieter, contemplative moment amid the day’s sightseeing.

Logistics and Practicalities

The round-trip transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the approximately 100 km journey. The tour begins early at 8:00 am and ends back in Valencia, making it suitable for those who want to maximize their day without late-night commitments.

The tour costs about $114.64, which, when you consider entrance to the Chocolate Museum included, as well as guided commentary and transportation, offers good value. You’ll want to bring some extra cash for lunch, as it’s not included, and there’s plenty of local eateries to choose from in each town.

Group size is limited, which we believe benefits travelers by creating a more intimate experience. Many reviews highlighted the knowledgable and friendly guides, especially noting how guides like Marcela made the trip more engaging.

What Travelers Love Most

Authentic insights from reviews reveal that guides’ knowledge and friendliness make a real difference, with comments like “Marcela was great in organizing the tour and providing lots of interesting information.” Views and photo opportunities also stand out, with many praising the scenic panoramas and stunning townscapes.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers expressed that time at each stop could feel a bit tight, especially if you’re keen on exploring in more depth. For instance, one reviewer wished for more time in Villajoyosa and Altea, recognizing the challenge of fitting everything into a 9-hour window.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits those who appreciate guided tours with a small group, offering a good balance of sightseeing, cultural insight, and free time. It’s perfect for travelers who want an easy, organized day without the stress of driving or planning logistics. If you love stunning coastal views and want to see distinctive towns with authentic charm, this tour delivers in spades.

It’s especially great for first-time visitors to Valencia or those wanting a comprehensive taste of the Costa Blanca without spending multiple days exploring. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the views and colorful streets are a bonus. And for those interested in cultural diversity, the Orthodox church adds an unexpected and enriching element.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided commentary, and entrance to the Chocolate Museum.

How long is each stop?
Villajoyosa is about 90 minutes, Benidorm around 45 minutes, Altea approximately 2 hours, and the Orthodox Church about 20 minutes. The times allow for sightseeing but are relatively short at each spot.

Is there free time for shopping or lunch?
While the tour includes some free time, lunch is not provided, so you can choose to eat at local cafes or restaurants in each town.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but given the walking involved, it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

To sum it up, this guided day trip from Valencia offers a well-rounded introduction to some of Spain’s most charming coastal towns. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a flexible itinerary, it’s perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences without the hassle of independent planning. Whether you’re a culture seeker, a photography buff, or simply looking to enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty, this tour provides a rewarding slice of Spain’s coastal life—an easy, enjoyable way to spend a day exploring the Costa Blanca.