Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

Exploring Villajoyosa & Altea: A Practical Guide to This Charming Spanish Day Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Alicante and looking to get a taste of the Costa Blanca’s most picturesque towns without the hassle of navigating on your own, this small-group tour might just be worth considering. While I haven’t personally done this particular trip, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gathered details to give you a clear picture of what you can expect.

Two things stand out about this experience: the chance to explore colorful Villajoyosa and the lovely old town of Altea, plus the delicious chocolate tasting in Villajoyosa’s family-run factory. On the flip side, a possible drawback is that the tour is quite structured, which means you don’t get unlimited time in each spot. Still, if you enjoy guided outings packed with highlights, this could be a good fit.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day with a handful of top sights, some local food, and friendly guides. It’s especially appealing if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else and enjoy a small-group atmosphere. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a taste of authentic Spanish seaside villages should find it quite appealing.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with limited to 7 travelers offers a more personalized feel.
• Includes transportation, guide, and entrance tickets, making it hassle-free.
• Visit two iconic towns, Villajoyosa and Altea, each with its own unique charm.
• Chocolate tasting in Villajoyosa adds a sweet local flavor—note the factory is closed Sundays.
• Flexible time in Altea for shopping, eating, or just soaking up the views.
• Cost-effective at around $83 per person, combining sights, tastings, and transportation.

What the Tour Is About

This is a well-curated day trip designed for those who want to see some of the most photogenic spots along the Costa Blanca. The tour runs for about 5 and a half hours, starting at 10:00 am, making it a manageable addition to your Alicante itinerary. It includes private transportation and a knowledgeable guide, so you won’t need to worry about public transport schedules or parking.

The price of approximately $83 gives you access to all the major highlights plus the chocolate factory tour (except Sundays). The small group limit means you’ll likely get more attention from your guide, who can answer questions and share insights about each location.

The Itinerary: A Detailed Look

First Stop: Chocolates Perez in Villajoyosa

We love the idea of starting the day with a sweet treat, and this chocolate factory is a highlight for many. The origins of chocolate in Villajoyosa date back to the 17th century, and the town once boasted over 30 factories. Chocolate Perez, a family-run business, offers a glimpse into this tasty history and gives visitors the chance to taste some of the best chocolate in town.

Note that admission and tasting are included, which makes this a great value. The experience lasts about 25 minutes, and if you’re visiting on a Sunday, the factory is closed, so the guide will take you to a local bakery instead—still a tasty alternative. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed the chocolate tasting, calling it “lovely” and “extremely interesting.”

Second Stop: Villajoyosa Old Town

After satisfying your sweet tooth, the tour takes you for a walk through Villajoyosa’s colorful old town. Walking along the seafront promenade, you’ll see those iconic brightly painted houses that line the coast. The narrow streets are full of character, and the guide will tell stories about the town’s history and culture. The entire walk takes around 45 minutes, and it’s free—perfect for those wanting to soak up authentic local atmosphere.

Reviewers rave about the vibrancy of the town. One mentioned, “We loved the way the colorful houses and seaside views made the town feel truly special.” It’s an easy, scenic stroll that gives you time to snap photos and perhaps buy some local souvenirs.

Third Stop: Altea’s Old Town and Seafront

The journey continues to Altea, often called the “white village” of the Costa Blanca. This part of the tour offers a chance to explore cobbled streets full of character, whitewashed buildings, and the iconic blue-tiled roof church in the main square. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the mountains and the sea—ideal photo opportunities.

You’ll have about two hours in Altea, enough time to wander, shop, or grab a coffee in one of its many cafés. The reviews consistently mention how stunning Altea’s views are and how friendly the atmosphere feels. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch (own expense) and some relaxed sightseeing.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The tour’s price of about $83 per person covers transportation, a guide, and entrance fees for the chocolate factory. It’s a pretty good deal considering the sites you’ll see and the hassle-free nature of the trip.

You’ll want to bring some extra cash for lunch or snacks, especially in Altea, where there are lovely cafés. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry after all those sights.

Transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a plus, especially during warmer months. The group size is limited to 7, which adds a layer of intimacy and allows the guide to give more personalized attention.

The Experience: Balancing Highlights and Flexibility

Most reviews rave about the knowledgeable guides, especially Alberto, who is described as kind, friendly, and well-informed. This makes a big difference—you’re not just ticking off sights but learning about the history and stories behind them.

The stops are well-paced, with enough time to explore but not so long that it drags. The chocolate factory, although brief, leaves a lasting impression—many mention how delicious and interesting the tasting is. The scenic walks through Villajoyosa and Altea are enjoyable, offering ample photo opportunities and chances to absorb local charm.

One reviewer noted, “Alberto made the day very enjoyable,” which highlights how much a good guide can enhance the experience.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s also quite structured. If you’re someone who prefers to explore independently at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. The limited time in Altea means you won’t be able to see everything in-depth, but you’ll get a good overview.

The chocolate factory is closed on Sundays, so if you’re visiting then, you’ll miss out on that part of the experience. Also, since it’s a guided tour, you’re somewhat restricted by the schedule, so if you want to linger longer in a particular spot, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a convenient, guided overview of two beautiful coastal towns without the stress of planning transport or navigating unfamiliar streets. It’s perfect if you enjoy cultural sights, scenic walks, and tasting local treats.

It’s especially suited for those who value small-group intimacy and enjoy engaging guides who share stories and insights. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a manageable yet memorable way to experience the Costa Blanca’s highlights will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Alicante and back, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 5 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the meeting point.

What’s the cost?
It costs approximately $83.01 per person, which covers transport, a guide, and entrance tickets to the chocolate factory (except Sundays).

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it’s suitable for most travelers. The pace and destinations are manageable, and the guide’s storytelling makes it engaging for a wide age range.

What should I bring?
Bring some cash for food and souvenirs, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget your camera!

Are there any restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 7 people for a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized day that combines scenic beauty, cultural charm, and tasty treats, this tour from Alicante to Villajoyosa and Altea is a solid choice. It offers a good balance of guided narration, free time, and picturesque moments. The small-group size and professional guide will make it feel personal and engaging, and the included chocolate tasting is a sweet bonus.

While it’s not a deeply immersive experience—nor designed for those wanting extended solo exploration—it’s perfect for those who want a taste of the Costa Blanca’s highlights without the fuss. For anyone looking to experience colorful coastal villages with a friendly guide leading the way, this trip is worth considering.

Happy travels, and enjoy soaking in the beautiful sights and flavors of Alicante’s charming neighboring towns!