Altea Benidorm and Villajoyosa from Valencia

If you’re planning to explore the Mediterranean coast near Valencia, this full-day tour to Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the most iconic spots along Spain’s Costa Blanca. While I haven’t taken this tour firsthand, reviews and the itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture for anyone wanting a mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and some laid-back coastal vibes.

What really caught my attention are the diversity of the towns you’ll visit — from the brightly colored streets of Villajoyosa to the towering skyline of Benidorm, and the tranquil charm of Altea. Plus, the fact that the guide provides insightful commentary makes it a more enriching experience. On the flip side, a potential downside is the tight schedule; with about 9 hours packed full, you’ll need to be comfortable with some quick transitions and limited time at each stop.

This tour is a great pick for travelers who want a rundown of the coast without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s especially suited if you enjoy guided experiences, scenic photo opportunities, and learning about local history, but be prepared for some busy moments. Families or those comfortable with a brisk pace will likely find it especially worthwhile.

Key Points

• Diverse towns: Get a taste of Villajoyosa’s colorful streets, Benidorm’s skyline, and Altea’s peaceful charm.
• Expert guidance: The guide adds context and insights, making the experience more meaningful.
• Efficient schedule: With about 9 hours, you’ll cover a lot, but some time at each stop is limited.
• Highlights include: The Chocolate Factory Museum, Russian Orthodox Church, and scenic viewpoints.
• Value for money: At around $115, it includes transportation, a guided tour, and entry to the chocolate museum.
• Limited group size: Max of 7 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Villajoyosa: Bright Colors and Sweet History

Your day kicks off in Villajoyosa, a town famous for its vibrant buildings and historic charm. Walking through its streets, you’ll notice how the colorful facades set this town apart from more traditional seaside spots. It’s a visual feast and perfect for those Instagram shots.

One of the highlights here is the Chocolate Factory Museum. This visit offers a glimpse into how chocolate production became a cornerstone of the region’s economy and culture. You’ll learn about the history of chocolate in the area—an appealing stop for anyone with a sweet tooth or a curiosity about local traditions. The visit lasts about 90 minutes, providing enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Reviewers often praise the guide for making this stop engaging. Oleksandr shared, “Huge thanks to our guide Marcela, she was great in organizing the tour and providing lots of interesting information.” So, expect a friendly guide who makes history come alive.

Benidorm: Sky-High Views and Bustling Streets

Next is Benidorm, often called the tourist capital of the Alicante coast. Known for its skyscrapers and lively atmosphere, this town provides a stark contrast to Villajoyosa’s calm. You’ll get a photo stop at a viewpoint to see the city’s impressive skyline against the sea—a quick peek that leaves a lasting impression.

The visit here is about 45 minutes, so don’t expect to explore every corner. Instead, enjoy the sweeping views and get a feel for why Benidorm attracts such a large crowd. The guide will probably point out notable landmarks and give you context about the city’s development as a major tourist hub.

Altea: The Mediterranean’s Quiet Gem

Arguably the highlight for many travelers, Altea is a small town that feels like a step back in time. Its narrow, cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for strolling and photography. The town’s dome of the church is a distinctive feature, often catching visitors’ eyes with its bright blue and white colors.

You’ll spend about two hours here, giving you plenty of time to soak in the serenity, explore local shops, or grab a coffee. The guide tends to share stories about the town’s history and its reputation as a haven for artists and creatives. The reviews reflect this: Joseph said, “She made the towns more meaningful,” highlighting how a knowledgeable guide can elevate the experience.

The Russian Orthodox Church: A Unique Cultural Stop

The tour also includes a visit to Iglesia Ortodoxa Rusa San Miguel Arcangel, Spain’s first Russian Orthodox church. Built with materials sourced from the Ural Mountains and modeled after a 17th-century church, it’s a visually captivating site and offers a different perspective on the region’s cultural diversity.

The visit lasts around 20 minutes and is included in the overall tour. It’s a quick but interesting stop that adds a spiritual and architectural dimension to your day. Travelers like Edilberto shared, “Marcela was the best guide I’ve had in years,” which hints at the overall quality of the tour’s guiding.

Returning & Wrap-Up

After these stops, the group heads back to Valencia, completing the roughly 9-hour journey. The return trip allows for some reflection on the day’s impressions, scenic views en route, and perhaps some last-minute photos of the coast.

Transportation & Practicalities

The tour’s vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a plus considering the potential heat during sunny months. With a group capped at 7 travelers, you’ll likely enjoy a more intimate experience than larger bus tours. The pick-up service from your hotel in Valencia is convenient, removing the stress of finding meeting points.

Since lunch isn’t included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something during free time at the towns. The tour starts at 8:00 am, so an early wake-up is needed, but it also means you’ll have most of your day free afterward.

Price & Value

At about $115 per person, the tour covers transportation, entry to the Chocolate Museum, and guided commentary. Considering the diverse stops and the personalized feel of the group, it offers decent value—especially if you’re keen to see multiple towns without the hassle of planning individual trips.

What’s Great & What’s Not

The most praised aspects are the knowledgeable guides and stunning views at each stop. Several reviews mention how guides like Marcela and Joaquim make the experience engaging and informative, which can turn a simple sightseeing day into a memorable one.

However, some travelers noted that the time in each location can feel limited, especially if you’re keen to explore more thoroughly. If you’re someone who prefers a slower pace or more in-depth visits, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for a quick overview, it works well.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours and want a structured day of sightseeing. It’s perfect if you value interesting commentary and scenic photo stops but don’t mind a somewhat busy schedule. It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling solo or with a small group — the maximum of 7 travelers fosters a more personalized atmosphere.

If you’re on a tight schedule and want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets, this tour offers a convenient, all-in-one option. Families comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and older kids who can handle a brisk pace might also find it enjoyable.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers between stops and back to Valencia.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Valencia afterward.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes entry to the Chocolate Museum. Other stops, like the Orthodox Church, are included in the schedule, with no additional cost.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 7 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have free time in the towns to grab something or bring snacks.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Refunds are processed accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for families or kids?
While not specifically tailored for children, families comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and a brisk pace will likely enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Since the tour involves some walking and photo opportunities, these essentials will enhance your experience.

Final thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Costa Blanca’s most interesting towns with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transport. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to see a variety of scenery and local culture without the effort of planning each stop themselves. The limited group size, combined with engaging commentary, helps make it a more personal and memorable experience.

For those who value scenic vistas, cultural insights, and a straightforward itinerary, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for a tight schedule and limited time at each stop. If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth visit, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay in each town. But for a comprehensive day trip, it’s a solid, practical choice.