From Alicante & Benidorm: Altea Old Town and Ortodox Church

If you’re considering a guided trip that blends culture, history, and scenic views, this tour of Altea’s Old Town and its unique Orthodox church might be just what you need. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that offers a lovely afternoon out.

What pulls us in is the chance to explore both Catholic and Orthodox traditions in one trip — not many tours do that in such a compact way. Plus, the fact that it’s a private car tour means you get a more relaxed, personalized vibe. The one thing to keep in mind? It’s a 3-hour commitment, so it’s not a deep-dive but more of a taste of Altea’s highlights. This tour seems suited for travelers who appreciate cultural contrasts, scenic strolls, and enjoying local life without spending an entire day on sightseeing.

Two things we really like about this experience: First, the inclusion of the Orthodox wooden church built with Russian materials, which adds an unexpected cultural twist. Second, the focus on viewpoints and scenic spots that let you soak in Altea’s natural beauty and charming streets.

A possible consideration is the paved, hilly streets of Old Altea, which means comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since the tour takes place at sunset or late afternoon, you’ll want to be prepared for limited daylight and cooler evening air. It’s best suited for travelers who want a manageable, insightful taste of Altea without overloading their schedule.

Key Points

• Cultural diversity: Explore both Orthodox and Catholic religious sites.
• Comfortable transport: Enjoy a private car tour with flexible pickup options.
• Scenic views: Two viewpoints provide stunning sights of Altea and the sea.
• Local flavor: Stops at authentic shops and a street café offer a taste of everyday life.
• Historical insights: Learn about the origins of the Catholic church and the Orthodox church built in 2007.
• Evening ambiance: Tour ends as the town lights up, perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Basics: What to Expect

This 3-hour guided tour is designed to give you a snapshot of Altea’s historic and spiritual side with minimal fuss. Starting with convenient pickup options in Alicante or Benidorm, the tour begins by whisking you to Altea in a private vehicle, allowing you to relax and get oriented before the walking portion.

The tour emphasizes cultural diversity, showcasing both the Orthodox and Catholic chapels that stand as symbols of Altea’s multicultural fabric. You’ll visit the Orthodox wooden church, the Archangel Michael Temple, built in 2007 with Russian materials and craftwork. It’s a rare find in Spain, and you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship and spiritual significance.

Next, the Catholic Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo (also called Santa Maria del Consol) takes center stage. Built at the start of the 17th century and restored in 1980, this church reveals layers of history from the Modern Age through more recent times. The guide shares stories of its construction and restorations, helping you appreciate its significance.

Exploring Altea’s Old Town

Once you step out of the vehicle, you’ll stroll through paved, stone streets that wind up and down, revealing Altea’s charming, rustic character. The streets are lively with local shops, artisans, and quaint cafés. The tour includes stops at authentic local stores — a great chance to pick up some souvenirs or simply enjoy observing daily life.

The viewpoints are a highlight, offering sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean. From these vantage points, you’ll get a sense of Altea’s landscape, with its whitewashed buildings and the sea stretching beyond. As the tour ends, you’ll find yourself in the town’s illuminated streets, perfect for photos and soaking up the evening atmosphere.

The Guides and Atmosphere

According to reviews, the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting stories and insights. One traveler noted, “Great and fun tour, a nice way to spend an interesting afternoon,” which reflects the relaxed yet engaging vibe of this trip.

Given the tour’s small group size and the flexibility of a private car, you’ll likely feel more at ease asking questions and exploring at your own pace. The guide accompanies you during the walk, but the independent exploration allows for spontaneous photo stops and quiet moments.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour’s timing is ideal for catching the sunset or evening lights, adding a magic touch to your photos and overall experience. It’s scheduled at the end of the day, which means you’ll enjoy the lights and grandeur of the town when it’s less crowded.

Since the streets are paved with stones and have many ups and downs, wear comfortable shoes. The total walking time isn’t extensive but enough to appreciate the architecture and ambiance.

The duration and flexibility of the tour make it a great option for those with limited time but who still want a meaningful glimpse of Altea. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with peace of mind.

More Great Tours Nearby

This Tour’s Value: Is It Worth It?

When you break down the cost, you’re paying for a private guided experience with transportation included, plus the chance to visit two distinctive churches and enjoy scenic views. Given the intimate nature and the cultural depth, many would find it a good value, especially if you’re interested in combining history, religion, and picturesque scenery in a manageable package.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for culture enthusiasts, those interested in religious architecture, or travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic afternoon. It’s also suitable for those staying in Alicante or Benidorm and looking for a quick, enriching day trip. If you enjoy learning from friendly guides and discovering lesser-known sites, this tour delivers.

While not specifically designed for families or children, the easy pace and engaging sights could still appeal to older kids with an interest in history or architecture. Just keep in mind the walking and uneven streets.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty in a cozy, manageable timeframe. You get to see both Orthodox and Catholic traditions, wander through one of the region’s prettiest towns, and enjoy breathtaking viewpoints — all with the comfort of a private car and knowledgeable guides.

If you’re after an authentic, less touristy way to see Altea, this tour could be just right. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on local stories and spiritual sites, and don’t mind a relaxed pace with some walking involved.

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a private car, guided walk, visits to the Orthodox wooden church and Catholic church, and stops at scenic viewpoints and local shops.

How long is the walking portion?
The walking part lasts about 1.5 hours, mainly exploring Altea’s historic streets and cultural sites.

Are there any restrictions on footwear?
Yes, since the streets are paved with stones and have ups and downs, comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Is the tour suitable for ending the day?
Absolutely. It’s scheduled at the end of the day, so you can enjoy the town’s lights and atmosphere as the tour concludes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Spanish, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

Will I get free time to explore on my own?
The guided walk allows for some independent exploration, especially at the viewpoints and shop stops, if you want to linger or take photos.

In the end, whether you’re after a cultural overview or just a chance to relax and enjoy beautiful views with a dash of history, this tour of Altea offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to spend a few hours soaking in one of Spain’s most picturesque towns.

You can check availability for your dates here: