Full Day Tour to Altea, Benidorm & Villajoyosa from Valencia

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Valencia for a day and soak in some of Spain’s most captivating coastal towns, this full-day tour to Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa offers a well-rounded mix of art, history, and stunning seaside scenery. While I haven’t personally joined this specific trip, I’ve gathered enough insights to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What really catches our attention about this tour are the vibrant towns you get to see in one day, plus the chance to explore a chocolate factory and visit a Russian Orthodox church—all with the convenience of organized transportation. The price tag of around $96 per person seems fair given the itinerary, especially considering the guided element and entry fees included.

Of course, no experience is perfect. One thing to consider is that it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges, which can be a downside if you’re traveling with family members needing extra assistance. But if you’re comfortable with some walking and a full day of sightseeing, this trip could be a fantastic way to get a taste of the Valencian coastline without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a bit of indulgence—think art-filled streets, delicious local food, and colorful houses. It’s perfect if you want a structured day with a knowledgeable guide to keep you on schedule while still having some free time to explore at your own pace.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Altea, and a Russian Orthodox church in one day.
• Includes guided tours and entry to a chocolate museum with tastings, adding a fun, sweet touch.
• Small group experience (limited to 8 participants) ensures more personalized attention.
• Transportation is by minibus with headsets, making sightseeing more comfortable and engaging.
• Highlights include stunning coastal views and art-filled streets that capture the region’s charm.
• Not suitable for children under 10 or people with mobility/sickness concerns, so check your needs before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with convenient pickup options at five different spots around Valencia, including iconic locations like Torres de Quart and the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas. This flexibility is a plus, making it easier to fit the tour into your day without extra hassle. You’ll be greeted with a friendly guide who will go over the day’s plan and hand you a headset so that you can clearly catch every detail of the commentary.

Journey to Villajoyosa

The first major stop is Villajoyosa, a small seaside town famous for its vividly painted houses and its history as a chocolate-making hub. You’ll visit a chocolate factory, where you can take a guided tour and enjoy some tasting—an experience that delights both kids and adults alike. The town’s beaches and colorful streets make for great photos and a relaxed walk, giving you a real sense of local life by the sea.

Exploring Benidorm

Next, you’ll hop onto the bus for around 20 minutes to Benidorm. This place is quite the story—what used to be a humble fishing village has transformed into a city packed with skyscrapers, second only to New York in terms of high-rise density in the U.S. It’s a fascinating contrast: towering buildings against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. During your brief guided walk, you’ll get a snapshot of its urban development and perhaps some time to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

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Visiting Altea

The highlight for many is Altea, known for its artistic vibe and the iconic church with a blue dome—often called “The Dome of the Mediterranean.” You’ll have about two hours here to wander its cobbled streets, browse art shops, or sit down at a cozy restaurant to sample local cuisine. The views from various viewpoints are spectacular, with the sea on one side and mountains on the other, making it a photographer’s dream.

The Russian Orthodox Church

On the way back to Valencia, the tour makes a final stop at the Russian Orthodox Church, Spain’s first. The building’s grand appearance and spiritual ambiance provide a surprising cultural twist, giving you a glimpse into another faith and architectural style. It’s a peaceful moment at the end of a busy day, and many find it unexpectedly beautiful and meaningful.

What We Loved About This Tour

The guides really make or break such trips, and reviews highlight Marcela’s engaging and organized approach—she’s praised for timing the stops perfectly and making the day flow smoothly. The fact that the group size is limited to just 8 people means more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions comfortably.

The scenery along the coast is genuinely impressive, especially in Villajoyosa and Altea, where the combination of colorful houses and ocean views creates some of the most picturesque moments you’ll find on a day trip. The chocolate factory tour is another highlight, especially if you have a sweet tooth or are traveling with kids (though the tour itself isn’t ideal for very young children under 10).

Most reviews agree that the balance of time in each town feels just right—though one suggested a tiny tweak: “Perhaps more time in Altea and slightly less in Benidorm,” which makes sense if you’re more into art and scenic views than cityscapes.

Practical Considerations

The roundtrip transportation by minibus is comfortable, and the headsets are a thoughtful touch, allowing everyone to hear the guide clearly even in noisy spots. The price includes entry to the chocolate museum and tastings, which adds extra value, especially for families or sweet-lovers.

While the tour is quite full, the 9-hour duration doesn’t leave much room for lengthy lunches or spontaneous exploring, so if you’re someone who loves more flexibility or longer meals, plan accordingly. Also, food and drinks are not included, so bring some snacks or plan to buy something in town.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience fits well if you’re someone who appreciates artful towns, beautiful coastal scenery, and cultural stops—not just beaches. It’s a great way to see a few highlights without the stress of planning separate visits, especially if you prefer guided tours to navigate unfamiliar places.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, have mobility issues, or need a slower pace, you might find some aspects challenging. The stops involve walking on cobbled streets and some sightseeing that may be tiring for some.

This tour probably isn’t suited for those seeking intense nightlife or beach lounging, but it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to combine sightseeing, cultural exposure, and some sweet indulgence.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, mainly due to walking and the structured schedule. If you have older kids who enjoy sightseeing and chocolate tastings, they might enjoy it.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transportation, guide services in Spanish, English, and German, entry to the chocolate museum with tastings, and headsets to hear the guide clearly.

Are there options for pickup points?
Yes, there are five pickup locations in Valencia, including popular city spots like Torres de Quart and the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas.

How long is the journey between stops?
Travel time varies from about 20 minutes between Benidorm and Altea, to 1.5 hours from Valencia to Villajoyosa, giving you a comfortable experience without long bus rides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since you’ll be walking through towns and cobbled streets. Bringing a small umbrella or sun protection is also a good idea depending on the weather.

Is there a meal included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to have lunch at your own pace in Altea or other towns.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some peace of mind if your plans change.

How big are the groups?
The group is limited to 8 participants, making it more intimate and allowing for better interaction with the guide.

What’s the main highlight of this trip?
Most travelers mention the colorful streets of Villajoyosa, the art and views in Altea, and the charming chocolate factory tour as standout moments.

This tour offers a balanced snapshot of some of the best coastal towns near Valencia. It combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and sweet treats—all with the convenience of guided transportation. If you’re after a full, engaging day with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to learn about local culture, it’s a lovely choice. Just keep in mind the pace and your personal mobility needs, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable day exploring the Valencian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: