Jewels of the Costa Blanca: Villajoyosa and Altea

Travelers often find themselves drawn to the Valencian Community’s coastal towns, but choosing the right tour can be tricky. This particular experience, offered by Explora Alicante Tours, promises to uncover two of Alicante’s most captivating villages—Villajoyosa and Altea—on a small-group, personalized excursion. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate way to soak in local charm, vibrant colors, and seaside views, this tour might be just what you need.

What makes this experience appealing are the personalized attention thanks to its small group size (max 4 people), and the opportunity to explore authentic streets and viewpoints with a local guide. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or want to explore more distant sights, this 5-hour experience might feel a bit limited. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a leisurely, cultural taste of the Costa Blanca without the hassle of large group tours or self-driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small-group format ensures a personalized experience and more interaction with your guide.
• Focus on Villajoyosa and Altea, two towns known for their colorful streets and seaside beauty.
• Includes transport and a knowledgeable local guide, making logistics smooth.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off options from four locations around Alicante.
• Ideal for lovers of photography, culture, and coastal scenery seeking an authentic feel.
• Duration of 5 hours makes this a compact, yet enriching half-day outing.

Once the tour kicks off, your first stop is Villajoyosa, a place celebrated for its vivid, oceanfront houses and its long-standing chocolate tradition. As you walk through its streets—covered in cobblestones—you’ll immediately notice how every building seems to burst with color, making it one of the most picturesque towns in the region.

Your guide will lead a 1.5-hour walk through its historic center, pointing out fascinating details about its past and present. Expect to see narrow streets lined with traditional houses painted in lively hues, many of which date back centuries. Villajoyosa also hosts a chocolate factory, a nod to its sweet reputation, adding an extra layer of cultural flavor, especially for those with a sweet tooth.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guided walks here are not just superficial. Saskia from Norway mentions that her guide, Grigor, was “an absolutely sweet and kind man,” who made the rainy day feel special by adding museum visits and adapting the plan. This flexibility is a big plus if weather isn’t cooperating—your guide’s local knowledge and adaptability really shine.

What you’ll love about Villajoyosa is its authentic fishing village vibe combined with vibrant aesthetics. It’s an excellent spot for photos, especially along the seafront promenade, where the houses seem to cascade down towards the water.

After exploring Villajoyosa, the tour continues to Altea, another gem famous for its whitewashed buildings and artistic atmosphere. You’ll have another 1.5-hour walk through its old town, where the narrow streets are filled with craft shops, cafes, and stunning sea views.

Altea’s church with its blue-tiled roof is an iconic sight, and from viewpoints around the town, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean. The town’s bohemian charm makes it a favorite for artists and photographers—something you’ll notice whether you’re simply strolling or stopping for a coffee.

According to reviews, the local guides are particularly skilled at sharing cultural and historical insights, making the experience more meaningful. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in the scenery—perfect if you want to avoid hurried, large-group tours.

What you’ll appreciate about Altea is its blend of traditional village charm and coastal views, giving you the feeling of discovering a secret corner of Spain.

One of the things we liked is how transport is included, with pickups available from four key locations—El Campello, Benidorm, Santa Pola, and Alicante. The vehicle details are shared beforehand, which helps travelers plan better.

The tour lasts around 5 hours, which is just enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The guide speaks English, Russian, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers. Given the small size of the group, expect a more relaxed and engaging experience compared to larger bus tours.

The review from Saskia highlights the flexibility and friendly attitude of the guide, which can transform what might be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable, personalized outing—even on a rainy day.

Considering that transport, a local guide, and visits to two towns are included, the tour offers good value for those who want an efficient, curated experience. It’s especially attractive if you prefer a small group for more interaction and a tailored itinerary.

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding a layer of flexibility—something we always recommend for uncertain travel plans.

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, cultural introduction to Villajoyosa and Altea—two towns that beautifully showcase the Mediterranean’s laid-back charm. It suits travelers who enjoy photography, strolling through quaint streets, and learning about local culture without the fuss of full-day excursions. The small-group nature makes it suitable for those who prefer more personalized attention or are traveling in a small party.

While not designed as a family-focused tour, it’s suitable for anyone comfortable with walking and absorbing local sights at a leisurely pace. If you’re after a taste of authentic seaside Spain with friendly guides and stunning views, this tour ticks many boxes.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 5 hours, including transportation, walking, and sightseeing.

What locations can I be picked up from?
Pickups are available from four locations: El Campello, Benidorm, Santa Pola, and Alicante.

Is there a guide who speaks my language?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, and Spanish, making it accessible for various travelers.

Are the visits in Villajoyosa and Altea walking tours?
Exactly—each town is explored on foot, with guided walks lasting about 1.5 hours each.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport to and from the towns is part of the experience, with details shared beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable if it rains?
Yes, based on reviews, guides are flexible and will adapt the plan, such as including museum visits if needed.

What makes this tour special?
The small group size, personalized guidance, and the chance to see two distinct, picturesque towns make it stand out.

Who would enjoy this?
Photography lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed taste of Costa Blanca’s coastal towns.

Can children join the tour?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, walking through towns and enjoying views can be suitable for older children with interest in culture and scenery.

If you’re dreaming of exploring Villajoyosa and Altea with a more intimate touch, this tour offers a wonderful blend of local charm, scenic views, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer small groups and personalized attention, especially those who want to take their time soaking in the vibrant colors and seaside tranquility.

The flexibility, guided expertise, and scenic stops make it a compelling option for a half-day adventure. While it’s not a full-fledged day trip, it delivers plenty of memorable moments—especially if you love photography, local traditions, and coastal beauty.

This experience is well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, authentic taste of the Costa Blanca without the crowds or rush. It’s a gentle, visually stunning journey that stays true to the area’s laid-back spirit, led by guides who genuinely know the area.