Altea isn’t just another coastal town in Spain — it’s the kind of place where life slows down and every corner feels like a painting. Whitewashed houses, winding cobbled streets, and Mediterranean views you won’t believe are real — this is Altea, one of the most charming spots on the Costa Blanca.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or thinking about relocating, Altea draws you in with its calm energy and creative spirit.
👉Link: Local Life in Altea – Living Slowly on the Costa Blanca
🌊 What to Expect from Altea’s Coastline
Unlike Benidorm’s wide golden beaches or Calpe’s buzzing shores, Altea’s beaches are more peaceful and less commercialized. Many are made up of smooth pebbles or stone, which helps keep the water incredibly clear and turquoise. Several have been awarded the Blue Flag, a mark of environmental quality and safety.
Tip: Bring water shoes! While the pebble beaches are beautiful, they can be a bit uncomfortable without footwear.
Top Things to See in Altea, Spain
🏰 Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
Wander uphill through narrow alleyways lined with art galleries, blooming bougainvillea, and hidden cafés. The climb to the top is worth every step — especially when you reach the blue-domed Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Consuelo.
Local tip: Sunset hits the church square beautifully — if you grab a drink around 6 or 7 PM, you’ll see the domes glow gold.
👉Link: Viewpoints & Attractions in Altea
🎭 Palau Altea
This modern cultural centre hosts everything from jazz concerts to local theatre. You might not expect such a polished venue in a small town, but Palau Altea surprises with its lineup and acoustics.
🖼️ Art Galleries & Local Workshops
Altea is an artists’ haven — and it shows. You’ll find small independent galleries tucked between homes in the Old Town, plus craft shops selling ceramics, jewelry, and paintings by local creators. It’s a great way to connect with the town’s creative roots.
🌸 Jardín de los Sentidos
Just outside Altea (a short drive or bike ride), this peaceful garden café offers exotic plants, shaded walkways, and cozy seating spots to unwind. Think of it as a secret jungle escape — perfect for an afternoon tea or a quiet moment.
⛪ Ermita de Sant Blai
A tiny chapel near the old part of town, often missed by visitors. It’s simple and humble, but locals consider it a spiritual spot. If you’re doing a full walking loop through Altea’s old and newer parts, it’s worth a short detour.
🏞️ Mascarat Tunnels
Technically just outside Altea on the way to Calpe, but still part of the local experience — the Mascarat Tunnels are carved through dramatic cliffs and were once part of a railway route. Today, they make for an atmospheric walk or photo stop, with incredible canyon views and a bit of a wild west feel.
We walked through the tunnels on a cloudy day and it felt like a movie set — bring sturdy shoes and expect a bit of wind if you’re visiting in autumn.
Explore Altea with Our Interactive Map
Planning your visit? We’ve gathered everything mentioned in this guide — beaches, viewpoints, restaurants, hotels, parking spots, hiking trails and more — into one easy-to-use custom map.
It’s perfect for discovering nearby hidden gems, planning your walking route through the Old Town, or finding the best cala to swim in without crowds.
👉 Zoom in, save your favourites, and explore Altea like a local.
Altea’s Beaches & Hidden Calas
Altea’s coastline isn’t about soft sand — it’s about dramatic pebbled beaches, turquoise waters, and hidden coves that feel like secret spots.
We visited in late September and the water was still warm enough to swim — plus, it was quiet. Just a handful of locals and no crowds.
👉Link: Beaches in Altea – Clear Waters, Hidden Coves & Promenades
Exploring Altea Hills & Altea la Vella
🌄 Altea Hills
Upscale and peaceful, with incredible views over the bay. The roads here are steep, but the reward is worth it.
🏘️ Altea la Vella
Think of this as Altea’s quiet countryside cousin. It’s the original village, with traditional homes, a sleepy pace, and a couple of cozy restaurants that are local favourites.
Altea Orthodox Church
Nature, Hiking & Golf
For outdoor lovers, Altea has a lot more than just beaches.
🥾 Sierra de Bernia
The Fort de Bernia trail is a must if you’re into hikes with a view — and tunnels. Yes, you’ll crawl through a natural tunnel at one point to reach the panoramic side.
When we went in early spring, the wildflowers were just starting to bloom — and the mountain goats made an appearance too.
👉Link: Exploring Sierra Bernia – One of Costa Blanca’s Wildest Natural Wonders
🏌️ Altea Golf Club
Tucked between pine trees and hills, this course feels peaceful and never too crowded. It’s more laid-back than flashy — perfect for a casual round.
Where to Eat in Altea
Altea’s food scene is a mix of creative tapas, Mediterranean seafood, and international bites.
In the Old Town, Xef Pirata is a favourite for modern tapas with a twist.
Down by the beach, El Cantó del Palasiet has unbeatable paella and a terrace made for long lunches.
Looking for something cozy? Try L’Airet de Altea tucked into a tiny alley with a few tables and lots of charm.
If you want a table with views, book in advance — even in the low season, the best spots fill up fast.
👉 Link: Restaurants in Altea
Craft Beer in Altea: Meet Althaia 🍻
If you’re a beer lover, skip the generic lagers and try something truly local. Althaia is Altea’s own craft brewery, born on this coastline and poured across the town’s bars and restaurants. Expect bright, fresh styles (crisp blondes, easy-drinking wheat beers, punchier IPAs and seasonal specials) that pair beautifully with Altea’s seafood and rice dishes.
Where to find it? Look for Althaia on tap lists and in bottle fridges in the Old Town and along the seafront. Many places rotate their selection, so don’t be shy—ask what’s new.
Pairing tip: A citrusy wheat beer with grilled octopus, or a balanced pale ale with a seafood paella, is a match made in Altea.
Our tip: Want the full story—origins, styles, and where to taste it right now? Dive into our dedicated guide: Cervezas Althaia Brewery Altea
Where to Stay in Altea, Spain
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or settling in for a longer escape, Altea has a stay to match your mood.
If you love walking out your door and straight into history, look for boutique hotels and hostals tucked into the Old Town. Some are in restored whitewashed houses with balconies overlooking the sea or the tiled rooftops — super atmospheric, especially at sunset.
Prefer the sound of waves in the background? You’ll find a mix of modern beachfront hotels and family-run stays along the promenade, just steps from Playa de la Roda and the marina.
Looking for something quieter or more budget-friendly? There are camping options just outside the town, especially near Cap Blanch. These tend to attract long-term travellers and van-lifers who want to be close to nature but still near town.
We’ve heard of people coming for a week and ending up staying a month — especially those who find a cozy spot in the hills or by the beach and fall into the rhythm of Altea life.
No matter your travel style, Altea makes it easy to feel at home.
👉 Link: Hotels in Altea
Getting Around: Parking & Taxis in Altea
Parking can be tricky near the Old Town, especially in summer. Your best bet is to leave your car in the larger public lots below and walk up.
We parked just off Calle Cura Llinares — 5-minute walk to the old town stairs, totally doable.
There are also local taxis, but they’re limited — consider booking in advance or using a transfer app if arriving from Alicante Airport.
Shopping in Altea
Stroll through Carrer Sant Miguel and Carrer Major for local boutiques, ceramics, jewelry, and handmade clothing.
If you’re into markets, the Tuesday morning market by the sports centre has everything from fresh fruit to artisan cheese.
👉Link: Markets in Altea – Local Flavours, Artisan Goods & Weekly Finds
What’s the Weather Like in Altea?
Altea has a true Mediterranean climate:
Summers are hot and dry — perfect for beach days.
Winters are mild, rarely dropping below 10°C.
Spring & autumn are ideal for outdoor activities.
We visited in March once and had 22°C, sunny skies, and barely any tourists. Perfect.
Wondering when to visit? Our Costa Blanca Weather Guide breaks down what to expect in each season and every major town.
✅ Editor’s Conclusion
Altea is one of those places that feels timeless — whether you’re watching the sunset from the church square, picking out fresh fruit at the market, or diving into a quiet cala, there’s something grounding about it. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and just be.
If you’ve never been, we say: go. If you have — you already know why it stays with you.
Want to keep all these spots handy? Here’s the interactive map again!
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Is Altea good for a beach holiday?
Yes — while it’s not sandy, the beaches are clean, clear, and less crowded than major hotspots.
Can you visit Altea on a day trip from Alicante?
Absolutely. It’s about 45 minutes by car, or you can take the tram.
Is Altea expensive?
It’s somewhere in the middle. You’ll find both budget-friendly eats and luxury spots.
What’s the best time to visit Altea?
Late spring or early autumn. Warm weather, fewer tourists, and perfect for walking and sightseeing.
Why is Altea so popular?
Altea has a rare mix of charm and calm. It’s not overrun like some bigger Costa Blanca towns, yet it has everything — a stunning old town, beautiful beaches, a thriving cultural scene, and that peaceful Mediterranean pace people crave. It’s also popular among artists, expats, and slow travelers who want more than just sunshine and sangría.
