Discover the best things to see in Altea

Altea is undoubtedly one of the most incredible spots on the Costa Blanca and one of those towns near Benidorm that you can’t miss out on. Although it has an infinite number of beautiful spots, there are some that you can’t miss. What to see in Altea? Here’s the answer!

What to see in Altea in one day?

If you only have one day to visit Altea on your tour of the Costa Blanca… Don’t worry! We’ll show you the highlights of Altea that you can’t miss and that you can see in one day.

1. Old Town: Start your day exploring the charming Old Town of Altea. Stroll through its narrow cobbled streets, admire the white houses adorned with flowers and discover picturesque corners. Don’t forget to visit the Plaza de la Iglesia and contemplate the beautiful Parish Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo.
2. Promenade: After exploring the Old Town, head to Altea’s promenade. Enjoy a relaxing stroll by the sea, appreciating the panoramic views and the sea breeze. You will also find a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can stop to enjoy the local gastronomy and sea views.
3. Beaches: Altea has beautiful beaches that are well worth a visit. Playa de la Roda and Playa de Cap Blanc are two popular choices. Relax on the sand, sunbathe or take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean. If you like water activities, you can also find options such as paddle surfing or kayaking.
4. Mirador de la Cruz: For a breathtaking panoramic view of Altea and its surroundings, visit the Mirador de la Cruz. It is located on top of a hill and offers spectacular views of the sea, the mountains and the old town of Altea. It is a perfect place to take pictures and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
5. Art galleries: Altea is known for being an artistic centre, so you can take the opportunity to visit some of its art galleries. There is a wide variety of galleries where you can appreciate works by local and national artists, from paintings to sculptures and handicrafts.
6. Museum of Contemporary Art: If you are an art lover, you cannot miss the Museum of Contemporary Art of Altea (MACA). This museum houses a permanent collection of modern and contemporary art, with works by renowned artists. In addition, the building itself is an architectural masterpiece worth exploring.
7. Altea Market: If you visit Altea on a Tuesday, don’t miss the weekly market. The Altea market is set up in the old town and offers a wide variety of local products such as fruits, vegetables, clothes, handicrafts and much more. It is a lively and colourful place where you can immerse yourself in local life and discover authentic products.
8. Hiking route: Altea is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, so an ideal option is to take a hiking route. You can explore the Sierra de Bernia Natural Park, which offers different trails with panoramic views and a rich flora and fauna. Another option is the Camino del Faro, which takes you to an old lighthouse with breathtaking views.

Remember that these are just some of the highlights of Altea, and you can tailor your visit according to your interests and preferences. I would also recommend trying the delicious local gastronomy, such as the rice and seafood dishes typical of the region.

What is the old town of Altea like?

Here we describe some of the outstanding features of the Old Town of Altea:

1. Cobbled streets: The Old Town is made up of narrow cobbled streets that wind their way up the hill where it is located. These streets are full of charm and offer a quaint and cosy atmosphere.
2. White houses: The houses in the Old Town are painted white, which is typical of Mediterranean architecture. This creates a beautiful contrast to the colourful surroundings and contributes to the feeling of brightness and cleanliness.
3. Ornate facades: Many of the facades of the houses are decorated with potted flowers and plants, adding a touch of colour and life to the streets. You will also find traditional wooden doors and windows, which give the neighbourhood an authentic look.
4. Panoramic views: From the Old Town of Altea you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding area. The hillside location provides a privileged perspective that attracts many visitors.
5. Plaza de la Iglesia: In the heart of the Old Town is the Plaza de la Iglesia, where the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo stands. This church is one of the most recognisable symbols of Altea and has a beautiful blue and white dome. The square is a lively place with cafes and restaurants that invite you to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
6. Art and craft galleries: The Old Town of Altea is home to numerous art galleries and craft shops. Local artists exhibit their works in these places, ranging from paintings to ceramics and jewellery. It is a perfect place for art lovers and seekers of unique souvenirs.
   Overall, the Old Town of Altea is a magical place that has retained its authenticity over the years. Its traditional architecture, cobbled streets and panoramic views create an enchanting experience for visitors.

What are the best restaurants in Altea?

Since you are going to spend the day in Altea, you won’t have a better occasion to taste its rich gastronomy. Here are three of the most popular restaurants in the area in recent years:

1. Restaurante Oustau: It is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and cosy atmosphere. It offers dishes such as rice dishes, fresh seafood and grilled meats.
2. Restaurant El Racó de Toni: Located in the old town of Altea, this restaurant stands out for its authentic Mediterranean cuisine and panoramic views. Its specialities include fresh fish and seafood.
3. La Costera Restaurant: Located next to Altea’s promenade, this restaurant offers a wide variety of Mediterranean dishes, such as paellas, rice dishes and fresh fish. It also stands out for its terrace with sea views.