White houses, cobbled streets, the blue dome of the church, and views of the Mediterranean Sea — Altea is one of those Costa Blanca places best explored at a leisurely pace. You can stroll through the old town, visit small galleries, stop for a coffee, and end the day with a local fish or seafood dish.
If you’re flying into Alicante and want to see more than just the city itself, Altea is perfect for a day trip. Here’s how to get there, what to see, what to try, and where to find good restaurants.
How Far Is Alicante Airport from Altea?
The distance from Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC) to Altea is about 66–70 km by road. Driving takes roughly 45–55 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
That distance makes it convenient to plan a day trip. You can set off in the morning from the airport or your accommodation, spend a few hours in the town, have lunch, and return to the coast without rushing.
Rent a Car and Explore Costa Blanca at Your Own Pace
If you want to explore the Alicante area freely, a car gives you plenty of options. You can stop for a coffee along the way, change plans depending on the weather, or combine Altea with another coastal destination.
This option is especially convenient if you’re traveling with family or want to see more than one town during your stay. You decide when to move on and how long to stay in each place.
Flying to Alicante? Book a car at Alicante airport with YourRent and plan your Altea trip your way.
What to See in Altea During a One-Day Visit?
You don’t need a long list of attractions to enjoy a day here. Altea’s biggest charm is the town itself — its architecture, views, and the atmosphere encouraging you to slow down for a moment.
1. Walk Through the Old Town
Casco Antiguo, the old town, is the best place to start your sightseeing. White facades, stone steps, flowers on balconies, and narrow streets create the distinctive landscape of Altea.
It’s worth leaving some flexibility. Explore small galleries, shops with local products, and cafés tucked away in side streets. There’s no need to stick to one route — often the most interesting places are discovered by chance.
The old town sits on a hill, so be prepared for some uphill walking and cobblestone surfaces. Comfortable shoes will come in handy during your stroll.
2. Visit the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo
The blue-and-white dome of the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo is one of Altea’s most recognizable symbols. The church is located in the historic center, and its surroundings make a great spot for a short break during your walk.
Take a look around the nearby squares and side streets. You'll find places to sit for coffee and viewpoints overlooking the town’s rooftops and the coastline.
3. Head Towards the Sea
After exploring the old town, make your way to Altea’s seaside area. The promenade is a perfect spot for a relaxing walk, coffee with a view of the water, or a moment of rest after sightseeing.
If you get a sunny day, you can simply sit by the sea and enjoy the Mediterranean vibe. You don’t need to fill every hour with another attraction.
4. Leave Time for Spontaneous Discoveries
It’s good to have a plan in Altea, but you don’t have to follow it to the minute. If you like a small square, a local gallery, or a café with a terrace, stay a little longer.
Traveling by car? You can consider an extra stop on Costa Blanca. Just choose places along a reasonable route so you don’t spend the rest of the day driving.
What to Try in Altea?
Altea’s cuisine draws from Valencia’s traditions and its coastal location. Look for rice dishes, fish, and seafood on the menu.
Arroz a banda — a traditional rice dish cooked in fish broth, typical of the Mediterranean coast's cuisine. It’s worth trying if you want to experience Costa Blanca’s local flavors.
Fresh fish and seafood — pay attention to the dish of the day and seasonal specials. If you don’t recognize a fish name on the menu, ask the staff for an explanation.
If you’re craving arroz a banda, check in advance whether the restaurant serves it and if it needs to be ordered ahead. This way, you can plan your meal during the trip more easily.
Where to Find Restaurants in Altea?
The best place for a meal depends on how you plan to spend your day. Consider three parts of the town.
Old Town — Lunch Among White Streets
If you want to combine sightseeing with a meal, look for restaurants in the historic center near the squares and narrow streets. Some venues have terraces and views of the surroundings, and the atmosphere in this part of Altea makes lunch one of the trip’s highlights.
Check the menu before choosing and see if it offers dishes you’re craving. If you want a particular table with a view, it’s a good idea to inquire about reservations.
Port Area and Promenade — For Seafood Lovers
If you’re in the mood for fish and seafood, check out restaurants near the port and seaside promenade. This is a convenient choice after a walk along the coast.
Pay attention to daily specials and local products. The sea view is a nice bonus, but also see what the menu offers.
Altea la Vella — An Idea for an Extra Stop
If you have a car and want to explore quieter parts of the municipality, consider Altea la Vella. It’s an alternative to the historic center and seaside area.
You can combine the visit with a meal nearby. Checking the opening hours of your chosen place beforehand will help fit this stop into your route.
Small tip: if you want lunch at a specific time, check restaurant hours. In Spain, meal times can differ from what you’re used to.
Sample Itinerary for a Day Trip to Altea
You don’t have to stick to the schedule precisely. Use it as inspiration and adapt to your arrival time and pace.
Morning: arrival in Altea and walk through the old town.
Late morning: visit the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, nearby squares, and side streets.
Lunch time: meal in the historic center or near the port.
Afternoon: stroll along the promenade, coffee, and time for spontaneous discoveries.
Before heading back: leisurely drive to your next destination or back to Alicante.
If you plan to continue your journey the same day, check distances in advance and leave yourself extra time. That way you won’t have to cut your walk short just to make it to the next spot.
Is It Worth Visiting Altea Off-Season?
Yes, especially if you enjoy walking, architecture, and sightseeing without having to plan your day around beach time. Off peak season, you might find a calmer atmosphere, although popular spots still attract visitors.
Check the weather forecast before your trip. On cooler or windy days, an extra layer of clothing is useful, especially for walks by the sea.
If you prefer a quiet stroll, consider starting your sightseeing earlier. You'll have more time to explore the old town and take a meal break.
Altea — The Perfect Destination for a Relaxed Day
Altea doesn’t require a packed schedule. A walk through the old town, a visit to the iconic church, a moment by the sea, and a good local meal are enough to feel the Costa Blanca spirit.
If you’re flying into Alicante airport, a rental car lets you conveniently start exploring the region and decide for yourself where to stop along the way. Plan your route your way, leave room for spontaneous stops, and enjoy your day in Altea.