Altea is one of the most beautiful towns on the Costa Blanca North, famous for its whitewashed old town, blue-domed church, Mediterranean views and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Sitting between Benidorm and Calpe in the province of Alicante, Altea offers a very different atmosphere from some of the larger and busier resorts nearby. It is stylish, artistic, peaceful and full of character.
For many visitors, Altea is the perfect base for exploring the Costa Blanca North. The town has beaches, restaurants, shops, galleries, viewpoints and a charming historic centre, but it is also close to mountain villages, scenic drives, natural attractions and some of the best coastal towns in the region.
Whether you are visiting for a short break, a family holiday, a romantic escape, a long winter stay or a property viewing trip, Altea is a destination that rewards slow exploration. Hiring a car in Altea gives you the freedom to discover not only the town itself, but also the wider Costa Blanca North at your own pace.
This guide covers where Altea is, why it is worth visiting, the best things to do, where to go by car, local beaches, day trips, airport access, parking tips and practical travel advice.
Where Is Altea?
Altea is located on the Costa Blanca North in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community of Spain. It sits on the Mediterranean coast, north of Benidorm and Albir, and south of Calpe and Moraira.
The town is well placed for exploring both the coast and the mountains. From Altea, you can easily drive to nearby resorts such as Albir, Benidorm, Calpe, Moraira, Jávea and Denia. You can also head inland to places such as La Nucia, Polop, Guadalest and the Fonts de l’Algar waterfalls.
Alicante Airport is the main airport used by most international visitors travelling to Altea. The journey by car usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the exact route. Valencia Airport is also possible for some travellers, although it is farther away.
This excellent location is one of Altea’s biggest advantages. You can enjoy the charm of a traditional Mediterranean town while still being close to beaches, golf courses, theme parks, shopping centres, marinas, mountain roads and cultural attractions.
Why Visit Altea?
Altea has long been considered one of the jewels of the Costa Blanca North. It is known for its beauty, atmosphere and authenticity. While it attracts visitors from around the world, it has managed to keep much of its traditional Spanish charm.
One of the main reasons people visit Altea is its old town. The historic centre rises above the coastline and is filled with narrow cobbled streets, white houses, colourful flowers, small boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. At the top, you will find the famous Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, instantly recognisable thanks to its blue and white tiled domes.
Altea is also popular because it offers a more relaxed alternative to larger resorts. Visitors come here for peaceful walks, seafront dining, cultural events, Mediterranean views and a slower pace of life. The town has a creative spirit, with artists, musicians and craftspeople adding to its unique personality.
Another reason to visit Altea is its position. With a rental car, you can use Altea as a base for exploring the whole Costa Blanca North. One day you can visit a mountain village, the next you can swim in a quiet cove, and the following day you can enjoy lunch beside a marina or drive to a lively coastal resort.
Altea Old Town
Altea Old Town is the heart of the town and one of the most photographed places on the Costa Blanca. Known locally as the casco antiguo, it sits on a hillside above the sea and is best explored on foot.
The old town is a maze of cobbled lanes, stairways, whitewashed buildings, ceramic details, bougainvillea, balconies and hidden corners. Every turn seems to reveal another pretty street, small square or sea view. It is the kind of place where you should take your time, wander without rushing and enjoy the atmosphere.
At the top of the old town is Plaza de la Iglesia, the main church square. This is where you will find the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, sometimes called the “Dome of the Mediterranean” because of its distinctive blue dome. The church is one of Altea’s most recognisable landmarks and can be seen from many points around the town.
Around the church square, there are restaurants, bars, craft shops and terraces where you can stop for a drink or meal. In the evening, the old town becomes especially atmospheric, with warm lighting, music, diners enjoying outdoor tables and views stretching towards the sea.
Visitors with a hire car should be aware that the old town streets are narrow and not ideal for driving. It is usually better to park in a public car park or lower part of town and walk up into the historic centre.
Things to Do in Altea
Altea may be peaceful, but there is plenty to do. The town is ideal for travellers who enjoy culture, food, scenery, walking, beaches and exploring by car.
One of the best things to do is simply walk around the old town. Start at the lower part of Altea and make your way up through the narrow streets towards the church square. Take your time to enjoy the viewpoints, small shops and traditional architecture.
Another must-do is a walk along the seafront promenade. Altea’s promenade is perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Mediterranean, with restaurants, cafes and beach views along the way. It is particularly pleasant in the morning or early evening.
Art lovers will enjoy Altea’s galleries and craft shops. The town has a long-standing reputation as a creative destination, and you will find ceramics, paintings, jewellery, handmade gifts and decorative pieces in small independent shops.
Food is another major part of the Altea experience. Whether you choose tapas in the old town, seafood by the promenade, rice dishes near the beach or international cuisine in a stylish restaurant, Altea offers plenty of options.
Hiring a car also opens up many more possibilities. You can take scenic drives to nearby viewpoints, visit traditional inland villages, spend the day at different beaches, explore local markets or enjoy day trips to Guadalest, Calpe, Moraira, Jávea or Denia.
Beaches in Altea
Altea’s beaches are different from the long sandy beaches found in some other Costa Blanca resorts. Many of the beaches in Altea are pebbly or made up of small stones, which helps give the water its clear, blue appearance. Beach shoes can be useful, especially for families or anyone planning to swim regularly.
Playa de la Roda is one of the most central beaches in Altea. It is close to the promenade, restaurants and town centre, making it convenient for visitors who want to combine a beach day with lunch, shopping or a walk.
Playa de Cap Negret is another well-known beach in Altea. It stretches along the coast and has a more open, relaxed feel. It is a good option for visitors who prefer a quieter beach experience away from the busiest areas.
Playa de la Olla is popular with those looking for a more natural coastal setting. It offers views across the bay and is close to some excellent restaurants. It is also associated with one of Altea’s most famous summer traditions, the Castell de l’Olla fireworks display.
Nearby Albir Beach, in the neighbouring municipality of Alfaz del Pi, is also worth visiting. It has a long promenade, clear water, restaurants and views towards the Sierra Helada. With a car, it is very easy to visit Albir for a morning walk, lunch or evening drink.
The coastline around Altea also includes smaller coves and scenic spots. Having a rental car makes it much easier to discover these areas, especially if you want to visit several beaches during your stay.
Food and Restaurants in Altea
Altea is a fantastic place to eat out. The town has a strong Mediterranean food culture, with seafood, rice dishes, fresh vegetables, tapas, grilled meats and local wines all playing an important role.
Along the seafront, you will find restaurants serving fish, paella, arroz a banda, seafood platters, salads and Mediterranean dishes. These are ideal places for lunch with a sea view or a relaxed evening meal.
In the old town, the atmosphere is different but equally appealing. Restaurants are tucked into narrow streets, hidden courtyards and small squares. Many offer terrace dining, romantic settings and views across the rooftops towards the Mediterranean.
Altea also has a good choice of international restaurants, reflecting its popularity with foreign residents and visitors. You can find Spanish, Italian, French, Asian, Indian, Belgian, Dutch and modern fusion cuisine in and around the town.
A car is useful if you want to explore restaurants outside the main tourist areas. Some of the best dining experiences on the Costa Blanca North are found in nearby villages, along coastal roads or in residential areas that are not as easy to reach without transport.
Altea Markets and Shopping
Altea is a lovely place for shopping, especially if you enjoy independent shops rather than large commercial centres. The old town has boutiques, craft shops, art galleries, jewellery stores and gift shops. It is a good place to buy ceramics, handmade items, artwork and decorative souvenirs.
There are also local markets in and around Altea where visitors can browse fresh produce, clothes, accessories, household items and local products. Markets are part of everyday life on the Costa Blanca and are a great way to experience the local atmosphere.
With car hire in Altea, you can also visit markets in nearby towns. Albir, Benidorm, Calpe, La Nucia, Moraira, Jávea and Denia all offer different shopping and market experiences. This is one of the benefits of having your own transport: you are not limited to one town or one timetable.
For larger shopping centres, visitors can drive towards Benidorm, Finestrat or Alicante, where there are more extensive retail options.
Exploring the Area by Car
Although Altea itself can be enjoyed on foot, a car makes a huge difference if you want to explore the Costa Blanca North properly. Public transport is available, but it does not always reach beaches, villages, viewpoints and inland attractions conveniently.
With car hire in Altea, you can plan your days around your own schedule. You can leave early for a quiet beach, stop at a viewpoint, drive inland for lunch, visit a market or explore several towns in one day.
Nearby places that are easy to reach by car include Albir, Benidorm, Calpe, Guadalest, Fonts de l’Algar, La Nucia, Polop, Moraira, Jávea, Denia, Villajoyosa and Alicante.
A rental car is especially helpful for families, couples who want flexibility, long-stay visitors, property buyers and anyone staying outside the centre of Altea. It also makes supermarket visits, airport transfers, restaurant trips and day excursions much easier.
Costa Blanca North car hire is not just about getting from A to B. It gives you the freedom to discover the region properly.
Best Day Trips from Altea
Guadalest
Guadalest is one of the most popular inland day trips from Altea. This mountain village is famous for its castle, dramatic views and turquoise reservoir. The drive inland is scenic, and the village itself is full of small museums, shops and viewpoints.
Guadalest is best visited by car because it sits inland in the mountains. From Altea, it makes an excellent half-day or full-day excursion.
Fonts de l’Algar
The Fonts de l’Algar waterfalls are another favourite day trip. Located near Callosa d’en Sarrià, this natural attraction is known for its clear pools, waterfalls and walking paths. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Having a car makes visiting the waterfalls much simpler, as you can combine the trip with lunch in the surrounding countryside or a visit to nearby villages.
Calpe and the Peñón de Ifach
Calpe is only a short drive north of Altea and is famous for the Peñón de Ifach, the huge rock that rises from the sea. Calpe also has sandy beaches, a marina, seafood restaurants, salt lakes with flamingos and a lively town centre.
It is a great destination for a beach day, a walk, a meal or a scenic coastal drive.
Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is known for its colourful seafront houses, sandy beach and chocolate-making history. It is south of Altea and easy to reach by car. The old town and promenade are very photogenic, and the town has a more traditional feel than some nearby resorts.
Moraira
Moraira is a stylish coastal town north of Altea, popular for its marina, restaurants, beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It is ideal for a day of coastal exploring, especially if you enjoy smaller resorts with charm and good dining.
Jávea
Jávea, also known as Xàbia, is one of the Costa Blanca North’s most attractive destinations. It has a historic old town, port area, Arenal beach, coves, viewpoints and excellent restaurants. The drive from Altea is part of the experience, especially if you take scenic routes through the hills.
Denia
Denia is a larger coastal town with a castle, marina, port, beaches, shopping streets and a well-known food scene. It is a good choice for a full-day trip from Altea, particularly for visitors who enjoy history and gastronomy.
Alicante
Alicante is the provincial capital and offers a completely different experience. Visitors can explore the castle, marina, old town, shopping streets, museums and city beaches. It is easy to reach from Altea by car and works well as a day trip.
Benidorm
Benidorm is close to Altea and offers beaches, nightlife, shopping, family attractions, water parks and theme parks. Even if you are staying in quieter Altea, it can be useful to have a car for occasional trips into Benidorm for entertainment, shows, shopping or family days out.
Getting from Alicante and Valencia Airport to Altea
Alicante Airport is the most common arrival point for visitors travelling to Altea. The airport has flights from many UK and European cities, making Altea an accessible destination for holidays, long weekends and extended stays.
The drive from Alicante Airport to Altea is straightforward, usually taking around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. Most of the journey is via major roads and motorway connections, making it convenient for visitors who collect a hire car at the airport.
Some travellers choose to rent a car at Alicante Airport and drive directly to Altea. Others prefer to arrange car hire in Altea after arriving. The best option depends on your travel plans, accommodation location and how much exploring you want to do.
If you are planning to visit beaches, mountain villages, supermarkets, restaurants, markets and nearby towns, having a car from the start of your trip can be very useful.
Parking and Driving in Altea
Driving around Altea is generally manageable, but visitors should be aware that the historic old town has narrow streets and limited access. It is usually better not to drive directly into the old town unless you know exactly where you are going.
Instead, look for public car parks or parking areas below the old town, then walk up. Comfortable shoes are recommended because the old town is hilly and has cobbled streets.
Parking near the seafront can be busier during summer, weekends and evenings. In high season, it is best to allow extra time, especially if you have a restaurant booking or are visiting the beach.
A car is very useful for reaching supermarkets, accommodation outside the centre, nearby beaches, viewpoints and surrounding towns. It is also helpful if you are travelling with children, beach equipment, shopping bags or luggage.
When driving in Spain, remember to follow local speed limits, parking rules and road signs. Many towns have blue-zone parking areas where payment may be required during certain hours.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Altea?
Altea can be visited throughout the year, and each season has its own appeal.
Spring is one of the best times for sightseeing, walking and exploring. The weather is usually mild, the countryside is greener, and the town is lively without being too crowded.
Summer is the busiest season, with warm weather, beach days, outdoor dining and a holiday atmosphere. This is the best time for swimming and evening strolls, although visitors should expect more people and higher demand for parking and restaurants.
Autumn is another excellent time to visit Altea. The weather often remains warm, the sea can still be pleasant, and the crowds are usually smaller than in peak summer. It is a good season for day trips and scenic drives.
Winter is quieter and popular with long-stay visitors, retirees, walkers and people looking for a peaceful escape. While it is not beach weather every day, winter in Altea can still be sunny and enjoyable, especially compared with colder parts of northern Europe.
Is Altea Good for Families, Couples and Expats?
Altea appeals to many different types of visitors.
For couples, it offers romance, views, old town restaurants, boutique hotels, quiet coves and sunset walks. The old town is especially beautiful in the evening.
For families, Altea provides a calmer base than Benidorm while still being close to family attractions, beaches, water parks and theme parks. A car is particularly useful for families because it makes it easier to carry beach items, visit supermarkets and plan flexible days out.
For expats and long-stay visitors, Altea offers a high quality of life, international community, healthcare access, restaurants, cultural events and good connections to nearby towns. Many people choose Altea because it feels both international and traditionally Spanish.
For property buyers, Altea is also a popular area, especially for those looking at villas, apartments, sea views and homes within easy reach of services. Hiring a car is very useful for property viewings because homes may be spread across different urbanisations, hillside locations and nearby towns.
Why Choose Car Hire in Altea?
Car hire in Altea gives visitors freedom, flexibility and convenience. While it is possible to enjoy the centre of Altea without a vehicle, you will see much more of the Costa Blanca North with your own transport.
Renting a car in Altea allows you to explore beaches and coves that are harder to reach by public transport. It also makes day trips to Guadalest, Fonts de l’Algar, Calpe, Moraira, Jávea, Denia, Villajoyosa and Alicante much easier.
A hire car is also useful for airport transfers, supermarket trips, restaurant visits, family outings and property viewings. Instead of relying on bus times, taxis or organised excursions, you can create your own itinerary.
For many visitors, the best memories of the Costa Blanca North come from spontaneous discoveries: a viewpoint above the sea, a quiet village square, a hidden restaurant, a peaceful cove or a mountain road with spectacular views. A rental car gives you the freedom to find these places.
Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Altea by Car
If you are staying in Altea for a few days, a rental car allows you to enjoy a varied itinerary.
On your first day, explore Altea itself. Walk around the old town, visit the church square, enjoy the viewpoints and have dinner in the historic centre.
On your second day, drive to Albir for a morning walk along the promenade, then continue to Benidorm or Villajoyosa for lunch and sightseeing.
On another day, head inland to Guadalest and Fonts de l’Algar. This is one of the best combinations of mountain scenery and natural beauty near Altea.
You could also spend a day driving north to Calpe and Moraira, stopping at beaches, marinas and viewpoints along the way. If you have more time, continue towards Jávea or Denia for a full Costa Blanca North road trip.
This type of flexible travel is exactly why many visitors choose to rent a car in Altea.
FAQ: Altea on the Costa Blanca North
Is Altea worth visiting?
Yes, Altea is definitely worth visiting. It is one of the most charming towns on the Costa Blanca North, known for its old town, blue-domed church, sea views, restaurants, beaches and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Where is Altea in Spain?
Altea is located in the province of Alicante on the Costa Blanca North, between Benidorm and Calpe. It is close to Albir, La Nucia, Polop and several popular coastal and inland destinations.
Do I need a car in Altea?
You can explore the centre of Altea on foot, but a car is highly recommended if you want to visit nearby beaches, villages, markets, supermarkets, attractions and day-trip destinations. Car hire in Altea gives you much more freedom.
How far is Altea from Alicante Airport?
Altea is usually around 45 minutes to an hour by car from Alicante Airport, depending on traffic and the exact route. Many visitors choose to hire a car for the airport journey and their stay.
What is Altea Old Town famous for?
Altea Old Town is famous for its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, artisan shops, restaurants, viewpoints and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo with its distinctive blue and white tiled dome.
Are the beaches in Altea sandy?
Many beaches in Altea are pebbly or made up of small stones rather than soft sand. The water is often very clear, and beach shoes are recommended for comfort.
What are the best day trips from Altea?
Popular day trips from Altea include Guadalest, Fonts de l’Algar, Calpe, Moraira, Jávea, Denia, Villajoyosa, Alicante and Benidorm. Most are easiest to visit by car.
Is Altea good for families?
Yes, Altea is good for families, especially those looking for a quieter base close to beaches and attractions. A hire car makes family travel easier because you can visit beaches, supermarkets, theme parks and nearby towns at your own pace.
Is Altea better than Benidorm?
Altea and Benidorm offer very different experiences. Altea is quieter, more traditional and more scenic, while Benidorm is larger, busier and known for nightlife, entertainment and sandy beaches. Many visitors stay in Altea and drive to Benidorm when they want a livelier day or evening.
What is the best time of year to visit Altea?
Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, walking and exploring. Summer is best for beach holidays and outdoor dining, while winter is popular with long-stay visitors looking for a peaceful Mediterranean escape.