Alicante Charming Villages Tour: Villajoyosa and Altea

If you’re visiting Alicante and craving a leisurely escape into two of the region’s most picturesque villages, the Alicante Charming Villages Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a fun, authentic experience that balances culture, scenery, and good food—all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see two distinctly different yet equally enchanting towns—Villajoyosa with its colorful houses and chocolate heritage, and Altea with its stunning whitewashed streets and panoramic sea views. Plus, the fact that the group is limited to just 8 people adds a personal touch, allowing guides to give more tailored attention.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s duration is six hours, which is quite packed, so if you’re seeking a very relaxed day, you might want to consider how much free time you’ll want in each village. Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, local flavor, and scenic strolls without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Small-group experience with personalized interaction and less crowding
• Visiting two distinct villages, each offering unique charm and atmosphere
• Includes an artisan chocolate factory visit, a delicious glimpse into local industry
• Flexible free time in Altea for shopping, photos, or relaxing in cafés
• Affordable price point, offering good value considering the guided tours, transportation, and activities
• Ideal for those wanting an authentic taste of Costa Blanca’s towns with a knowledgeable guide

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Villajoyosa and Altea Tour

Starting from Alicante: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off at the Meliá Alicante, a well-known hotel, where you meet your guide outside the main entrance. This is a smart choice because it keeps the start simple and central, especially if you’re based in Alicante city. The group size is kept intentionally small—no more than 8 participants—which means you’ll get a more intimate experience and easier interaction with your guide.

The van ride to Villajoyosa takes around 40 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery as the coast begins to appear. The journey itself is smooth, making the transition from city to countryside pleasant and relaxed.

Villajoyosa: A Colorful Coastal Town with Sweet Heritage

Once in Villajoyosa, you’ll have about an hour of guided sightseeing. The town, affectionately called La Villa by locals, is famous for its brightly painted houses that line the seafront. Visitors love walking through its narrow streets, where vibrant facades create a lively atmosphere perfect for photos.

The highlight for many is the artisan chocolate factory visit, which offers a peek into Villajoyosa’s long-standing chocolate tradition. This family-run operation isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the craft and history behind the town’s sweet reputation. Reviewers have raved about the tasting session—“tasted all flavors of chocolate and even bought some to take home,” as one happy guest shared.

Plus, a walk along the seafront promenade exposes you to fresh ocean breezes and picturesque views of the golden beaches. This part of the tour is highly valued, as it combines scenic beauty with the town’s unique character.

Food Tasting: Sweet and Savory Flavors

After exploring Villajoyosa, there’s a 30-minute food tasting session. While the specifics aren’t detailed, reviews suggest the food experience is a highlight, with guests enjoying local flavors and the chance to sample some of the town’s best offerings. The tasting adds a delicious, relaxed element to the tour and justifies the ticket price, especially if you’re a foodie.

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Transition to Altea: Scenic Drive and Mountain Views

Next, you’ll hop back into the van for about 30 minutes to reach Altea. The drive itself is part of the experience, revealing the dramatic scenery of the Serra de Bèrnia mountain range and the Mediterranean coastline. Travelers often mention the stunning vistas as a major plus.

Altea: A Picture-Perfect Village of Whitewashed Charm

Arriving in Altea, you’ll spend around 30 minutes on a guided walk through its labyrinth of cobblestone streets. The town’s whitewashed homes and traditional architecture evoke a sense of timeless charm. The blue and white tiled church, standing prominently on a hill, provides a perfect photo opportunity and is a must-see highlight.

According to reviews, the guide points out interesting details, sharing stories behind Altea’s history and architecture. Many visitors mention the “panoramic views of the mountains and the Mediterranean” as a memorable aspect.

Free Time in Altea: Shop, Sip, or Stroll

The best part of this tour is the 1.5 hours of free time in Altea. You could opt to relax in a seaside café, browse local shops, or take photos from different angles of the town’s enchanting streets. Reviewers appreciate the well-paced schedule that allows enough time to enjoy the town without feeling rushed.

Many recommend visiting a restaurant or café to savor the town’s microclimate—warm, sunny, and breezy—and indulge in some local tapas or coffee.

Wrapping Up and Return to Alicante

After your explorations, the group reconvenes for the one-hour van ride back to Alicante. The return trip offers more chances to discuss the day’s highlights or simply relax after a busy morning.

What’s Included and Practical Details

The tour includes guidance from a knowledgeable guide, transfers to and from Alicante, and entrance to the artisan chocolate factory. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and with a cost of $88 per person, it offers good value considering all elements.

Meeting outside Meliá Alicante five minutes before departure keeps things simple. The tour operates in English, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for travelers’ plans.

What to Expect Regarding Visit Timing and Flexibility

Timing is tight but well-planned. The stops are designed to give a taste of each town’s essence while allowing enough free time to soak in the atmosphere. Some reviews note that on Sundays, the chocolate factory is closed, so if you’re booking on a Sunday, you won’t visit the factory—something worth considering if chocolate is a highlight for you.

The Guide and Experience

Guests consistently mention the guides—particularly Alberto—as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Reviewers have appreciated the storytelling and local insights that bring each town to life, making the experience richer than just a sightseeing walk.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Costa Blanca’s coastal villages without the stress of planning transport or navigating on their own. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, authentic towns, and sampling local food and sweets.

It’s also ideal for small groups who appreciate more personalized attention. While it’s not tailored for those wanting extensive free time in each village, it offers a balanced snapshot suitable for a full day of light exploration.

This tour works well for families, couples, or solo travelers who want an easy, well-organized way to see some of the most charming spots near Alicante.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Considering the high review scores (4.8/5 from 72 reviews) and the consistent praise for guides, scenery, and food, this tour offers excellent value. For $88, you get guided insights, scenic drives, cultural visits, and some tasty treats—all packed into a manageable six-hour window.

It’s especially appealing for first-timers or those wanting a curated, relaxed outing. The small group size, friendly guides, and thoughtful itinerary make it a memorable way to experience the lesser-known gems of Costa Blanca.

This tour is a great pick if you crave authentic villages, stunning coastal views, and delicious local flavors—all with minimal hassle and plenty of personality.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers in a comfortable van from the meeting point and between villages.

How long is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts around six hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and free periods.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a small-group, personalized experience.

Does the tour operate on Sundays?
Yes, but if you book on a Sunday, note that the chocolate factory visit will be skipped as it is closed that day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the views.

Is food included?
There is a food tasting component, which is part of the experience, but meals or additional snacks are not included.

To sum it up, this tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors, making it a fantastic way to explore Costa Blanca’s charming villages without the stress of self-planning. It’s best suited for those who value guided experiences, small groups, and authentic local encounters. If you’re after a day of relaxed sightseeing with a touch of sweetness and seaside splendor, this could very well be the perfect addition to your Alicante itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: