Charming villages: Villajoyosa & Altea

Discover the Charm of Villajoyosa and Altea in a Comfortable Day Tour

This small-group tour from Alicante offers an inviting way to explore two of Costa Blanca’s most picturesque towns. Priced at $83.01 per person, the tour lasts around 5 hours and 30 minutes, making it an ideal half-day escape. It’s limited to 7 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience, and includes return transport, a guide, and entrance tickets to the chocolate factory and tastings (Monday to Saturday).

The tour begins at 10:00 am from P.º del Puerto Viejo, Alicante and takes you effortlessly from the bustling city to the quiet, colorful streets of Villajoyosa. The itinerary offers a mix of cultural sights, delicious treats, and stunning sea views, perfect for visitors seeking local flavor and scenic beauty without the hassle of self-driving or public transport.

While the tour emphasizes its small-group intimacy and expert guide, a notable limitation is that lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose your own café or restaurant in Altea. This tour suits those eager for a relaxed, informative day with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limited to 7 travelers for personalized attention
• Includes transportation, guide, and chocolate factory tickets (Monday–Saturday)
• Visit Villajoyosa’s colorful old town and Altea’s charming old quarter
• Enjoy a chocolate tasting at a traditional factory, with an alternative sweet visit on Sundays
• Time allocated for exploring cafes and restaurants in Altea (own expense)
• Ideal for history, culture, and scenic views lovers seeking a hassle-free trip

The Tour Starts with a Visit to Chocolates Perez in Villajoyosa

The tour kicks off by visiting Chocolates Perez, a family-run chocolate factory with roots dating back to the 17th century. The original chocolate factory was established in 1810, reflecting Villajoyosa’s long history in chocolate making, with more than 30 factories once operating in the town.

Visitors enjoy a guided tour of the small factory, where they can see traditional chocolate production and sample some of the best chocolates in town. On Sundays, however, the factory is closed, and instead, a local bakery visit allows for tasting a local sweet. This substitution adds a local flavor, even on weekends, ensuring a sweet start regardless of the day.

This stop lasts about 25 minutes, with an admission ticket included, making it both a fun and educational experience. It’s a highlight for anyone interested in local culinary traditions and handcrafted treats.

Exploring Villajoyosa’s Colorful Old Town and Coastal Promenade

Following the chocolate stop, the tour moves to Villajoyosa’s vibrant old town. Known for its brightly painted houses, the coastal promenade, and lively atmosphere, this area offers a picturesque scene perfect for photos and leisurely exploration.

The 45-minute walk takes visitors through narrow cobblestone streets, revealing charming shops and historic buildings. The guide shares stories about Villajoyosa’s history and its seafaring roots, enhancing the experience. This part of the tour is free for admission, allowing ample time to walk and absorb the colorful surroundings.

The old town’s seafront setting provides fantastic views of the Mediterranean, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll before heading to Altea. The combination of visual charm and local stories makes this stop both engaging and scenic.

From Villajoyosa to Altea’s Whitewashed Old Quarter

After exploring Villajoyosa, the group travels to Altea, a town renowned for its whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. The 2-hour visit begins with a walk through the old town, where the white and blue-tiled roofs of the church stand out against the skyline.

The Altean old quarter is full of character, with boutique shops, art galleries, and inviting cafes. Visitors have time to shop, take photographs, and enjoy a meal or coffee at their own expense, making this a flexible and relaxed part of the day.

The panoramic viewpoints from the town’s main plaza offer views of the mountains and the sea, providing ideal photo opportunities. The guide points out notable sights and local highlights, making this visit both culturally enriching and visually stunning.

The White and Blue Tiled Church and the Mediterranean Views in Altea

A highlight of the Altea stop is the church with its striking white and blue-tiled roof, which dominates the town’s skyline. From the plaza nearby, visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline. This spot is perfect for taking in the scenery or snapping memorable photos.

The town’s charming streets are perfect for wandering at leisure, with many cafes and shops lining the way. The opportunity to sit down and enjoy local cuisine or a coffee—at your own cost—is part of the experience, giving travelers the chance to soak up Altea’s relaxing atmosphere.

Practicalities of the Tour: Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from Alicante at 10:00 am and features private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The group is limited to 7 people, fostering an intimate environment where guides can offer personalized insights.

The return is back at the original meeting point in Alicante**, making logistics straightforward and stress-free. The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the experience, and the guide ensuring everyone feels comfortable throughout.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price includes all transportation, guide service, and entry tickets to the chocolate factory with tastings (Monday to Saturday). The lunch, however, is not included, providing flexibility for participants to choose where and what to eat in Altea.

This arrangement allows for a personalized dining experience—whether grabbing a quick snack or sitting down at a cafe—without being tied into a set menu or schedule.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

Operated by Ali-Oli Tours, this tour offers free cancellation if needed, up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility provides peace of mind, especially considering weather or scheduling changes. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the main requirement being good weather for the outdoor stops.

Booking is recommended about 73 days in advance on average, highlighting its popularity. The guide’s expertise and friendly approach, praised in reviews, help ensure a smooth and engaging day out.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour appealing is its well-balanced mix of cultural sights, local food, and scenic views. The inclusion of chocolate tasting at a historic factory adds a sweet touch that appeals to many. The small-group format guarantees personalized attention and a relaxed pace, perfect for those who prefer an intimate experience.

The stops at the colorful Villajoyosa and charming Altea capture the essence of the Costa Blanca’s local character, making this tour a great choice for those who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits culture and foodies, as well as scenery lovers. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate history, charming architecture, and delicious local treats. Families, couples, and small groups looking for a comfortable, guided day out will find this tour offers excellent value with personalized service.

While it offers plenty of sightseeing and tasting opportunities, it’s best suited for people comfortable with walking on cobblestone streets and owning their own meals in Altea. The limited group size ensures attentive guides and a more relaxed pace.

Charming Villages: Altea and Villajoyosa as a Perfect Day Trip

This tour from Alicante provides an accessible and delightful way to experience two of Spain’s most colorful and scenic towns. The combination of chocolate tasting, historic streets, and breathtaking viewpoints makes it a memorable outing.

The cost-effective price, small-group format, and diverse stops make this a popular choice for visitors seeking authenticity and comfort. For those wanting a personalized experience with an emphasis on local flavor and stunning landscapes, this tour ticks all the boxes.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and tasty journey that avoids the hassle of self-driving, this tour is a reliable and enjoyable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The transportation, guide, and entrance tickets to the chocolate factory with tastings (Monday to Saturday) are included. Lunch and personal expenses are not.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 10:00 am and returning to Alicante around early afternoon.

What stops are part of the tour?
Stops include Chocolates Perez in Villajoyosa, the colorful old town and promenade of Villajoyosa, and Altea’s old quarter and viewpoints.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly guests?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and guides ensure comfort. However, walking on cobblestone streets and some uphill areas may require consideration for mobility.

Can I buy lunch in Altea?
The tour does not include lunch, but ample cafes and restaurants are available at your own expense.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection and a camera for scenic views.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum of 2 travelers to operate, with a maximum of 7 travelers.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour offers full refund in case of bad weather or cancellation.

Is this tour available every day?
The tour operates Monday through Saturday, with chocolate factory visits only on those days.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking on average occurs 73 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

This small-group tour from Alicante combines charm, history, and delicious treats into a well-organized day trip. It offers a wonderful way to explore the colorful villages of Villajoyosa and Altea, making it a memorable addition to any Costa Blanca itinerary.