Altea Benidorm and Villajoyosa from Valencia

Introducing the Altea, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa Tour from Valencia

Taking a day trip from Valencia to explore the coast of Alicante offers a refreshing change of scenery—think colorful seaside towns, striking city skylines, and a hint of spiritual architecture. This full-day experience, priced at around $115 per person, packs in visits to four notable stops: Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Altea, and the Russian Orthodox Church of San Miguel Arcángel. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, this tour aims to give you a taste of the region’s unique character along with some stunning views and interesting cultural sights.

What I really like about this tour is the diversity it offers. You get the charm of Villajoyosa’s brightly painted buildings and the history of its famous chocolate factory museum, plus sweeping cityscape views from Benidorm’s skyline, and then the peaceful vibe of Altea, perched between sea and mountains. Not to mention the visit to Spain’s first Russian Orthodox church, a spiritual gem with materials brought from the Ural mountains. A highlight that keeps many travelers enthusiastic is the guide’s storytelling; according to reviews, guides like Marcela and Joaquim add a personal touch that makes the experience more memorable. Another big plus is the convenience—the tour includes hotel pickup and transportation, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

A possible consideration is the schedule and the tight timing at each stop. With around 9 hours total, the tour doesn’t leave a lot of breathing room, and some travelers have expressed a wish for more time, especially in Villajoyosa and Altea. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that either before or after the trip. The small group size, capped at 7 travelers, helps keep the experience intimate and flexible, but it also means you need to book well in advance—most guests plan around 78 days ahead.

Key Points

• Diverse Coastal Experience: The tour combines colorful seaside towns, urban skyline views, and peaceful mountain-bordering villages.
• Expert Guides Make It Special: Guides like Marcela and Joaquim are praised for their friendly, informative style, adding context that elevates the trip.
• Comfortable Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup simplifies logistics and makes the long day more enjoyable.
• Highlights Include Unique Attractions: You’ll visit Spain’s first Orthodox church, the chocolate museum, and enjoy panoramic views from Benidorm.
• Limited Time, Rich Experience: While the schedule is packed, most reviews find the time sufficient for a meaningful visit—although some wish for a bit more.
• Value for Money: At $115, including entrance to the chocolate museum and guided insight, the trip offers a lot for the price—especially if you appreciate diverse scenery and authentic local culture.

If you’re visiting Valencia and craving a taste of the Mediterranean coast, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the most interesting towns along the Alicante shoreline. The combination of colorful villages, vibrant cityscapes, and spiritual sites makes this trip appealing to travelers looking for variety without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections.

The Journey Begins: Villajoyosa

Your day starts early with hotel pickup, a perk that many travelers find especially convenient. The first stop is Villajoyosa, a little town famed for its brightly painted buildings lining narrow streets—imagine a seaside village straight out of a postcard. The guided tour here typically lasts about 90 minutes, giving you enough time to stroll the streets and visit the Chocolate Factory Museum. As one reviewer noted, the museum reveals fascinating insights about how chocolate transformed this region into a sweet haven. Many find the vibrancy of Villajoyosa charming, and the fact that it’s a working town adds authenticity.

Urban Vibes in Benidorm

Next, we move to Benidorm, known as the tourist capital of the Costa Blanca. It’s a stark contrast to Villajoyosa with its impressive skyline of skyscrapers. From the bus, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city’s coastline, dubbed the “Balcony of the Mediterranean” by many. Around 45 minutes are spent here, enough to take photos and appreciate the city’s modernity without feeling rushed.

Altea: A Mediterranean Paradise

Arguably the highlight for many travelers is Altea, a small town seemingly suspended between sea and mountains. Its atmosphere of calm and timelessness provides a welcome break from busier spots. The town’s famous dome, the dome of the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, is a favorite photo subject. Many reviews emphasize the town’s tranquility and its ability to make visitors slow down and enjoy the Mediterranean essence. Two hours are allocated here, allowing ample time to wander, take photos, or shop for local crafts.

Spiritual and Cultural Closure at the Orthodox Church

The tour’s spiritual highlight is the Iglesia Ortodoxa Rusa San Miguel Arcángel, Spain’s first Russian Orthodox church. Built with materials from the Ural mountains, it’s not just a religious site but a piece of living history. Visiting here lasts around 20 minutes, but the impact can be surprisingly profound—many find it a peaceful, inspiring stop, especially considering its uniqueness in Spain.

Wrapping Up: Return Trip

After exploring these sights, the journey back to Valencia takes around 1.5 hours. The small group size enhances the experience, fostering a discussion-friendly atmosphere. As one reviewer put it, the tour was “well organized,” though some noted they’d appreciated just a little more time at each stop to soak in the atmosphere.

Practical Details and Travel Tips

The tour costs about $115, a reasonable investment considering the transportation, guided commentary, and access to the chocolate museum. Without lunch included, you might want to pack a snack or plan to dine after your return. The guide will likely be the star of the experience, with reviews praising guides like Marcela and Joaquim for their engaging storytelling and helpfulness—especially with photos.

The tour’s timing starts early at 8:00 am, and it’s best to book well in advance—most travelers do so 78 days ahead. Small groups max out at 7 people, fostering an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for those who prefer a less crowded sightseeing experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sights, scenic views, and authentic local towns. It’s especially good for those who appreciate guides capable of sharing stories that bring each place to life. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive coast day without the hassle of self-driving will find this tour a good fit.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re intrigued by the idea of combining seaside charm, cityscapes, and spiritual architecture into a single day, this tour offers solid value and diverse experiences. The stops are well-chosen, offering a balance between iconic sights and authentic local flavor. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are often highlighted as a major plus, making your trip not just a sightseeing run but a journey with a storyteller.

While the schedule is packed, most reviews lean towards enjoying the experience as a whole rather than feeling rushed. Keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include a meal, so plan accordingly. This tour is especially suitable for travelers who want a curated taste of the Costa Blanca’s most distinctive towns and don’t mind a lively day with some walking, photo stops, and cultural enrichment.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up from your hotel or place of stay in Valencia, making it very convenient for travelers.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 9 hours, from start at 8:00 am to returning to Valencia around early evening.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the price covers the entrance to the Chocolate Museum. Visits to other sites, like the Orthodox church, are included in the itinerary.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, encouraging a more personalized experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to eat on your own during the day.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring a camera, comfortable shoes, and a small snack. Expect a full day of sightseeing with some walking and photo opportunities.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a guided tour with a set itinerary, customizations aren’t typically offered, but guides are often friendly and willing to help with tips or photos.

What’s the most appreciated aspect according to reviews?
Guides like Marcela and Joaquim are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the trip engaging and personable.

Overall, this tour from Valencia offers a well-rounded day exploring the best of the Costa Blanca’s towns, with enjoyable guides, stunning views, and a chance to experience authentic local flavor without the stress of organizing transportation. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to add a coastal adventure to their Valencian holiday—especially if you appreciate a mix of colorful towns, modern cityscapes, and unique spiritual sites.