Things to do Altea, a complete & up-to-date guide
What to do in Altea? Altea is one of the most famous places on the Costa Blanca in Spain. If you are in the area then you should definitely not skip Altea during your vacation.
Its location among a variety of other nice places makes Altea very suitable as a base to further explore the region.
Brief summary
The most complete and up-to-date overview of activities and things to do in Altea.
Read all about the old center, the renovated boulevard, the various ports, the beaches, museums and many more fun things to do and see.
Page layout:
- Top 10 highlights
- Friends & family
- Nature & adventure
- Events & culture
- Nearby
- More fun places
Author: Rick, more than 10 years active on the Costa Blanca. These texts are written from my own experiences and based on current sources.
Page updated on: 20 April 2026
Table of contents
ToggleTop 5 highlights in Altea
1. Explore the old center of Altea
The historic heart of Altea, the Casco Antiguo, is an atmospheric labyrinth of narrow streets that wind their way up past the recognizable white houses.
In many different places you will find small cozy squares, with central Plaza lglésia. Here you will also find the landmark of Altea, the parish church Nuestra Señora del Consuelo.
As you climb the steps and slopes, you’ll pass cozy little squares and surprising vantage points that offer sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
2. Visit the church of Altea
Once you arrive at the square, it is worth visiting Nuestra Señora del Consuelo(Església de la Mare de Déu del Consol in Valencian).
This beautiful church with blue domes was built (in the 19th century) in the Moorish style. In addition to the impressive interior, beautiful works of art are displayed.
Unfortunately, no set opening hours are known, but if the church is open, you can enter to light a candle.
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3. Visit the market in the old town
The Mostra d’ArtesanÃa is an annual arts and crafts market at the Plaza de la Iglesia in the old town of Altea. The market has existed for more than 40 years and is known for its rigorous selection of about 20 artisans who are allowed to display their work here.
All products, including jewelry, ceramics, glassware and wood carvings, are designed by the artists themselves and made entirely by hand. In addition to the summer period, there is usually a shorter edition during Easter week.
- Frequency: annually from July 1 to September 10;
- Time of day: from 19:00 to 00:00.
4. Stroll along El Bol boulevard
The new El Bol boulevard in Altea is a completely renovated promenade that gives the city’s coastline a modern and spacious character.
This project has transformed a former parking lot into a 4,700 square meter car-free park with white paving, seating and an avenue of palm trees.
In addition to the walking and resting areas for visitors, a playground and space for events, a new 400 meter long beach has also been created, which significantly improves the attractiveness and protection of the coast.
5. Visit the marinas in Altea
Altea has no fewer than 4 different ports:
- Club Náutico de Altea: this is the largest and most famous port of Altea, located on the north side of the city. Near this marina you will also find a number of restaurants including Nilah and Bon Vent. It has a training center for water sports, making it a popular place for water sports enthusiasts and sailors;
- Puerto Deportivo Luis Campomanes: this marina is better known as Marina Greenwich; it is the only marina in the world that is located on the prime meridian. The prime meridian is the imaginary line that is used as a reference point for longitude on earth. It is the line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and passes through Greenwich in London. You can reach and leave the port area by car by purchasing a coin at a barrier;
- Puerto Senso: this port is located near Altea Hills. This port is a bit more ‘hidden’ because you have to leave the N-332 and drive down a bit. At the end of the pier you will find a bar where you feel like you are sitting in the middle of the water;
- El Portet: this small port is located just below the beach of L’Olla and close to Isla de Altea. A few 100 meters away you will find El Cranc, one of the best fish restaurants in Altea.
For friends & family in Altea
6. Going to the market on Tuesdays
The Mercadillo de Altea is held in the large parking lot on the Cami de l’Algar.
At this extensive market in Altea, located near the sports center, you will find a wide variety of stalls selling clothes, bags, shoes and, of course, all kinds of food.
- Frequency: weekly on Tuesdays;
- Time slot: from 08:00 to 14:00.
7. To the beach in Altea
Altea surprises with some 6 diverse beaches along its coastline. These sunny spots, often located right on boulevards or next to marinas, each offer a unique experience.
Consider Playa Mascarat and Playa de la Solsida near the ports, each with its own mix of stones or pebbles. Further away are the quiet pebble beaches Playa de l’Olla, Playa del Cap Negret, the renovated Playa de l’Espigó, and Playa El Bol, ideal for relaxation and hiking. There is even a special beach for dogs, Playa para Perros.
In addition to these beaches, in the northern part of Altea, near Mascarat, you will also find three intimate coves. Cala del Racó del Corb and Cala Barra Gran are hidden gems with crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, although access is a bit more adventurous.
The larger Cala Mascarat, complete with a cozy chiringuito, also offers a serene atmosphere. These calas are ideal for those looking to avoid the crowds and explore the unspoiled natural beauty of Altea’s coastline.
8. Enjoy even more vantage points
- Once in the old center, right on Plaza Iglesia, you can enjoy the view called Mirador de los Cronistas de España. From here you have a beautiful view of the Sierra Helada Natural Park;
- Mirador Agua Park is located in the center, a little hidden among the narrow streets. No this is not a water park. It is a square with a large (stairway) stand, from there you have a beautiful view with Sierra de Bernia in the background ;
- In a little square on the edge of the center of Altea stands the historic landmark Glorieta del Manyo. This spot offers great views and if you go to eat at Restaurante Casa Vital you can sit on the terrace in the square.
Nature & adventure in Altea
9. Hike through the Mascarat Gorge
The impressive Mascarat Gorge forms the natural boundary between Altea and Calpe. The perpendicular limestone walls here shoot up more than a hundred meters.
A walk through the dry riverbed takes you deep into the narrow spectacular passageways. Look up and you will see the three superimposed bridges from different eras.
Note! The trail is rocky and uneven. Put on sturdy hiking boots for good grip and injury prevention.
10. Engage in sports in Altea
Altea offers many opportunities for sports.For example, Altea has very extensive sports facilities in the sports complex Palau d’Esports. Here, among other sports activities take place including gymnastics and synchronized swimming. Next to the sports complex are also 2 soccer fields, 1 field with natural grass and 1 field with artificial grass.
Of course, Altea is suitable for outdoor sports. Altea’s roads make it a great area for cyclists, with breathtaking landscapes. If you want to rent a (racing) bike you can go to several bike rental companies.
The sea offers a variety of offerings: including zeiling, paddling, surfing, kayaking and diving. And looking towards the mountain, you can join excursions or climbs in the Sierra de Bernia and the Sierra Gelada.
Altea also has a beautiful golf course. The Altea Golf Club is one of the few clubs in the area that is owned by its members, but still welcomes visitors to play on the course at any time, subject to availability.
Altea also has 2 tennis clubs. Club de Tenis Altea Hills with 8 tennis courts and also a swimming pool and gym. In line with the port of Altea lies Club de Tenis Altea with 6 tennis courts and 3 padel courts.
11. Visit the Russian Orthodox church in Altea
At the foot of the mountains, at the entrance to the luxury villa district of Altea Hills, lies the fairytale church of San Miguel Arcángel, the first of its kind on the Spanish mainland.
Constructed entirely of wooden logs from the Ural Mountains, this unusual structure is a surprising contrast to the modern architecture of the surrounding Beverly Hills of the Costa Blanca.
For a small fee at the entrance, you will receive a beeswax candle to light in peace. The interplay of its unique wood architecture, mystical atmosphere and peaceful garden makes this replica of a 17th-century church a special place of interest just outside the center of Altea.
Events & culture in Altea
12. Castell de l’Olla (fireworks show).
This is one of the most famous fireworks events on the Costa Blanca and takes place annually in August around the day of San Lorenzo.
The spectacle is fired entirely from platforms in the sea, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to the beaches and promenade for a unique view of the water.
13. Balconades d’Altea
From July to January, an outdoor exhibition of painted canvases hung from the balconies of houses changes the street scene.
This artistic tradition begins in the streets of the old center of Altea and often spreads to other surrounding municipalities in the region during this period.
14. Gastronomic events
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May: with La Ruta de la Tapa, the city is dedicated to this culinary route where different bars and restaurants present a unique tapa. Visitors can follow a set route along the participating locations to learn about both traditional and modern bites of local cuisine in an approachable way;
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June: during Ruta de Desayunos y Almuerzos, the focus is breakfast at various restaurants in Altea and Altea la Vella. Participating entrepreneurs serve dishes specially created for this route and offered outside the regular menu;
- October: during the month of October, local restaurants are organizing Cocina Internacional focusing on dishes from world cuisine. Each participating restaurant prepares a dish from a specific country, allowing visitors to discover international flavors from countries such as Peru, Mexico, Norway or Austria;
- October: on Oct. 25, DÃa del Comercio Local highlights the importance of the town’ s independent retailers and entrepreneurs. This day aims to support the local economy and encourage visitors to do their shopping at Altea’s authentic specialty stores and local entrepreneurs.
15. Special holidays in Altea
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August: Castell de l’Olla, a world-famous fireworks spectacle fired entirely from pontoons in the sea off the coast of Playa de la Olla on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026;
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September: Fiestas Mayores, Altea’ s main festival in honor of the SantÃsimo Cristo del Sagrario and the Virgen del Consuelo with religious processions, concerts and sports activities from Sept. 26 to 30, 2026;
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September: Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians), a colorful spectacle with impressive parades and reenactments of historic battles on Saturday, Sept. 27, and Monday, Sept. 29, 2026;
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September: RomerÃa de la Virgen del Consuelo, a traditional pilgrimage that serves as the solemn conclusion of the week of festivities on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2026.
16. Visit a museum in Altea
Altea has 3 museums that focus on local festivals and art:
- The Museu de la Festa Moros i Cristians displays a collection of costumes and objects from the Moros y Cristianos-feasts and;
- The Fundación Eberhard Schlotter is dedicated to the paintings and engravings of German artist Eberhard Schlotter, who lived and worked in the city;
- As a historical monument, the remains of the medieval water mill Molà de Bellaguarda can be seen in the old center.
Things to do from Altea
17. To the lighthouse in Albir
The Faro del Albir is a landmark on the edge of the Sierra Helada Natural Park that offers spectacular panoramic views of the bay of Altea and its surroundings.
The walk on the paved path along the cliffs is a popular activity that takes you along the rugged coastline to the still active lighthouse.
It is highly recommended(!) to plan this hike early in the morning so that you can enjoy a sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea during the hike.
Tip: Read more about the Albir lighthouse
18. Visit the Open Air Museum in Albir
Museo al Aire Libre Villa Romana de l’Albir is an open-air museum which shows the remains of an ancient Roman villa.
The museum offers an interesting insight into the history of the region. It is free to visit and it is even possible to watch a short 3D film.
19. Walk along the waterfalls of Algar
The Algar waterfalls are a popular destination for day trips. Located about a 20-minute drive from Altea, the waterfalls offer refreshing baths and a beautiful walk through nature.
Tip: read more about the Algar waterfalls
20. Climb the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe
The ascent of the Peñon de Ifach offers a sporting challenge with the reward of panoramic views of Sierra Helada, Albir, Benidorm, Altea, Calpe and Benissa.
The nature park features trails that vary in difficulty, with the route becoming more adventurous after the tunnel for the experienced hiker.
At the summit, you experience a unique sense of freedom over 300 meters above the Mediterranean Sea.
21. Exploring the Costa Blanca with a baby carriage tour
Experience an off-road adventure on a baby carriage tour along the Costa Blanca from Altea. Get ready to conquer challenging terrain, navigate winding paths between trees and climb slopes.
Nice places in the surroundings of Altea
22. El Castell de Guadalest: (about a 30-minute drive away).
Located atop a mountain, this village offers spectacular views of an azure blue reservoir and a green, hilly landscape. The castle of Guadalest is a highlight, as are the old streets and the various museums you’ll find here.
23. Calpe: (about a 20-minute drive away).
Calpe is characterized by the Peñón de Ifach, a huge rock rising from the sea. You can climb this rock for a great view. In addition, Calpe has a cozy center and beautiful beaches where you can relax.
24. Jávea (Xà bia): (about a 45-minute drive away).
Jávea is a diverse destination with both mountains and beaches. It is divided into three parts: the old town with its narrow streets, the port where the fishing boats come in, and the beach area. It is well worth visiting the Cabo de la Nao, the easternmost tip of Spain.
25. Benidorm: (about a 15-minute drive away)
Benidorm is known for its tall buildings, beaches and vibrant nightlife. But there is more to Benidorm than that! You can stroll along the promenade, enjoy the view from the Balcón del Mediterráneo, and visit the old town with its narrow streets and the church of San Jaime.
26. Villajoyosa: (about a 30-minute drive)
This colorful town is known for its chocolate factories. You can take a guided tour at Valor Chocolates and, of course, taste the delicious chocolate. Villajoyosa also has a beautiful coastline with colorful cottages.
Question & answer (FAQ)
Wat zijn de belangrijkste bezienswaardigheden in Altea?
De belangrijkste bezienswaardigheden in Altea zijn de kerk met de blauwe koepels (Nuestra Señora del Consuelo), het historische oude centrum (Casco Antiguo), de lange wandelboulevard en de Russisch-Orthodoxe kerk net buiten het centrum. Daarnaast zijn de diverse uitkijkpunten (miradors) over de baai van Altea absolute hoogtepunten voor bezoekers.
Wanneer is de wekelijkse markt in Altea?
De wekelijkse markt in Altea vindt elke dinsdagochtend plaats van ongeveer 08:00 tot 14:00 uur. De Mercadillo de Altea wordt gehouden op de grote parkeerplaats aan de Cami de l’Algar. Op deze uitgebreide markt in Altea, gelegen nabij het sportcentrum, vind je een grote verscheidenheid aan kraampjes met kleding, tassen, schoenen en natuurlijk allerlei soorten eten.
Kun je de kerk met de blauwe koepels in Altea bezoeken?
Ja, de kerk Nuestra Señora del Consuelo is dagelijks geopend voor bezoekers, mits er geen actieve kerkdienst plaatsvindt. De toegang is gratis, al wordt een kleine vrijwillige bijdrage voor het onderhoud gewaardeerd.
Is parkeren in de oude stad van Altea gratis?
Ja, je kunt gratis parkeren op de grote parkeerplaats genaamd Palau Altea, die zich op loopafstand van het kerkplein en de oude stad bevindt. Daarnaast kent de naar beneden lopende weg veel aftakken met meer extra gratis parkeerplekken. In de smalle straatjes van het centrum zelf is parkeren vrijwel onmogelijk en vaak alleen toegestaan voor vergunninghouders.
Wat is het mooiste uitkijkpunt in Altea?
Het mooiste uitkijkpunt is de Mirador de los Cronistas de España, direct naast het kerkplein in de oude stad. Vanaf hier heb je een panoramisch uitzicht over de kustlijn van Altea, Albir en het natuurpark Sierra Helada.
Wat maakt de oude stad van Altea anders dan andere kustplaatsen?
De oude stad van Altea, het Casco Antiguo, onderscheidt zich door haar strikte behoud van de Moorse architectuur en het verbod op hoogbouw. Waar veel badplaatsen aan de Costa Blanca zijn gemoderniseerd met appartementencomplexen, heeft Altea haar karakter behouden met witgekalkte huizen en smalle, kronkelende straatjes.
Is Altea een geschikte bestemming voor liefhebbers van rust en natuur?
Ja, Altea is een ideale uitvalsbasis voor natuurliefhebbers dankzij de ligging tussen de Middellandse Zee en de omliggende bergketens. Naast de bekende stranden biedt het achterland directe toegang tot wandelroutes in de Sierra de Bernia en het natuurpark Sierra Helada.
Hoe is de lokale keuken in Altea?
De gastronomie in Altea is diep geworteld in de mediterrane traditie, met een sterke focus op lokale producten uit zowel de zee als het vruchtbare achterland. De stad organiseert regelmatig culinaire evenementen waarbij specifieke thema's, zoals tapas of internationale gerechten, centraal staan.
Waarom is de ligging van Altea zo gunstig voor het verkennen van de regio?
Door de centrale ligging aan de N-332 en nabij de snelweg fungeert Altea als de perfecte 'poort' naar zowel de kust als het bergachtige binnenland. Binnen een straal van 30 minuten rijd je naar beroemde trekpleisters zoals de watervallen van Algar, het bergdorp Guadalest of de omliggende badplaatsen zoals Calpe en Villajoyosa.
Is Altea meer een culturele bestemming of een badplaats voor ontspanning?
Altea biedt een unieke combinatie waarbij de historische cultuur van het oude centrum en de moderne ontspanning aan de kustlijn elkaar perfect aanvullen. Waar veel Spaanse badplaatsen puur gericht zijn op zon en zee, behoudt Altea haar identiteit door de actieve kunstenaarsscene en traditionele feesten. Tegelijkertijd biedt de volledig vernieuwde boulevard en de nabijheid van luxe jachthavens zoals Marina Greenwich alle faciliteiten voor een strandvakantie.
More tips for your visit to Altea
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Publication date:
16 January 2026
Publication date: 16 January 2026
Updated on:
20 April 2026
Updated on: 20 April 2026
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Your signpost on the Costa Blanca
Hi! My name is Rick, initiator of CostaBlanca.nl and the free App. Since 2015 I can be found on the Costa Blanca on a monthly basis.
With this online platform I make as much as possible relevant information and tips about places on the Costa Blanca insightful and clear. The texts are exclusively written by myself. The photos and videos are made by me.
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