A short 18-minute drive or 12-minute bus ride from Benidorm's party scene takes you to Altea, a town on the Costa Blanca often compared to the Greek island of Mykonos. Known for its winding cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, Altea offers a tranquil alternative to Benidorm's bustling nightlife.
Altea's Old Quarter and Landmarks
Altea's old quarter, considered one of Spain's most iconic, transports visitors back in time. The parish church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo (Iglesia de Arriba), sits on a hilltop and offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the beach below. Wandering the alleys, tourists encounter the aromas of coffee and food from local cafés and restaurants.
Influencer Praise and Visitor Reactions
Alice, a TikTok influencer with over 37,000 followers, visited Altea and called it a must-see. Her video racked up more than 17,900 likes. She said: "Hidden gem only 15 mins from Benidorm! ... It's an absolute MUST see if you're looking to escape for an afternoon to see some of the best views on the entire Costa Blanca."
One visitor commented: "I went there in December. Very nice." Another noted: "There are stunning restaurants and bars. It's not Benidorm. They may be close but they are worlds apart. Altea is beautiful." A third wrote: "It's simply a stunning old and new town." One called it their "favourite place of all time," while another added Altea to their bucket list, saying: "Definitely heading here.. never knew it was so close."
Travel Information
Flights from the UK to Alicante start from as little as £40. From Alicante, travelers can take a bus, taxi, or tram to Benidorm, a journey of about 40 minutes by road.
