How to get from Alicante to Altea: a quick summary
You basically have two real options to cover these 57 kilometers: car or bus. If you are in a hurry and want a hassle-free trip, the direct bus is your best bet; but if you prefer stopping to photograph hidden coves or enjoying a coffee with sea views, do not hesitate to rent a car. Although trains operate in the province, they do not offer a practical connection to Altea, so forget about Renfe for this specific route. My personal recommendation: choose a car if you are traveling as a couple or group and want to explore the coast afterwards; take the bus if you are traveling alone, without luggage, and prioritize economy and simplicity.
Driving from Alicante to Altea
The driving route is straightforward but has its nuances. You have two clear options: the AP-7 (toll motorway) or the N-332 (coastal national road). The AP-7 takes you out of Alicante to the north, passing through the Campello toll booth (approximately €4.50, varying by vehicle type), and you will be in Altea in 35–40 minutes, depending on traffic entering the town. It is fast, yes, but boring if you are looking for views.
If you have time, take the N-332 from the start or exit via the N-340 and connect. This road winds along the sea, passing through El Campello, Villajoyosa, and Benidorm before reaching Altea. The journey takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic, which is particularly heavy when passing through Benidorm (avoid peak hours from 8:00 to 9:30 and from 17:00 to 19:00).
Local driver tips: in summer, access to Altea via the N-332 gets congested on Saturday mornings (tourist arrivals) and Sunday afternoons (departures). Use exit 65 of the AP-7 if heading to the Old Town (Casco Antiguo), or exit 63 if going to the l’Olla beach area. For parking in Altea, forget about driving into the historic center; instead, leave your vehicle at the municipal car park on Avenida de la Estación or at the La Roda beach parking lot and walk up to the Old Town.
If you need a break along the way, the La Marina Service Area on the AP-7 offers good facilities, or make a technical stop at the port of Villajoyosa, where there are cafés with terraces overlooking the sea.
Taking the train from Alicante to Altea
Let’s be clear: there is no direct train between Alicante and Altea. The TRAM (trenet) Commuter line reaches Benidorm (Line L9 from Alicante-Luceros), but from there you would need to take a city bus or a taxi to cover the final 12 kilometers to Altea. The TRAM journey to Benidorm takes about 70 minutes and costs around €3–4, but adding the transfer and waiting time eliminates any advantage over the direct bus.
My advice: unless you live in the area and have a transport pass, forget this option for getting directly to Altea. It is more cumbersome than practical.
Taking the bus from Alicante to Altea
ALSA operates the interurban coastal line connecting Alicante with Altea, with more than 10 daily services and a duration of 1h 05min to 1h 15min depending on stops. The ticket costs around €4–8.
If you are already in Benidorm, another option is local line 010 by Avanza (formerly Llorente Bus), which connects Benidorm with Altea via Albir. Also remember that TRAM Line L1 covers the same corridor with higher frequency, albeit more slowly.
Recommended stops along the way
If you’re driving and have half a day to spare, these three essential stops will enrich your journey:
Villajoyosa (La Vila Joiosa)
About 25 minutes from Alicante, this fishing village is famous for its pastel-colored facades facing the sea. It’s worth wandering through the old quarter, seeing the harbor with its beached boats, and, if you love chocolate, visiting the Valor factory-museum. Allow about 2 hours if you stop for breakfast there, or one hour just to stroll and take photos.
Benidorm
Loved or hated, it’s unavoidable on this route. If you decide to stop, don’t linger in the skyscraper area. Head up to the Mirador de la Cruz (you’ll need to park below and walk up for about 10 minutes) to view the bay from above, or stroll through the old town, which retains authentic corners with its whitewashed houses. Recommended time: 2–3 hours for a quick overview, or the entire afternoon if you include beach time.
Calpe
A little beyond Benidorm (via a detour off the N-332 or exit 64 of the AP-7), the Peñón de Ifach (Ifach Rock) dominates the landscape. It’s a natural park where you can hike up to the viewpoint (about a 45-minute climb) for spectacular views of the Mediterranean. The town has special charm with its old quarter and marina. Minimum time: 2 hours if you only view the rock from below and walk around the port; 4 hours if you hike up to the viewpoint.
Where to stay in Altea
Altea offers three distinct areas for accommodation:
- Old Town: Cobbled streets, uphill slopes, white houses adorned with flowers. Here you’ll find boutique hotels, charming tourist apartments, and a few small hostels. Perfect if you seek nighttime tranquility and panoramic views. Prices: budget (basic rooms or hostels) between €40 and €70; mid-range (3-star hotels or apartments) between €80 and €150; luxury (boutiques with views) from €200.
- Beach area (Altea la Vella and l’Olla): Flatter terrain with direct sea access. Vacation apartments and some beachfront hotels dominate here. It’s more touristy and noisy in summer but practical if traveling with young children. Prices are similar to the Old Town, though there’s a wider selection of weekly rental apartments.
- El Albir (bordering Altea): Technically part of Alfaz del Pi, but right next door. Pebble beach, wide promenade, and plenty of services. Ideal if you prefer resort-style comfort. Average prices are slightly higher than in central Altea.
Where to eat along the route
The province of Alicante is land of rice and fish. Along your journey you’ll find:
- Lobster rice stew (Arroz caldoso de bogavante): A specialty of the Villajoyosa and Altea area. Unlike Valencian paella, it’s broth-based and usually includes seafood. Available at harbor restaurants.
- Fried fish (Pescaíto frito): Anchovies, squid, and clams served at any beach chiringuito (beach bar) between El Campello and Altea.
- Nougat and chocolate:
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