5 Most Beautiful Historic Towns on the Costa Blanca Coast
3 min read5 destinations
Valencia · Spain
Spain’s Costa Blanca coastline captivates travelers not only with its golden beaches and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Among picturesque coves and sun-drenched resorts lie charming towns where time seems to slow down.
Narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed facades, ancient fortresses, and cozy squares preserve stories that span centuries.
Each of these towns has its own unique character, atmosphere, and breathtaking views that linger in your memory long after your visit.
Take a few days to explore these remarkable places and discover the true soul of the Costa Blanca.
Altea Old Town
Altea — the white pearl of Costa Blanca!
Altea is considered one of the most beautiful towns in the region. Its historic center is located on a hill, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline. Narrow cobbled streets, white houses with flowers on the balconies, and the famous church with its blue dome create the atmosphere of a true Mediterranean fairy tale.
What to see: • Old Town of Altea • Nuestra Señora del Consuelo Church • Viewpoints of the historic center • Seafront promenade • Art galleries and craft shops
La Vila Joiosa
La Vila Joiosa — the town of colorful houses.
La Vila Joiosa is instantly recognizable by its bright façades lined along the seafront. According to legend, fishermen painted their houses in different colors so they could spot them from the sea when returning home. Today, it is one of the most photogenic towns on the coast.
What to see: • Old quarter with colorful houses • Centro Beach • Historic city walls • La Vila Joiosa promenade • Valor Chocolate Museum
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Calp
Calp — history at the foot of the famous rock!
The town of Calp is known for the majestic Peñón de Ifach rock, which has become a symbol of the Costa Blanca. However, many tourists do not realize that the old town of Calp is just as interesting as its beaches. Here you can find medieval streets, ancient churches, and cozy squares.
What to see: • Old town of Calp • Viewpoints on the Peñón de Ifach rock • Fishing port • Church of Virgen de las Nieves • Ruins of Roman baths
Denia
Dénia — the city of castles and sailors!
Dénia is located between the sea and the mountains and has a rich history connected to the Romans, Arabs, and maritime trade. Its main landmark is the ancient castle overlooking the city.
What to see: • Dénia Castle • Baix la Mar historic quarter • Fish market • Marina and yacht harbor • Archaeological museum
Guadalest
Guadalest — an impregnable medieval fortress in the mountains!
Although Guadalest is not located directly on the coast, it is often included among the most beautiful places on the Costa Blanca. This small fortress town sits on top of a cliff and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the province of Alicante.
What to see: • Castle of San José • Medieval gates carved into the rock • Panoramic viewpoints • Turquoise Guadalest Reservoir • Museums of miniatures and antique collections
Four of these towns line up along the coast and Guadalest sits up in the hills, so two unhurried days by car cover them: the seafront stretch (La Vila Joiosa, Altea, Calp, Denia) one day, and the climb to Guadalest the next. Come in spring or autumn, since summer brings heat and tour-bus crowds to Altea's old town and Guadalest by midday. Start early, park below the old centres and walk up, and leave time for a long lunch.
