Living in Altea
Altea stands as one of Costa Blanca's most enchanting destinations, a picturesque coastal town where artistic soul meets Mediterranean sophistication. Instantly recognizable by its iconic blue-domed c
2 New Builds
From €1,760,000
Costa Blanca Central
Spain
4 Golf Courses Nearby
Alicante-Elche
45-60 minutes
Why People Choose Altea
Life in Altea moves at a relaxed Mediterranean pace where morning coffee at a plaza café and evening paseos along the promenade define the daily rhythm. The town's artistic soul is evident everywhere—in the numerous galleries throughout the old quarter, impromptu street performances, cultural exhibitions, and the creative energy that permeates the community. Locals and international residents mingle freely at the weekly market, cultural events, and community gatherings that celebrate both Valencian traditions and international heritage.
The international community in Altea is sophisticated, culturally engaged, and well-established, comprising British, German, Dutch, Scandinavian, and French residents who have created a welcoming network of social clubs, hobby groups, and charitable organizations. Many residents are drawn by the town's creative energy—it's genuinely home to numerous artists, writers, musicians, and designers who contribute to a vibrant cultural scene. The pace of life allows for long lunches, sunset yacht trips, spontaneous cultural events, and meaningful social connections. This is a community that values quality over quantity, appreciates fine art and good conversation, and seeks authentic Mediterranean living executed with sophistication.
At a Glance
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Club de Golf Don Cayo
Championship parkland course with excellent facilities and dramatic mountain views
Beaches in Altea
Altea's beaches are among the most picturesque on the Costa Blanca, featuring pebble sand backed by dramatic cliffs and the distinctive church dome. Playa de la Roda, the main beach, stretches along the town center with Blue Flag status and excellent facilities. Cap Negret offers a more intimate setting near the historic lighthouse with stunning views and calm waters ideal for swimmers. The smaller Playa del Bol Nou provides another charming alternative with peaceful surroundings. All beaches feature excellent facilities, water sports equipment rentals, and beachfront restaurants.
Playa de la RodaMain beach with soft sand, Blue Flag status, and excellent facilities
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Cap NegretScenic pebble beach near the lighthouse with crystal waters and dramatic cliffs
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Playa del Bol NouSmaller cove beach ideal for swimmers seeking calm waters and intimate settings
View on Google Maps → →Golf Near Altea
Altea is perfectly positioned for golf enthusiasts with multiple championship courses within easy reach. Club de Golf Don Cayo and the prestigious Altea Golf Club offer stunning mountain and sea views, while several courses in nearby Benidorm and Calpe are within 15 minutes. Golfers enjoy playing on exceptional layouts while enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
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Club de Golf Don Cayo
18 holes • 5 km
Championship parkland course with excellent facilities and dramatic mountain views
Altea Golf Club
18 holes • 8 km
Prestigious course with challenging layout, stunning sea and mountain views
Ifach Golf Club
18 holes • 10 km
Prestigious course near Calpe with views of the iconic Peñón de Ifach
Las Rejas Golf Club
18 holes • 12 km
Championship course with well-maintained fairways and Mediterranean backdrop
Properties in Altea
New build developments in Altea offer modern Mediterranean homes with communal or private pools, quality finishes, and excellent value. From apartments to luxury villas, there are options for every budget and lifestyle.
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Experience the authentic flavors of Altea — from traditional tapas bars to fresh local markets bursting with Mediterranean produce.
Dining
Altea's culinary scene is exceptional, blending traditional Valencian cuisine with international sophistication. The old town harbors intimate restaurants serving locally-caught seafood and authentic paella, while the port area offers upscale dining with marina views. Notable establishments include Oustau de Altea for fine dining, La Costera for traditional Spanish fare, and numerous beachfront chiringuitos for casual meals with sea views. The town's thriving artistic community has attracted innovative chefs and restaurateurs, creating a dining scene that punches above its weight. Wine selection emphasizes Spanish regional varieties and international choices.
Healthcare
Altea benefits from excellent healthcare facilities, including the modern Hospital Clínica Benidorm just 15 minutes away and the larger Hospital Marina Baixa in nearby Villajoyosa. The town has several private clinics with English-speaking doctors serving the international community. Many healthcare professionals have trained internationally and specifically cater to expatriate patients. Dentistry is exceptional with numerous English-speaking practitioners offering high-quality care at reasonable costs. EU residents access the Spanish public healthcare system.
Transport
Altea enjoys excellent road connections via the AP-7 autopista and scenic N-332 coastal road, providing easy access to major cities. Benidorm is just 10 km away (15 minutes), Calpe is 8 km (12 minutes), and Denia is 25 km (30 minutes). Valencia lies 120 km north via excellent highways, while Alicante is 65 km south. Local driving is straightforward, though the old town's narrow streets require careful navigation. Alicante Airport is approximately 70 km away (45-60 minutes drive). The TRAM light rail system connects nearby towns to Alicante.
Shopping
Shopping in Altea combines charming boutiques and galleries with practical amenities. The old town's winding streets harbor artisan shops, design studios, antique dealers, and galleries showcasing local artists' works. The weekly Tuesday market offers fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade goods. Modern supermarkets including Mercadona and Consum provide daily essentials. For extended shopping, La Marina Shopping Center is just 10 minutes away, while Benidorm's larger centers offer additional options. The emphasis on artisan and unique items makes Altea shopping an experience rather than a chore.
Property Market in Altea
Altea's property market represents the premium segment of Costa Blanca real estate, characterized by sustained demand from international buyers prioritizing luxury coastal living. The market has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with properties often appreciating due to limited supply and consistent demand from affluent European buyers seeking quality and exclusivity. Current inventory consists primarily of high-end villas with sea views, reflecting the town's established status as an upmarket destination.
Property values have shown steady appreciation driven by the combination of architectural charm, natural beauty, artistic heritage, and limited developable land. Strict planning regulations help maintain Altea's character while protecting property values. Villas with panoramic sea views, privacy, and access to cultural amenities command premium prices. The rental market performs well for high-end properties, with affluent tourists seeking luxury accommodations willing to pay premium rates. The combination of limited supply, strong international demand, and Altea's reputation as a sophisticated destination creates excellent investment fundamentals.
Properties here attract serious buyers prioritizing lifestyle quality, cultural engagement, and capital appreciation—this is a market for those seeking Mediterranean living executed at the highest levels.
Property Investment in Altea
Altea represents a sophisticated investment opportunity for those seeking both capital appreciation and luxury lifestyle. Rental demand from affluent tourists seeking high-end accommodations drives strong yields, while limited supply and Altea's reputation ensure steady property appreciation. The combination of exclusivity, artistic character, and international appeal creates exceptional long-term value.
🇪🇸Spain Property Market 2025
Spain remains one of Europe's most attractive property markets for international buyers. Post-pandemic demand has driven sustained price growth, particularly in coastal regions. The Costa Blanca Central benefits from excellent infrastructure, established expat communities, and year-round appeal.
+42%
5-Year Growth
38%
Foreign Buyers
45
Days on Market
📍Altea & Costa Blanca South
Regional Trends
Costa Blanca South has seen 8-12% annual price growth since 2021. The region offers exceptional value compared to the Northern Costa Blanca while providing the same climate, beaches and lifestyle.
Local Developments
Altea continues to attract new development from established Spanish builders. Infrastructure improvements and growing international demand enhance the area's appeal.
Future Outlook
Altea is positioned for continued growth with strong international demand and limited new supply. The extended season and established community support long-term property values.
💰Price Guide by Property Type
| Type | Price Range | Average | Trend (12mo) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Villa | €1,496,000 - €2,024,000 | €1,760,000 | 📈+4% |
| Apartment | €1,891,250 - €2,558,750 | €2,225,000 | 📈+6% |
| Townhouse | €2,286,500 - €3,093,500 | €2,690,000 | 📈+8% |
* Prices based on new build properties. Data updated monthly.
🏠Rental Returns
Short-Term (Holiday)
4-6%
Gross annual yield
Long-Term Rental
2-4%
Gross annual yield
Average Occupancy
65-80%
Golf season extends demand
📊How Altea Compares
| Area | Avg. Price (3-bed villa) | Rental Yield | Beach | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Altea(This area) | €420,000 | 4.8% | 5 min | 60 min |
| Jávea | €550,000 | 4.5% | 5 min | 90 min |
| Calpe | €380,000 | 5.2% | 5 min | 75 min |
| Moraira | €650,000 | 4% | 5 min | 85 min |
Strong demand from affluent tourists for luxury accommodations
Limited supply supporting steady appreciation and exclusivity
Prestigious reputation attracting discerning international buyers
Rental income from high-end clientele willing to pay premium rates
Stable long-term capital appreciation due to character and supply constraints
Cost of Living in Altea
Altea's cost of living is higher than average Spanish coastal towns, reflecting its upmarket status and exclusive positioning. Restaurant meals, property services, and boutique shopping command premium prices, though still considerably less expensive than equivalent Northern European locations. Grocery costs are similar to other Costa Blanca towns when shopping at supermarkets.
Groceries (monthly, couple)
€320-420
Mercadona, Consum, and Lidl provide competitive pricing; local markets excellent value
Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
€140-200
Higher in summer with air conditioning; winter heating minimal
Community fees
€80-200
Varies by property; villa fees lower than some apartment developments
IBI (Council tax)
€2000-5000/year
Annual property tax based on cadastral value; luxury villas higher
Dining out (per person)
€18-35
Menu del día €13-18; international/fine dining €30-60; premium establishments higher
Golf green fees
€55-100
Don Cayo and Altea Golf courses; membership discounts available
Internet & Phone
€45-70
Excellent fiber optic coverage; multiple provider competition
Car expenses (fuel, insurance)
€200-300
Essential for regional exploration and daily living
Entertainment (galleries, shows, activities)
€80-150
Gallery visits often free or minimal entry; events variable pricing
Healthcare (private insurance)
€80-150
EU residents access public system; private supplementary insurance recommended
Beer (per half-liter)
€2.00-3.50
Bars €3.00-4.50; supermarkets cheaper; premium venues charge more
Wine (bottle)
€7-20
Spanish wines excellent value; imported/premium wines more expensive
Budget Summary for a Couple
Comfortable Living
€1,500-2,000/month
Excluding mortgage/rent
Including Activities
€1,800-2,500/month
Dining, sports, social
vs. Northern Europe
30-40% less
Lower taxes, food, dining
A Day in Altea
A Typical Day in Altea
Morning Coffee & Old Town Stroll
Start the day with coffee at a plaza café in the whitewashed old town, watching the blue dome church glow in morning light
Gallery Visit or Beach Walk
Explore local galleries featuring artists' work, or take a scenic walk along the pebble beach with Mediterranean views
Leisurely Lunch
Enjoy fresh seafood at a marina restaurant or traditional Spanish dish at an old town establishment, appreciating local cuisine
Siesta & Cultural Activity
Rest during the afternoon heat, then visit a gallery opening, attend an artist's studio session, or simply relax at your villa
Golf or Mountain Activity
Play at Don Cayo or Altea Golf Clubs, or hike Sierra de Bernia trails enjoying panoramic views
Evening Paseo
Walk through the old town, greeting friends and neighbors while watching the sunset illuminate the church dome
Dinner & Entertainment
Enjoy fine dining at a marina restaurant, traditional Spanish tapas, or international cuisine with wine and meaningful conversation
Evening Cultural Activity
Attend a jazz performance, art opening, theatrical production, or simply enjoy stargazing from your terrace
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Find Your Home in AlteaSchools Near Altea
While Altea itself has limited international school options, the surrounding area offers excellent educational choices for families, with prestigious British, international, and Spanish schools within accessible distances.
Laude Lady Elizabeth School
International (British)
Long-established British international school with primary and secondary campuses, strong university placement record, and comprehensive facilities
Colegio Público Altea
Spanish State
Local Spanish primary school serving the community with strong academics and cultural integration opportunities
Academia Bilingüe Altea
Private (Bilingual)
Private school with English and Spanish instruction, smaller classes, and emphasis on cultural and artistic development
Elian's British School
International (British)
Prestigious British curriculum school with excellent facilities and experienced staff familiar with expatriate families
Colegio Secundario Marina Alta
Spanish State
Spanish secondary school offering quality education with support for international families
Events & Fiestas in Altea
Altea celebrates a vibrant calendar of cultural events, artistic exhibitions, and traditional Spanish festivals throughout the year, reflecting the town's rich heritage and creative community.
April-May
Art & Culture Festival
Celebration of local and international artists featuring gallery exhibitions, street performances, sculpture installations, and cultural performances throughout the old town
April
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Religious processions blending Spanish tradition with local custom, featuring elaborate floats and community participation creating solemn and meaningful atmosphere
July-August
Jazz in Altea
International jazz festival featuring world-class musicians performing at venues throughout town, attracting music lovers from across Europe
June-September
Summer Art Exhibitions
Rotating gallery exhibitions showcasing international and Spanish artists, with openings featuring receptions and cultural celebrations
August
Altea Fiesta Mayor
Traditional patron saint celebration with parades, music, fireworks, traditional dances, and street celebrations lasting several days
September-October
International Film Festival
Screening of independent and international films at various venues, attracting cinephiles and creative professionals
December
Christmas Market & Festival
Festive season with artisan market, holiday lights, nativity scenes, carol performances, and special dining events at restaurants
Local Markets
Altea's markets blend local traditions with the cosmopolitan flair of an artistic community. The weekly Tuesday market showcases fresh produce alongside artisan goods and crafts from local creators, making it both a practical shopping experience and a cultural immersion.
Altea Saturday Market
08:00 - 14:00 • In town centre drive
Saturday artisan market featuring local artists, craftspeople, and fresh produce. Reflects Altea's artistic heritage with creative items alongside traditional market goods.
📍 Get DirectionsAltea Old Town Market
08:00 - 14:00 • Old Town Centre drive
Charming weekly market in the historic old town with fresh local produce, regional specialties, and artisan goods. Locals and visitors browse beneath the iconic blue dome.
📍 Get DirectionsBenidorm Wednesday Market
08:00 - 14:00 • 10 km (15 minutes) drive
Large comprehensive market in nearby Benidorm featuring extensive fresh produce, fish, clothing, and household items at competitive prices.
📍 Get DirectionsExpat Community in Altea
Altea hosts a sophisticated and culturally engaged international community, characterized by British, German, Dutch, Scandinavian, and French residents who share appreciation for artistic expression, quality of life, and authentic Mediterranean living. The community is welcoming, well-organized, and provides excellent support networks for those seeking a refined expatriate lifestyle.
International Community
Community Highlights
Nature & Activities
Altea's exceptional setting combines stunning coastal beauty with mountain scenery and cultural activities, offering diverse outdoor and indoor experiences for active lifestyles.
Golf
Beaches
Sailing
Old TownsSierra de Bernia Hiking
HikingDramatic mountain range providing challenging trails with panoramic views of the coast and interior—popular with experienced hikers and walkers
Playa de la Roda & Cap Negret Swimming
BeachPicturesque pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying Mediterranean scenery
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Water SportsClear Mediterranean waters around Altea offer exceptional diving with underwater reefs, caves, and marine life—several dive centers provide instruction
Gallery Visits & Art Walking Tours
CulturalThe old town harbors numerous galleries and artists' studios offering insights into the creative process and local artistic heritage
Golf at Championship Courses
GolfDon Cayo Golf Club (5 min) and Altea Golf Club (8 min) offer championship play with Mediterranean and mountain views
Marina Yacht Sailing
Water SportsAltea's marina hosts sailing clubs and charter companies offering day sails, sunset cruises, and sailing courses
Coastal Cycling Routes
CyclingScenic coastal paths connecting Altea to nearby towns with varying difficulty levels and Mediterranean views
Cultural Events & Performances
CulturalRegular jazz performances, theatrical productions, film screenings, and cultural events throughout the year celebrating arts and creativity
Altea Area Map
Explore what's nearby. Click on markers to see distances, details, and directions.
All Locations (14)
Cap Negret
Scenic pebble beach near the lighthouse with crystal waters and dramatic cliffs
Playa del Bol Nou
Smaller cove beach ideal for swimmers seeking calm waters and intimate settings
Club de Golf Don Cayo
5 km
Championship parkland course with excellent facilities and dramatic mountain views
Altea Golf Club
8 km
Prestigious course with challenging layout, stunning sea and mountain views
Ifach Golf Club
10 km
Prestigious course near Calpe with views of the iconic Peñón de Ifach
Las Rejas Golf Club
12 km
Championship course with well-maintained fairways and Mediterranean backdrop
Laude Lady Elizabeth School
20 min (Jávea)
Long-established British international school with primary and secondary campuses, strong university placement record, and comprehensive facilities
Colegio Público Altea
5 min
Local Spanish primary school serving the community with strong academics and cultural integration opportunities
Academia Bilingüe Altea
8 min
Private school with English and Spanish instruction, smaller classes, and emphasis on cultural and artistic development
Elian's British School
25 min (La Nucía)
Prestigious British curriculum school with excellent facilities and experienced staff familiar with expatriate families
Colegio Secundario Marina Alta
10 min
Spanish secondary school offering quality education with support for international families
Guides for Buying in Altea
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