'Hidden' coastal city that's stone's throw from Benidorm is 'just like Mykonos'
Benidorm is a top holiday destination for Brits, with its cheap prices, sunny weather and the famous Calle Gerona - best known as 'the strip', but there's a hidden gem nearby
Benidorm is a popular British tourist hotspot known for its sunshine, bargain deals, and the renowned 'the strip' on Calle Gerona. But while you're likely to encounter lively stag and hen parties along the main drag, Benidorm also harbours many stunning, lesser-known gems.
For those holidaymakers looking to escape the party atmosphere, there's a delightful little town just a stone's throw from Benidorm. Despite being only minutes away, it offers a tranquil contrast to the party atmosphere for travellers, drawing comparisons to the idyllic beauty of Mykonos.
Hop into a car for an 18-minute journey or catch a 12-minute bus from Benidorm Intermodal station and you'll arrive at the charming haven of Altea, Alicante.
Touted as one of Spain 's "most iconic" towns, Altea is akin to stepping into a fairytale past with its winding cobbled lanes and radiant white houses.
Meandering through Altea's old town, your senses are greeted by the inviting scents of coffee from local cafés and delicacies from cosy eateries.
Visitors are frequently captivated by the stunning parish church, formally named Nuestra Señora del Consuelo or more commonly called Iglesia de Arriba, and the breathtaking views of shimmering seas and vast beaches beyond it.
Alice, an online influencer who shares Benidorm's hidden treasures and her top picks, recommends adding Altea to any traveller's itinerary.
The TikTok creator, with an audience of more than 37,000 followers, recently took in the sights of Altea. She saied: "Hidden gem only 15 mins from Benidorm!
"Maybe Altea isn't a hidden gem for those in the know, but the way you could lowkey be just 15 mins away from this gorgeous slice of history and culture while on your holibobs in Benidorm!"
The travel fan added: "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. It's giving cheeky altea day trip, don't you think?"
The brief video has already racked up over 16,300 likes and a host of positive comments.
One visitor said: "I went there in December. Very nice." Another said: "There are stunning restaurants and bars. It's not Benidorm. They may be close but they are worlds apart. Altea is beautiful."
Another person commented: "It's simply a stunning old and new town." Meanwhile, another user hailed it as their "fave place of all time".
Another added it to their must-visit destinations, saying: "Definitely heading here.. never knew it was so close."
Flights from the UK to Alicante are available from just £40. From there, you can hop on a bus, grab a taxi, or catch a tram to Benidorm, which should take about 40 minutes by road.
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