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Best Things To Do in Villajoyosa
1. Book a Tour
One of my favourite ways to get to know a new place is by booking a guided tour, especially when it’s a smaller town filled with hidden corners and local stories you might miss on your own. A great option is a Villajoyosa and Altea day tourwhich not only gives you a deep dive into the local charm of Villajoyosa, but also takes you to the nearby town of Altea which is a whitewashed, coastal gem that’s often called the Santorini of Spain.
During the tour your local guide will share fascinating stories about the region’s history, colourful architecture and coastal culture, while taking you to the most scenic viewpoints and tucked away spots. It’s an easy, relaxed way to explore while learning something new, and trust me you’ll come back with plenty of photo ops and insider tips!
2. Wander the Colourful Casas de Colores
The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive in Villajoyosa is its kaleidoscope of pastel houses that line the seafront. These iconic, candy coloured buildings were originally painted by local fishermen so they could easily identify their homes from the sea after long days out on the water. Today they’ve become one of the most photographed spots on the Costa Blanca and it’s easy to see why!
Every alleyway is bursting with charm, from balconies draped in flowers to little cafes tucked between the houses. It’s one of those places that instantly makes you feel happy and inspired. Bring your camera (or your bestie!) because you’ll want to capture every angle of this seaside rainbow.
Top tip: Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
3. Visit the Valor Chocolate Museum
If you’re a chocolate lover like me, this stop is non-negotiable. Villajoyosa is home to Valor, one of Spain’s oldest and most famous chocolate brands, and the Valor Chocolate Museum is one of the sweetest experiences you can have here (literally!!!).
You’ll get to learn about the fascinating history of chocolate making in Spain, see how it’s produced, and of course enjoy plenty of free samples along the way. The smell alone is enough to make you fall in love.
Entry is free but tours fill up quickly so plan ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend or during the holidays.
4. Relax on the Beaches
Villajoyosa has an incredible 13 beaches to choose from, each with its own charm and vibe. My personal favourite is Playa Centro which is the main beach in town sd it’s long, sandy and lined with colourful houses, giving it that postcard backdrop. You’ll find plenty of beach bars, cafes and restaurants nearby, making it ideal for a relaxed day of sunbathing and people watching.
If you’re looking for something quieter, check out Playa del Paradís or Playa del Bol Nou, both just a short drive away. The water here is beautifully clear and calm which is perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.
Tip: Bring your beach shoes as some of the smaller coves are pebbly rather than sandy.
5. Go Horseback Riding in the Mountains
For something a little different, try horseback riding through Villajoyosa’s scenic countryside. It’s such a peaceful and memorable way to take in the region’s natural beauty with the ocean views and a calm, slow paced adventure surrounded by nature.
Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, there are routes for everyone. You can choose from a one hour, 90 minute, or two hour ride and all safety equipment is provided. Long trousers are recommended for comfort and the guides are super friendly and make you feel completely at ease.
Prices start from £35 and can be prebooked on Get Your Guide.
6. Go Kayaking Along the Coast
If you love being out on the water, you’ll definitely want to try kayaking in Villajoyosa. The coastline here is full of hidden coves, sea caves and quiet beaches that you can only access by water, making it one of the most scenic kayaking routes in the region.
You’ll paddle past dramatic cliffs, secret swimming spots and even the colourful houses from a totally different perspective. Most tours include all your gear, plus a guide who’ll show you the best routes and share local stories along the way. Even if you’re a beginner (or not a strong swimmer, like me) it’s an easy and enjoyable experience.
Prices start from £33 and can be prebooked on Get Your Guide.
Best Hotels in Villajoyosa
Hotel Servigroup Montíboli
- Set on a cliff with direct access to L’Esparrelló Beach
- Indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, sauna, Turkish baths and massage treatments
- Prices start from £167 per night
Next Level by Seaward Suites
- Modern, adults only apartments with is located just steps from Villajoyosa beach
- Some units feature terraces or balconies with sea views
- Prices start from £87 per night
Pau Suites
- Recently renovated, adults only aparthotel
- Pirces start from £68 per night
NIU Line – Be Line Group
- Recently renovated, adults only aparthotel with beachfront location
- Prices start from £68 per night
Where to Eat in Villajoyosa
One of the best parts about Villajoyosa is the food. Think fresh seafood, authentic Mediterranean flavours and plenty of local charm. Here are a few of my top picks:
T-Class – Modern Mediterranean cuisine with beautiful sea views
Restaurante Pizzería Da Marc – Great Italian spot with amazing pizzas and pastas
L’Arsenal – Perfect for casual burgers and cocktails
Gusta Pizza – Another local favourite for wood fired pizzas
Restaurante Ca Marta – Mediterranean dining by the water which is ideal for a sunset dinner.
How Many Days to Spend in Villajoyosa
You can absolutely visit Villajoyosa as a day trip from Alicante or Benidorm, but if you can I’d recommend staying at least one or two nights. That way you can enjoy the beaches in the morning, visit the Chocolate Museum, explore the colourful old town and still have time for a long, lazy dinner by the water.
The town has such a calm, authentic charm that’s best enjoyed slowly and it’s the kind of place you don’t want to rush through.
How to Get to Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is conveniently located just 32 km (20 miles) from Alicante and getting there is super easy.
✈️ By Plane: The nearest airport is Alicante-Elche (ALC) about a 35minute drive away. You can rent a car, grab a taxi or book a shuttle transfer.
🚆 By Train (TRAM): From Alicante, take TRAM Line L1 which iss a scenic coastal route that takes about 50 minutes and drops you right in town.
🚗 By Car: Villajoyosa is well connected via the AP-7 highway and takes around 30 minutes from Alicante or just 10 minutes from Benidorm.
🚌 By Bus: Regular buses run between Alicante, Benidorm and Villajoyosa operated by ALSA and local companies.
Is Villajoyosa Worth Visiting?
100% YES! Villajoyosa truly deserves its Best Hidden Gem in Europe 2024 title. It’s colourful, authentic and full of character which offers a perfect blend of beaches, culture and food without the crowds you’d find in neighbouring hotspots.
It’s an ideal stop between Alicante and Benidorm, or even a dreamy weekend escape on its own. Whether you come for the pastel streets, the chocolate or the sea views, you’ll leave wondering how this beautiful little town isn’t more famous.
