There are three distinct parts to Altea.  The seafront, which has a long promenade and fishing harbour.  The town centre which is separated from the  seafront by the busy N332 and the picturesque old town which starts on the outskirts of the modern section and winds its way upwards to the main square at the top. The main square features the impressive blue domed church of the Virgin de Consuelo.

Altea old town is now considered chic, this is reflected in the gourmet restaurants, expensive pottery shops and designer clothes  stores lining the narrow cobbled streets.  The old town is a haven for artists and the price of the whitewashed houses has now spiraled  upwards.  Peeking behind the rustic facade of many of the old  houses will give a glimpse of what can be achieved with a bit of imagination. Many of Altea's rustic looking terraced houses have been transformed inside with open plan kitchens, flat screen TV's and spiral staircases.   The seafront and promenade was renovated about six years ago, there is a small beach area with children's playground and plenty good bars and restaurants . The proposed by-pass of the N332 will be very welcome if it ever arrives, this very busy section of road cuts right through the heart of Altea  and must be a constant source of irritation for the local population.