Casco Antiguo (Vila Vella) - Image 1
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Casco Antiguo Vila Vella

4.6
·66 reviews·La Vila Joiosa, Spain

Explore the enchanting Vila Vella, a preserved medieval walled town or a vibrant district of colorful houses, offering history and charm.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Casco Antiguo (Vila Vella) - Image 1

Casco Antiguo Vila Vella

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful exploration

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the enchanting Vila Vella, a preserved medieval walled town or a vibrant district of colorful houses, offering history and charm.

4.6
(66 reviews)

"Wander through charming streets, soak in history, and capture stunning views in these unique old towns."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Narrow Streets

Get lost in the charming, winding cobblestone lanes of the old town for a truly immersive experience.

📸 Capture the Colors

Bring your camera to photograph the iconic, brightly painted houses that define the town's unique character.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vila Vella Medieval Walls

Vila Vella Medieval Walls

Tossa de Mar

Explore the only remaining medieval fortified town on the Catalan coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Instagram
Colorful Houses of Villajoyosa

Colorful Houses of Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa

Wander through streets lined with vibrant, candy-colored houses, creating a picturesque seaside town.

Reddit
Castle Views

Castle Views

Tossa de Mar

Ascend the castle for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

While the Vila Vella is charming year-round, visiting during shoulder seasons (spring/fall) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Weekday mornings are ideal for a peaceful exploration of its narrow streets and historic architecture. Instagram

Embrace the Local Atmosphere

Experience the authentic Spanish vibe by visiting the local market in the morning, where residents gather for breakfast and conversation. This offers a genuine glimpse into the town's daily life. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tardebuena en La Vila Vella #ViveLaVida #ViveLaVila #CascoAntiguo #LaVilaVella
asociaciondelcascoantiguo
91 likes • 2.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Narrow Streets

Get lost in the charming, winding cobblestone lanes of the old town for a truly immersive experience. Instagram

📸 Capture the Colors

Bring your camera to photograph the iconic, brightly painted houses that define the town's unique character. Reddit

💖✨ Así de bonita ha sido La Vila Vella, la intervención cultural de este fin de semana del casco antiguo de #Villajoyosa. ¿La has visitado? ¿Te ha gustado? Ha sido una propuesta artística preciosa para disfrutar de la #CostaBlanca 💙❣️.
costablancaorg
845 likes • 30.8K views
Este finde, disfruta de La Vila Vella ✨ El 13 y 14 de septiembre, el casco antiguo de Villajoyosa se llena de arte, música y un sin fin de actividades para todas las edades. Así que, si todavía no tienes plan, no lo dudes. Acércate a La Vila y disfruta del ambientazo que se respira por cada rincón. El mayor parte de las actividades están programadas para el sábado. De hecho, esta tarde noche ha...
ninosenmochila
170 likes • 8.2K views

🏰 Explore the Castle

Don't miss climbing up to the castle for stunning coastal vistas and a glimpse into history. Instagram

☕ Enjoy Local Cafes

Sip coffee and soak in the atmosphere at a local cafe, especially near the market. Reddit

Al caer la tarde, el castillo de Tossa de Mar se ilumina, ofreciendo una vista espectacular desde lo alto. 🌅 No es de extrañar que la Vila Vella (Casco Antiguo amurallado) fuera declarada Monumento Histórico-Artístico en 1931. 🎥 IG | msarchia #catalunyaexperience
catalunyaexperience.latam
91 likes • 212.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Narrow Streets

Get lost in the charming, winding cobblestone lanes of the old town for a truly immersive experience. Instagram

📸 Capture the Colors

Bring your camera to photograph the iconic, brightly painted houses that define the town's unique character. Reddit

🏰 Explore the Castle

Don't miss climbing up to the castle for stunning coastal vistas and a glimpse into history. Instagram

☕ Enjoy Local Cafes

Sip coffee and soak in the atmosphere at a local cafe, especially near the market. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(66 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the picturesque beauty of both Tossa de Mar's Vila Vella and Villajoyosa's colorful old town. The historical significance of the medieval walls and the vibrant charm of the painted houses are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally well-loved, some find the areas can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.

"A pretty little seaside town with colorful houses. It's very pleasant to stroll through its narrow streets."

Gilles Bordeleau

"Villajoyosa: literally: the joyful town. This is true, especially because of its location and its vibrant colors.

A superb little seaside town.
The old town is very colorful and its streets are very pleasant, close to the market where there's a lovely Spanish atmosphere (at 9 am the whole neighborhood is at the café having breakfast and chatting away – it's great).
There's a very nice promenade, 1 km or even 2 km if you head past the fishing port towards the student beach.
In the new town, there are various shops. It's 5-6 km from Benidorm and 15 km from Alicante."

Brigit Ga

"Your beautiful place"

Thomas Alexandra

What People Like

Picturesque colorful houses
Historic medieval walls
Charming old town atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Casco Antiguo Vila Vella is accessible by car, with parking available near the old town. Public transport options may vary depending on the specific Vila Vella location (e.g., Tossa de Mar or Villajoyosa). Consider local buses or taxis for convenient access. InstagramReddit

Yes, the old town is best explored on foot. Be prepared for cobblestone streets and some inclines, especially in Tossa de Mar's walled area. Comfortable shoes are a must! Instagram+1

From Barcelona, you can take a bus to Tossa de Mar. The journey offers scenic coastal views. Once in Tossa, the Vila Vella is a short walk from the town center. Instagram

Villajoyosa is approximately 15 km from Alicante, making it an easy day trip. You can reach it by car or public transport like buses or trains. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available for both Tossa de Mar and Villajoyosa's old towns, offering historical insights and local stories. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to the old town areas like Vila Vella in Tossa de Mar and the colorful streets of Villajoyosa is free. However, specific attractions within these areas, like museums or certain castle sections, might have admission fees. Instagram

The old town areas are typically accessible at all hours for walking through the streets. Individual shops, restaurants, and historical sites within the Vila Vella will have their own operating hours. Instagram

The castle in Tossa de Mar can usually be accessed for free, allowing visitors to enjoy the ramparts and stunning views without an admission charge. Instagram

Yes, the Vila Vella in Villajoyosa sometimes hosts cultural events and festivals, like 'La Vila Vella' which features art and music. Check local listings for upcoming events. Instagram+1

The old town streets are generally accessible at night, offering a different, often romantic, ambiance. The castle in Tossa de Mar is also beautifully illuminated after dark. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

In Tossa de Mar, the castle ramparts offer iconic shots of the walled town and sea. In Villajoyosa, focus on the vibrant, colorful houses lining the streets and promenade. InstagramReddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the colorful houses and historic architecture. Evenings offer a magical glow as lights come on. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in historic areas and coastal towns due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow streets and colorful facades. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the castle or distant sea views. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos throughout the castle grounds and ramparts. Be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Villajoyosa is known for its chocolate. Look for local chocolatiers and try traditional dishes featuring fresh seafood from the Mediterranean. Reddit

Yes, the Vila Vella in Tossa de Mar has charming restaurants offering local Catalan cuisine and fresh seafood. Many have outdoor seating with picturesque views. Instagram

Expect a range of dining options from casual tapas bars to more formal restaurants. The promenade in Villajoyosa offers many choices with sea views. Reddit

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and with fresh produce, vegan meals can often be accommodated. It's always best to ask your server. Instagram

Prices can vary, but you can find affordable tapas and casual meals, as well as more upscale dining experiences. Expect mid-range prices for most restaurants in the old town areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families will find both Tossa de Mar's Vila Vella and Villajoyosa's colorful old town engaging. In Tossa, kids can enjoy the adventure of exploring a real castle and imagining medieval life. The open spaces on the ramparts offer room to roam, though supervision is key due to the heights. Instagram

Villajoyosa's brightly colored houses are a visual treat for children, making a walk through the streets feel like a fairytale. The nearby beaches offer opportunities for play, and the town's chocolate heritage is sure to be a hit. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for some walking on cobblestones. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, both locations are a dream. Tossa de Mar's Vila Vella offers dramatic shots of the fortified walls against the sea, especially during golden hour or when illuminated at night. The castle provides elevated perspectives. Instagram+1

Villajoyosa is all about capturing the unique, vibrant facades of its houses. Look for interesting angles and play with the light to highlight the cheerful colors. The promenade and market area also offer opportunities for street photography and capturing local life. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

History enthusiasts will be captivated by Tossa de Mar's Vila Vella, one of the few remaining medieval fortified towns on the coast. Its well-preserved walls, towers, and castle offer a tangible connection to the past. Instagram+1

In Villajoyosa, the history is more recent but equally fascinating, tied to its maritime past and the unique tradition of colorful houses. Exploring the old town and visiting the local market provides insight into the town's enduring culture and traditions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Charm of Tossa de Mar's Vila Vella

The Vila Vella in Tossa de Mar is a remarkable testament to medieval architecture, standing as the only fortified medieval town still preserved on the Catalan coast. Declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931, its imposing walls and watchtowers encircle a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets. Walking through here feels like stepping back in time, with charming houses, hidden squares, and the imposing castle overlooking the Mediterranean. Instagram+1

Exploring the Vila Vella offers stunning panoramic views from its ramparts, especially as the sun sets and the castle is illuminated. It's a place where history whispers from every stone, inviting visitors to wander and discover its secrets. The blend of history, coastal beauty, and the unique fortified structure makes it a must-visit. Instagram+1

Key attractions within the Vila Vella include the castle itself, the Church of Sant Vicenç, and various viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of the sea and the town below. It's an ideal spot for photography and for those who appreciate well-preserved historical sites. Instagram

Villajoyosa's Vibrant Old Town

Villajoyosa's old town is instantly recognizable for its vibrantly colored houses, a tradition said to have originated from fishermen painting their homes in bright hues to be easily spotted from the sea. This picturesque district creates a cheerful and unique atmosphere, making it a delightful place to stroll and explore. The narrow streets are a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities for capturing stunning visuals. Reddit

Beyond the colorful facades, the area around the old town offers a lively Spanish atmosphere, particularly near the local market where residents gather for breakfast and conversation. This provides an authentic glimpse into the daily life of the town. The nearby promenade is perfect for leisurely walks, stretching along the coast and past the fishing port. Reddit

Villajoyosa is also renowned for its chocolate heritage. Visitors can explore local chocolatiers and indulge in delicious treats, adding a sweet dimension to their visit. The combination of unique architecture, local culture, and culinary delights makes Villajoyosa's old town a charming destination. Reddit

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