Choose which level suits the stay
Altea's old town rises around the church of the Virgin of Consuelo, with steep streets and steps descending towards the sea. Lower down are commercial streets, the fishing area and the promenade. These are useful distinctions when a listing promises both old-town character and beach proximity.
A hilltop apartment can suit travellers who want the historic setting as part of everyday life. A lower address may be more practical for repeated seafront walks and shopping. Decide which routine matters before allowing a rooftop view to outweigh the journey that produces it.
Test a grocery return
Imagine carrying milk, fruit and a few dinner ingredients from the shop to the apartment. Follow the actual route, including steps and the building entrance. If that sounds tiring, consider smaller purchases or a lower base rather than assuming the inconvenience will disappear once you arrive.
The same test applies to luggage. Ask where a vehicle may stop and how much of the route must be covered on foot. Obtain clear directions because a map's shortest line may not be the easiest route with bags or a pushchair.
Look beyond the balcony
An outdoor space can be attractive, but check whether it has shade, appropriate seating and rules about drying laundry. Establish which rooms share the view and which face nearby buildings. Verify cooling or ventilation for the sleeping arrangement you will actually use.
Think about how many times you want to return during the day. Someone content to leave after breakfast and return in the evening may accept a climb that becomes inconvenient for a family planning several short outings. Compare total daily effort rather than the distance of a single walk.
Make the alternative an outing
You can enjoy the old town without sleeping at its highest point, or visit the promenade while staying above it. Plan the less convenient setting as a deliberate excursion, carrying only what you need. The right Altea apartment is the one whose regular approach suits everyone, leaving the scenic walk as something chosen rather than a compulsory task after every shop.
