Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa (La Vila Joiosa) is known for its iconic colourful fishermen's houses along the seafront and a 150-year chocolate tradition with the Valor factory, offering genuine Spanish atmosphere with flats from €130,000 midway between touristy Benidorm and cosmopolitan Alicante.
Quick facts Villajoyosa
Population
36 962
2024
Source: INE
Foreign residents
25%
Source: Local Registry
Estimated Swedes
800
Växande, lockas av den genuina karaktären
Distance to airport
40 min
Alicante (ALC)
Price per m²
2 315 €
Source: Idealista
Sunshine hours per year
3000
Average temperature
18°C
Average temperature
Lifestyle in Villajoyosa
Genuine Spanish fishing life mixed with modern convenience. Chocolate factories to visit, traditional festivals and a lively market enrich daily life. Less international than neighbouring towns.
Why Swedes love Villajoyosa
- ✓The chocolate town: Home to Valor and several other chocolate manufacturers – the smell in the town is magical.
- ✓The colourful houses: A unique and photogenic environment that stands out from the usual white towns.
- ✓The genuine feel: Villajoyosa feels like a "real" Spanish town, not a tourist façade.
- ✓The beach in the centre: One of the few towns where a fantastic sandy beach is right in the centre.
🤔Who is it NOT suitable for?
- •Those looking for skyscrapers and nightclubs (neighbour Benidorm is better for that).
- •People with walking difficulties (the old town has many hills and cobblestones).
- •Those who want a fully Swedish colony (here it is more of a mixed international and Spanish community).
Districts in Villajoyosa
Casco Antiguo
Colourful & Historic
Pros
- +Iconic colourful fishermen's houses
- +Right on the beach
- +Genuine atmosphere
Cons
- −Limited parking
- −Many stairs
- −Can be noisy
Playa Paraíso
Beach & Peaceful
Pros
- +Fantastic sandy beach with palm trees
- +Considerably calmer than the centre
- +High water quality
Cons
- −Car needed for shopping
- −Fewer restaurants in the immediate area
Montíboli
Cliffs & Exclusive
Pros
- +Dramatic sea views
- +Private and quiet
- +Near luxury hotel
Cons
- −Higher price range
- −Car required
- −Isolated from the town
La Cala
Touristy & Lively
Pros
- +Lots of services and entertainment
- +Flat and easily accessible
- +Fine sandy beach
Cons
- −Very touristy (borders Benidorm)
- −Less "Spanish" feel
Climate in Villajoyosa vs Stockholm
2800
Sunshine hours/year
50
Rainy days/year
28°C
July avg
25°C
Sea temp July
| Month | Villajoyosa | Stockholm | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 11°C | -2°C | +13°C | |
| Apr | 17°C | 5°C | +12°C | |
| Jul | 26°C | 18°C | +8°C | 26°C |
| Okt | 21°C | 8°C | +13°C |
Property market in Villajoyosa
Price trend (5 years)
+28%
Steadily increasing trend since 2020
Estimated Rental Yield
5.5%
Gross yield for long-term rental
Tourist license
Possible
Generally possible to obtain a short-term rental license.
What does a property cost?
Average price ranges for standard properties in good condition.
* Prices are estimated averages and may vary depending on location, condition and view.
Attractions & experiences in Villajoyosa
The colourful old town, the Valor chocolate museum, the Moros y Cristianos festival, beautiful beaches and Roman ruins.
Transport & getting around in Villajoyosa
Alicante airport 35 min. TRAM tram to Benidorm and Alicante. Good bus connections.
The best of Villajoyosa
Färgglatt
Ikoniska fiskarbus
Choklad
Valor-fabriken
Traditioner
Moros y Cristianos
Prisvärt
Bra värde
Practical for Swedes
Travel from Sweden
SAS, Norwegian
Dagligen
Ryanair, Norwegian
Flera i veckan
SAS, Norwegian
Dagligen
Transfer to the area:
TRAM (tram line) runs all the way from Alicante city centre. Taxi approx. 40 min (~€60).
Healthcare & Health
The Marina Baixa hospital is in Villajoyosa and serves the entire region.
NIE number & Legal
Applied for at the Policia Nacional in Benidorm.
Swedish services on-site
Compare with nearby areas
💡Tips for buying in Villajoyosa
The old town is charming but parking can be a problem. Beachside areas are most popular. Check the building's condition – older houses may need renovation.
Watch out for
"Those looking for skyscrapers and nightclubs (neighbour Benidorm is better for that)., People with walking difficulties (the old town has many hills and cobblestones)., Those who want a fully Swedish colony (here it is more of a mixed international and Spanish community)."
Common questions about Villajoyosa
Historically they were painted in bright colours so that fishermen could recognise their house from the sea.
Yes! The TRAM line (L1) stops in Villajoyosa and takes you to Alicante or Benidorm.
No, although tourism is growing, it is a living town with industry (chocolate, fishing) and local residents.
Yes, when the wind is right from the factories, the scent of roasted cocoa spreads across the town!
Properties in Villajoyosa
No properties available in this area right now.
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