Costa Blanca Travel Guide

Benidorm

A lively Costa Blanca resort of golden beaches, skyscraper views, family fun, seafood tapas and unforgettable Mediterranean nights.

Explore Benidorm Discover Beaches

Benidorm combines sunny beaches, dramatic headlands, family attractions and a energetic resort atmosphere on Spain’s Costa Blanca.

Blue-Flag Beaches

Levante and Poniente offer wide sandy shores and calm Mediterranean waters.

Family Fun

Theme parks, water parks and animal attractions make Benidorm popular with families.

Food and Tapas

Seafood, rice dishes, tapas and international restaurants suit every taste.

Nightlife

Bars, clubs, cabaret shows and live entertainment keep evenings lively.

Things To Do in Benidorm

Benidorm is one of Spain’s most popular resort towns, known for its beaches, warm climate and wide choice of entertainment. Visitors can relax on the sand by day, explore the old town in the afternoon and enjoy shows or nightlife after dark.

The city is divided into distinct areas. Levante is the livelier beachside district, Poniente offers a more relaxed atmosphere, and the historic old town provides narrow streets, viewpoints and traditional Spanish character.

Beach

Relax on Levante Beach

Enjoy golden sand, beach bars, water sports and views over the Mediterranean.

Explore Beaches

Family

Visit Theme Parks

Terra Mitica, Aqualandia and Mundomar offer roller coasters, water slides and animal encounters.

See Attractions

Views

Walk to the Castle Viewpoint

Climb to the historic castle area for panoramic views across both beaches and the bay.

See Monuments

Museums and Culture in Benidorm

Benidorm is best known for beaches and entertainment, but it also offers cultural attractions for travelers who want to learn more about the Costa Blanca. Its small museums and historic sites reveal the town’s fishing heritage and Mediterranean past.

The Benidorm Municipal Museum explores local history, archaeology and the development of the resort. Visitors can also discover traditional Spanish culture through local festivals, religious celebrations and community events held throughout the year.

The old town is a cultural highlight in itself. Its whitewashed streets, blue-domed church and viewpoint above the Mediterranean create a contrast with the modern high-rise skyline.

History

Municipal Museum

A compact introduction to Benidorm’s local history and coastal heritage.

Old Town

Historic Center

Explore traditional streets, local shops and the church of San Jaime near the castle viewpoint.

Festivals

Local Celebrations

Seasonal festivals bring music, processions, fireworks and traditional Spanish color to the resort.

Travelers seeking more art and history can take a day trip to Alicante, Guadalest or Altea, each offering museums, historic centers and cultural experiences within easy reach.

Tapas and Restaurants in Benidorm

Benidorm’s food scene is varied and welcoming. Visitors can choose from Spanish tapas bars, seafood restaurants, British pubs, international dining and family-friendly restaurants along the beachfront.

Local specialties include fresh fish, paella, fideua, grilled sardines, tapas and horchata. Many restaurants serve Mediterranean dishes made with rice, seafood, olive oil and seasonal vegetables.

The old town is one of the best areas for authentic tapas. Its narrow streets are filled with small bars where locals and visitors share plates, wine and conversation. The Levante promenade offers more tourist-oriented dining with sea views.

For a relaxed evening, travelers can enjoy dinner near Poniente Beach, where the atmosphere is calmer and sunsets are especially beautiful. The West End area is better known for drinks, entertainment and late-night venues.

Best Food Areas

The old town suits traditional tapas, Levante offers lively beachfront dining, and Poniente is ideal for relaxed sunset meals.

Dining Times

Lunch often begins around 2 p.m., while dinner commonly starts after 8 p.m., especially in summer.

Hotels in Benidorm

Benidorm has one of the largest hotel selections on the Costa Blanca, with options for couples, families, groups and budget travelers. Many hotels offer pools, entertainment programs, buffet dining and sea views.

Levante is the most popular area for beach holidays and nightlife. Poniente is quieter and better suited to travelers seeking relaxation, while the old town is ideal for those who prefer traditional streets and local restaurants.

Comfort

Beachfront and Luxury Hotels

Seafront properties often include pools, spas, rooftop terraces, entertainment and direct access to the promenade.

Value

Budget and Family Hotels

Apartments and mid-range hotels away from the beachfront can offer excellent value, especially outside peak summer.

Book early for July, August, Easter and major holiday periods. Travelers seeking quieter stays should check whether a hotel is near Levante’s nightlife or closer to the calmer Poniente side.

Hostels and Budget Stays in Benidorm

Benidorm is primarily known for hotels and apartments, but budget travelers can still find hostels, guesthouses and affordable apartment rentals. These options suit backpackers, groups and longer stays.

The area around Levante is convenient for beaches, bars and entertainment. Accommodation near the old town offers a more Spanish atmosphere and easy access to local tapas bars.

When booking budget accommodation, check air conditioning, kitchen facilities, noise levels and distance from the beach. Summer prices rise quickly, so early reservations are recommended.

Apartments can be excellent value for families or groups, especially when equipped with a kitchen and located within walking distance of the beach.

Flights to Benidorm

Benidorm does not have its own airport. Most visitors fly into Alicante-Elche Airport, which is approximately 40 miles away and serves destinations across Europe and beyond.

Direct flights are available from many UK, Irish and European cities, making Benidorm a convenient beach holiday destination. Flight frequency increases significantly during spring, summer and school holiday periods.

For lower fares, consider traveling in May, early June, September or October. These months often combine warm weather with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation.

Bus and Transport in Benidorm

Benidorm is compact and easy to explore on foot, especially between Levante Beach, the old town and Poniente Beach. Local buses provide affordable transport for longer journeys and nearby attractions.

The city’s bus network connects the main beaches, hotels, shopping areas and residential districts. Regional buses also link Benidorm with Alicante, Altea, Calpe, Villajoyosa and other Costa Blanca towns.

Local and Regional Buses

Buses are inexpensive and useful for reaching theme parks, nearby towns and areas beyond the central beachfront.

Walking and Promenades

The beach promenades and old-town streets make walking one of the most enjoyable ways to explore Benidorm.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available, particularly useful for airport transfers, late nights or trips to attractions outside the center.

Day Trips from Benidorm

Benidorm is an excellent base for exploring the Costa Blanca. Travelers can visit mountain villages, historic towns, natural parks and coastal resorts within a short drive or bus journey.

Nature

Guadalest

Visit a dramatic hilltop village with a castle, reservoir views and mountain scenery.

Coast

Altea

Discover whitewashed streets, a blue-domed church and a relaxed seafront atmosphere.

History

Alicante

Explore a castle, historic old town, museums and a lively Mediterranean waterfront.

Other rewarding options include Calpe and its Penon de Ifach rock, the colorful village of Villajoyosa and the natural landscapes of Serra Gelada. Organized tours are available for travelers who prefer not to drive.

Airport to Benidorm Transport

Travelers flying into Alicante-Elche Airport can reach Benidorm by bus, shuttle transfer, taxi or rental car. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic and destination.

Bus and Shuttle

Direct airport buses and shuttle services connect Alicante Airport with Benidorm, offering an affordable transfer option.

Taxi and Private Transfer

Taxis and pre-booked transfers provide a direct door-to-door journey, ideal for families, groups and travelers with luggage.

Rental cars are useful for travelers planning day trips along the Costa Blanca. For a beach-focused stay, public transport and walking are often sufficient.

Beaches in Benidorm

Benidorm is famous for its beaches, which are among the most accessible on the Costa Blanca. The city’s two main beaches offer golden sand, clear water and excellent facilities.

Levante Beach is the busiest and most lively, lined with restaurants, shops and beach bars. Poniente Beach is longer and generally calmer, making it popular with families and travelers seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

Mal Pas Beach, near the old town and castle viewpoint, is a smaller option with beautiful views. Travelers can also take boat trips to nearby coves and swimming spots along the rugged coastline.

Weather in Benidorm

Benidorm enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with more than 300 days of sunshine each year. Its sheltered location and mountains help protect the area from colder northern winds.

Summer

June through September is hot and sunny, ideal for beaches, water parks and evening entertainment.

Spring and Autumn

April to June and September to October offer warm weather, quieter beaches and comfortable conditions for sightseeing.

Winter is mild compared with much of Europe, making Benidorm popular with long-stay visitors. A light jacket is useful for evenings, even when daytime temperatures remain pleasant.

Car Rental in Benidorm

Car rental is useful for travelers who want to explore the Costa Blanca beyond Benidorm. Coastal towns, mountain villages, beaches and natural parks are easier to reach with a car.

Rental desks are available at Alicante-Elche Airport and in Benidorm. Compare prices, check insurance coverage and inspect the vehicle before leaving the pickup point.

Driving in central Benidorm can be busy during summer, and parking near the beaches may be limited. For a short beach holiday, public transport and walking are often more convenient.

Nightlife in Benidorm

Nightlife in Benidorm is lively, varied and central to the resort’s appeal. Visitors can choose from karaoke bars, cabaret shows, dance clubs, cocktail bars and live entertainment venues.

The West End, near Levante Beach, is the main nightlife area. It is packed with bars, themed venues and entertainment aimed at visitors from across Europe. The old town offers a more Spanish atmosphere with tapas bars and local taverns.

For a more relaxed evening, travelers can enjoy drinks along the Poniente promenade or watch the sunset from a beachfront terrace. Many hotels also host evening shows, quizzes and live music.

Nightlife Highlight

Start with dinner in the old town, enjoy drinks in the West End and finish with dancing near Levante Beach.

Parks and Nature in Benidorm

Benidorm offers more than beaches and nightlife. Parks, gardens and natural areas provide space for walking, picnics and enjoying views over the Mediterranean.

Parc de l’Aiguera is a large urban park with gardens, walking paths, amphitheaters and open green space. It is a peaceful escape from the busy beachfront districts.

Serra Gelada Natural Park lies between Benidorm and Altea, offering dramatic cliffs, hiking trails and coastal views. The Penon de Ifach near Calpe is another popular natural landmark for hikers and photographers.

Monuments in Benidorm

Benidorm’s most distinctive monument is the historic castle viewpoint, known as the Balcon del Mediterraneo. Set high above the sea, it offers sweeping views over Levante and Poniente beaches.

The church of San Jaime, with its distinctive blue-tiled dome, is a landmark of the old town. Its whitewashed streets and traditional architecture provide a glimpse of Benidorm before it became a major resort.

The modern skyline is itself a landmark, with high-rise hotels rising above the bay. This contrast between historic streets and contemporary towers gives Benidorm its unmistakable character.

“Benidorm is where golden beaches meet lively nights, and every sunset paints the Mediterranean in shades of gold and blue.”

Churches in Benidorm

The church of San Jaime and Santa Ana is Benidorm’s most recognizable religious building. Located in the old town near the castle viewpoint, its blue-domed roof is a familiar sight above the whitewashed streets.

The church is an important part of local community life and hosts religious celebrations throughout the year. Visitors should dress respectfully and avoid entering during services if they are simply sightseeing.

Travelers interested in religious architecture can also visit nearby towns such as Altea and Villajoyosa, where historic churches and colorful old quarters add cultural depth to a Costa Blanca trip.

Tourist Hotspots in Benidorm

Benidorm’s tourist hotspots are concentrated around its beaches, promenades and entertainment districts. Levante Beach is the heart of the resort, with beach bars, water sports and lively evening activity.

The Balcon del Mediterraneo is a must-visit viewpoint, offering dramatic views over the Mediterranean. The old town, West End and Poniente Beach each provide a different side of the resort.

Theme parks are major attractions for families. Terra Mitica offers themed rides and shows, Aqualandia features water slides and pools, and Mundomar focuses on marine and animal experiences.

Scams To Avoid in Benidorm

Benidorm is generally safe, but its busy beaches, bars and nightlife areas can attract pickpockets and common tourist scams. Stay alert around Levante Beach, the West End, bus stops and crowded events.

Keep phones, wallets and passports secure, especially in bars, clubs and on the beach. Avoid leaving belongings unattended while swimming or socializing.

Use bags that close fully and keep them in front of the body in crowded areas. Be cautious with strangers offering drinks, games, petitions or unsolicited deals.

At restaurants and bars, check prices and service charges before ordering, especially in highly touristy areas. Use official taxi ranks or reputable ride-hailing services, particularly late at night.

Free Things To Do in Benidorm

Benidorm offers plenty of memorable experiences that cost nothing. Its beaches, viewpoints, promenades and old-town streets provide hours of enjoyment without an entrance fee.

Beach

Relax at Poniente Beach

Enjoy golden sand, sea views and a calmer atmosphere along the western shore.

Views

Visit the Castle Viewpoint

Take in panoramic views over both beaches and the Mediterranean from the Balcon del Mediterraneo.

Culture

Wander the Old Town

Explore whitewashed streets, local shops and traditional squares at no cost.

Sunset walks, beach promenades, public parks and street entertainment make Benidorm especially rewarding for budget-conscious travelers. Even a simple evening stroll along Levante can capture the resort’s energetic charm.