Things To Do
in Benidorm
Benidorm is a vibrant coastal city on Spain's Costa Blanca known for its iconic skyline of high-rise hotels and golden beaches. It blends 1960s resort-style development with a lively Old Town and a modern marina, drawing visitors year-round. Levante and Poniente beaches offer hours of sun, water sports, and promenades lined with bars and restaurants.
Beyond the beaches, Benidorm's lively nightlife, cultural events, and family-friendly attractions make it a versatile destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the Old Town, enjoying traditional Spanish pastries and coffee. Afterward, wander through the narrow, cobbled streets adorned with colorful buildings, discovering local boutiques and artisanal shops. Don't miss the iconic church of San Jaime, where you can admire its beautiful blue dome and intricate architecture.
Head to the viewpoint at Mirador del Castillo for stunning panoramic views of Benidorm and its coastline. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby tapas bar, sampling local dishes like patatas bravas and fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon visiting the Benidorm Municipal Market, where you can shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the picturesque promenade, breathing in the salty sea air. Choose one of the many beachfront restaurants for dinner, where you can savor traditional paella while listening to the gentle waves. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local bar for a refreshing cocktail or a glass of Spanish wine.
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean at Levante Beach, known for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. After some sunbathing, rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the crystal-clear waters, getting a unique perspective of the coastline. Alternatively, join a water sports activity like jet skiing or banana boat rides for an adrenaline rush.
Take a break for lunch at one of the beachside chiringuitos, indulging in fresh seafood while enjoying the views. Afterward, continue your beach day by relaxing on the sand, soaking up the sun, or joining a beach volleyball game with locals. For a quieter experience, stroll along the beach and collect seashells as you listen to the gentle waves lapping the shore.
As the evening approaches, head to the beach for a stunning sunset, capturing the vibrant colors on your camera. For dinner, visit a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy grilled fish and a glass of local wine. Later, enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, stopping for gelato or a refreshing drink at a nearby bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🧃Bottled water | $1-2 |
| 🏖️Beach chair or umbrella rental | $5-15 |
| 🎟️Movie or museum ticket | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and sunny weather
- Vibrant nightlife and family-friendly attractions
- Easy access to nearby towns and hiking
- Crowds in peak season
- Noise in busy nightlife districts
- Rising hotel development in recent years
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Benidorm
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic viewpoint in the Old Town offering sweeping views of the harbor and coastline.
Colorful whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, and traditional balconies perfect for street photography.
Long sandy shoreline with palm trees and vibrant sunsets; ideal for wide landscape shots.
Dramatic sea cliffs and panoramic views of Benidorm’s skyline from the nature reserve.
Food in Benidorm
Benidorm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with saffron, seafood or meat; classic seaside staple served in many local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Noodle-based seafood dish cooked in a paellera, often served with aioli and lemon.
Traditional fish stew with potatoes and herbs; rich, comforting flavors from the Costa Blanca.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables and regional products; ideal for sampling seasonal ingredients.
Casual stalls along the promenade with tapas, grilled sardines, patatas bravas and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “hola” or “buenos días”; polite to say please and thank you (por favor, gracias).
Keep voices moderate in public spaces; share plates when appropriate; use cutlery normally.
Tipping is discretionary; you can leave a small amount for good service at restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Benidorm
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not obligatory; rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% for good service is typical in restaurants.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; some smaller bars may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with high humidity; expect crowds on beaches and evenings with lively nightlife; bring sun protection and water.
Milder weather with lower crowds; ideal for outdoor walks and shorter city tours; sea may be cooler but comfortable for swims on warmer days.
Mild relative to much of Europe; some beach facilities close; enjoyable for strolls along the promenade and cultural visits.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming greenery and comfortable sea conditions; good for hiking and outdoor dining.
Benidorm at Night
Hiking in Benidorm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal cliffs with scenic trails and sea views near Benidorm.
Steep, rugged mountain with rewarding panoramas and varied trails.
Spectacular limestone headland and hiking routes in nearby Calpe with dramatic sea views.
Airports
How to reach Benidorm by plane.
Main international gateway to Benidorm; approx. 45-60 minutes by car or direct tram connections.
Larger international hub farther north; about 1.5-2 hours by road.
Smaller airport offering seasonal routes; roughly 1.5-2 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population fluctuates with the tourist season.
Many visitors arrive with kids seeking beaches, theme parks, and family-friendly activities.
Residents who work in tourism and local services; mix of locals and expatriates.
Some long-term residents and seasonal expatriates enjoy the mild climate.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling along the coast.
Common local sports with clubs in nearby facilities.
Several courses in the Costa Blanca region are within easy driving distance.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Benidorm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many tapas bars offer vegetable dishes, salads, and vegetarian paella; ask for aceite de oliva and avoid meat stock; request vegetarian versions of paella or fideuà.