Benidorm Spain
Visitor Guide & Tourist Information
Welcome to our updated Benidorm Spain tourist information guide that will hopefully help you plan your next holiday in Spain.
Benidorm is located on the Costa Blanca and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, receiving millions of holidaymakers each year.
Known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Benidorm has become a popular destination for holidaymakers from all over the world and is one of the most popular destinations for Spain's beach holidays.
The town has two main beaches: Levante Beach and Poniente Beach. Both beaches are wide and clean and offer plenty of places for sunbathing and water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boats, and parasailing. In addition, the beaches are lined with a range of bars, restaurants, and shops.
Another big attraction of Benidorm is its vibrant nightlife. The town has a large selection of bars, pubs, and nightclubs that cater to all tastes. For a great night out, head off to the Benidorm Palace for spectacular musical events and international shows.
From traditional Spanish bars to British-style pubs and clubs, there is something for everyone.
If you are interested in cultural attractions, Benidorm also has several places worth visiting. The Old Town of Benidorm is a charming area with narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and a range of shops, bars, and restaurants.
In addition, Benidorm is known for its theme parks. Terra Mitica is a large amusement park inspired by ancient civilisations, and Aqualandia is a water park offering a range of water slides, wave pools, and other attractions.
If you want a break from the beach and theme parks, several nearby villages are worth visiting. Altea is a charming village located just a short drive from Benidorm. It has a beautiful old town to explore, a marina, and plenty of eateries serving local dishes and fresh seafood.
Getting around Benidorm is easy, with many public transport options available. The town has a good local bus service and readily available taxis. In addition, car rental is also available if you are thinking of exploring the surrounding area.
Benidorm is a mega-resort that offers over 35,000 hotel beds, with thousands more provided by self-catering apartments, hostels, and other alternative accommodations.
Check out our guide to the best neighbourhoods in Benidorm for your holiday accommodation
There are around 1,000 restaurants to choose from, plus some 30 discotheques, making the nightlife second to none.
Benidorm is Spain’s top holiday destination for a good reason: it offers sun, sea, sand, and – most importantly – fabulous fun for all ages at unrivalled bargain holiday prices.
Recommended Guided Tours In Benidorm
Interesting Facts about Benidorm
- Benidorm was Spain’s first resort for package holidays when Mayor Pedro Zaragoza set about transforming a sleepy fishing village in the 1950s into a major resort. He played his ace by allowing bikinis on the beach, and six decades later, the town attracts millions of holidaymakers every year.
- The traditional drink of Horchata is not actually Spanish but was brought to the country by the Moors centuries ago, made from crushed tiger nuts, sugar and water. You can buy it in cafeterias and ice cream bars.
- There are two main beaches at Benidorm: the Levante beach in the new town and the Poniente beach in the Old Town.
- The World Health Organisation considers Costa Blanca to have one of the best climates in the world, thanks to its warm temperatures, low rainfall and clean air.
- Within Europe, only Milan and London have more skyscrapers than Benidorm; the Gran Hotel Bali is the tallest hotel in Europe, standing at 186m.
17 Popular Things to Do in Benidorm
- Visit the Beaches. One of the best things to do in Benidorm is chill out on its beaches, and there are two main ones: Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente. Both beaches are long, sandy, and well-equipped with sunbeds, parasols, and water sports facilities.
- Go Shopping. Benidorm has a variety of shops, from high-street brands to independent boutiques. You can find everything from clothes and souvenirs to electronics and homewares.
- Enjoy the Nightlife. Benidorm is known for its lively nightlife, and there are bars and clubs to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink or a wild night out, you'll find it in Benidorm.
- Visit the Theme Parks. Benidorm has two theme parks: Terra Mítica and Aqualandia. Terra Mítica is a themed park based on the civilisations of Ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, and Iberia. Aqualandia is a water park with a variety of slides and pools.
- Go Hiking. Mountains surround Benidorm, and there are lots of trails to explore. The most popular is the hike to the top of La Cruz de Benidorm, which offers stunning coastal views.
- Visit the Aquarium. Mundomar is home to marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins.
- Visit the Zoo. Terra Natura boasts two zoo theme parks. You can see various animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants.
- Visit the Old Town. Benidorm's old town is charming, with narrow streets, traditional buildings, and several shops and restaurants.
- Visit the Castle. Benidorm Castle is a 16th-century fortress offering stunning views of the city and the coast.
- Visit the Casa Museo de Benidorm. This interesting Museum is located in the Old Town and is free to visit. It tells the story of the history and culture of the area. You can learn about the local fishing industry, its development as a tourist destination, and its role in the Spanish Civil War.
- Go to the Movies. Several theatres in Benidorm show all the latest blockbusters and more.
- Enjoy an unforgettable night out at the famous Benidorm Palace. Here, you can get to see lots of top acts. This is the place to go for a great night of fun, music and dance.
- Stroll Around Parc de L'Aiguera. The picturesque Park L'Aiguera is located in the central area of Benidorm—a peaceful place to explore, with many palm trees, landscaped gardens and two amphitheatres.
- Play Golf. Benidorm has several golf courses, both public and private.
- Enjoy a Spa. Benidorm has several spas that offer a variety of treatments, from massages and facials to body wraps and saunas.
- Take a Cooking Class. Benidorm has a number of cooking schools that offer classes in Spanish cuisine. You can learn to make paella, tapas, and other traditional dishes.
- Enjoy a Meal at one of Benidorm's many restaurants. There is a fantastic variety of food, from traditional Spanish cuisine to international fare.
Best FREE Things to do in Benidorm
1. Relax on Playa de Levante, Benidorm’s most famous beach, known for its long stretch of golden sand and lively promenade. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
2. Watch the sunset at Playa de Poniente. A quieter, wider beach with a calmer vibe. Locals love it for its peaceful evenings and beautiful sunset views.
3. Explore Benidorm Old Town: A maze of narrow streets, tapas bars, small boutiques, and traditional Spanish charm. It’s the best place to feel the “real” Benidorm.
4. Visit the Balcón del Mediterráneo A dramatic viewpoint perched between Levante and Poniente beaches. The panoramic sea views are some of the best in the city.
5. Discover Cala del Mal Pas. A small, sheltered cove tucked between the Old Town and the harbour. Ideal for a quiet swim or a break from the busier beaches.
6. Walk the Poniente Promenade: A beautifully designed seafront walkway perfect for morning runs, long strolls, or people‑watching. It’s one of Benidorm’s architectural highlights.
7. Hike to La Cruz de Benidorm: A rewarding uphill walk that ends with sweeping views over the entire coastline. It’s one of the best free viewpoints in the region.
8. Explore Sierra Helada Natural Park A rugged coastal park with dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean scenery. There are several free trails, including routes to hidden coves and viewpoints.
9. Visit the harbour and fishing area. A quieter corner of Benidorm where you can watch boats come and go and enjoy a slower pace by the water.
10. Wander through the local markets. Benidorm’s outdoor markets are full of colour, local produce, crafts, and everyday Spanish life. Even if you don’t buy anything, they’re fun to explore.
11. Enjoy free beach libraries and reading corners.s Levante Beach offers public reading areas and even giant chess boards. They’re open to everyone and completely free.
12. Explore the squares and churches of the Old Town. Places like Plaza del Castillo and the Church of San Jaime y Santa Ana offer history, architecture, and great photo opportunities.
13. Visit the Ximo and Almadraba coves. Two rocky, natural coves at the edge of Sierra Helada. They’re great for snorkelling and escaping the crowds.
14. Watch street performers in the evening.s Benidorm’s nightlife spills into the streets with musicians, performers, and entertainers. It’s lively, fun, and completely free to enjoy.
15. Take a self‑guided walk through the Rincon de Loix area. A scenic coastal walk with viewpoints, cliffs, and access to quieter parts of the coastline.
10 Great Places to Enjoy Local Cuisine
Benidorm is home to a wide range of restaurants, cafes and bars serving delicious local Spanish cuisine. You can enjoy a full 3-course menu for as little as 15€ and that includes a drink so there's no excuse not to get out and discover authentic Spanish food at its best.
Here are our top places to enjoy traditional local and regional dishes in Benidorm:
- Restaurant La Cava Aragonesa: This family-run restaurant serves a variety of traditional Spanish dishes, including paella and grilled meats.
- El Txoko: This Basque-style restaurant serves a variety of tapas, seafood, and meat dishes, as well as a great selection of wines.
- Restaurant Cordoba: This first-class seafood restaurant serves fresh fish and seafood, as well as traditional rice dishes.
- Restaurante La Taperia Aurerra: This cosy restaurant serves a variety of tapas, including tortilla de patatas and croquetas.
- El Italiano: This Italian restaurant serves a range of classic dishes, including pizza and pasta, as well as some Spanish favourites.
- Restaurante La Piazza: This Italian restaurant serves a variety of pizzas and pasta dishes, as well as some Spanish and international options.
- Taberna Andaluza: Located close to Levante Beach, they serve a whole range of delicious Andalucian dishes.
- La Mejillonera: Located in the old town this place serves up fresh Mussels cooked in various ways.
- Casa Toni: This tapas bar in the Old Town serves a variety of traditional Spanish dishes, including grilled octopus and fried calamari.