Benidorm City Guide (Costa Blanca, Spain): Everything You Need to Know Before Moving

Key Facts

• Province: Alicante
• Population: 67,558
• Area: 38.5 km2
• Elevation: 15 m
• Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)

1. Map and Location of Benidorm

Benidorm is located on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, approximately 120 km south of Valencia and 40 km north of Alicante. It can be reached via the AP-7 motorway or the N-332 national road.

Nearest Airport to Benidorm

Alicante-Elche Airport is 47 kilometres away (35 minutes by car). In 2018, it handled 13,981,691 passengers and serves as a hub for Iberia, EasyJet and Ryanair.

Transfer from Alicante Airport to Benidorm

• ALSA Bus: EUR 9.80 one way, EUR 18.60 return (50 minutes); departures every hour
• BeniConnect Shuttle: EUR 7.50 economy (100 minutes), EUR 15 express (60 minutes)
• Taxi: EUR 70-80 (35-40 minutes)
• Car rental: available at the airport car park

Map of Benidorm City

The city is divided into old and new parts. The historic part features traditional narrow Spanish streets with 17th-19th century houses. The modern part includes high-rise buildings, skyscrapers, shopping centres and supermarkets. The six-kilometre promenade along Poniente beach is the most popular place for walks.

Old Town of Benidorm

Cities Near Benidorm

• Murcia (capital of Murcia province): 105.9 km
• Valencia (capital of the Valencian Community): 105.7 km
• Alicante (capital of Alicante province): 37.3 km
• Denia: 39.5 km
• Calpe: 19.3 km
• Finestrat: 6.8 km
• Villajoyosa: 9.5 km
• Altea: 9.7 km
• Javea: 57.3 km
• Torrevieja: 78.3 km
• Benissa: 25.1 km

2. Weather and Temperature in Benidorm

Average Air Temperature in Benidorm (C)

Number of Rainy Days

Average Sea Temperature (C)

Seasonal Overview

Summer (June - August): average temperatures reach 26 C, sometimes 35 C. Virtually no rain. August is the hottest month (typically 28-30 C). Best time for beach holidays.

September: weather remains comfortable, but rainfall increases to 1-2 rainy days per week, especially towards month end. By late September, temperatures rarely exceed 26 C. Ideal time for families with young children.

Winter: air temperatures of 15-20 C. Mostly sunny or cloudy, rain is rare. Warm enough for walks and sightseeing.

3. Hotels in Benidorm

Room Stock and Prices

Benidorm has over 21,000 hotel rooms. The average cost of a three-star hotel is EUR 75 per night in summer, EUR 50 in winter. Five-star hotels average EUR 230 per night in summer and EUR 120 in winter.

5-Star Hotels (4 total)

1. Villa Venecia Hotel Boutique Gourmet
2. Gran Hotel Villaitana Wellness Golf & Business Sun
3. Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa, A Royal Hideaway Hotel
4. Grand Luxor All Suites Hotel

These complexes with 540 rooms start from EUR 150 per night in low season.

Best 1-2 Star Hotels

• Rosabel
• Hotel Castillo Benidorm
• Hotel Fetiche Alojamiento con Encanto

Best 3-Star Hotels

• Hotel Colon
• Hotel Servigroup Venus
• Hotel Roca-Mar
• Hotel Nadal

Best 4-Star Hotels

• Riviera Beachotel Adults Only
• Hotel Don Pancho Adults Only
• Hotel Presidente

4. Old Town Attractions

Historic Sites

The historic quarter preserves several traditional Spanish attractions:

• Tossal de la Cala: ruins of an ancient Iberian settlement
• Iglesia de San Jaime: 18th-century church atop a cliff
• Torre Morales Escalantes: ruins of a 16th-century watchtower
• Plaza de Toros: central square where bullfights and festivals are held
• Palacio Benidorm: music hall with circus shows, flamenco, theatre and ballet

Best Viewpoints

• Mediterranean Balcony (Balcon del Mediterraneo)
• 45th floor of the Gran Bali Hotel
• Tossal de la Cala hill
• Benidorm Cross (La Cruz de Benidorm)

Key Old Town Locations

Mediterranean Balcony (Balcon del Mediterraneo): viewpoint with a white staircase descending along the cliff face. Views of the Mediterranean Sea, Benidorm Island, the coastline and the city.

Plaza de Castelar: partially decorated with ornamental mosaics, with balustrades, arches, viewing points and antique cannons - remnants of the fortress.

Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana: parish church with a white facade and distinctive blue domes. Main entrance on Plaza San Jaime.

Placa de la Senyoria: the greenest square in the old town with a monument to those lost at sea (Monumento a los muertos en la mar).

Mal Pas Beach: accessible from this square, offering magnificent views.

Tapas Street (Santo Domingo): tapas bars with display cabinets showcasing dishes. Tapas, beer, wine, cocktails, spirits and snacks are served.

5. Festivals and Celebrations

January: Three Kings procession (5 January) and Fiesta Sant Antoni (17 January) with animal blessings and street processions.

February: carnival celebrations including the “Burial of the Sardine” with music, costumes, processions and the burning of a huge papier-mache fish.

March: Virgen del Sufragio festival (16 March) and Las Fallas (16-19 March) - papier-mache figures, fireworks, live music and traditional costumes. The most colourful celebration of the year.

April: Easter - solemn, families attend church, black clothing.

May: Fiesta de la Cruz - a celebration with over 200 years of history, featuring parades and concerts.

June: San Juan festival (24 June) - construction and burning of monuments. Bonfires on the beach, many celebrations, carnivals and dances. Benidorm Song Festival continues into July.

July: maritime procession of Virgen del Carmen (16 July). Saint James’s Day (25 July) with “verbenas” and street suppers.

August: peak tourist season - open-air concerts and musical events. Celebration of San Roque (16 August).

September: gastronomic festivals dedicated to grapes and artichokes. Moors and Christians festival with street processions.

October: Moors and Christians festival (early month) with marches and gunpowder salvos. Day of the Valencian Community (9 October) with a traditional market.

November: official celebration month of Benidorm in honour of the city’s patron saints - Virgen del Sufragio and the Apostle Saint James. Five-day event since 1740 - Humour Cavalcade, parades, “mascletas”, flower offerings, fireworks.

December: extended Christmas celebrations - rides, inflatables, ice rink, Christmas market. New Year’s Eve party with grape eating on Levante beach.

6. Benidorm Markets

El Pueblo Market

Location: Rincon de Loix area (near Hotel Servigroup Pueblo) Days: Wednesday and Sunday (8:00-13:00) Merchandise: Chinese magnets, antiques, paintings, leather goods (bags, belts, shoes), fresh fruits and vegetables Visitors: especially popular among Norwegian, Dutch, German and British tourists

Foyetes Market

Days: Wednesday (8:00-13:00) Prices: cheaper than other markets and outlets Merchandise: farm produce (bread, wine, fish, meat, fruits, vegetables), affordable clothing, souvenirs Clientele: predominantly local residents

El Cisne Flea Market

Location: near Benisol campsite on the N-332 road towards Alfas del Pi Days: Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (8:00-13:00) Merchandise: antique furniture, coins, paintings at attractive prices Additional: local cafe with tapas and jazz music

7. Theme Parks and Entertainment

Terra Mitica

Located 10 minutes from Benidorm. An amusement park with 30 rides representing Roman, Greek and Egyptian civilisations. Includes shows, restaurants and hotels. Online ticket purchase recommended to avoid queues in high season.

Terra Natura Zoo

Located near Terra Mitica. Over 1,500 animals including tigers, lions, black jaguars, crocodiles, rhinos, camels, elephants, monkeys, birds and reptiles. Over 200 species in a “Zooimmersion” format - four zones with invisible barriers.

Aitana Safari Park

Approximately one hour’s drive from Benidorm. A large safari park with wild animals from five continents in their natural habitat.

Mundomar Marine Park

Spain’s largest marine life and bird park - 60,000 square metres in the Sierra Helada hills. Over 80 marine animals, impressive dolphin shows, seals and unique aquatic ballet performances with dolphins and Spanish athletes.

Aqua Natura Water Park

Modern complex with a 5,000-square-metre pool and 1,000 metres of slides. Numerous rides, pools, water castles, relaxation and sunbathing areas.

Aqualandia Water Park

One of the largest water parks in Europe - an extensive area with slides, pools, thrill rides and hydrotherapy zones. Tickets available as packages with Terra Mitica and Mundomar.

8. Museums

Casa Museo de Benidorm: art gallery with paintings, sculptures and antique utensils, surrounded by a beautiful garden. Free admission.

Agricultural Museum: equipment exhibits including antique tools and a real water mill. Located in Parque de l’Aiguera near the Plaza de Toros. Free admission.

Maritime Culture Centre Exhibition: located on Paseo de Colon. Exhibits include ship models, fishing boats, anchors and nautical knots. Dedicated to the maritime culture of south-eastern Spain and traditional regional crafts. Free admission.

Boca del Calvari Museum: local history, culture and art. Free admission.

Valor Chocolate Museum (Museo del Chocolate): 20 minutes from Benidorm - chocolate tasting and production secrets. Free admission, English-language tours at 11:00 and 16:00.

9. Cultural Attractions and Monuments

Sierra Helada Natural Park and Albir Lighthouse

A hiking destination with stunning views of mountains and cliffs (300-metre height), turquoise coves. Organised hiking routes available. Experienced hikers can cover the 8-kilometre ridge in 4 hours.

Guadalest

30 minutes’ drive from Benidorm, population 200. Home to the Microminiature Museum, Torture Museum, fortress and 11th-century Castle of King San Josep with famous viewpoints overlooking valleys and vividly coloured reservoirs. Affordable handmade souvenirs, cheeses and goods.

Algar Waterfalls

10 minutes from Guadalest, on a mountain river. You can swim in fresh water. For thrill-seekers - cliff jumping under lifeguard supervision. Popular picnic spot.

Puig Campana Peak

The second highest mountain in Alicante province. The climb is challenging but rewarded with incredible views. Water, trekking shoes and a camera are essential. An early morning start is recommended.

Benidorm Island

An untouched natural island with panoramic views of Benidorm. Reachable in 15 minutes by catamaran from Benidorm port. Return fare: EUR 15 for adults, EUR 12 for children.

Benidorm Cross

A famous viewpoint with magnificent sunset views and an impressive evening city panorama. Accessible by car or on foot.

10. Best Beaches of Benidorm

1. Levante Beach (Playa Levante)

Length: 2 km Width: 55 m Location: east of the old town Features: golden sand, sunbed and parasol hire, playgrounds, slides, entertainment venues, bars, discos, casino Season: doctors and lifeguards on duty during high season

2. Poniente Beach (Playa Poniente)

Length: 3.1 km (the largest beach) Location: near the port, stretching to Tossal de la Cala Features: wide, comfortable beach with fine sand, gentle sea entry - ideal for families. The Paseo de Poniente promenade was designed by architect Carlos Ferrater. Infrastructure: equipment hire, playgrounds, water sports, inflatable platforms

3. Mal Pas Beach (Playa del Mal Pas)

Location: between Levante and Poniente beaches Size: 120 metres Access: from the sea side or descending from the San Jaime cathedral Features: cosy cove for secluded relaxation, sunbed hire, foot showers, lifeguard service Status: “Blue Flag” for 30 years Season: can be very crowded during peak season

Other Water Activities

Crystal-clear water, scenic rocky shores and reefs are perfect for diving. Quality diving centres and schools operate here. Best dive sites: around Benidorm Island, Cala la Almadraba, Cala del Tio Ximo. A kite- and windsurfing club operates near Almadraba cove.

11. Restaurants, Bars and Cuisine

Dining Costs

• Traditional Spanish breakfast (toast with tomatoes, olive oil, coffee/juice): EUR 2-3
• Menu del dia (lunch): EUR 10-12
• Chinese buffet lunch: EUR 8
• Tapas set (5 varieties): EUR 8
• Paella festival: October (best time to compare variations)

Dishes to Try

Spanish specialities: jamon, pinchos, gazpacho, churros, rice dishes, seafood, paella, fideua (vermicelli with seafood), caldereta de langosta (vegetable stew with potatoes and langoustines).

Local Cuisine Restaurants

• Amigos Bistro by Nas & Dino
• El Rincon del Ribera Snack Bar
• El Esturion Fish Restaurant
• Son de MAR Restaurant
• La Cofradia Restaurant
• Marisqueria Cordoba Fish Restaurant

Tapas and Traditional Cuisine

For classic tapas, Calle Jose Martinez Oriola is recommended. Most tapas bars offer free samples with ordered drinks. The October paella festival is a unique opportunity to compare different variations.

12. Nightlife and Bars

English Quarter (Rincon de Loix)

Located behind Levante beach, with British-oriented venues. Popular British pubs offer a pint for EUR 1, happy hours, English breakfast, Sunday roast.

Live music venues:

• Morgan’s Tavern
• Rockefellers (live performances)
• Hippodrome (young audience, great music and dancing)
• Beachcomber disco pub

Levante Beach Promenade

• Heartbreak Rock Bar (tribute bands, live music)
• Daytona (on Avenida Madrid)
• Tiki Beach (lively beach bar, cocktails, beer)

Rincon de Loix Area

Rock and Roll House: a 1950s-style venue near Benidorm Palace Alameda 20 (Calle Alameda): cosy spot with great cocktails, open until 2 AM

Old Town Bars

• Marrs Bar (Calle de los Gatos): cocktails and shots, parties often continue in the street
• Bar 69 (Avenida de La Constitucion): large terrace, ideal for warm nights

LGBTQ+ Venues (30+ bars in the old town)

• Brief Encounter
• Mercury
• Peoples Disco Pub
• Sensations
• Gay Pride: September

Major Nightclubs

Located on Avenida Comunidad Valenciana outside the city. Accessible by car or taxi (EUR 10).

Entry: EUR 15-30 (often includes 1-2 drinks)

Top clubs:

• Penelope
• Mansion
• Hippodrome Disco-Pub
• Ku Discoteca
• KM Playa
• Privilege

13. Shopping

Shop Opening Hours

Many Spanish shops close from 14:00 to 17:00 for siesta. Biggest sales: July-August and December-January.

La Marina Shopping Centre

Location: Finestrat area Merchandise: mass-market brands (Zara), cinema, food court, playgrounds, El Corte Ingles outlet

Old Town Shopping

Main street: Avenida Martinez Alejos Areas: Passatge de la Carretera (main shopping street) and surrounding streets Merchandise: boutiques, jewellery shops, clothing, shoes, cosmetics, accessories, souvenirs, craft workshops, food shops

Specialist Shopping Zones

• Jewellery: Calle Rincon de Loix
• Souvenirs: Avenida Mediterraneo and Triangle Square
• Note: prices decrease further from the seafront

What to Buy

• Clothing and accessories from Spanish brands
• Jewellery
• Lace and embroidery
• Leather goods
• Wine
• Guitars

14. Other Leisure Activities

Cabaret and Shows

Benidorm Palace: historically recognised as the best cabaret theatre in Europe. Magnificent shows with singers and dancers. “Dinner + show” packages available.

Showboat: drag shows, singers, comedy, dancing.

Other venues:

• Sinatra’s
• Vincent’s Corner Pubs
• Cafe Benidorm

Casino Mediterraneo Benidorm

A large complex with slot machines, blackjack, roulette and poker tables. TV screens broadcasting major sporting events and sports betting. Art exhibitions by local artists on the ground floor.

Flamenco

El Bandolero (Calle Esperanto, 16): regular flamenco shows with tapas and wine. Table reservations recommended.

15. Property Types in Benidorm: Houses, Villas and Apartments

Property Prices in Benidorm and Surroundings

Price Overview

Two- to three-bedroom apartments in buildings with lifts in the centre cost approximately EUR 130,000. Beachfront apartments (first-second line) start from EUR 200,000. Modern new property costs EUR 2,500-4,000 per square metre. Apartments in Sierra Cortina start from EUR 220,000; villas from EUR 350,000.

High prices are justified by prestige and infrastructure: spa complex, sports centre, gourmet restaurant, security service.

Rincon de Loix

East of the Levante zone. Partially occupied by tourist infrastructure and the Sierra Helada national park. A small nudist beach is available. Unofficially known as the “English Quarter” - British expats predominate. An international district with streets named after cities: Londres, Malta, Amsterdam, Estocolmo, Moscu.

Pueblo Levante (+ Levante Beach)

The presence of a Dutch church reflects the community’s diversity. Entertainment is concentrated here: Aqualandia, Aqua Natura, Casino Mediterraneo, Benidorm Palace. The prestigious Lope de Vega private school consistently ranks among the best in the Valencian Community.

El Castell (Old Town)

The central historic quarter by the beach. A few old houses of limited interest. Characteristic blue church domes in a “frying pan” shape. A must-visit destination.

Pueblo Poniente (+ Poniente Beach)

Many locals consider this the best area of Benidorm. Full infrastructure for comfortable living. Most buildings are set back from the beach - first-line positions are occupied by hotels. Luxury property projects have recently appeared. Future plans include developing vacant land with residential buildings, offices, shops and modern infrastructure. The district connects to La Cala Finestrat - a private beach, cove, hotels and commercial zones.

Centro Urbano (City Centre)

The main commercial activity centre with shopping and gastronomic tourism. Key government institutions are located here. Official city celebrations take place in Parque de l’Aiguera. Numerous hotels and rental apartments.

16. Conclusion

Benidorm is one of the most expensive locations on the Costa Blanca, justified by its investment appeal and tourist activity. Hotel and apartment occupancy rates in high season reach 100%.

Many prefer the neighbouring towns of Finestrat and Villajoyosa - for a more peaceful, nature-oriented lifestyle with fewer bars and nightclubs.

The actively developing property market offers variety at reasonable prices. The city is renowned for comfort and dynamism. Property has traditionally enjoyed high demand thanks to tourist appeal. Transactions are conducted through estate agencies and banks ensuring transparent and secure processes.