Benidorm Complete Guide: Old Town, Beaches, Island & Tapas 2026

Most visitors associate Benidorm with concrete skyscrapers, British tourists, and all-inclusive packages. In reality, it is one of the most surprising cities on the Costa Blanca — with a charming Old Town, two kilometre-long Blue Flag beaches, its own island accessible by boat, and a nightlife scene that rivals Ibiza. Located just 60 km from Gran Alacant, Benidorm makes the perfect weekend getaway by car along the toll-free AP-7 motorway. In this guide, we show you what to see in Benidorm beyond the skyscraper stereotype — from the best viewpoints, through beach comparisons, to local tapas bars you will not find in any mainstream guidebook.

Why Visit Benidorm?

• Casco Antiguo Old Town — narrow streets, tapas bars, authentic atmosphere

• Mirador del Castillo — the best viewpoint overlooking both bays

• Two Blue Flag beaches — Poniente (peaceful) and Levante (vibrant)

• Benidorm Island — boat trip for ~€15, snorkeling, hiking trails

• Tapas on Calle Santo Domingo — authentic Valencian cuisine

• Theme parks — Aqualandia, Terra Mitica, Mundomar nearby

What Makes Benidorm's Old Town (Casco Antiguo) Special?

Casco Antiguo is the heart of the real Benidorm, hidden behind the facade of modern high-rises. Narrow, cobbled streets climb a hill above the sea, leading to small squares with colourful house facades, traditional bars, and artisan shops. This is where you feel the authentic Mediterranean town atmosphere that completely contrasts with the beachfront hotel zone.

Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana

An 18th-century church with a distinctive dome covered in blue glazed tiles. Standing on top of Canfali hill, it is one of Benidorm's most recognisable symbols. The interior is surprisingly modest yet full of tranquillity.

Plaza del Castillo

A small square at the top of the old town where a defensive castle once stood. Today it is a meeting point for locals, with a few benches in tree shade and a cafe with a view. The perfect spot to rest after climbing the streets.

Why Is Mirador del Castillo an Essential Visit?

Mirador del Castillo, also known as the Balcon del Mediterraneo, is the best viewpoint in Benidorm and one of the most photographed spots on the Costa Blanca. It sits on a rocky promontory between the two bays, exactly where a medieval fortress once stood. From here you get a 360-degree panorama: Playa de Poniente with its line of skyscrapers to the left, Playa de Levante to the right, and the open sea with Benidorm Island straight ahead.

Photography Tips

• Sunset — the best light falls from the Poniente side
• Early morning — empty terrace, perfect for crowd-free photos
• Mosaic balustrade — the distinctive white-and-blue wall makes an excellent backdrop
• Night — illuminated skyscrapers and promenade look spectacular

Which Beach Is Better — Playa de Poniente or Levante?

Benidorm has two main beaches separated by Canfali hill with the Old Town. Both hold the Blue Flag and offer excellent infrastructure, but they differ in character. Here is a comparison to help you choose.

Playa de Poniente (west)

• Length: ~3 km — longer and wider
• Atmosphere: calm, family-friendly
• Crowds: smaller even in season
• Promenade: modern, wavy white walls
• Sand: golden, fine
• Parking: easier to find
• Sunsets: spectacular!

Ideal for: families with children, couples seeking peace

Playa de Levante (east)

• Length: ~2 km — more compact
• Atmosphere: vibrant, social
• Crowds: large in season
• Promenade: full of restaurants and bars
• Sand: golden, fine
• Attractions: beach bars, water sports
• Close to: centre and nightlife

Ideal for: lovers of social life and entertainment

How to Get to Benidorm Island and What Will You See?

Benidorm Island (Isla de Benidorm, locally known as L'Illa) is a small rocky island lying about 5 km offshore, clearly visible from Mirador del Castillo. The boat trip takes about 15-20 minutes and costs approximately €15 per person return. Boats depart from Benidorm port and from the beaches.

What to do on the island?

• Snorkeling and diving — crystal-clear water, fish, octopuses
• Hiking trails — short routes with coastal views
• Bird watching — seagull and cormorant colonies
• Glass-bottom boats — perfect if you prefer not to dive

Practical information

• Price: ~€15/person (return)
• Crossing time: 15-20 minutes
• Season: April-October (regular services)
• Bring: water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, snorkeling mask
• No facilities on the island: no shops or restaurants — bring food!

Where to Find the Best Tapas in Benidorm?

Calle Santo Domingo in the Old Town is the street you must visit if you are looking for authentic tapas. This narrow street is packed with small bars and restaurants where locals eat every day. Forget the tourist traps on Levante — here you will find real Valencian cuisine at affordable prices.

What to order?

• Patatas bravas — potatoes with spicy sauce
• Gambas al ajillo — garlic prawns
• Pulpo a la gallega — Galician-style octopus
• Jamon iberico — Iberian ham
• Boquerones en vinagre — anchovies in vinegar

Tips

• Eat tapas between 13:00-15:00 or 20:00-22:00
• Look for bars where Spaniards eat
• Order tinto de verano — local red wine with lemonade
• Budget: €12-20/person for tapas with a drink
• Do not be afraid to order in Spanish — waiters appreciate the effort!

How to Get to Benidorm from Gran Alacant?

By car (recommended)

Distance: ~60 km one way

Driving time: 45-55 minutes

Route: Gran Alacant → A-70 → AP-7 (northbound) → Benidorm exit

AP-7 motorway: toll-free on this section!

Fuel: ~€8-10 return

Parking in Benidorm

Underground car parks: €1-2/hour

Near Poniente: easier to find

Near Levante: harder in season

Blue zone: paid Mon-Sat, free on Sundays

Alternative: parking at Plaza de Toros

Alternative transport

• TRAM Alicante-Benidorm: from Alicante centre, ~1h 15min, ~€4.50
• ALSA bus: from Alicante bus station, ~1h, ~€5-7
• N-332 national road: slower but with beautiful coastal views

What Is Benidorm's Nightlife Like?

Benidorm is one of the most famous nightlife destinations in Spain, often compared to Ibiza. The city offers entertainment for every budget and taste — from quiet cocktail bars in the Old Town, through karaoke and live music venues, to multi-storey clubs open until dawn.

Old Town

• Intimate tapas bars
• Rooftop cocktail bars
• Live music
• Atmosphere for couples

Levante zone

• Karaoke bars
• Sports bars with TV
• Pub crawl
• Party atmosphere

Nightclubs

• Benidorm Palace (show)
• KU Disco (multi-floor)
• Penelope Beach Club
• Open until 6:00-7:00

Tip: nightlife in Benidorm picks up after 23:00. If you plan a night out, consider overnight accommodation — drink-driving is severely punished in Spain.

Which Theme Parks Are Near Benidorm?

Benidorm is not just about beaches and the Old Town. Within a few kilometres of the centre you will find three large theme parks offering a full day of entertainment, especially for families with children.

Aqualandia — Costa Blanca's Largest Water Park

The tallest water slide in Europe (33 m!), over 15 water attractions, zones for children and adults. Perfect for hot summer days. Tickets from ~€35.

Terra Mitica — Ancient Civilisations Theme Park

Four themed zones: Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Iberia. Roller coasters, live shows, restaurants. A full day of entertainment for all age groups.

Mundomar — Marine Park with Dolphins and Seals

Dolphin and sea lion shows, exotic birds, lemurs, penguins. An educational experience for children and adults in a beautiful setting.

How Much Time Do You Need and When Is the Best Time to Visit?

How much time to plan?

1 day (day trip from Gran Alacant)

Morning: Old Town + Mirador. Afternoon: beach. Evening: tapas on Calle Santo Domingo. Return before nightfall.

2 days (with overnight stay)

Day 1: Old Town, Mirador, beach, tapas, nightlife. Day 2: Benidorm Island or theme park + Playa de Poniente.

Best time to visit

Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov)

20-28°C, fewer crowds, lower prices. Ideal!

Summer (Jun-Aug)

30°C+, crowded, expensive. But ideal for water parks.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

12-18°C, quiet, affordable. Popular with retirees.

Practical Tips for a Weekend in Benidorm

• Leave early in the morning: avoid traffic on the AP-7 and find parking

• Start with the Old Town: the morning is coolest for climbing to the Mirador

• Bring cash: some small bars in Casco Antiguo do not accept cards

• Sunscreen! The coastal sun is strong even in March

• Book island boat in advance: especially on weekends and in season

• Comfortable shoes: the Old Town has cobbled streets and stairs

• Park near Poniente: easier than near Levante

• Check the weather: sometimes strong winds make the island crossing difficult

What to Photograph in Benidorm?

Mirador del Castillo

Panorama of both bays — the quintessential Benidorm photo

San Jaime Church Dome

Blue tiles against the sea — the city's symbol

Sunset from Poniente

The sun sinking into the sea horizon — a colour spectacle

Benidorm Island from the Balcony

Rocky island silhouette from Balcon del Mediterraneo

Rafał Prońko

Właściciel Brisa Alacant

Właściciel apartamentu wakacyjnego Brisa Alacant od 2023 roku, regularnie odwiedzam Costa Blanca i znam region z własnych doświadczeń. Wszystkie miejsca opisane na blogu odwiedziłem osobiście — zdjęcia i porady pochodzą z moich własnych wizyt. Pomagam gościom odkrywać najlepsze atrakcje regionu Alicante.

Gran Alacant, Costa BlancaWłaściciel od 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

What is worth seeing in Benidorm beyond beaches and skyscrapers?

Benidorm offers far more than beaches and skyscrapers, although those dominate most visitors' imaginations. You absolutely must visit the Old Town known as Casco Antiguo, where narrow streets lead to charming little squares with traditional tapas bars and artisan shops. At the top of the old town sits the Mirador del Castillo, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of both bays and the famous Balcon del Mediterraneo. The Church of San Jaime with its 18th-century dome covered in blue glazed tiles is another architectural gem. It is worth taking a boat to Benidorm Island located five kilometres offshore, where you can snorkel, hike trails, and observe seagull colonies. On the outskirts of the city you will find theme parks such as Aqualandia, Terra Mitica, and Mundomar, providing a full day of entertainment for families with children. In the evening, Calle Santo Domingo transforms into a paradise for lovers of tapas and local Valencian cuisine.

How do you get to Benidorm from Gran Alacant by car?

Getting from Gran Alacant to Benidorm by car is straightforward and takes approximately 45 to 55 minutes depending on traffic. The distance is about 60 kilometres one way. The fastest route follows the AP-7 motorway, which is toll-free on the entire stretch from Alicante to Benidorm, making the journey very comfortable. From Gran Alacant, head first towards the A-70 motorway in the direction of Alicante, then merge onto the AP-7 northbound towards Benidorm. The motorway exit is well signposted and leads directly to the city centre. An alternative route is the N-332 national road that runs along the coast offering beautiful views, but it is slower due to passing through many towns. Parking in central Benidorm can be problematic during the summer season, so we recommend using underground car parks near Playa de Poniente or at Plaza de Toros, where rates are typically one to two euros per hour. On off-season weekends, parking is much easier.

Which beach in Benidorm is better - Poniente or Levante?

The choice between Playa de Poniente and Playa de Levante depends on your preferences and holiday style. Playa de Levante is the more famous and vibrant beach stretching about two kilometres, bordered by a promenade full of restaurants, bars, and shops. It is the ideal spot for those seeking a lively atmosphere and easy access to services. The sand is golden and fine, and the water entry is gentle, making it safe for children. Playa de Poniente is longer, reaching almost three kilometres, and offers a significantly calmer atmosphere with a wider strip of sand. This beach is less crowded even in peak season, making it a better choice for families seeking peace and space. The promenade along Poniente is modern and beautifully designed with wavy white walls. Both beaches hold the Blue Flag certifying water quality and high infrastructure standards. If you prefer relaxation and tranquillity, choose Poniente, and if you want social life and beachside bars, Levante is the better pick.

How much time do you need for sightseeing in Benidorm?

To fully explore Benidorm, it is worth reserving one to two days, depending on what you want to see and how much time you plan to spend on the beaches. If you only have one day, focus on the Old Town with Mirador del Castillo in the morning when it is coolest, then head to one of the beaches for a few hours of relaxation, and finish the day with tapas on Calle Santo Domingo at sunset. With two days, you can add a boat trip to Benidorm Island, which takes approximately three to four hours including the crossing and time on the island. The second day is also a good time to visit one of the nearby theme parks such as Aqualandia in summer or Terra Mitica, which require a full day. If nightlife interests you, it is worth staying overnight as bars and clubs do not get going until after eleven. A one-day trip from Gran Alacant is perfectly feasible, but two days will let you truly experience the atmosphere of this unique Costa Blanca city.

When is the best time of year to visit Benidorm?

The best time to visit Benidorm is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November, when temperatures are pleasant between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius and tourist crowds are considerably smaller than in summer. During these months, hotel and restaurant prices are lower, beaches less crowded, and sightseeing the Old Town and viewpoints comfortable without the heat. Summer from June to August is peak season with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees and huge numbers of tourists, particularly British visitors. Beaches are then packed to capacity and finding parking in the centre becomes a real challenge. However, if you plan to visit water parks like Aqualandia, summer is obviously the best time. Winter in Benidorm is mild with temperatures of 12 to 18 degrees and is a popular destination for European retirees seeking warmth. The city lives at a quieter pace, many restaurants in the Old Town remain open, and prices are the lowest of the year. For tourists seeking the golden balance between weather and crowds, April and October are absolutely ideal months for exploring Benidorm.

Źródła i odnośniki

Visit Benidorm - Official Benidorm tourism portal(dostęp: 2026-03-31)
Benidorm - Wikipedia: history, geography, tourist attractions(dostęp: 2026-03-31)
Turismo Comunitat Valenciana - Benidorm, Costa Blanca(dostęp: 2026-03-31)
Benidorm TripAdvisor - Tourist reviews and ratings(dostęp: 2026-03-31)

Explore Benidorm from Your Base in Gran Alacant!

Benidorm is just 45 minutes drive from our apartment in Gran Alacant. After a day full of impressions in the Old Town, on the beaches, and in tapas bars, return to a peaceful apartment with a swimming pool and views. Gran Alacant is the ideal base for exploring the entire Costa Blanca — from Benidorm to Alicante, from Elche to Torrevieja. Book your stay and discover the true face of the Spanish coast!

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Benidorm — Not Just Skyscrapers: Complete Weekend Guide