Benidorm

How many days: 4

Spend your first day on Levante beach and explore the old town in the evening. Use the second for Poniente beach, the Balcón del Mediterráneo and a relaxed meal overlooking the water. These areas are close enough to combine without complicated planning.

On your third day, walk towards the Sierra Helada Natural Park or take a coastal boat excursion if conditions allow. Keep the fourth for a nearby village such as Altea, a family attraction or simply another beach day. Benidorm works well when you leave room for unplanned time.

What to do in Benidorm

Relax on Levante beach

Spend time on Benidorm's lively eastern beach, with a long stretch of sand and a promenade backed by cafés and apartment towers. It is convenient for swimming and people-watching.

Explore Poniente beach

Walk or relax along the broad western beach, which often feels calmer than Levante. Its long promenade is particularly pleasant outside the hottest part of the day.

Visit the Balcón del Mediterráneo

Head to the white-balustraded viewpoint between the two main beaches. You get a clear view of Benidorm's coastline and an excellent sense of the city's unusual setting.

Wander through the old town

Explore the lanes around the historic centre, where smaller buildings, shops and tapas bars contrast with the resort towers. It is especially enjoyable in the evening.

Walk in Sierra Helada Natural Park

Follow one of the marked routes through the coastal hills for sea views and a quieter side of Benidorm. Check route difficulty and carry water, as exposed paths can be demanding in the heat.

Visit the Church of San Jaime

See the old town's whitewashed church near the headland. Its blue domes and elevated position make it a recognisable part of Benidorm's historic centre.

Take a boat towards Benidorm Island

Enjoy views back towards the skyline from the water on a local boat excursion. Check locally for current routes, landing arrangements and sea conditions.

Explore Altea

Visit this nearby coastal town for whitewashed streets, a blue-domed church and a more traditional atmosphere. It makes an appealing contrast with Benidorm's large resort buildings.

Enjoy the evening entertainment

Explore the resort's varied entertainment areas, from relaxed terraces to lively music venues. Choose the part of town that suits your mood rather than assuming everywhere is equally noisy.

Try a family attraction

Consider one of the area's water parks, wildlife attractions or theme parks if travelling with children. Check the official sites for seasonal operations and suitability.

What to eat and drink

Share Spanish tapas

Order a selection of small dishes such as croquettes, olives, grilled vegetables and seafood. The old town is a good area for this style of eating.

Try arroz a banda

Sample this local rice dish traditionally cooked with fish stock. It is a useful alternative to the more internationally familiar versions of paella.

Eat fresh grilled fish

Choose a simple fish dish with lemon, vegetables or potatoes. Coastal cooking here is often at its best when little is added.

Have a leisurely beachside breakfast

Enjoy coffee, toast, fruit or a Spanish-style breakfast near the promenade. It is an easy way to start before the beach gets busy.

Try local pastries

Look for Spanish baked sweets and pastries in a bakery. They make a welcome afternoon break after walking around the resort.

Enjoy an evening drink

Choose a terrace for a glass of Spanish wine, beer or a non-alcoholic drink. Quieter seafront areas offer a different experience from the nightlife streets.

Getting around

The old town and the ends of Levante and Poniente beaches are walkable, but Benidorm stretches a considerable distance along the coast. Local buses are useful between the main beach districts and residential areas. The promenades are pleasant walking routes, although some streets climb steeply away from the shore.

The Alicante tram network connects Benidorm with other coastal communities, including Altea and Alicante, with journey times depending on the service. Taxis are widely useful for shorter resort journeys; use official taxi ranks or reputable booking methods. You generally do not need a car for Benidorm itself, but one can help with rural excursions.

Good to know

• Levante is generally the livelier beach area, while Poniente is often a better fit if you prefer a quieter stay.
• The resort attracts a wide mix of visitors. Some nightlife streets are noisy late into the evening, so check your accommodation's exact location.
• Summer heat and strong sunshine make shade, water and sun protection important, even when there is a sea breeze.
• Beach conditions and swimming flags matter. Follow lifeguard guidance rather than judging safety by the appearance of the water.
• The old town and steep streets behind the beaches can be harder for anyone with limited mobility.
• Nearby coastal towns are easy to visit without committing to a hire car for your entire stay.