Benidorm is one of those places everyone thinks they already know.
Mention it to someone and you’ll usually get one of two reactions. They’ll either tell you it’s the best holiday they’ve ever had, or they’ll repeat something they heard from someone who hasn’t actually been there in 20 years.
The truth sits somewhere in the middle.
Yes, Benidorm has legendary nightlife. Yes, you can find karaoke bars, tribute acts and enough cocktails to make your suitcase feel unnecessary.
But there’s also another side to Benidorm that surprises a lot of first-time visitors.
Golden beaches stretching for miles, family-friendly attractions, mountain viewpoints, fantastic restaurants and more sunshine than most of us see in an entire British summer.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a couples getaway or a week of enjoying the Spanish sunshine with friends, Benidorm has a habit of winning people over.
And once you’ve been, you’ll probably understand why so many visitors end up coming back year after year.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Region | Costa Blanca, Spain |
| Nearest Airport | Alicante–Elche Airport |
| Flight Time (UK) | 2.5–3 hours |
| Transfer Time | 45–60 minutes |
| Best For | Families, Couples, Groups, Beach Holidays, Nightlife |
| Average Summer Temperature | 28–32°C |
Best Holiday Deals to Benidorm
Benidorm remains one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain, which means there’s usually plenty of choice when it comes to package holidays.
Whether you’re after a cheap Benidorm holiday, an all-inclusive resort or a luxury beachfront hotel, comparing providers can often save you a surprising amount of money.
Popular package holiday providers include:
Compare Benidorm holiday deals before booking to find the best prices, especially during school holidays and peak summer months.
Tip: Booking slightly outside July and August can often save hundreds while still giving you fantastic weather.
Where to Stay in Benidorm
One of the biggest questions people ask is whether to stay in the Old Town, Levante or Poniente area.
The answer depends entirely on what sort of holiday you’re after.
Levante Beach Area
This is where you’ll find the famous Benidorm atmosphere.
Perfect if you enjoy:
- Lively bars
- Nightlife
- Beachfront hotels
- Watersports
- Entertainment
Poniente Beach Area
Generally quieter and more relaxed.
Ideal for:
- Families
- Couples
- Beach walks
- Better sunsets
- A more laid-back atmosphere
Benidorm Old Town
The hidden gem many first-time visitors overlook.
Expect:
- Traditional Spanish streets
- Tapas bars
- Independent restaurants
- Boutique hotels
- Beautiful viewpoints
Getting Around: Do You Need a Car?
Most visitors don’t need a car in Benidorm.
The town is extremely walkable, taxis are affordable and public transport is reliable.
However, if you’re planning to explore more of the Costa Blanca, hiring a car can be a great option.
A rental car makes it easier to visit:
- Altea
- Villajoyosa
- Guadalest
- Alicante
- Calpe
- The surrounding mountains and coastline
For visitors staying a week or longer, even a couple of days with a hire car can open up a completely different side of the region.
We recommend booking with Europcar for a safe, reliable car hire service.
Best Beaches in Benidorm
Levante Beach – The most famous beach in the resort. Expect a lively atmosphere, watersports and plenty of places to eat and drink nearby.
Poniente Beach – Quieter, wider and often considered the more relaxed option. Perfect for long walks and family beach days.
Mal Pas Beach – Small, picturesque and tucked between the larger beaches. Ideal if you want somewhere a little more peaceful.
Cala Tio Ximo – A hidden cove popular with snorkellers and visitors looking to escape the crowds.
Best Things to Do in Benidorm
People often arrive expecting beaches and nightlife. Then they realise there’s far more to do than they expected.
Visit Levante Beach – The most famous beach in Benidorm. Wide, sandy and packed with beach bars, watersports and sun loungers, it’s the centre of the action during summer.
Explore Benidorm Old Town – Wander through narrow streets, discover hidden tapas bars and enjoy a completely different atmosphere from the modern beachfront.
Visit the Balcón del Mediterráneo – Possibly the most photographed spot in Benidorm. The views across both beaches are incredible, especially around sunset.
Terra Mítica Theme Park – A brilliant family day out featuring rollercoasters, live shows and attractions themed around ancient civilisations.
Aqualandia Water Park – One of Spain’s most popular water parks and a lifesaver during those seriously hot summer afternoons.
Take a Boat to Benidorm Island – A short boat trip takes you out into the bay where you’ll find walking trails, stunning viewpoints and crystal-clear water.
We recommend booking through Viator or GetYourGuide for the best excursions at reasonable prices.
Top Tips for Visiting Benidorm
Book airport transfers before you travel
Wear plenty of sun cream, even in spring
Explore beyond the beachfront
Try traditional tapas in the Old Town
Visit the Balcón del Mediterráneo at sunset
Compare package holiday providers before booking
Don’t judge Benidorm until you’ve actually seen it!
Benidorm is one of the most misunderstood holiday destinations in Spain. Yes, the nightlife is famous. Yes, there are plenty of bars, shows and entertainment. But underneath all that is a destination with fantastic beaches, reliable sunshine, excellent food and enough variety to suit almost every type of traveller.
You can spend your days relaxing on the sand, exploring hidden coves, taking boat trips, visiting theme parks or discovering the more traditional side of the Costa Blanca. It’s easy, affordable, sunny and surprisingly versatile.
And that’s probably why millions of people keep returning every year. Some holidays are a one-off. Benidorm has a habit of becoming a tradition.
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