When it comes to Euro trips, Benidorm doesn’t come up often but should. It’s the perfect location for any type of traveller. It has great weather, a list of great beaches, and a wide range of tourist attractions for family groups and solo travellers.

Solo travellers would be happy to know that Benidorm offers a thriving nightlife while families have a wide range of outdoor activities to choose from such as water sports and mountain hikes. Benidorm also has some of the best beaches that Spain has to offer.

Benidorm is also known for its wildlife parks and shows such as the Mundomar and theme parks such as Terra Mitica and Aqualandia. It is also surrounded by beautiful castles that can only be experienced in Europe.

How to Get There

To get to Benidorm, the city relies on three nearby international airports to welcome tourists. These airports are Alicante Airport, Murcia – San Javier Airport, and Valencia Airport. Your airport of choice will greatly depend on where you are flying from.

Whatever airport you land in will give you several transportation options to get you to Benidorm. Private cars are available across all three airports. Car hiring is common since these airports are about an hour and a half away from Benidorm. Another option that is cheaper, yet still convenient, is the taxi. It also takes about an hour and a half from either of the airports if you choose this mode of transport.

Meanwhile, buses are available only in the Alicante Airport and Valencia Airport. Bus transfer from Alicante Airport to Benidorm takes 45 minutes. On the other hand, it takes about three hours and 16 minutes from Valencia Airport and includes a Metro transfer.

The train is only available from Alicante Airport and takes about an hour and 40 minutes and includes a bus transfer.

Top Things to Do

Although a bit underrated, Benidorm has a lot to offer visitors aside from its beaches. It has the wild nightlife for party people and a lot of action-packed bonding trips such as go-karting and theme parks for families.

Levante Beach is the image most associated with Benidorm. It is a paradise with a wonderful crystal blue beach that tourists flock to all year round. Meanwhile, Poniente Beach is the beach next to Levante and is a good place to surf. It’s also more secluded than Levante and a good option if you are seeking privacy.

If you are into wildlife parks with shows and demonstrations, you can visit Mundomar that showcases the special water animals found in Benidorm. There is also a zoo for the little ones to enjoy. You can also bring them to Terra Mitica, one of the largest theme parks in Spain and is inspired by ancient civilizations. It’s a great place to learn about Benidorm's history and have a good time.

If you want to spend all day in the water with your family, Aqualandia is right next to Mundomar and is one of Spain’s oldest waterparks. It has wave pools, slides, and Jacuzzis.

For a more laidback activity, breathe in the beauty at Placa del Castel. It used to be the site of Benidorm’s castle. This beautiful stone garden with chessboard tiles gives you the perfect view of Poniente and Levante. Or you can explore Sierra Helada, Benidorm’s largest natural park. It’s a great exercise and a nice time to commune with nature.

What to Eat

Benidorm is located by the Mediterranean Sea and is reflected in its food selection. Its cuisine is mostly based on fruit, vegetables, and fresh fish. Indeed, a large part of its menu is attributed to its local produce which is largely dependent on fish.

Among the most popular dishes in Benidorm are centered around its rice dishes. Rice dishes paired with baby octopus and prawns, seafood rice, oven-baked rice, and fish casserole are some of the top dishes they offer. They also have “coca farcida” which is a savory type of pie that is filled with tomato and tuna.

Benidorm is also known for its sweet dishes including sweet potato pastries and sweet San Blas buns that you must not miss.

For fine dining, you shouldn’t miss out on Restaurant Llum del Mar, La Falua Restaurant, and El Barranco. You may also try Ians’ Restaurant, Restaurante Taita, and Amigos Bistro by Nas and Dino. Cheap eats include Seven Stars and Refuel Café Bar and Restaurants.

Nightlife

Due to an influx of many young travellers and expats living in Benidorm, there is a thriving nightlife scene. It has the reputation of being the party capital on Costa Blanca. Parties are known to last until breakfast, so you better be ready.

Notable places to visit are Benidorm Palace and its super nightclubs that are cheaper than Ibiza. Simply go to Avenida Communitat Valencia and you will be greeted by many night clubs.

Where to Stay

Benidorm is well-suited for any type of traveller and offers excellent options in terms of accommodations. Old Town is perfect for the traveller who wishes to be in on the action. There are many Benidorm hotels available and it gives anyone easy access to Levante and Poniente beaches. However, the hotels in this area can be a little expensive.

Meanwhile, Rincon de Loix is located in the northeastern corner of Benidorm and is known as a true British haven. There are many available Pubs and English eateries and has that international vibe. It’s a large area and is perfect for any type of travellers - especially for families.

Travel Tips

• Shops are open from 10 AM to 9 PM and often close for lunch. Keep this in mind when planning your shopping trips.

• Visit the Carrefour supermarket since it is the best place to purchase food. It also has a shopping market for souvenirs.

• There is no “hailing” a cab in Benidorm, instead, you must call a car by phone.