There is a very good reason why Benidorm pulls in huge crowds of tourists every single year. And let me assure you now – it’s not just for the beaches. Although the beaches here are some of the best in Spain, there is so much more to Benidorm than just sand, sea and sangria.
Benidorm is in the heart of the Costa Blanca region on the east coast of Spain. Like many typical Spanish cities, Benidorm also comes with a rich history, culture and a huge list of fun things to do and see whilst visiting.
The one difference though…Benidorm towers over its neighbouring cities with giant skyscrapers and an imposing skyline. Known as the “Manhatten of Spain”, the highrise buildings are mostly apartment blocks and hotels, and hug the coastline here for almost 6km.
It’s one of the most famous cities, if not the most famous, within the Costa Blanca region of Spain, with wonderful sandy beaches and tantalisingly turquoise waters. It also has all the great aspects of city life – from the vibrant nightlife, cool clubs and bars, and a ton of old architecture to get around and explore.
And if that isn’t enough, then you still have paintballing, golf, go-karting, mountain hiking, cycling, thrilling water sports and huge theme parks. The list goes on, but one thing is for sure – you are not going to be running out of fun activities during your holiday here.
Whether you’re already here or just beginning to plan your visit, I’m going to share with you some of the very best things to do in Benidorm, Spain, to make it as unforgettable as it possibly can be. Ready for the ultimate Benidorm travel guide?
19 Best Things To Do In Benidorm, Spain
1. Benidorm Old Town
If you want to get a feel for the real Spain, then a visit to Benidorm Old Town is an absolute must. This is where you will find the original part of the city, which dates back hundreds of years.
The streets are narrow and winding, and lined with beautiful old buildings. There are also plenty of small squares and plazas to explore, and plenty of bars and restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat or a drink.
The old town of Benidorm is squeezed on a hill between the two main beaches. You’ll find some of the best eateries in town here, local cafes and bars, as well as some super trendy boutique hotels with spectacular views over the Mediterranean sea.
Don’t miss the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana whilst you meander around the old town and piccolo streets – they are some of the oldest buildings you will find in the city.
2. Levante Beach
Levante Beach is without doubt the most popular beach in Benidorm. It’s wide, long and sandy, and comes with a towering backdrop of skyscrapers and an arc of golden white sand, serving up that perfect city/beach vibe.
There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols to rent, as well as showers, toilets and a playground for the kids. You can also find a wide range of water sports on offer, from jet skiing to banana boat rides.
If you get peckish, there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants where you can buy snacks and drinks. And if you want to take a break from the sun, the promenade that runs alongside the beach is the perfect place for an afternoon retreat where you can take a stroll, grab a coffee and do some people-watching.
Levante Beach is one of the busiest beaches in Benidorm and gets pretty crowded during the peak season. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, then you might want to get a little further afield instead.
The beach comes fully equipped with all the facilities you could possibly need for a day at the beach, so all you have to worry about is getting yourself there early enough to secure your parasols.
3. Poniente Beach
Poniente Beach is Benidorm’s other main beach and is located to the west of Levante. It’s not quite as busy as Levante, but it’s still a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
It has all the usual amenities that you would expect from a beach, including showers, toilets, sun loungers and parasols. The promenade is also a great place to take a stroll, relax and people-watch. This beach really is a fantastic place to visit in Benidorm whilst you’re here.
Poniente is a bit of a quieter beach than Levante, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less fun. There are still plenty of bars and restaurants to keep you entertained, as well as a range of water sports on offer.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, then Poniente Beach is definitely the place to be. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun, relax and take a break from exploring all that Benidorm has to offer.
If you’re travelling with young kids, this will likely be the better choice of city beach for you. The waves can still be fairly moderate here so make sure you the kids (or the adults) don’t wander out too far where there can sometimes be strong undercurrents.
4. Terra Mitica
Terra Mitica is one of the most popular theme parks in Europe, and without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Benidorm during your visit. With over 50 rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone, of all heights and ages.
From rollercoasters and water slides, to live shows and a kids’ zone, Terra Mitica has it all. The park is split into five different themed areas – Iberia, Egypt, Greece, The Islands and The Wild West – each with its own unique rides and attractions.
If you’re visiting Benidorm with kids, then Terra Mitica is definitely worth a visit. They’ll be sure to have an incredible time, and you might even have some fun yourself!
The park is open from late March to early November, so make sure you check the opening times before you go. And if you want to avoid the crowds, then it’s best to visit during the week rather than at weekends or during school holidays.
Tickets are cheaper when purchased in advance. They are available on the official website, but you’ll find them cheaper from here.
Insider Tip – Buy combo tickets for Terra Mitica, Aqualandia & Mundomar and save almost 30% on the separate ticket prices! You can buy combo tickets here.
Entrance Cost: Adults €44 / Juniors (4 – 12) €32 / Seniors (+65) €32.
Opening Hours: Summer from 10:30 – 21:00 / Shoulder Seasons from 10:30 – 19:00/20:00. You can check opening hours from the official website.
5. Aqualandia
Aqualandia is one of Spain’s oldest and best water parks, and it’s just a short drive from Benidorm. With over 30 rides and attractions, you’re going to need a full day to get around and enjoy everything this waterpark has to offer.
From slides and flumes to lazy rivers and wave pools, Aqualandia has it all. And if you’re travelling with young kids, then they’ll love the dedicated children’s area with smaller slides and pools.
There is also one of the largest wave pools that I have ever here in Aqualandia. There is room for over one thousand excited kids (and adults) to anxiously wait for the sirens to start and the huge waves to start crashing over their heads.
This waterpark is still growing in size every year, with new attractions being added each season to keep things fun and exciting. Kids always love returning, making Aqualandia very well-deserving of this list of exciting things to do in Benidorm, Spain.
And on the topic of fun and exciting, how does record-breaking rides sound? The Big Bang is the highest waterslide in all of Europe, and the new ‘Vertigo’ launches riders into a splash pool at around 100kph. Not bad for a waterpark that opened all the way back in 1985!
Aqualandia is open from late May to early September, so make sure you check the opening times before you go. And if you want to avoid the crowds, then it’s best to visit during the week rather than at weekends or during school holidays.
Insider Tip – Buy combo tickets for Terra Mitica, Aqualandia & Mundomar and save almost 30% on the separate ticket prices! You can buy combo tickets here.
Entrance Cost: Adults €34 / Juniors (4 – 12) and Seniors (+65) €26. Prices are more if you pay at the box office, so book in advance.
Opening Hours: Summer from 10:00 – 21:00 / Shoulder Seasons from 10:00 – 20:00.
6. Mundomar Sea Life Park
Granted, seeing marine life and animals performing shows and demonstrations may not be for everyone, but within Mundomar, the inclosures and facilities are all super modern and great care are taken towards the marine animals and birds.
The star of the show is definitely the dolphins, and you can watch them perform tricks and flips in their stadium-style amphitheatre. You can really tell how the trainers have bonded with the dolphins ov the years, and its pleasantly nice to see the rapport between the guys and the dolphins.
There are also sea lion, seal and parrot shows throughout the day, along with educational talks on marine life.
But it’s not all about the animals here – there are also some great rides for the kids (and big kids) to enjoy. The ‘Drago’ rollercoaster is always popular with the little ones, and the ‘Aquatic Carousel’ is a great way to cool down in the heat of the day.
Mundomar is open from early April to early November, so make sure you check the opening times.
Insider Tip – Buy combo tickets for Terra Mitica, Aqualandia & Mundomar and save almost 30% on the separate ticket prices! You can buy combo tickets here.
Entrance Cost: Adults €25 / Juniors (4 – 12) and Seniors (+65) €21. Prices are more if you pay at the box office, so book in advance.
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00/19:00
7. Cala De Finestrat
Cala de Finestrat is another super popular beach not far from the centre of the city. This idyllic bay draws thousands of people here every day to appreciate the sandy beach and turquoise waters as a backdrop to your morning, afternoon or evening.
There are plenty of bars and restaurants close by if you fancy grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink in the heat.
Cala de Finestrat is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun, so make sure you add it to your itinerary.
And if you’re feeling up to it, there is an adjacent cliff from the beach leading you up a short hike to Torre d’Aguilo, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views across the bay and out across the Mediterranean.
8. Balcon del Mediterraneo
The Mediterranean Balcony is an incredible spot. It’s one of the best places in Alicante to grab some panoramic views out to the sea ad islands beyond.
The viewing platform has white-washed balustrades and stone steps leading down to it, where you’re greeted with a chequered-tiled floor and an adorable lamppost that just adds a little touch of class.
The whole experience of walking down to the Balcon del Mediterraneo is as magical and majestic as you would hope for. You’ll want to get here early to avoid the crowds though.
This is also a really popular spot to watch the sunset, so make sure you get back in the late afternoon/early evening to see the sun dip down behind the horizon.
The Balcon del Mediterraneo is located on Avenida de los Reyes Magos, and it’s easily reached on foot from the centre of Alicante.
Make sure you get the Mediterranean Balcony on your itinerary list as it’s one of the most popular places to see in Benidorm Spain!
9. La Cruz de Benidorm
The Cross of Benidorm is a famous landmark in the city, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The cross is located on top of a hill, and it offers stunning views out over the city and the coastline.
This area of the Costa Blanca hasn’t always had the most angelic of history’s, so the cross was built in 1961 and carried from the town to this rural spot at the top of this small mountain as a means to redeem the city and wash away its sins.
The wooden cross was replaced with a more permanent stone monument in 1975, where it has become a symbol of hope for the people of Benidorm ever since.
You can reach the Cross of Benidorm by taking a taxi or making the 45-minute hike up hill. Its probably best to do this during the shoulder seasons though when thing’s aren’t quite so hot.
The rewarding views at the top, however you reach it, is truly awesome so make sure you have your cameras ready.
10. Sierra Helada Natural Park
The Sierra Helada Natural Park is located just east of Benidorm, and it’s a great spot to escape the city and fill your lungs with the fresh mountain air.
The park covers an area of almost 11 square kilometres, and it’s home to some stunning scenery where you will swap the skyscraper buildings for the skyscraper cliffs…and the views are just incredible.
There are hiking trails that wind their way through the park, and you can explore caves, gorges and waterfalls during your visit here and was one of my favourite things to do in Benidorm during my visit
The park is also home to a number of rare plants and animals, so keep your eyes peeled for some of the local wildlife.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Benidorm for a day, then Sierra Helada Natural Park is the perfect place to do it.
11. Enjoy A Round Of Golf
With its year-round sunshine, it’s no surprise that golf is one of the most popular sports along the Costa Blanca. There are a number of great courses in and around Benidorm, so you can tee off whatever time of year you’re visiting.
If you’re looking for a challenge, then why not try your hand at the Poniente Golf Club, which is widely regarded as one of the best courses in Spain.
Or for something a little more relaxed, the Levante Golf Club is a beautiful course with stunning views out over the Mediterranean Sea.
Whichever course you choose to play, you’re guaranteed a great day out on the green with a little bit of peace and quiet.
12. Benidorm Nightlife
Benidorm is world-famous for its nightlife, with hundreds of thousands of expats and norther European visitors coming here to let their hair down and drink the night away.
When the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a whole host of bars, clubs and pubs to suit every taste.
Whether you’re looking for a lively bar where you can drink and dance the night away, or a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a few drinks with friends, you’ll find it all in Benidorm.
And if you want to keep the party going until the early hours of the morning, then there are plenty of clubs open until sunrise. So whatever your idea of a good time, you’ll find it in Benidorm….just don’t forget to go to sleep.
Best Things To Do Around Benidorm
13. Algar Waterfall
The Algar Waterfall is one of the most popular day trips from Benidorm, and well-deserving of its place on this list of best things to do around Benidorm Spain.
This stunning waterfall is located in a small village called Callosa d’en Sarria, which is just a short drive from Benidorm around 20km away.
The waterfall is formed by the River Algar, which flows down from the mountains into a series of natural pools. You can swim in these pools or just dip your toes in to cool off.
There are also a number of hiking trails in the area, so you can explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the fresh mountain air
If you’re looking for a day trip with a difference, then this is the one for you.
There are plenty of organised tours to the waterfall starting from £16 per person, so if you don’t have a car rental then it’s definitely worth checking these out.
14. Puig Campana
Puig Campana is the highest mountain in the province of Alicante, and it’s a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
The summit of the mountain offers stunning views out over the Costa Blanca, and on a clear day, you can even see across to the island of Ibiza.
There are a number of different routes to the top of the mountain, so you can choose one to suit your fitness level. The easiest routes aren’t particularly testing, so you should be fine to make the 1,406m climb to the top, even with just sensible footwear and clothing and plenty of water (and a phone in case of emergencies)
If you’re feeling brave, then why not try the via Ferrata, which is a challenging climb that involves using metal cables and ladders.
However you decide to get to the top, it’s definitely worth it for the views…especially the almost lunar landscape you’ll encounter around halfway up. Very bizarre yet monumentally magical.
15. Altea
Altea is a beautiful town located just a 15-minute drive from Benidorm, and it’s definitely worth a visit if time is your friend!
The old town is particularly lovely, with its traditional Spanish buildings and pretty cobbled streets.
There’s also a stunning blue-domed church which overlooks the town, and it’s well worth taking the time to explore the inside as well as marvel at the exterior.
If you’re feeling active, then there’s also a lovely walk from Altea down to the neighbouring town of Calpe. This takes around an hour, but it’s a beautiful route with some stunning views out over the Mediterranean Sea.
When you reach Calpe, you can reward yourself with a refreshing swim in the clear waters or just relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
16. Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is a pretty town located just south of Benidorm, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The town is best known for its traditional fishing industry, and you can still see the colourful boats that are used by the fishermen in the harbour.
There’s also a lovely promenade where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views out over the Mediterranean Sea.
If you’re feeling hungry, then be sure to try one of the town’s famous chocolate factories. Villajoyosa is home to some of the best chocolate in Spain, and it’s definitely worth indulging in a few sweet treats!
You can drive from Benidorm to Villajoyosa in around 15 minutes, or you can take the No. 1 tram southwest from Benidorm and will take you around 35 minutes.
17. Guadalest
Guadalest is a small village located high in the mountains, and it’s one of the most popular day trips from Benidorm.
The village is home to a number of historical buildings, including a castle and an old church that are all precariously perched on limestone cliffs, and was established in the early-middle ages by the Moors.
With the town sitting 500m above sea level, there are some fantastic views to enjoy from Guadalest, especially from the Mirador del Castillo.
If you’re feeling brave, then you can even walk out to the edge of the cliff on a metal bridge…but I wouldn’t recommend looking down if you’re scared of heights.
18. Alicante
Alicante is the capital of the province of Alicante, and it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a taste of city life and a bit more history.
There’s plenty to see and do in Alicante, from exploring the old town to visiting the castle that overlooks the city.
If you’re a fan of shopping, then you’ll be spoiled for choice with the many shops and malls that Alicante has to offer, including the Mercado Central for all your fresh, local food and produce
And if you’re looking for a night out, then there are plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained into the early hours.
Alicante is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, so if you’re lucky enough to be visiting when one is taking place then you better get your party hat on.
It’s easy enough to get to as well, only being 35 minutes drive away. There are also a number of different buses the run between the two cities which takes around 45 minutes.
Best Things To Do In Benidorm
- Benidorm Old Town
- Levante Beach
- Poniente Beach
- Terra Mitica
- Aqualandia
- Mundomar Sea Life Park
- Cala De Finestrat
- Balcon del Mediterraneo
- La Cruz de Benidorm
- Sierra Helada Natural Park
- Enjoy A Round Of Golf
- Benidorm Nightlife
- Algar Waterfall
- Puig Campana
- Altea
- Villajoyosa
- Guadalest
- Alicante
FAQ
What is the closest airport to Benidorm?
The closest airport to Benidorm is Alicante Airport, which is located about 35 minutes drive from Benidorm and can easily be reached by car, taxi or bus.
What is there to do in Benidorm at night?
Benidorm has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained into the early hours. It draws in north European crowds who don’t mind letting their hair down and getting stuck in with a few beers or cocktails!
How many days should I spend in Benidorm?
We recommend at least 3 days in order to explore all the different things that this wonderful city has to offer. If you have a little longer, you’ll be able to enjoy a couple of relaxing days on the beach or get out and make the most of some day trips.
Is Benidorm safe for solo travellers?
Benidorm is a very safe place for solo travellers, and you’ll find that most people are extremely friendly here.
