Benidorm
Benidorm: The New York of the Mediterranean
Benidorm is undoubtedly the most cosmopolitan and iconic city on the Costa Blanca. With over 70,000 inhabitants and an impressive skyline of seafront skyscrapers, it has earned the nickname “Manhattan of the Mediterranean.” This premier tourist destination combines golden sandy beaches with an unparalleled entertainment offering that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Map of Benidorm
Topographic map of Benidorm with its beaches and skyline of skyscrapers
History and Transformation
Founded in 1325, Benidorm was originally a modest fishing village. However, in the 1960s, under the vision of Mayor Pedro Zaragoza, the city underwent a radical transformation that would make it a pioneer of mass tourism in Spain. The decision to allow high-rise buildings and create a revolutionary General Urban Planning scheme marked the beginning of its development as a world-class tourist destination.
Today, Benidorm is an example of sustainable and planned urban development, with one of the most efficient tourism models in Europe, characterized by its high vertical density that preserves natural spaces in the surroundings.
Benidorm’s Beaches
The beaches are Benidorm’s main attraction, internationally recognized for their quality:
Levante Beach
- 2 km long: The most extensive and popular
- Fine golden sand: Ideal for families
- Full services: Showers, sun loungers, beach bars
- Blue Flag: Quality certification year after year
Poniente Beach
- Quieter: More relaxed atmosphere than Levante
- Renovated promenade: Perfect for sunset walks
- Ideal for families with children: Shallow waters
Mal Pas Cove
- Between Levante and Poniente: Small and cozy
- View of the old town: Traditional charm
- Less crowded: More intimate atmosphere
Attractions and Entertainment
Benidorm is much more than beaches. The city offers entertainment for all tastes:
Theme Parks
- Terra Mítica: Theme park of ancient civilizations
- Aqualandia: One of Europe’s best water parks
- Terra Natura: Zoo and immersive nature park
- Mundomar: Marine park with dolphins and sea lions
Nightlife
Benidorm is famous for its vibrant nightlife with hundreds of bars, pubs, nightclubs, and shows operating until dawn. The Port area and Mallorca Street are party epicenters.
Natural Viewpoint
The Mediterranean Balcony offers breathtaking panoramic views of both beaches and the city skyline. It’s the perfect place to capture the essence of Benidorm in a photo.
International Cuisine
Benidorm’s diversity is reflected in its gastronomy:
- Traditional Mediterranean cuisine: Rice dishes, fresh fish
- International gastronomy: Restaurants from over 50 countries
- Tapas and pintxos: In the old town
- Michelin-starred restaurants: Fine dining in the outskirts
The municipal market is an excellent place to try fresh and authentic local products.
The Old Town
Although Benidorm is known for its modernity, the old town preserves the charm of the original village:
- Church of San Jaime: 18th century with blue domes
- Cobbled streets: Authentic atmosphere
- Traditional bars: Tapas and local wines
- Plaza de la Señoría: Heart of the old town
Sports and Activities
The city offers countless options for the active:
Water Activities
- Kayaking and paddle surfing
- Jet skiing and parasailing
- Diving and snorkeling in the coves
- Catamaran cruises to Benidorm Island
Hiking and Cycling
- Sierra Helada route: Natural park with spectacular views
- Greenways for cycling
- Mountain routes inland
Golf
Several world-class golf courses minutes from the center.
How to Get There
Benidorm is exceptionally well connected:
- From Alicante: 45 minutes via AP-7 motorway
- Alicante-Elche Airport: 50 km (approximately 40 minutes)
- Train: TRAM line from Alicante with stop in Benidorm
- Buses: Frequent connections throughout Spain
Accommodation
The hotel offering is immense and diverse:
- Skyscraper hotels: Panoramic sea views
- All-inclusive resorts: Perfect for families
- Tourist apartments: Flexibility and comfort
- Boutique hotels: In the old town for more authenticity
Benidorm has more hotel beds than any other Spanish city outside Madrid and Barcelona.
Best Time to Visit
Benidorm enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year:
- Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
- Summer (June-September): High season, full beaches, maximum animation
- Autumn (October-November): Mild temperatures, sea still warm
- Winter (December-February): Mild climate, ideal for active tourism
Featured Events
- Patron Saint Festivals (November): In honor of the Virgin of Sufragio
- Low Festival (July): Indie music festival
- Pride Benidorm: Reference LGBTQ+ event in the Mediterranean
Practical Tips
- Local transport: Efficient urban buses connect the entire city
- Languages: Tourist staff speaks multiple languages
- Currency exchange: Abundant ATMs and exchange houses
- Safety: Very safe city with high police presence
Must-Do Experiences
- Watch sunset from Mediterranean Balcony: Iconic city view
- Night in the Port area: Immerse in nightlife
- Excursion to Benidorm Island: Marine reserve for snorkeling
- Walk through the old town: Discover authentic Benidorm
- Show at Benidorm Palace: World-class cabaret show
Benidorm: Beyond the Cliché
Although some criticize it for mass tourism, Benidorm represents a unique model of modern tourist city that has managed to balance economic development with urban sustainability. Its ability to constantly reinvent itself, its increasingly sophisticated cultural offering, and its cosmopolitan and tolerant atmosphere make it a fascinating destination that goes far beyond its beaches and skyscrapers.
Whether you’re looking for party, relaxation, family entertainment, or gastronomy, Benidorm has something for you. It’s a city that doesn’t leave you indifferent: you either love it or hate it, but it’s definitely worth experiencing at least once.