Explore Benidorm
Your perfect trip to Spain
Benidorm is a provocation. To some, it is a concrete jungle; to others, it is the Manhattan of the Mediterranean. It is a city of extremes, boasting the most skyscrapers per capita in the world. But look past the clichés of British bachelor parties, and you find a fascinating urban experiment that actually works. The microclimate is legendary—the mountains block the clouds, creating eternal sunshine.
It smells of suntan lotion, English breakfast, and unexpectedly, delicious tapas. The “Zona de los Vascos” (Basque Zone) in the old town serves pintxos that rival the north. The beaches (Levante and Poniente) are meticulously cleaned every night, the sand golden and soft.
Benidorm is democratic. It welcomes the elderly, the LGBTQ+ community, the families, and the partiers with equal enthusiasm. It is vibrant, unapologetic, and fun. To enjoy Benidorm, drop your snobbery. Walk the Balcón del Mediterráneo, watch the skyline light up, and realize that a city built for happiness isn’t such a bad thing.
The perfect plan for Benidorm:
Day 1 Agenda
Theme: The Two Beaches
- Morning: Balcón del Mediterráneo. The white tiled viewpoint separating the beaches. Iconic photo. Walk down to the Mal Pas cove.
- Afternoon: Poniente Beach. Walk the colorful promenade (Architectural award winner). Lunch: La Falúa.
- Evening: Zona de los Vascos (Old Town). Pintxos at La Cava Aragonesa. It feels like San Sebastian.
Day 2 Agenda
Theme: Views & Skyline
- Morning: La Cruz (The Cross). Hike or taxi up to the cross on the mountain. The view of the skyline is breathtaking.
- Afternoon: Hotel Bali. Take the elevator to the viewing platform (fee). Highest view in Europe (almost).
- Evening: Benidorm Palace. Cabaret show. It’s old school Vegas style. Kitsch but high quality.
Day 3 Agenda
Theme: Island
- Morning: Boat to Benidorm Island. It’s a nature reserve. Glass bottom boat.
- Afternoon: Snorkel.
- Evening: Drinks on Levante promenade.
Weather
Autumn (Sep-Oct): The best. Water is warm, crowds thin out. 25°C.
Summer: Crowded, manic, hot. The “British” area is wild.
Winter: Sunny and mild. Full of retirees having a great time.
Local Customs
1. Levante vs Poniente: Levante is the party/British beach. Poniente is the quieter/Spanish beach. Choose your side.
2. Tapas Alley: Calle Santo Domingo. It’s excellent. Don’t eat the €1 English breakfast; eat here.
3. Walking: It is huge. Taxis or electric scooters are useful.
History & Culture
A small tuna fishing village until the 1950s. Mayor Pedro Zaragoza had a vision to turn it into a vertical tourist city (allowing bikinis when they were banned elsewhere). His plan worked. It became the pioneer of mass tourism in Europe. The layout maximizes sea views and shade.
Getting Around & Safety
Bus: Good network.
Tram: Connects to Alicante and Altea.
Info for Nomads
Surprising nomad hub. Cheap, great internet, sunny all winter, fun.
Workation Vibe
Excellent fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it tacky? +
Parts of it (The Strip), yes. But the Old Town and Poniente are classy and Spanish.
Is it safe? +
Yes. Just watch for pickpockets in the beach crowds.
Why so many skyscrapers? +
Urban planning. Building up leaves more space for parks and pools on the ground.