Things to do Benidorm, a complete & up-to-date guide
What to do in Benidorm? Benidorm is a versatile seaside resort on the Costa Blanca and forms the tourist heart of the municipality of the same name.
Its impressive skyline, vast sandy beaches and lively nightlife make Benidorm perfect for a relaxing or energetic vacation.
Brief summary
The most complete and up-to-date overview of activities and things to do in Alicante.
Read all about the lighthouse, beaches, promenade, summer market and many more fun things to do and see.
Page layout:
- Top 10 highlights
- Friends & family
- Nature & adventure
- Events & culture
- Nearby
- More fun places
Author: Rick, more than 10 years active on the Costa Blanca. These texts are written from my own experiences and based on current sources.
Page updated on: 19 April 2026
Table of contents
ToggleTop 5 Highlights in Benidorm
1. Visit the center of Benidorm
The center of Benidorm, which they also call El Casco Antiguo, lies between the two main beaches, Playa de Levante and Playa Poniente.
In the center you will find a maze of streets with nice stores and cozy bars. This is really a piece of old Benidorm, with a lot less tall buildings than the rest of the city.
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2. Visit Placa del Castell in Benidorm
This atmospheric square, located on the site where a castle once defended the city from invasion, forms a sweeping vantage point with its distinctive white-and-blue tile floor.
From Placa del Castell you overlook both the bay and the city’s entire coastline. The wide stone steps lead you directly to the lower rocky points and the viewing platform Balcon del Mediterraneo.
3. Enjoy the view from Balcon del Mediterraneo
Also known as the “Balcony of the Mediterranean,” this white terrace sits atop the steep cliff that separates the Levante and Poniente beaches.
This point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and the city skyline. Its distinctive balustrades and mosaic floor make it a much-visited photo location.
4. Visit Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana
The Church of St. James and St. Anna(Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana), built in the 18th century, is a beautiful landmark and a must-see in Benidorm‘s old town.
5. To the beach in Benidorm
Benidorm has 2 major beaches.
Playa de Poniente is west of the old town, is long and usually quieter, popular with families. Playa de Levante is east of the old town, is busier and known for its bars, restaurants and water sports.
Between the old town and Playa de Poniente is the small, sheltered Cala del Mal Pas. There are also smaller coves such as Playa de la Cala de Finestrat on the eastern edge of Benidorm and the rocky Cala Almadraba beyond Levante.
6. Visit Benidorm Island
This protected natural reserve in the Mediterranean is located about 4 kilometers from the coast. It is a popular spot for travelers crossing by ferry or glass-bottomed boat.
The rocky coves and clear waters make it ideal conditions for snorkelers to explore the local underwater world.
7. Stroll along the promenade of Benidorm
The two main boulevards of Benidorm are very different. The nice thing is that the old center lies exactly between the two boulevards.
The promenade near Levante beach is where it all happens; it is often crowded here , with many er restaurants, English pubs and stores.
If you’re looking for more tranquility, the Poniente promenade is the place to be. That one is a lot quieter and has a strikingly modern design with undulating, colored paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
8. Visit the port of Benidorm
The Port of Benidorm, officially Port Esportiu de Benidorm, is an attractive marina centrally located between Poniente beach, the small Cala del Mal Pas and the historic old town.
It is the main departure point for water activities and excursions. The most famous of these is the glass bottom boat trip to the protected natural reserve; the Island of Benidorm.
In addition, the harbor is home to the yacht club and various providers of water sports such as jet skiing, scuba diving and parasailing.
The port offers direct access via stairs to the Balcón del Mediterráneo viewpoint and the cozy streets of the old town. Thanks to its central location and the presence of nearby parking garages, the port has excellent accessibility.
9. To the market in Benidorm
The Mercadillo Benidorm Levante is the large (flea) market in Benidorm. This market consists of many stalls and is held outside the center of Benidorm on the Avenida de L’Admirall Bernat de Sarrià .
- Frequency: weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays;
- Time: from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Mercadillo Foietes is a market just outside the center of Benidorm, near the Benidorm train station on Av. de la Libertad in a large parking lot. This market is held on Wednesdays and is open from 08:00 to 14:00.
- Frequency: weekly on Wednesdays;
- Time of day: unknown.
The El Cisne weekly market near Benidorm is a small but cozy flea and antique market. This covered market with terraces is less than 10 minutes from the center of Benidorm. You can park in the adjacent parking lot. This market is open on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00.
- Frequency: weekly on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays;
- Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
10. Visit Benidorm Palace
Benidorm Palace has been providing full-length gala evenings for 45 years, with the new production Elements taking center stage as a sensory experience full of dance, music and magic.
The theater brings national and international artists to the stage for a varied program of humor and visual spectacle.
For friends & family in Benidorm
11. Visit Aqua Natura
A water park full of slides, pools and relaxation areas. Get carried away by the rapids, enjoy the adrenaline on the spectacular slides or unwind in the Jacuzzi.
12. Visit Agualandia
A true water paradise for young and old. With spectacular slides, cooling pools and relaxing water attractions, there is something for everyone.
13. Visit Mundomar
A unique zoo where you can see dolphins, sea lions, parrots and many more exotic animals can admire. Enjoy spectacular shows, interactive encounters with the animals and learn all about their habitats.
14. Visit Terra Natura
A zoo near Benidorm, here you can see animals from all over the world in their own environment. Special, invisible fences allow you to admire the animals without disturbing them.
15. Visit Terra Mitica
Let yourself go on an adventurous journey through the history of the Mediterranean. The park is divided into zones, each with its own theme, such as Egypt, Greece and Rome. In these zones you can enjoy exciting attractions, impressive shows and scrumptious food, making you feel like you are in another era.
16. Shopping in Benidorm
Benidorm is a good place for shoppers. With more than 2,000 stores, you will always succeed, from souvenirs and clothing to electronics and household items.
Benidorm also has several shopping centers: Benidorm Palace and La Marina the largest shopping center in Benidorm with more than 130 stores, including Zara, H&M , Primark and El Corte Inglés.
Benidorm also has a number of shopping streets including:
- Avenida del Mediterráneo: this is the main street of Benidorm and you will find plenty of stores, restaurants and bars;
- Calle Gambo: this street is popular for souvenir stores, leather goods and shoe stores;
- Calle Gerona: on this street you will find more exclusive boutiques with international brands.
Nature & adventure in Benidorm
17. Book a bicycle tour of Benidorm
Book a bicycle tour and discover the Costa Blanca by bike with a Dutch guide from Benidorm. The routes lead along the boulevards of Albir and Altea or by e-bike to the pastel-colored houses of Villajoyosa.
It is an active way to explore both the modern transformation of the city and the surrounding nature.
18. Rent a bicycle in Benidorm
Renting a bike in Benidorm is a flexible way to independently explore the promenade, the old town and surrounding natural areas.
Baja Bikes offers a wide range of reliable city bikes, e-bikes and mountain bikes available right from town for an active vacation day.
The included maps and routes help you easily reach the most beautiful places on the coast without depending on public transportation.
19. Climb the Sierra Helada
For experienced hikers, crossing the ridge from Albir to Benidorm is highly recommended.
This challenging hike traverses the region’s highest cliffs, offering spectacular elevation changes and sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea.
20. Go for sports in Benidorm
Athletes can also have a great time in Benidorm. Water sports enthusiasts can swim and practice water sports such as windsurfing, kite surfing, jet skiing, diving and snorkeling on the beaches Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente.
In addition to water sports, there are several other sports options in Benidorm. Golf lovers can visit one of the three golf courses with beautiful views.
Benidorm also offers various facilities for tennis, padel, squash, athletics, basketball, volleyball and handball. Fitness centers, yoga and pilates classes offer numerous opportunities to exercise and relax.
Benidorm hosts several sporting events, including the annual Benidorm Half Marathon in late November.
Watching sports is also possible in Benidorm: the cyclocross World Cup is a unique race on the calendar. Where most cross-country races are characterized by mud and cold, Benidorm offers a sun-drenched course with a Spanish touch.
The course, located in Parque El Moralet and Parque Foietes, combines technical sections with fast sections and even a small sandbox. The race annually attracts many top international riders (including Mathieu van der Poel) who combine their training camp in Spain with this World Cup race.
Events & culture in Benidorm
21. Benidorm Gastronomico
From March through December, local restaurants and bars organize various culinary events under the name Benidorm Gastronómico.
You can enjoy specially prepared menus and local specialties at reduced prices during this period.
22. Low Festival
The Low Festival in July is among the largest music events in Spain and attracts a wide international audience.
The various stages will feature a diverse mix of well-known artists from the pop, rock and electronic music scene.
23. Benidorm Pride
In September, the city celebrates Benidorm Pride, an event entirely dedicated to LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusivity.
The program includes a striking parade through the streets, several concerts and small-scale celebrations in the historic center.
24. Special holidays in Benidorm
- March: Benidorm Fallas, this festival is a celebration of the end of winter, during which large, colorful statues made of pulp paper(Cartón-Pâte) are burned in the central square;
- June: Las Hogueras de San Juan(Saint John’s fires), this celebration celebrates the arrival of summer with bonfires, parades and fireworks, just like in Alicante, but on a smaller scale;
- November: the Fiestas Mayores Patronales, these are the main local fiestas in honor of the city’s patron saints, marked by processions, floral offerings, music and fireworks.
25. Get to know art & culture in Benidorm
Museums:
- Museo de Benidorm: this museum tells the story of the city, from prehistory to the present;
- Museo del Mar: this museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Benidorm;
- Centro Cultural El Castell: dhe cultural center has a contemporary art gallery, a theater and a library.
Art Galleries:
- GalerÃa L’Espai: This gallery shows work by local and international artists.
- GalerÃa Aural: This gallery specializes in contemporary art.
- Art al Vent: this is an open-air gallery with sculptures by various artists.
Theaters:
- Teatro Benidorm: this theater has a varied program of performances, including plays, musicals and concerts;
- Auditorio Municipal: this auditorium is home to the Benidorm Symphony Orchestra and the Benidorm City Ballet.
Things to do from Benidorm
26. Walk along the waterfalls of Algar
The Algar waterfalls are a popular destination for day trips. Located about a 30-minute drive from Benidorm, the waterfalls offer refreshing baths and a beautiful walk through nature.
Tip: read more about the Algar waterfalls
27. Climb the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe
The ascent of the Peñon de Ifach offers a sporting challenge with the reward of panoramic views of Sierra Helada, Albir, Benidorm, Altea, Calpe and Benissa.
The nature park features trails that vary in difficulty, with the route becoming more adventurous after the tunnel for the experienced hiker.
At the summit, you experience a unique sense of freedom over 300 meters above the Mediterranean Sea.
Nice places in the vicinity of Benidorm
28. Altea: (a 20-minute drive away).
Actually not to be missed. Albir spills over into Altea. You can easily take a walk or bike along the water. Altea is beautiful with white streets, the iconic blue dome of the church that towers over the town, and its many art galleries. Stroll through the old town and enjoy the view from the Plaza de la Iglesia;
29. Villajoyosa: (a 15-minute drive away)
Discover the “chocolate town” of Villajoyosa, with its recognizable colorful coastline. Don’t forget to visit the historical things to do such as the Torre de Sant Josep and the archaeological site “La Malladeta.”
30. El Castell de Guadalest: (about a 30-minute drive away).
Located atop a mountain, this village offers spectacular views of an azure blue reservoir and a green, hilly landscape. The castle of Guadalest is a highlight, as are the old streets and the various museums you’ll find here;
31. Calpe: (a 25-minute drive away)
Be impressed by the majestic Peñón de Ifach, the rock that towers high above Calpe and is a symbol of the Costa Blanca. Climb the rock for breathtaking views, explore the historic town center and enjoy the delicious seafood restaurants in the harbor.
Question & answer (FAQ)
Wat moet je zeker doen in Benidorm?
Je kunt in Benidorm verschillende activiteiten ondernemen die variëren van natuurwandelingen tot culinaire ontdekkingen:
Bezoek het Balcon del Mediterraneo: dit uitkijkpunt is een van de bekendste herkenningspunten en biedt uitzicht over de baai;
Eet in de Tapassteeg: ga naar de Calle Santo Domingo in de oude stad voor een ruime keuze aan authentieke tapas en pintxos;
Verken natuurpark Sierra Helada: wandel over de hoge kliffen aan de oostkant van de stad voor spectaculaire vergezichten;
Ga naar een attractiepark: bezoek parken zoals Terra MÃtica of Aqualandia voor vermaak met de hele familie;
Wandelen over de zandstranden: gebruik de brede stranden van Levante of Poniente voor een wandeling langs de waterlijn.
Wanneer is de wekelijkse markt in Benidorm?
De wekelijkse markt in Benidorm wordt op verschillende locaties en dagen gehouden waar je lokale producten kunt kopen. Op deze markten vind je een gevarieerd aanbod van kazen, olijven en vers gedroogd fruit uit de omliggende valleien. De belangrijkste marktdagen zijn:
Woensdag en zondag: de Mercadillo de Foietes vindt plaats nabij het gemeentelijk sportcentrum;
Woensdag en zondag: de Mercadillo Pueblo wordt gehouden in de wijk Rincón de Loix;
Zaterdag en zondag: de antiek- en vlooienmarkt El Cisne is geopend langs de weg richting Alfaz del Pi.
Kun je gratis parkeren in Benidorm?
Ja, je kunt gratis parkeren op de grote openbare parkeerterreinen (Park & Ride) aan de rand van het centrum. Deze terreinen liggen bij de Avenida de Inglaterra nabij de arena en bij het Parque de Foietes. Vanaf deze locaties loop je naar het centrum of gebruik je het openbaar vervoer.
Wat is het mooiste uitkijkpunt in Benidorm?
Het Balcon del Mediterraneo is het bekendste uitkijkpunt van de stad en biedt een panoramisch uitzicht over de volledige baai. Dit witte uitkijkpunt bevindt zich op de centrale rots die de stranden van Levante en Poniente van elkaar scheidt.
Kun je goed winkelen in Benidorm?
Ja, je vindt in het centrum en langs de boulevards een groot aanbod aan winkels en boetieks. Voor een uitgebreide winkelervaring met grote ketens zoals Zara en H&M kun je terecht in het nabijgelegen Centro Comercial La Marina. In de wijk Rincón de Loix zijn bovendien winkels die specifiek gericht zijn op internationale producten.
Heeft Benidorm een eigen eiland?
Ja, voor de kust van de stad ligt het eiland van Benidorm (Isla de Benidorm), dat een herkenbaar onderdeel van de horizon vormt. Er varen dagelijks boten naar het eiland toe voor bezoekers die willen wandelen of de onderwaterwereld rondom het eiland willen bekijken.
Zijn er parken in het centrum van Benidorm?
Ja, het Parque de l’Aigüera is een groot en groen stadspark dat door het centrum loopt. Dit park is ontworpen door architect Ricardo Bofill en biedt schaduwrijke plekken met een grote variëteit aan planten en bomen.
Wat is het Balcon del Mediterraneo?
Het Balcon del Mediterraneo is een wit uitkijkpunt op een centrale rots die de twee baaien van de stad scheidt. Het is een van de meest gefotografeerde plekken in Benidorm en biedt een panoramisch zicht over de volledige kustlijn.
Kun je sporten in Benidorm?
Ja, de stad beschikt over uitgebreide faciliteiten zoals het Parque de Foietes en diverse sportcomplexen. Je kunt hier terecht voor atletiek, voetbal en tennis, terwijl de stranden mogelijkheden bieden voor watersporten zoals kajakken en suppen.
More tips for your visit to Benidorm
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All information about Benidorm at hand
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Publication date:
22 January 2026
Publication date: 22 January 2026
Updated on:
19 April 2026
Updated on: 19 April 2026
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Your signpost on the Costa Blanca
Hi! My name is Rick, initiator of CostaBlanca.nl and the free App. Since 2015 I can be found on the Costa Blanca on a monthly basis.
With this online platform I make as much as possible relevant information and tips about places on the Costa Blanca insightful and clear. The texts are exclusively written by myself. The photos and videos are made by me.
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