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What to do in Benidorm

With days spent on the beach and nights partying away in the city’s clubs, you might think Benidorm is a city of two halves. Not so. When you want more, discover theme parks, hiking and history.

Playa de Levante

Playa Levante is one of Benidorm’s main beaches. This sandy sweep stretches for 2km (1.2 miles) along the city, backed by high rise hotels and bars. There are plenty of facilities here, from sun-loungers to showers and kids’ play areas. By day, it’s a great space for the whole family to play and relax, while by night it turns into party central, with bars and clubs blaring out music across the sand.

Aqualandia

One of Benidorm’s most popular attractions for families is Aqualandia, a water park filled with thrilling rides and slippery slides. You’ll find attractions appropriate for the whole family, from water playgrounds for the little ones to wave pools and chutes for the older ones. Adrenalin junkies, meanwhile, will get their kicks on the terrifying Verti-Go – at 33m (108ft) high, this vertical water slide is the highest in Europe.

A summer-only park, be sure to check the opening hours of Aqualandia. It’s usually open from the first weekend of June until the last weekend in September.

Balcón del Mediterráneo

The Balcón del Mediterráneo or Balcony of the Mediterranean is the city’s famous lookout point. It sits on a rocky outpost by Playa del Mal Pas, a tiny cove separating Benidorm’s two main beaches, Playa Levante and Playa del Poniente. Also known as Castle Viewpoint, this spot was once home to a huge fortress during the 14th to 17th centuries.

The balcony now offers one of the best views over the sea and Benidorm’s picturesque Old Town. Beat the crowds and head over to watch the sun rise or join your fellow holidaymakers as night falls for sunset – it’s the best place in town to catch it.

Terra Mitica

Benidorm’s most popular adventure theme park is Terra Mitica, where families can discover the histories of the ancient Mediterranean civilisations of Greece, Rome and Egypt through a series of rides and shows. Enjoy King Triton’s log ride, have a cinematic experience inside a Greek temple or take a boat ride down the River Nile in ancient Egypt.

Terra Mitica is open between June and early September, but in the park’s low season (June), some areas remain closed.

Parque Natural de la Serra Gelada

It may come as a surprise that there’s a nature reserve just minutes from one of Europe’s most buzzing party resorts, but it’s true. The rugged Parque Natural de la Serra Gelada lies just up the coast from Benidorm, offering hiking trails, small natural beaches and coves to explore.

One of the most popular routes sets off from Benidorm itself. Follow the yellow trail signs for an 8.5km (17km return) scenic hike to El Albir lighthouse. It’s rated as moderately difficult.

Where to stay in Benidorm

For families

Poniente has few clubs and is slightly quieter than Levante making it better for families. Alternatively, book a place in nearby Villajoysa. Here, you’ll still be within easy reach of Benidorm’s water and theme parks, but will enjoy a much more relaxed vibe. The town’s ice-cream-coloured houses, play parks and three excellent beaches are sure to keep the little ones entertained. It’s also home to Spain’s most famous chocolate factory and museum – Valor, a definite favourite for the whole family.

For food and drink

If you’re looking for authentic Spanish tapas bars and seafood restaurants, then base yourself within or close to the city’s pretty Old Town. Away from this area, you’re likely to find much of your favourites from back home such as fish and chips and kebabs. You may also want to stay in nearby Alicante for a couple of days with its excellent indoor food market, fresh fish auction and many excellent seafood restaurants.

For nightlife

The city’s legendary nightlife is why many choose to holiday in Benidorm in the first place. Here, you’re never too far away from a bar or a club, so you could easily stay anywhere in the city. To get the most out of your time, however, book a hotel in Levante. Many of the best bars and clubs can be found lining the beachfront. You’ll find all types of nightlife options here, from sports bars and cocktail bars to pumping clubs and international pubs.

For culture

Benidorm is not too well known for its cultural venues, but away from the clubs and beaches, the closest you’ll come to it is in the Old Town. It’s here where you’ll find the city’s oldest and most striking buildings, as well as a couple of interesting museums. For more culture, stay in nearby Altea, an attractive whitewashed town with an artsy vibe. Spend your time here exploring the cobbled streets to find art galleries and markets, before relaxing on its beautiful, pebbled beaches.