This Benidorm travel guide shows you why this famous Costa Blanca resort keeps attracting millions of visitors. Benidorm is known for its skyline of high-rise hotels, but it also has two superb sandy beaches, a charming old town, great viewpoints and a surprising amount of nature nearby. It is lively, affordable and well organised, which makes it popular with families, couples, older travellers and sports teams.
Benidorm lies on the coast north of Alicante, and its compact layout means beaches, restaurants and entertainment are close together. To compare flights and stays before you go, you can plan your trip with Jettripper.
Why visit Benidorm?
Benidorm offers sun, sea and a huge range of hotels and activities. It enjoys a mild climate thanks to the mountains that shelter it from the north, so it is busy all year round. Winter is popular with longer-stay visitors, while spring and autumn attract sports groups and those looking for pleasant temperatures.
Getting to Benidorm
By air
The nearest airport is Alicante-Elche, roughly 45 to 60 minutes away by road. Valencia Airport is another option but further away. Buses connect Alicante Airport with Benidorm, and private transfers are ideal for groups.
By tram
The TRAM line along the coast connects Alicante with Benidorm and continues north towards Dénia. It is a scenic way to travel, though slower than the bus.
Getting around
Benidorm is easy to explore on foot. Local buses link the beaches and hotel areas, and taxis are widely available.
Areas of Benidorm
Levante
The Levante area is the liveliest part of town, with many hotels, restaurants, bars and nightlife close to the beach.
Poniente
Poniente is generally calmer and popular with families and couples. Its modern promenade is one of the most photographed in Spain.
Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
The old town sits on a headland between the two beaches. Its narrow streets are packed with tapas bars and restaurants, especially around Calle Santo Domingo.
Rincón de Loix
At the eastern end of Levante, Rincón de Loix has many hotels and a busy entertainment scene.
Beaches in Benidorm
- Playa de Levante – about two kilometres of golden sand, busy and full of life.
- Playa de Poniente – a longer beach with a striking curved promenade and more space.
- Playa de Mal Pas – a small sheltered beach next to the old town.
- Cala Tío Ximo – a small cove reached by steps near the Poniente end, quieter and more natural.
Benidorm’s beaches are well maintained and have long held environmental quality awards. The promenades are perfect for walking and running.
Things to do in Benidorm
Balcón del Mediterráneo
This viewpoint at the tip of the old town overlooks both beaches and the sea. It is one of the most iconic spots in Benidorm, especially at sunset.
Benidorm Island
Boats leave from the port to Benidorm Island, a small protected island where you can swim and snorkel in clear water.
Serra Gelada Natural Park
North of the city, the Serra Gelada cliffs offer hiking trails with stunning views of the coast. The walk to the lighthouse is a favourite.
Theme parks
Benidorm has several theme and water parks nearby, including Terra Mítica, Aqualandia, Mundomar and Terra Natura, popular with families and teams on rest days. Check seasonal opening.
Day trips
Guadalest, a mountain village with a castle, the Algar waterfalls, Altea’s whitewashed old town and the city of Alicante are all within easy reach.
Food and drink
You will find every cuisine in Benidorm, from international fare to traditional Spanish dishes. In the old town, the tapas bars around Calle Santo Domingo serve pinchos, croquetas and local wine. Try paella and other rice dishes, and fresh fish at the port restaurants. Breakfasts with tostada con tomate are a local favourite.
Most hotels catering to teams provide buffet meals, and many are used to early breakfasts and adapted menus for athletes.
Benidorm for sports and training camps
Benidorm is a popular destination for football, athletics, swimming, cycling and triathlon. The city has a municipal sports complex with athletics facilities and pitches, and several sports hotels in the region offer pools, gyms and training areas. The surrounding mountains are famous among cyclists, and the beach promenades are excellent for easy runs.
The city also hosts many sporting events, and its large range of hotels makes it easy to accommodate big groups. For organised group trips, see our football camps, athletic camps and swim camps.
Tips for teams
- Choose a hotel in Poniente if you want a quieter environment.
- Arrange transfers from Alicante Airport in advance for large groups.
- Use Serra Gelada for hill runs and team hikes.
- Avoid the busiest summer weeks if you need calm training conditions.
Seasons and weather in Benidorm
Benidorm is famous for its mild climate, sheltered by the mountains behind the town. Winter days are often sunny and pleasant for walking, cycling and outdoor training, which is why the resort is busy with long-stay visitors from November to March. Spring is warm and fresh, a popular time for sports groups and cyclists heading into the hills around Guadalest and Callosa. Summer is hot, lively and crowded, with the beaches and nightlife at their busiest, while autumn keeps warm sea temperatures and offers calmer conditions. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for most training camps.
Practical tips for visiting Benidorm
- Language: Spanish and Valencian; English is very widely spoken.
- Currency: Euro; cards widely accepted.
- Best time: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather; winter is mild; summer is hot and busy.
- Nightlife: Levante and Rincón de Loix are the busiest areas at night.
- Sun: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
- Booking: Prices vary a lot by season, so compare carefully.
Looking for value? See the latest Spain travel deals for your dates.
Where to stay in Benidorm
Levante is best for those who want to be at the centre of the action. Poniente is ideal for families, couples and teams who prefer a calmer setting. The old town suits travellers who enjoy tapas and atmosphere, while Rincón de Loix has many budget-friendly hotels and entertainment.
A perfect day in Benidorm
Begin with a morning run along Poniente’s promenade, then walk up to the Balcón del Mediterráneo. Take a boat to Benidorm Island for a swim, return for tapas in the old town and finish the day watching the sunset over the sea.
Benidorm travel guide FAQ
How far is Benidorm from Alicante Airport?
Roughly 45 to 60 minutes by road, depending on traffic.
Which is better, Levante or Poniente?
Levante is livelier; Poniente is calmer and has more space on the beach.
Is Benidorm good for families?
Yes. It has safe beaches, theme parks and many family hotels.
Is Benidorm suitable for training camps?
Yes. It has sports facilities, mountains for cycling and running, many hotels for groups and a mild climate.
Is there more to Benidorm than high-rises?
Yes. The old town, Serra Gelada, Benidorm Island and nearby villages offer culture and nature.
Final thoughts
Benidorm is a resort that delivers sun, fun and convenience, with more charm than its reputation suggests. Use this Benidorm travel guide to plan a stay that suits you, whether that is a family holiday, a city break or a training camp.