Benidorm, Spain: City Overview
Benidorm is a picturesque city in eastern Spain, known for its stunning scenery, mild climate and developed tourist infrastructure. Situated in the province of Alicante, in the autonomous community of Valencia, the city stretches along the Costa Blanca coast and is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. Benidorm covers an area of about 38.5 square kilometers and has about 68,000 residents. The percentage of foreigners among the population is quite high. This fact is confirmed by data from the Statista website. In 2022 alone, Benidorm was visited by more than 20 million tourists, making it the fifth most popular city in Spain. Benidorm is most popular among tourists from the European Union.
Population of Benidorm
In the early 2000s, the population was 57,227, but by 2023, this figure had grown to 72,400. Currently, the permanent population is about 70,000, but during the holiday season, this figure doubles or even triples. The city's popularity has been achieved due to many factors, including:
- active development of the regional economy and tourism,
- changes in housing construction policy, active development
- improving the city's amenities
Geographical location
Benidorm is located in the east of Spain, in the heart of the Costa Blanca region, in the province of Alicante. The city is surrounded by mountains that protect it from strong winds. Nearest cities:
- Alicante – in the south, 82 km (approximately 1 hour drive);
- Valencia is in the north, 160 km away (about an hour and a half drive)
Transport connection
The closest airport to Benidorm is Alicante-Elche (ALC). It is the largest airport on the Costa Blanca and one of the busiest in Spain. Every year it receives about 15 million tourists. There are several ways to get from the airport to Benidorm. The easiest and most economical is the ALSA bus. The trip costs about €10 and lasts about 50 minutes. Tickets can be purchased both at a special counter and online. Another option is the BeniConnect shuttle bus. The cost of a trip on an economy class bus is €7.5. Due to the large number of stops, the trip lasts about an hour and a half. There are no direct trains or electric trains from Alicante to Benidorm, but you can rent a car right at the airport. The cost of car rental varies from €50 to €200 per day, depending on the size and class of the car.
Weather and climate
Benidorm has a mild Mediterranean climate with warm winters and extremely hot summers. In winter, the temperature is between +8…+20 ℃, with minimal rainfall. In spring and autumn, the temperature is +20…+25 ℃, and in summer the thermometer reaches +30 ℃.
City districts
Officially, Benidorm is divided into 3 large areas: the Old Town (center), Levante and Poniente. But this is only formal. In fact, there are 2 more areas: Cala de Finestrat and Cala de Villajoyosa. Officially, they are not part of the city, but due to their close proximity, local residents do not perceive them as separate administrative units.
Old Town (Parte Vieja / El Casco Antiguo de Benidorm)
Benidorm Old Town (aka Parte Vieja) is the heart, soul and historical landmark of Benidorm. The area is located on a picturesque cape between the Levante and Poniente beaches. For those who want to take a break from the beach and the bustle of the city, there is no more ideal place.
Levante
Levante is the most popular area among tourists, which is why it got its name "zona guiri" ("tourist area"). Known for its famous beach Playa de Levante, this area is the center of tourist activity in Benidorm. There are numerous hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants here, which makes it a popular choice among young people and those looking for an active holiday. But there are nuances. Even at night, the streets are always noisy, and drunken fights and clashes with the police are more common than something out of the ordinary. Based on this, it is obvious that the area will not be the best choice for those looking for a quiet place to live and relax.
Poniente
Comfortable infrastructure and spacious beaches are the hallmark of the Poniente district. A more peaceful and family-oriented district compared to Levante. There is less tourist bustle and various nightlife venues, making the district a good choice for a family holiday, or simply for those looking for a quiet and cozy place to live.
Cala de Finestrat
Finestrat is a small and picturesque beach area surrounded by mountains. Like Poeniente, it offers a more secluded and quiet holiday. Despite its relative distance from the city, the area has all the necessary infrastructure. It is well suited for families and couples who dream of a secluded corner surrounded by nature.
Cala de Villajoyosa
Cala de Villajoyosa is famous for its colourful houses that line the beachfront and offers a quiet alternative to the busier areas of Benidorm. The beaches here are not as crowded as those in, say, Levante and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes along the beach to relax.
History of the city and culture
Benidorm's history goes back a long way. From a small fishing village, over the years the city has become one of the most popular tourist centres in Spain. The city's real growth and development began in the mid-20th century, when Mayor Pedro Sarrio launched an ambitious plan to transform the fishing village into an international resort. Since then, Benidorm has become a real magnet for tourists from all over the world. Benidorm's culture is closely linked to the sea and fishing traditions, but the influence of many cultures has been brought here by tourists and immigrants from all over the world. The city prides itself on its cultural events, including music festivals, folk festivals and theatre performances, which take place here all year round.
Education in Benidorm
There are 13 state schools, 1 private, 1 semi-private and 4 international colleges in the city. Private schools focus on preparing students for international qualifications such as GCSE and A-Level, as well as teaching the French curriculum for the lower grades. Tuition fees at private schools range from €600-€800 per month.
Restaurants, bars, cafes
Benidorm is a true culinary paradise that can satisfy the tastes of the most sophisticated gourmets and lovers of exotic dishes. This city offers a wide range of restaurants, bars and cafes, each of which has its own unique atmosphere, offering visitors not only delicious food, but also an unforgettable experience. Here are some of those that are worth visiting for anyone who wants to arrange a small gastronomic tour for themselves:
- La Cava Aragonesa: A varied menu that caters to a wide range of guests, including vegetarians, vegans and those on a gluten-free diet. Visitors describe this establishment as the perfect place to really soak up the atmosphere. Here, among the picturesque streets bustling with life, you can enjoy the moment with a glass of Paco & Lola’s exquisite white wine, made from the Albariño grape variety.
- Amigos Restaurant and Roof Terrace: A varied menu including steak, international, British, Cajun and Creole dishes, as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. In its 14 years of operation, it has established itself as a popular spot for romantic dinners and group events, thanks to its intimate rooftop terrace and private area for special occasions.
- Merita's: A cozy cafe on Sierra Dorada. Delicious food, extremely hospitable owners, and a great view of the sea. Notable dishes include excellent vegetarian lasagne and reasonably priced wine. Although it's a bit of a hike from the main beach, it's worth it.
- Restaurante Ducado: a high-class establishment with excellent service. Specializing in seafood, Mediterranean, European and Spanish cuisine. Despite its inconspicuous location among the many pubs and bars on Avenida Almeria, Ducado definitely stands out with its unique atmosphere. Specialties include fried fish, oysters and octopus. Desserts, especially the cheesecake, are also beyond praise. The waiters are attentive and always give good recommendations on the menu.
Markets
- El Pueblo Market: a favorite place among foreign tourists, especially the British. It mainly sells food, various souvenirs made in China, antiques, paintings by local artists, and factory-made leather goods. El Pueblo is open on Wednesdays and Sundays.
- Foietes Market: Prices here are generally lower than in other markets. Its specialty is the wide range of goods. At Foietes Market you can buy a variety of agricultural products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat and dairy products. The market is open on Wednesdays.
- El Cisne Market (Rastro El Cisne): more of a flea market than a market. It will be most interesting to visit for collectors of various antiques, which make up about 30% of the entire assortment of the market. You can get there by bus #10 (if necessary, the drivers will tell you when to get off). El Cisne is open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Hotels
Most hotels are located along the beach, which gives guests a unique opportunity to enjoy a stunning view of the sea directly from their rooms. The location of the hotels is ideal for those who dream of waking up to the sound of waves and watching sunrises and sunsets on the sea coast. In addition, relaxing on the beach and water activities will always be close at hand. Popular hotels include:
- Villa Venecia Hotel Boutique (5 stars)
Villa Venecia is a boutique hotel located in the picturesque Old Town next to Levante Beach. It offers rooms with free Wi-Fi, hot tubs and flat-screen TVs. Each room is elegantly decorated and has panoramic windows with stunning views of the sea and the city. For a complete rest, the hotel has a small spa with a gym, sauna and hammam, as well as the possibility of ordering massage treatments. Additional hotel facilities include private parking, a spa and wellness center, facilities for disabled guests, a fitness center and an airport shuttle.
- Grand Luxor All Suites (5 stars)
The hotel is located within the Terra Mítica theme park. Guests have free access to several theme parks including Aqualandia and Mundomar, making it an ideal choice for a family holiday. The spacious rooms are equipped with everything you need for comfort, from air conditioning and free Wi-Fi to a hot tub and minibar. Each balcony or terrace offers stunning views of the sea or theme park. The Grand Luxor has a restaurant, Llum del Mar, which serves Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh ingredients and a wide selection of wines. For business meetings and events, there are conference rooms with modern technology. For relaxation and health, guests can use the spa, fitness room, sauna and hammam. The hotel is conveniently located near the AP-7 Motorway, providing easy access to the main attractions of the region, including Aqualandia and the city of Alicante. Other hotel amenities include free parking, family rooms, facilities for disabled guests and non-smoking rooms, making the Grand Luxor a comfortable stay for all guests.
- Hotel Sol y Sombra (3 stars)
The hotel is just 2 km from the Casino Mediterraneo and 1 km from the centre of Benidorm, providing easy access to the city’s main attractions, including Levante Beach and Aqualandia. Its convenient location next to the green Eiguera Park and within walking distance of Elche Park makes it a great choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a total of 579 rooms, each air-conditioned and with a balcony or terrace overlooking the garden, the hotel promises a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool for a refreshing swim and a solarium for relaxing in the sun.
Shopping
Benidorm offers a wide range of shops where you can find everything from unique handmade souvenirs to the latest fashion trends in sophisticated boutiques.
- La Marina Shopping Center
La Marina Shopping Centre is located near Benidorm and is one of the largest shopping complexes in the Costa Blanca region of Spain. There is a huge selection of shops, including famous world brands of clothes, shoes, accessories and home goods. There are also many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or snack. For family recreation, there are various entertainment activities, such as a cinema, games rooms and children's playgrounds. La Marina Shopping Centre is a popular place for shopping and having a great time.
- Avenida Martinez Alejo
Avenida Martinez Alejo is the central shopping street in Benidorm, where you can find a wide range of shops selling different brands of clothes, shoes, accessories and other goods. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can relax after shopping with delicious food and drinks.
- Calle Gambo and Piazza Triangolo
These two areas are popular with shopping enthusiasts due to the variety of shops and cafes. Here you can find the latest fashion trends, quality leather goods and exclusive souvenirs.
- Mercadona and Carrefour
For those looking for a place to do more practical shopping, Mercadona and Carrefour supermarkets offer a wide selection of food, household chemicals and other household goods at reasonable prices.
Entertainment in Benidorm
The city offers a wide range of entertainment for all ages, including exciting theme parks and unique shows. Among the most popular are:
- Terra Natura
Terra Natura is a large zoo where you can see animals from all over the world in their natural environment. The park is divided into zones, each dedicated to a different continent and ecosystem. Terra Natura not only offers the opportunity to see animals, but also to participate in educational programs and activities aimed at preserving species and raising environmental awareness.
- Benidorm Palace
Benidorm Palace is remembered for its spectacular night shows, combining live music, dance, acrobatics and magic. This place has become a symbol of Benidorm nightlife, which leaves an unforgettable impression thanks to high-class performers and impressive production numbers.
- Mundomar
Mundomar is a unique marine park where visitors can watch shows with dolphins, sea lions and parrots. Visitors are given the opportunity to interact with the animals, including swimming with dolphins and photo sessions with other representatives of the marine fauna.
- Aqualandia
One of the largest water parks in Europe, Aqualandia offers a variety of water rides, slides and pools for visitors of all ages. From thrilling slides for thrill seekers to calm rivers and pools for toddlers, Aqualandia provides fun and entertainment for the whole family.
Cultural events and festivals
Throughout the year, Benidorm hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals, including the Indie Rock Festival and the International Jazz Festival, as well as traditional Spanish fiestas and carnivals. Every November, Benidorm celebrates the festival of its patron saint, San Jaime, with lavish parades, fireworks and traditional Spanish food. Every year, Benidorm hosts the International Short Film Festival, attracting filmmakers and audiences from all over the world. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs and discos where you can dance until the early hours. Popular spots include the cabaret shows at Benidorm Palace and the many pubs and clubs in the Old Town area.
Attractions, excursions, interesting places
Benidorm opens the door to a world where every corner and every excursion is an invitation to adventure. Here, where history intertwines with modernity, and natural beauty coexists with architectural masterpieces, you will find more than just attractions, but will discover a world full of magic and new impressions.
Natural attractions
- Benidorm Island
An incredible island located off the coast of Benidorm. Its small territory is steeped in mystery and adventure. Once you reach its summit, you will discover a breathtaking landscape: the endless blue sea stretching to the horizon and the majestic cityscape captivating the eye with its colour contrasts. The island is not only a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Spain’s nature, but also a haven for numerous species of birds and marine animals. Its protected status makes it an ideal place for wildlife observation and scientific research. Therefore, a visit to the island not only allows you to enjoy the beautiful views, but also gives you an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of wildlife.
- Sierra Helada Park
The natural park, located north of Benidorm, offers many walking and cycling routes through picturesque cliffs and coves. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and those who want to enjoy the silence and beauty of the Spanish landscapes. In the park you can enjoy the unique beauty of the environment, breathe in the fresh air and feel the strength and energy that nature gives us.
Cultural attractions
- Benidorm Old Town
The heart of historical Benidorm, where narrow streets, ancient churches and picturesque squares create the atmosphere of past centuries. San Jaime Square and the viewpoint Balcón Mediterraneo offer stunning views of the sea.
- Church of San Jaime and Santa Anna
Situated in the Old Town, the church is an important religious and historical symbol of the city. Its name comes from its two patrons: San Jaime and Santa Anna. The church attracts attention with its unique architecture, combining elements of Gothic and Baroque. Majestic towers and graceful patterns on the facade create a unique atmosphere of reverence and grandeur. Inside the church, decorations and religious artefacts reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Museums
Benidorm's cultural treasures are not limited to its beautiful landscapes and rich history. Inspiration lies in its museum exhibits and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the most notable:
- Wax Museum
The wax museum features a collection of sculptures depicting famous historical figures and celebrities. Visitors can appreciate the realistic images and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of past eras, enjoying a fascinating journey through the history and culture of Spain.
- Museum of Maritime Art
Situated in the Old Town, the museum is dedicated to maritime art and the history of Benidorm as a port city. Model ships, nautical charts and other maritime related exhibits are on display. Immersed in the museum, visitors will be able to learn about the important role of the sea in the life and culture of Benidorm, as well as learn about the historical events and achievements related to the region’s maritime activities.
The best beaches
Benidorm is famous for its magnificent beaches, which are among the best on the Costa Blanca. The most popular of them are presented in the table. Playa de Levante Playa de Levante is the most popular beach in Benidorm among locals and tourists. At night, the place comes alive with music and performances, promising unforgettable evenings. Thanks to almost year-round pleasant weather, Playa de Levante is an excellent choice for a holiday for all tastes. Playa de Poniente Playa de Poniente is the longest beach in the city. It stretches for 3 kilometers along the picturesque Costa Blanca, starting at the sports port and extending to Cala de Finestrat. The beach offers a variety of services for active recreation: floating platforms, beach libraries, children's and sports and entertainment games, as well as specially equipped areas for the disabled. The entrance to the sea is shallow, suitable for all categories of vacationers. There are usually fewer people here than in the Levante, especially in the parts further from the centre. Cala Mal Pas Cala Mal Pas is a small and quiet beach in Benidorm, located between Poniente Beach and the old town. It is protected from the wind and weather by the Mirador del Mediterraneo viewpoint and the church of San Jaime. The beach is 120 metres long with fine sand, its calm waters are ideal for diving. You can get to the beach from the port or by the stairs near the castle, where lovers often leave locks as a sign of their affection. Opposite the beach is the island of Benidorm with the underwater platform La Llosa, an important diving site due to its rich underwater world. There is a diving school next to the beach for those who want to learn how to dive and explore the underwater world. Cala Mal Pas is usually not crowded, so here you can relax in peace, enjoying the sea and the sun, unlike the busier beaches of Benidorm.
Interesting facts about the city
- Benidorm is often called the "Manhattan of Spain" because of its tall skyscrapers. The city has the highest density of skyscrapers in the world compared to its population.
- 8 of the 20 tallest skyscrapers in Spain are located in Benidorm.
- The city hosts many cultural events each year, including the famous indie music festival "Benidorm Fest" and traditional Spanish fiestas such as "Fallas" and "Moros y Cristianos".
- According to official figures, Benidorm is the 112th largest city in Spain, with a population of 66,642 in 2016. The British make up the majority of tourists – 49.7%. The Spanish themselves make up only about 38.7%.
Prices for renting and buying housing
Spain offers a wide range of properties to suit every taste and budget, including new-build apartments, resale properties in excellent condition and exclusive villas with stunning sea views. In Benidorm, real estate investments are made both for personal use and for rental income. The price of real estate varies depending on its location and year of construction: properties located on the first line by the sea have a high cost, while distance from the coast leads to lower prices per square meter. Two- or three-room apartments in a building with an elevator in the city center cost from €130,000. Apartments with access to the beach are sold from €200,000. The cost also depends on the infrastructure of the complex. The most expensive are new modern properties with sea views: the price per square meter varies from €2,500 to €4,000. The table shows examples of real estate and their average price range.
Property type | Average rental price (per month) | Average purchase price |
Apartments | From €500 to €1,500 | From €80,000 to €300,000 |
Villas | From €1,000 to €3,000 | From €200,000 to €1,000,000 |
Apartments | From €400 to €1,200 | From €70,000 to €250,000 |
Townhouses | From €800 to €2,000 | From €150,000 to €500,000 |
Webcams
Webcams installed in various locations in Benidorm offer a unique opportunity to observe the life of the city in real time from anywhere in the world. These cameras broadcast views of Benidorm's famous skyscrapers, its coastline and picturesque streets, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of this resort town. High-quality images and sound contribute to the feeling of direct presence. Access to broadcasts is provided 24 hours a day, and users can expand the image to full screen at any time to better examine the details and enjoy the beauty of Benidorm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I would like to note that Benidorm is more than just a place on the map of Spain or another point on the list of tourist destinations. The city combines picturesque beaches, modern skyscrapers and a rich cultural heritage. Here everyone will find something for themselves: from exciting entertainment and relaxation on golden sands to opportunities for investment in real estate and developing your business. Considering Benidorm for buying real estate, you choose a life in harmony with nature, modernity and culture. Licensed real estate agency Deniz Estate is ready to become your reliable partner in choosing a comfortable apartment for living and liquid housing on the Spanish coast.
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