Benidorm

A high-rise beach resort city famous for its skyscraper skyline and long golden beaches. It's the entertainment and nightlife capital of the Costa Blanca, packed with theme parks and lively promenades.

Things to do

• Playa de Levante — Stroll or sunbathe on this bustling golden-sand beach backed by Benidorm's iconic skyscraper skyline.
• Balcón del Mediterráneo — Take in panoramic sea views from this clifftop viewpoint in the old town separating Levante and Poniente beaches.
• Terra Mítica theme park — Ride roller coasters through ancient-civilization themed zones at one of Spain's biggest amusement parks.
• Boat trip to Benidorm Island — Take a glass-bottom boat to this small rocky island for snorkeling and views back at the coastline.
• Aqualandia water park — Cool off on slides and wave pools at one of Europe's most popular water parks.
• Explore the Casco Antiguo — Wander the whitewashed old town's narrow lanes, small squares, and the Sant Jaume church perched above the sea.
• Nightlife on the Benidorm strip — Bar-hop along the British-style pub zone and cabaret venues that make Benidorm the Costa Blanca's party capital.

Food to try

• Arroz a banda — A Valencian-style rice dish cooked in fish stock and served separately from the seafood it's flavored with.
• Fideuà — A noodle-based cousin of paella, typically made with shrimp, squid, and other seafood.
• Cocas valencianas — Flat savory pastries topped with vegetables, tuna, or sardines, popular as a quick snack.
• Horchata with fartons — A sweet tiger-nut drink paired with soft sugary pastries, best enjoyed at a terrace café.
• Full English breakfast — Reflecting the huge British expat and tourist presence, many strip cafés serve classic fry-ups all day.
• Tapas crawl in the old town — Sample small plates like patatas bravas and jamón at traditional bars tucked into the historic quarter.

Local customs & good to know

• English is widely spoken — Due to massive British and northern European tourism, menus and signage are often in English alongside Spanish.
• Dinner runs late — Restaurants fill up from around 9pm onward, following typical Spanish dining hours.
• Check beach flags — Colored flags indicate swimming safety conditions and are strictly enforced by lifeguards.
• High-rise doesn't mean quiet — Benidorm is geared toward lively mass tourism, so expect a party atmosphere rather than a sleepy Spanish village vibe.