Rainbow Benidorm

If you’ve ever wandered through the Rincón de Loix area of Benidorm and felt a sudden craving for something more "authentic" than a standard souvenir shop, you likely stumbled upon Mercaloix. While Benidorm is famous for its towering skyscrapers and golden beaches, Mercaloix offers a slice of local life mixed with the eclectic charm of an international bazaar. Picture by Harry Fabel A brief history: From local hub to tourist landmark Mercaloix (often referred to by locals and regulars as the "Indoor Market") has been a staple of the Benidorm community for decades. Established to serve both the growing expat population and the seasonal tourists, it bridged the gap between a traditional Spanish *mercado* and a modern shopping arcade. Over the years, it has evolved from a simple collection of food stalls into a vibrant micro-economy . It survived the rapid modernization of the city by maintaining a "neighborhood" feel—where shopkeepers know their regulars by ...

If you’re heading to the Costa Blanca and want a break from the the beach, Terra Natura  Benidorm offers a surprisingly immersive escape. It’s not your typical "animals behind bars" kind of place; it uses a concept called Zoo Immersion , designed to make you feel like you’re walking through the animals' natural habitats. Picture by Harry Fabel One Park, Three Continents! The zoo is divided into large themed areas, allowing you to "travel" across the globe in a single afternoon: Pangea: The entrance hub, themed around the origins of the earth, featuring impressive displays of venomous creatures, insects, and reptiles. America: Home to lush vegetation, monkeys, ocelots, and the majestic aviaries where tropical birds fly almost right over your head. Asia: The heavy hitters live here. You’ll find the Indian rhinos and a large herd of elephants. The park is well-regarded for its conservation and breeding programs for these species. Europe: Focused on local biodive...

Benidorm often gets a reputation for just being "Little England," but if you look past the neon lights and all-day breakfasts, you’ll find a city that offers a surprising mix of natural beauty, high-octane thrills, and traditional Spanish charm. Whether you’re there for the nightlife or the Mediterranean sun, here are the 10 must-visit spots  in and around Benidorm. Picture by Harry Fabel 1. El Balcón del Mediterráneo This is the iconic "Castle Viewpoint" that separates the two main beaches. With its white stone balustrades and checkerboard tiles, it offers the best panoramic views of the skyline and the sea. It’s the perfect spot for sunset photos. 2. The Old Town (Casco Antiguo) Escape the skyscrapers and wander through narrow, cobblestone streets. This area is packed with character, boutique shops, and the famous Tapas Alley  (Calle Santo Domingo), where you can hop from bar to bar enjoying authentic Spanish snacks. 3. Levante & Poniente Beaches Levante: The...

If Levante Beach is Benidorms high-energy, neon-lit stage, Poniente Beach is its sophisticated, sun-drenched sanctuary. Stretching over 3 kilometers along the western coast of the city, Poniente offers a more relaxed, spacious, and authentically Spanish Mediterranean experience. Why do visitors love It? Picture by Harry Fabel Poniente is often the preferred choice for those looking to escape the frantic pace of the "New Town." Here is what makes it special:   Breathable Space: The beach is significantly wider than Levante, meaning that even in the height of summer, you can usually find a prime spot for your umbrella without feeling like you're sharing a towel with a stranger.   The Promenade: The award-winning promenade is an architectural marvel. Designed to mimic the movement of cliffs and waves, its colorful, flowing lines make for a stunning walk, especially during sunset.   A Local Vibe: This side of town feels more residential. You’ll find fewer themed pubs and more...

Known as the "Balcony of the Mediterranean," the Mirador del Castillo is arguably the most iconic spot in Benidorm. It’s that stunning white stone viewing point with blue tiles that separates the two main beaches, Levante and Poniente. Picture by Harry Fabel Here is a look at its history and the best time to experience it. A Glimpse into the Past While it’s now a place for selfies and romantic walks, the Mirador has a much grittier history. The Fortress: Between the 14th and 19th centuries, a large fortress stood on this rocky outcrop (the Canfali hill). It was built to defend the town from raids by Berber pirates. The Napoleonic Wars: Most of the castle was destroyed in 1812 during the Peninsular War by the British fleet to prevent it from falling into French hands. The Transformation: For decades, only a few ruins remained. In the 20th century, as Benidorm transformed from a tiny fishing village into a tourism hub, the area was revitalized into the ornamental plaza and view...