Mercaloix indoor market: Benidorms hidden treasure

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 name, and the prices remain competitive compared to the flashy beachfront boutiques.

What you can find: Endless possibilities

Mercaloix is a maze of small independent stalls, making it the perfect place for a "treasure hunt." Here is a breakdown of what to expect:

Why visit?

The Atmosphere: It’s a sensory experience. The smell of fresh ham (jamón) mingles with the scent of leather goods and brewing coffee.

The Prices: It is widely considered one of the most affordable places in the Levante area for essentials and gifts.

The Climate: Since it is entirely indoors and air-conditioned, it serves as a perfect escape from the scorching Mediterranean midday sun.

Local Tip: Mercaloix is particularly popular in the mornings. If you want to grab the freshest produce or a quiet coffee, try to arrive before 11:00 AM.


Location: Av. Ametlla de Mar, 9, 03502 Benidorm, Alicante, Spanje

Popular posts from this blog

Top 10 must-visit spots in Benidorm

Image
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...
Read more

Terra Natura Zoo Benidorm

Image
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...
Read more