Top 10 must-visit spots in Benidorm

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 "sunrise" beach. It’s high-energy, lined with bars, and perfect if you like to be in the heart of the action.

Poniente: The "sunset" beach. It’s much longer, quieter, and favored by locals. It’s ideal for a peaceful stroll or a long swim.

4. Benidorm Island (L’illa de Benidorm)

That massive rock sitting in the middle of the bay isn’t just for decoration. You can take a "Goldfish" boat (with a glass bottom) to the island to hike the trails and see the local peacock population. The water there is crystal clear, making it a hotspot for divers.

5. Sierra Helada Natural Park

If you want to burn off those holiday calories, hike up to the Benidorm Cross (La Cruz). For the more adventurous, the full ridge hike along the cliffs of Sierra Helada offers some of the highest sea cliffs in Spain.

6. Terra Mítica

One of Spain’s largest theme parks, themed around ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome. It’s home to Magnus Colossus, a massive wooden roller coaster, and plenty of water rides to keep you cool.

7. Aqualandia

If you love water parks, this is a non-negotiable. It features Verti-Go, one of the tallest capsule slides in the world. It’s a great way to spend a hot afternoon with the family or friends.

8. Mundomar

Located right next to Aqualandia, this exotic animal park focuses on marine life and birds. You can see dolphin and sea lion shows, and they have a strong focus on conservation and education.

9. Altea (The "White Village")

Just a 15-minute drive or bus ride from Benidorm, Altea feels like a different world. It’s a stunning Mediterranean village with white-washed houses, blue-domed churches, and an artistic vibe. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful towns on the Costa Blanca.

10. The Algar Waterfalls (Fonts de l’Algar)

Located about 15km inland, these natural waterfalls are a refreshing alternative to the beach. You can swim in the natural pools, walk along the riverbed, and enjoy the lush greenery of the Callosa d'en Sarrià region.

Pro Tip: If you're visiting the Old Town, look for the Iglesia de San Jaime. Its blue tiles are a classic example of Levantine architecture and look stunning against the Mediterranean sky.

Location: Benidorm, Alicante, Spanje

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