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Things to do in Benidorm

Benidorm has plenty up its sleeve beyond the beach. You can complement relaxed days on the sand with adrenaline-filled adventures, wanders with tapas stops and jaunts into the mountains for showstopping scenery. These attractions will show you another side to this Costa Blanca hotspot.

Balcón del Mediterráneo: Wind through the old town's narrow streets to reach this iconic white-tiled viewpoint overlooking the sea. Between Benidorm’s two main beaches, and with panoramic views over the coast, city skyline and beyond, this is a picture-perfect backdrop for sunset photos before you head out for dinner.

Tapas Alley: Calle Santo Domingo, aka Tapas Alley, is in the heart of Benidorm’s old town. Stroll here for an attack on the senses – the air is filled with the scent of sizzling garlic and the chatter of locals. Dip in and out of bars showcasing different pintxos and tapas, pointing at what catches your eye and pairing it with a glass of local wine.

La Cruz de Benidorm (the Benidorm Cross): For the most spectacular views, climb or take a taxi up to the Benidorm Cross in the Sierra Helada hills. If you visit at dusk, you can watch as the resort's skyline transforms, with twinkling lights reflecting off the Mediterranean far below.

Guadalest: Swap the coastal buzz for fresh mountain air in the village of Guadalest, around a half-hour drive from Benidorm. Here you can discover a stunning mountain fortress, the San José castle, perched dramatically above a turquoise reservoir. Afterwards, browse its artisan craft shops for souvenirs.

Best activities for families in Benidorm

There are attractions galore to keep children entertained in Benidorm. From thrilling water slides that will impress teenagers to peaceful boat trips where toddlers can spot colourful fish, families will be in their element.

Aqualandia: Impress all of the family with a trip to one of Europe's most famous water parks. There are record-breaking slides to whizz down, dedicated play zones for younger children, wave pools, shaded areas for a breather and on-site restaurants when hunger strikes. Book tickets in advance online to save money at the gate.

Terra Mítica: Journey through the ancient worlds of Rome, Egypt and Greece at this sprawling theme park that brings mythology to life. White-knuckle rollercoasters entertain brave teenagers while gentler rides and spectacular shows are there to captivate younger family members

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Benidorm Island: Sail away from the crowds on a short glass-bottom boat trip to this protected nature reserve. As you travel, the boat's viewing panels reveal marine life swimming in the crystal-clear waters below. When you arrive, there are peaceful walking trails to explore on and serene swimming spots.

DinoPark Algar: If the younger members of your brood need an activity away from the beach, this charming park 20km from Benidorm has created a prehistoric world with life-sized dinosaur models dotted along shaded pathways. To add to the fun, there’s also a paddling pool with fountains and a 3D cinema.

Museo del Motor: Mini transport enthusiasts will love this relatively unknown museum where classic cars and vintage motorcycles fill air-conditioned halls in Finestrat eight miles (13km) from Benidorm. Interactive exhibits, a 1950s-style diner with a food truck and fascinating snippets of motoring history will keep curious minds engaged while you all escape from the midday sun.

What and where to eat and drink in Benidorm

Benidorm's dining scene extends far beyond British pub classics. You can try traditional Spanish favourites in atmospheric old town lanes, fresh seafood and incredible value set menus. And, as a bonus, you can eat exceptionally well on a budget.

Tapas Alley: This bustling lane (officially known as Calle Santo Domingo) is a must-try spot for food in Benidorm as it forms the beating heart of the old town's food scene. Hop between traditional bars where locals gather, grazing on delicious pintxos (small snacks served on bread) and soak up the lively Spanish atmosphere that continues late into the evening.

Menu del día: Savvy holidaymakers eat their main meal at lunchtime to sample authentic regional cooking while keeping costs low. To do this, look for local restaurants displaying 'menu of the day (menu del dia)' signs for unbeatable three-course lunch deals.

Paella: Benidorm, and the wider Alicante region, is famous for its rice and fish dishes, so it would be rude not to order a steaming pan of paella on a trip here. Restaurants will all put their own stamp on the dish so look out for seafood, meat or vegetarian twists on the meal.

The best day trips from Benidorm

While Benidorm casts a magnetic spell, it’s worth exploring the surrounding dramatic landscapes and charming villages of the Costa Blanca, too. Peel yourself off the lounger to discover cascading waterfalls and historic port towns. Hire a car (https://www.travelsupermarket.com/en-gb/car-hire/spain/benidorm) to explore at your own pace or book onto a guided tour.

Algar Waterfalls: Swap sea dips for time at these spectacular waterfalls where crystal-clear mountain water tumbles into sparkling rock pools. Follow the riverside path to find your perfect swimming spot – and remember to pack water shoes to walk on the pebbles.

Altea: Discover one of Costa Blanca’s most photogenic towns, where whitewashed houses cascade down a hillside. Altea’s artistic atmosphere can be felt in its narrow, cobbled streets which are lined with galleries, boutiques and places to eat.

Villajoyosa: Fall under the spell of this fishing town where rainbow-coloured houses line the seafront. Known locally as the 'chocolate city', as the sweet stuff has been made here since the 17th century, you can visit its chocolate museum run by Chocolates Valor.

Alicante: Head to the provincial capital for a change of pace. Look out over the city from the historic Santa Bárbara Castle, taking the lift to its summit for sweeping coastal views, then stroll along the elegant palm-lined Explanada de España and mingle with locals enjoying their evening paseo (stroll).