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Unveiling Benidorm's Allure: 5 Days to Enjoy Sun, Sea, and Spanish Charm!

Benidorm in Spain has a cool mix of beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. It’s like a secret gem that’s hiding in plain sight!

This guide begins with your 5‑day Benidorm itinerary, just as promised — sun‑drenched beaches, old‑town wanderings, day trips, and those little Mediterranean moments that make a holiday unforgettable.

But don’t slip away after the itinerary. Further down, you’ll find insider tips, local food notes, festival highlights, hidden gems, and a curated list of suggested reads to inspire your next Spanish escape.

Think of it as your complete Benidorm companion — practical, atmospheric, and crafted to help you travel with ease and heart.

Benidorm Marina Benidorm Alicante min

5 Days in Benidorm: Sun‑Drenched Wanderings & Mediterranean Moments

DAY 1 — Levante Beach & the Soul of the Old Town

Morning — First light on Levante The day begins with the soft hush of waves against Levante Beach. Grab a coffee from a beachfront café and walk barefoot along the shoreline while the city wakes up. The water is usually calm in the morning — perfect for a gentle swim.

Afternoon — Into the old town’s maze Slip into Benidorm Old Town, where the streets narrow and the mood shifts from beachy to timeless. Whitewashed walls, tiny tapas bars, the scent of grilled seafood drifting from doorways. Climb toward the Balcón del Mediterráneo — that iconic viewpoint where the sea wraps around you on both sides. Pause. Let the breeze do its thing.

Evening — Tapas with a local heartbeat Calle Santo Domingo is your playground: patatas bravas, garlic prawns, a glass of cold vermouth. End the day with a slow wander back toward Levante as the promenade lights shimmer on the water.

Benidorm Levante Beach travel and home min
Levante Beach

DAY 2 — Poniente Calm & Sierra Helada Drama

Morning — The quieter side of Benidorm Poniente Beach is where the locals breathe. Wide, golden, and peaceful. Rent a bike and follow the promenade — it’s one of the most beautiful coastal rides in the region.

Afternoon — Cliffs that make you feel tiny Head into Sierra Helada Natural Park. Even a short walk rewards you with rugged cliffs plunging into turquoise water. The lighthouse route is a favourite: breezy, scenic, and not too demanding.

Evening — Dinner with a view Choose a Poniente‑side restaurant where the sun sets directly over the water. Order something simple and fresh — grilled fish, a crisp salad — and let the day fade slowly.

Benidorm Poniente Beach, travel and home min
Poniente Beach

DAY 3 — Whitewashed Altea & a Taste of the Slow Life

Morning — A short hop to beauty Altea is only minutes away, but it feels like another world. White houses, blue domes, bougainvillea spilling over stone steps. Wander without a plan — that’s the magic here.

Afternoon — Seafront serenity After exploring the old town, drift down to the promenade for lunch. Think seafood paella or a plate of fried anchovies with lemon. If you’re in the mood, join a boat trip from the marina — coastal views from the water are unforgettable.

Evening — A touch of glamour back in Benidorm Return to Benidorm and, if you’re feeling festive, book a night at Benidorm Palace. It’s glitzy, theatrical, and very “holiday in Spain”.

DAY 4 — Mountain Magic: Guadalest & the Algar Waterfalls

Morning — A village in the clouds Drive or join a tour to Guadalest, perched high above the valley. The castle views are cinematic, and the tiny museums add charm. It’s the kind of place where you take a photo every ten steps.

Afternoon — Cool waters and wooden walkways Continue to the Algar Waterfalls, where clear pools and shaded paths offer a refreshing break from the heat. Bring swimwear — the water is cold but exhilarating.

Evening — Back to the coast Return to Benidorm for a relaxed dinner. The old town is perfect for a slow, post‑adventure evening.

 

DAY 5 — Theme Park Thrills & a Mediterranean Farewell

Morning — Choose your fun Benidorm does theme parks well.

  • Aqua Natura for slides and splashy fun

  • Terra Natura for wildlife and gentle exploration

Pick the mood that suits your energy.

Afternoon — One last look at the sea Head to the port for a boat trip to Benidorm Island or a glass‑bottom cruise. It’s a peaceful way to say goodbye to the coastline.

Evening — Sunset ritual End your trip with a final sunset on Poniente or Levante. Order paella, raise a glass, and let the Mediterranean close the chapter for you.

Popular tours in and around Benidorm

Benidorm, famous for its beaches min
Benidorm is famous for its beaches

💡Travel tips: 

You can fly into Alicante Airport, which is about 45 kilometers (28 miles) away. From there, you can hop on a bus, hire a taxi, or even rent a car to get to your accommodation. If you’re already in Spain, there are also trains and buses connecting major cities to Benidorm.

The best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather during these times is warm and pleasant, perfect for beach days and exploring without the scorching heat of summer or the winter chill.

How long to stay really depends on what you want to do. A week gives you a good chance to soak up the sun, hit the beaches, explore the town, and enjoy the nightlife. But hey, if you’re a beach lover or into non-stop fun, you might want to extend that stay!

Benidorm is generally safe, but like any touristy place, it’s good to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Also, if you’re hitting the beach, make sure to follow the safety flags indicating the sea conditions.

Getting around is pretty easy. You can walk to most places if you’re staying in the central areas. But there are also buses that run through the town, and taxis are always available. If you want to explore nearby towns, renting a bike or a scooter could be a fun option!

The main attraction is its stunning beaches! Seriously, they’re like the heart of the town.

You’ve got two big ones:

  • Levante Beach and Poniente Beach. Levante is super lively, with lots of water sports, beach bars, and a bustling promenade.
  • Poniente is a bit more relaxed and family-friendly, great for a chill day by the sea.

The beaches here are famous for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making them the go-to spots for visitors from all over. And oh, the views of the Mediterranean from these beaches are just incredible!

Top 10 things to do in Benidorm, other than going to the beach!

Church Of San Jaime And Santa Ana travel and home min
Church Of San Jaime And Santa Ana

1. Balcon del Mediterraneo: It’s a lovely viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. You’ll see the old town and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea stretching out before you.

2. Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana: This church is right in the heart of the old town. It’s a beautiful building with a distinct blue dome and intricate architecture, reflecting Benidorm’s religious history.

Sierra Helada Cliffs Benidorm Spain hiking scenic vistas
Sierra Helada Cliffs

3. Benidorm Old Town: Wandering through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll find charming squares, historic buildings, and traditional Spanish architecture. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture.

4. Sierra Helada Cliffs: This stunning natural feature offers dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, providing breathtaking views and a captivating backdrop for visitors exploring the area. The cliffs of Sierra Helada are known for their rugged beauty and are a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the scenic vistas.

Plaça del Castell
Plaça del Castell

5. Placa del Castell: A historic square perched on a cliff offering breathtaking views of the sea. It’s a great spot to relax and take in the surroundings.

6. Tossal de la Cala: An archaeological site where you can see remains of an ancient settlement dating back to the 14th century.

The watchtower of Aguilo in Benidorm, Spain min
Torre Punta del Cavall

7. Torre Punta del Cavall: Also known as The Watchtower of Aguilo, it dates back to the 16th century. This tower served as a lookout point for guarding against pirate attacks along the coast.

8. Benidorm City Hall: It’s a modern building, but it stands on the site of an old fort. The architecture is a blend of modern and historical elements.

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Elche Park

9. Museo Boca del Calvari: A small museum that showcases the history and culture of Benidorm through exhibits and artifacts. Address: C/ de Tomàs Ortuño, s/n

10. Elche Park: The park has sculptures and monuments that reflect the town’s heritage and culture. It’s a beautiful park near the coastline, offering a relaxing, scenic environment for visitors and locals alike. Elche Park is known for its palm trees, gardens, benches, and walkways, providing a peaceful retreat in the midst of the bustling city.

The famous look out point in in Benidorm Alicante in Spain commonly known as The Balcon del Mediterraneo or Balcon del Mediterraneo min
A popular lookout point, The Balcon del Mediterraneo

Something for Every Adventurer!

This place is like uncovering a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be embraced. From the sun-soaked beaches to the charming old town streets, this travel guide offers a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of this coastal paradise. Whether you’re drawn to the pulsating nightlife, intrigued by historical landmarks, or simply seeking relaxation under the Mediterranean sun, Benidorm caters to every traveler’s whims. With its blend of modern attractions and a touch of history, coupled with vibrant festivals that light up the calendar, it promises an adventure that leaves a lasting imprint.

Top 5 Annual festivals

Several annual festivals bring the town to life with music, dancing, and vibrant celebrations.

  1. Benidorm Carnival: Usually held in February or March, the Carnival fills the streets with colorful parades, costumes, music, and dancing. It’s a lively celebration with a fun, festive atmosphere.
  2. Moors and Christians Festival: This festival, celebrated in October, is significant. It’s all about reenacting battles between the Moors and Christians from Spain’s history. There are parades, mock battles, and fantastic costumes.
  3. Benidorm Pride: The event takes place in September and is a major LGBTQ+ celebration. It includes concerts, parties, parades, and a whole lot of pride and joy.
  4. San Juan Bonfires: During the summer solstice in June, the San Juan Bonfires light up the beaches. It’s a tradition where people gather around bonfires, enjoy fireworks, and even take a dip in the sea at midnight for good luck.
  5. Fallas de San Jose: Though not as big as in Valencia, Benidorm also celebrates Las Fallas in March, where huge papier-mâché sculptures are displayed throughout the town, and then they’re set on fire in a spectacular bonfire.
must eat and drink in Benidorm, Spain min

What to Eat and Drink in Benidorm

When it comes to food, Benidorm has a mix of local Spanish cuisine and international dishes. You’ve got to try the paella, which is like a traditional Spanish rice dish cooked with yummy seafood or meat. Also, seafood lovers will have a blast here! As for drinks, the sangria is a must-try, and you can’t miss out on trying horchata, a refreshing local drink made from tiger nuts.

Local Customs of Benidorm

Respect is a big thing here. Spaniards are super friendly, but it’s always nice to greet people with a “Hola” and a smile. Also, mealtimes are slightly different here. Lunch usually happens later, around 2 pm, and dinner starts from 9 pm onwards.

Where to Stay in Benidorm

There are tons of options for staying in Benidorm. You’ve got everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts right by the beach. The Levante area is famous for its buzzing atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, while the Poniente area is a bit more chilled out and family-friendly.

Hotel Madeira Centro

Located right by Levante Beach, this hotel offers fantastic sea views from many of its rooms and rooftop terraces.

Hotel Madeira Centro, where to stay in Benidorm near beach
ABOVE: Hotel Madeira Centro - Check Availability

Gran Hotel Bali

It’s the tallest hotel in Benidorm, providing panoramic views of the sea from its higher floors and rooftop pool area.

Gran Hotel Bali & Spa, where to stay in Benidorm, sea views
ABOVE: Gran Hotel Bali & Spa

Villa Venecia Hotel Boutique

Situated in the old town next to Levante Beach, this boutique hotel offers rooms with balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia in Benidorm, Levante beach, old town, sea views
ABOVE: Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia
Benidorm skyline at sunset min

Benidorm isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. The hush of early morning waves, the scent of grilled sardines in the old town, the thrill of discovering a hidden viewpoint or a quiet cove. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, slow strolls, or splashy adventures, this itinerary is your starting point.

Have you been to Benidorm? Or maybe you’re planning your first visit? We’d love to hear your favorite memories, hidden gems, or questions below.

💬 Drop a comment and let’s swap stories — your tips might just inspire someone’s next adventure.

🕮  Suggested Reads:  If Benidorm’s sun-drenched charm has you dreaming of more Spanish escapes, you might love these too:

  • Alicante’s coastal calm — where mornings begin with castle views and evenings end with tapas.
  • Cadaqués, the artist’s hideaway — 10 unique things to do in this whitewashed gem.
  • Seville’s Plaza de España — a bucket-list landmark that feels like stepping into a fairytale.
  • Barcelona’s unfinished masterpieceLa Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s dream in stone.
  • Majorca — beaches, villages, and the kind of light that makes you linger.