Benidorm, located on Spain's Costa Blanca, is internationally famous for its towering skyline, fantastic nightlife, and its three distinct golden beaches. This bustling resort city is perfectly set between the mountains and the sea, offering guaranteed sun and vibrant energy. The two main beaches, Levante and Poniente, each offer a different holiday vibe, from the buzzing, central strip of Levante to the calmer, more Spanish atmosphere of Poniente with its beautiful promenade.
At the heart of the town is the historic Old Town (Casco Antiguo), a beautiful contrast to the modern skyscrapers. Here, you will find a maze of narrow streets leading up to the iconic viewpoint, the Balcón del Mediterráneo, which offers stunning panoramic views over the two bays. Benidorm is the ultimate destination for sun, entertainment, and a guaranteed lively getaway.
Benidorm is essentially divided into three key zones, and choosing your hotel base will define the type of holiday you experience, whether fast-paced or relaxed.
The Levante area, often called the New Town, is the perfect location for those seeking excitement and a non-stop atmosphere. It is fronted by the popular Levante Beach and is where you will find the majority of the large hotels, bars, international restaurants, and the most concentrated nightlife. If you want to be steps from the beach and the main hub of entertainment, this is the place to be.
The Old Town, nestled between the two main beaches, offers a charming and authentic base. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are filled with traditional tapas bars, independent shops, and the beautiful Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana. Staying in the Old Town provides a quieter, more cultural experience in the evenings, yet still offers excellent access to both Levante and Poniente beaches.
The Poniente area, and its southern end La Cala, provides a more relaxed and local environment. Poniente Beach is known for its beautiful, modern promenade and tends to be quieter and more favoured by Spanish visitors and families. Hotels here often offer a more spacious and tranquil setting while still being a short walk or bus ride from the vibrancy of the centre.
Benidorm is served by Alicante Airport (ALC), with excellent transfer options including direct bus services and private shuttles providing an easy connection to your hotel. Within the city, local buses and walking are the best ways to get around, as the main areas are well-connected and accessible.
Benidorm is highly seasonal, and hotel prices are heavily dictated by the school holidays and the weather. The peak season is from June to August, when prices are at their highest.
For the best value, consider booking during the shoulder months of April, May, September, or October. The weather is usually excellent, but hotel rates are significantly lower. A critical and unique event to watch out for is Benidorm Pride Week, which usually takes place in early September. This week-long celebration causes a major surge in hotel demand and prices, particularly in the Old Town and Levante areas. Booking outside of this specific window is key to securing a more affordable stay.