12 Things to Do in Benidorm

Enjoy beaches, coves, skyscrapers and delicious food in one place, Benidorm. Not for nothing is it known as the Manhattan of the Mediterranean.
12 Things to Do in Benidorm

More about: 12 Things to Do in Benidorm

Benidorm offers skyline views that will surprise you, especially if you enjoy admiring high-level architectural designs. This coastal city also has a variety of water attractions, which are best enjoyed in summer.

In other words, in Benidorm you will find crystal clear, calm waters for kayaking, snorkeling, diving, etc. So, if you are wondering what to see and do in Benidorm, stay with us until the end of this article, in which we recommend 12 spectacular activities.

1. Explore the most emblematic sites of Benidorm on a Segway

Man on a Segway|©Per Sistens
Man on a Segway|©Per Sistens

If you go to Benidorm, I recommend starting with a Segway tour. To make your experience in the city complete, a tour on this two-wheeled vehicle will allow you to explore places such as the following in an original way.

  • Callejón de los Gatos: This street is in the city center and runs from Levante Beach to the church and the viewpoint. Although it is a narrow street, it is still very popular, thanks to its cheerful people and the food shops and bars on either side.
  • Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana: This church was built in the 18th century and its architecture catches the eye at first glance. If you are Catholic, you should take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy Holy Mass, which will allow you to see the interior of the temple.
  • Elche Park: This is an urban park located at the end of Colón Street, on Poniente Beach. There you can see an esplanade and fountain along with palm trees. Many people who visit this beach pass through Elche Park.
  • City Viewpoint and Castle Ruins: This viewpoint is known as the Balcony of the Mediterranean and is one of my favorite places to visit on a Segway. In any case, you can talk to the tour guide to choose other tourist options in Benidorm. A Segway tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Book a Segway tour of Benidorm

2. Speed along the coast of Benidorm on a jet ski

Jet ski on the water|©Donald Tong
Jet ski on the water|©Donald Tong

A jet ski ride along the coast of Benidorm will allow you to see the city skyline from the sea. The different skyscrapers and the Poniente and Levante beaches will leave you with memories you will never forget.

However, this activity depends on the weather, so it cannot be done every day and there may be last-minute changes. It is best to go in summer, as the sky in Benidorm is usually clear at this time of year.

This Jet Ski adventure includes helmets and life jackets, so don't worry, you don't have to bring your own. The tour also allows you to see some of the surrounding cliffs up close. This is undoubtedly an experience that allows you to enjoy nature to the fullest, and one of the best activities you can do on your vacation in Benidorm.

Book a jet ski adventure along the coast of Benidorm

3. Have fun with your children at Terra Mítica theme park

Boat at Terra Mitica|©DEREK APPLETON
Boat at Terra Mitica|©DEREK APPLETON

Terra Mítica is one of the best water parks in Benidorm. Not only does it have water attractions, but also mechanical rides and historical sites from different countries such as Rome and Egypt. For example, in Rome you will find attractions such as El Vuelo del Fénix(The Flight of the Phoenix), which is like an open-air drop tower. Will you dare to go up?

Another attraction in the Roman area is Ayquesustus, which is similar to the previous one, but in this case the fall is gentler, making it ideal for the youngest members of the family. And if you're looking for something more family-friendly, you can visit the Iberia themed area, which has 1,700 m² of pools and a spa.

Among the options in Iberia you will find Jacuzzis and a large, relaxing pool to enjoy after the mechanical attractions. You can go there if you are traveling to Benidorm with children, but also with your friends or simply with your partner. Similarly, I recommend taking your children to Jabato, a track for crashing small, safe cars.

Buy tickets for Terra Mítica

4. Kayak through Cova Tallada

Three kayaks in the sea|©Alexander Bobrov
Three kayaks in the sea|©Alexander Bobrov

Kayak along the north coast of Alicante and discover Cova Tallada. Keep in mind that most kayak tours offer the service plus the necessary equipment, such as the kayak, paddle, and life jacket.

In addition, on this tour you can go snorkeling, which is a must-do on your vacation. Remember that this is an activity you can do individually, as a couple, or in groups, so it's always an excellent option. At the end of the day, the tour organizers will provide you with a small snack.

In addition, it's worth noting that the tour lasts 3 hours. You will always have a guide who specializes in kayaking, snorkeling, and cave exploration. In fact, before you start using the kayak, the guide will explain how to paddle, in case you don't know how.

If you like adventure and water activities, have you ever thought about trying paddle surfing? There are tours of up to 2 hours through the coves and caves of Benidorm that will allow you to get started in this fantastic sport in style. Highly recommended!

Book a paddle surfing tour in Benidorm

5. Visit the beautiful beaches of Benidorm

Poniente beach at sunset|©sebas Fdez
Poniente beach at sunset|©sebas Fdez

Benidorm's beaches are very popular in summer, as they have crystal clear waters and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. In addition, they almost always have small waves, making them safer for the whole family. In fact, there are lifeguards on duty at all times to protect swimmers.

Here are the main beaches in Benidorm that you shouldn't miss:

Levante Beach

At Levante Beach, you can enjoy a sunny afternoon with friends while swimming in the waters of the Mediterranean. It is 2,084 meters long, making it quite spacious.

Poniente Beach

Another place I recommend visiting to sunbathe and relax outdoors is Poniente Beach, which is located very close to a variety of clothing and food stores. It is also the largest beach in Benidorm, thanks to its length of 3,100 meters.

Mal Pas Beach

And if you want to enjoy a small or less crowded beach, I recommend Mal Pas Beach, which is 120 meters long. You should also know that this beach is next to the Balcón del Mediterráneo.

From some of these beaches, you can enjoy a boat trip along the Alicante coast.

6. Marvel at the viewpoints of Benidorm

Cruz de Benidorm|©Andrey Glazunov
Cruz de Benidorm|©Andrey Glazunov

In Benidorm, there are several viewpoints that offer views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city from above, and these are some of my favorite tourist destinations. When you are there , you can see green areas, skyscrapers, and beaches. You can reach them either on foot or by using the Benidorm tourist bus.

Among the different viewpoints, I would like to recommend:

Balcón del Mediterráneo

Without a doubt, the Balcón del Mediterráneo is the best viewpoint, as it has large spaces where you can find food and, above all, local craft stalls. Sometimes there are also groups or street artists, both musicians and painters.

Cruz de Benidorm

The path to the Cruz de Benidorm is a good way to get some exercise, as it is a short trail where you can enjoy natural and urban views. I like to go at night, as from there I can see the city lit up with its skyscrapers and at the same time admire the starry sky. Add it to your list of things to do in Benidorm at night.

Aguiló Tower

The Torre del Aguiló dates back to the 16th century and is located on the outskirts of the city, but it offers views of Benidorm as well as the coast of Villajoyosa. In fact, you can enjoy the view of the Calpe rock, although for me the best thing is to watch the sunset from there. Therefore, I recommend going up there in the late afternoon to see this natural spectacle on the horizon.

La Cala Viewpoint

If you want to enjoy a historical site and natural or urban views at the same time, go to Tossal de la Cala. This viewpoint is part of a historical site that some archaeologists and historians attribute to Roman rule in the 1st century AD. Learn a little history while you look out over the Mediterranean and the city of Benidorm from above.

7. Take a guided walking tour of Benidorm

Stroll through the streets of Benidorm|©Luis Pérez Contreras
Stroll through the streets of Benidorm|©Luis Pérez Contreras

Walk with a guide who will tell you stories and anecdotes about Benidorm and show you the favorite sites, such as the Town Hall, Gran Hotel Bali, San Jaime and Santa Ana Church, and the Intempo Skyscraper. There are many different sites to choose from, so find the tour that suits you best or request a personalized tour.

El Mirador, the Benidorm Promenade, and the Roman ruins are some of the places you can also see if you take a walking tour of the city. In addition, you can visit the beaches and coves of Benidorm and its surroundings. In fact, there is a boat in the city that allows you to sail the Mediterranean and see the fish, as if you were in a submarine.

On the other hand, I recommend visiting the different bars in the city to wet your whistle with cocktails, beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. As you can see, "The Manhattan of the Mediterranean" has a lot to offer.

8. Eat something delicious at a restaurant in Benidorm

Hamburger on the table|©Valeria Boltneva
Hamburger on the table|©Valeria Boltneva

Another attraction of Benidorm is its cuisine, so I invite you to visit some of the restaurants. In these places, you can find a variety of food options, from mussels and hamburgers to dishes by renowned chefs. Here are several restaurants you should check out for delicious food.

  • La Cava Aragonesa is a restaurant in the old town of Benidorm (Plaza de la Constitución) and offers various dishes such as fish fideuá, sautéed mushrooms and asparagus, and meat lasagna. They also offer delicious appetizers, salad with duck ham, and corn cream.
  • Restaurante Belvedere Benidorm is a luxury restaurant on the 21st floor of the Hotel Madeira Centro. This means that you can admire the Benidorm skyline from the restaurant. At the same time, you can enjoy the culinary creations of Spanish chef Kiko Lázaro.
  • La Mejillonera Benidorm, this restaurant offers excellent mussels and rice dishes, thanks to its award-winning chef Josetxo García. If you decide to visit this restaurant, I recommend trying the lobster paella, although you can always order whatever you feel like.
  • Amigos Bistro by Nas & Dino is another Spanish restaurant, but it also offers dishes from other countries. For example, you'll find delicious homemade burgers, tomato and basil soup, French fries, apple pie, steaks with peppers, etc.
  • Florentine Salón de Té, a 1930s-themed tea room where you can relax and enjoy something sweet. Its walnut cake with jasmine green tea will delight your palate. You can also listen to old music such as Mantovani's.

9. Hiking in Benidorm

people walking on the trail|©Guduru Ajay bhargav
people walking on the trail|©Guduru Ajay bhargav

For hiking enthusiasts, there is nothing better than the views and the salty breeze of the Mediterranean Sea. First, begin your adventure on the Punta del Caballo Hiking Trail, a 1.6 km path that will take you to the Sierra Helada Viewpoint, Punta de Cavall or Seguró, and the Punta del Caballo Viewpoint. The three destinations are relatively close to each other.

Here is the address for Punta de L'Escaleta according to Google Maps. As you can see, this tourist site and viewpoint in Benidorm is also close to the destinations mentioned above. At the end of these hiking trails, you can marvel at the views of the Mediterranean Sea, the city of Benidorm, as well as various cliffs and coves.

Take the opportunity to also go on one of the excursions to the towns and cities near Benidorm. One of the most recommended is the one that takes you to Valencia, just 2 hours away.

Book an excursion to Valencia from Benidorm

10. Walk along the Benidorm Promenade

Levante Promenade|©Nicolas Vigier
Levante Promenade|©Nicolas Vigier

Along Poniente Beach is the Benidorm Promenade, which has an architectural design similar to the waves of the sea. This place not only offers a space to walk, sit and read a book, take photos, etc., but also has spectacular views of the sea.

As you walk along it, you will find natural areas on one side and the urban traffic zone, clothing stores, and food on the other. For example, on the urban side, you will find British food, hamburgers, pizza, Spanish rice dishes, seafood, sweets, etc. In other words, there is a little bit of everything, so you can choose whatever food you want.

During the day, you can walk along the Benidorm Promenade until you reach the Balcón del Mediterráneo. The entire route offers views of the sea and the city, but the balcony offers a much more panoramic view. However, at night you will also have beautiful views, thanks to the sustainable lighting of the Promenade and the city itself. Here you can see more details of Benidorm's Paseo Marítimo.

11. Admire the Benidorm skyline

Lugano Tower|©KaMpErƎ & Le-tticia
Lugano Tower|©KaMpErƎ & Le-tticia

From the beaches of Benidorm and the viewpoints, you can admire the Benidorm skyline, although I also recommend visiting each skyscraper to see the outside up close, and why not, go inside them on guided tours. As you might expect, you don't have to pay anything if you want to admire the skyscrapers and take photos for your social media.

However, there are several skyscrapers, so I've decided to recommend three of my favorites:

Intempo

Intempo offers 256 apartments, which you can rent for your vacation in Benidorm. On the 46th floor, there is a gym, spa, and jacuzzi. From this floor, you have a panoramic view of the city that you will never forget. By the way, this skyscraper has an average height of 200 meters.

Gran Hotel Bali

If you are looking for a 4-star hotel, I recommend the Gran Hotel Bali. This way, you can also see the city of Benidorm from above, depending on the floor you stay on. The site offers a restaurant, swimming pool, gym, games room, playground, and much more. Of course, check out the guided tours, as you don't have to stay at the hotel. This skyscraper is 186 meters high.

Lugano Tower

This is the third tallest skyscraper after the two I mentioned above. It is 158 meters high and has 43 residential floors, so you can search online for apartments to rent if you want to stay there while visiting Benidorm. The Lugano Tower is located on C. de Viena, Benidorm. This tower also has a swimming pool, fitness center, and free WiFi.

12. Enjoy a pleasant experience at Mundomar with your family

Mundomar with the family|©Sheena Suthreland
Mundomar with the family|©Sheena Suthreland

Mundomar is an animal park for the whole family, so you can take your children to have fun and learn by seeing different species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. In addition, this site offers various shows, and you can even swim with sea lions or see dolphins up close.

Similarly, if you want, at Mundomar you can become a trainer for a day, an experience you will never forget. Among the animals you will see there are also parrots, lemurs, and lorises. Take photos with everyone you want and explore the green areas and different aquatic spaces.

You will also have the opportunity to see birds such as storks, black-necked swans, and flamingos. Mundomar is also home to otters, monkeys, turtles, and meerkats. Mundomar is located on Calle Sierra Helada. One important advantage is that it is close to Aqualandia Benidorm, another place I recommend visiting with your family.

When to go to Benidorm

Benidorm is a city that can be enjoyed all year round. Its location on the Levantine coast means that it has mild temperatures throughout the year. So it is not surprising to find tourists even in the low season, such as in October or December. However, if you are someone who prefers traveling during the holidays, I advise you to book your flight and accommodation in advance because it tends to be very crowded, especially in July, August, and September.

If you're someone who prefers to have everything planned out and feel overwhelmed by so many options, don't worry, here are our itineraries for each day so that all you have to worry about is packing your suitcase and enjoying everything the city of Benidorm has to offer!

Reviews from other travellers

4.7
· 7399 Reviews
  • C
    C. G.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    very good!
  • L
    L.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    The sport is a bit tiring, but it's a lot of fun! I recommend wearing sunscreen and a T-shirt to avoid chafing.
  • N
    N.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    We had a great time, I definitely recommend it to everyone who is in Benidorm.
  • A
    A.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    The water was great, we had a great time paddle surfing and then swimming to cool off.
  • J
    J.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    It was a very fun experience, although I got a little burned.