Best 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.

Adrián Carrero

Adrián Carrero

12 min read

Best Things To Do in Benidorm

Vista panoramica de Benidorm |©Emilio Sánchez

Benidorm offers skyline views that will surprise you, especially if you like to admire high-level architectural designs. Also, this coastal city has several varied aquatic attractions, which you can enjoy better in summer.

That is, in Benidorm you can find crystal clear and calm waters for kayaking, snorkeling, diving, etc. So, if you are wondering what to see and do in Benidorm, stay until the end of this article in which I recommend 12 spectacular activities.

1. Explore the most emblematic sites of Benidorm by Segway

Segway Man|©Per Sistens
Segway Man|©Per Sistens

If you are going to Benidorm, I recommend you to start with an exploration by segway. To make your experience in the city complete, a tour on this two-wheeled vehicle will allow you to explore in an original way places like.

  • The Callejón de los Gatos: This street is in the center of the city and starts from Playa de Levante to the Church and the Mirador. Although it is a narrow street it is still very visited, thanks to its cheerful people and the food stores or bars on each side.
  • Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana: This church was built in the 18th century and its architecture catches the eye at first sight. If you are Catholic, you should take advantage and enjoy the Holy Mass, so you can see the inside of the temple.
  • Parque de Elche: This is an urban park located at the end of Colón street, in Poniente Beach. There you will see an esplanade and the fountain along with palm trees. Many people who visit this beach pass through the Parque de Elche.
  • Viewpoint of the city and remains of the Castle: This viewpoint is known as Balcony of the Mediterranean and is one of my favorite places on Segway. Anyway, you can communicate with the tour guide to choose other sightseeing options in Benidorm. A Segway tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Book a Segway tour in Benidorm

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

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

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

However, it is an activity that depends on the weather, so it can not be done any day and could occur last minute changes. It is best to go in summer, because, normally, in this season of the year the sky in Benidorm is clear.

This Jet Ski adventure includes helmets and life jackets, so don't worry, you don't have to bring them. Also, I would like to inform you that the tour allows you to see some of the surrounding cliffs up close. Undoubtedly, this is an experience for you to enjoy nature to the fullest, and one of the best activities you can do on your vacations in Benidorm.

Book a jet ski adventure along the coast of Benidorm

3. Have fun with your children at Terra Mitica park

Boating in Terra Mitica|©DEREK APPLETON
Boating in Terra Mitica|©DEREK APPLETON

Terra Mitica is one of the best water parks in Benidorm. There are not only water attractions, but also mechanical attractions and historical sites from different countries such as Rome or Egypt. For example, in Rome you will find attractions like The Flight of the Phoenix, which is like a falling elevator in the open air, do 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, which is ideal for the youngest members of the family. And, if you are looking for something more family friendly, you can enter the Iberia themed area, which has 1700 m² of pools and spa.

Among Iberia's options you will find Jacuzzis, a large and relaxing pool to enjoy after the mechanical attractions. You can go there if you travel to Benidorm with children, but also with your friends or simply with your partner. In the same way, I recommend you to take your children to Jabato, a small and safe car crash track.

Buy tickets for Terra Mitica

4. Kayak paddle in Cova Tallada

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

Kayak along the north coast of Alicante and get to know the Cova Tallada. Note that most kayak tours offer the service plus the necessary equipment, for example, the kayak, paddle and lifejacket.

In addition, on this tour you will be able to practice snorkeling, which is a must on your vacation. Remember that this is an activity that you can do individually, as a couple or in groups, so it is always an excellent option. At the end of the day, the tour organizers will give you a small snack.

In addition, it is worth mentioning that the tour lasts 3 hours. Likewise, you will always have a guide specialized 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 paddle surfing? There are tours of up to 2 hours in the coves and caves of Benidorm that will allow you to get your first taste of this fantastic sport, highly recommended!

Book a paddle surf tour in Benidorm

5. Visit the beautiful beaches of Benidorm

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

The beaches of Benidorm are very visited in summer, as they have crystal clear waters and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. In addition, they almost always have small waves, so they are 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 should not miss:

Levante Beach

At Levante Beach you can enjoy a sunny afternoon with friends while swimming in the Mediterranean waters. It has a length of 2,084 meters, so it is quite wide.

Poniente Beach

Another place I recommend you to visit to get a tan and relax in the open air is the Poniente Beach, which is located very close to a variety of clothing and food stores. In addition, this is the largest beach in Benidorm, thanks to its length of 3100 meters.

Mal Pas Beach

And if you want to enjoy a small or less crowded beach, I recommend Playa de Mal Pas, since it has a length of 120 meters. Also, you should know that this beach is next to the Balcón del Mediterráneo.

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

Book an excursion to the coast from Benidorm

6. Marvel at the viewpoints of Benidorm

Benidorm Cross|©Andrey Glazunov
Benidorm Cross|©Andrey Glazunov

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

Among the various viewpoints I want to recommend:

Balcony of the Mediterranean

Undoubtedly, the Balcon del Mediterraneo is the best viewpoint, as it has large spaces where you can find food and, above all, local craft stalls. Also, sometimes there are groups or street artists, both music and painting.

Benidorm Cross

The walk to the Benidorm Cross is a good way to get some exercise, as it is a short trail where you can enjoy both natural and urban views. I like to go at night, since from there I can see the city illuminated with its skyscrapers and at the same time admire the starry sky. Put it on your list of things to do in Benidorm at night.

Aguiló Tower

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

Viewpoint of La Cala

If you want to enjoy a historical site and at the same time natural or urban views, go to the 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 bit of history while you see the Mediterranean and the city of Benidorm from the top.

Book a guided tour in Benidorm

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 or anecdotes of Benidorm and show you the favorite places, for example, the Town Hall, Gran Hotel Bali, San Jaime and Santa Ana Church or the Intempo Skyscraper. The sites are varied, so look for the tour you like the most or ask for a personalized tour.

The Mirador, the Benidorm Promenade and the Roman sites are some of the places you can also see if you take a walking tour of the city. In addition, you can pass by 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 Sea watching the fish, as if you were in a submarine.

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

Book a guided tour in Benidrom

8. Have a delicious meal at a restaurant in Benidorm.

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

Another attraction of Benidorm is its gastronomy, so I invite you to visit some of the restaurants. In these places you can find various food options, from mussels and hamburgers to dishes from renowned chefs. Here are some of the restaurants you should visit to eat something delicious.

  • 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 or meat lasagna. In addition, there they offer delicious hors d'oeuvres, salad with duck ham and corn cream.
  • Restaurant Belvedere Benidorm, a luxury restaurant on the 21st floor of the Hotel Madeira Centro. This means that from the restaurant you can admire the skyline of Benidorm. At the same time you can eat the culinary creations of Spanish chef Kiko Lazaro.
  • La Mejillonera Benidorm, this restaurant offers excellent mussels and rice varieties, thanks to its award-winning chef Josetxo Garcia. If you decide to visit this restaurant, I recommend you to try the Paella de Bogavante, although you can always order whatever you feel like.
  • Amigos Bistro by Nas & Dino, another Spanish food restaurant, but also with mixtures from other countries. For example, you will find delicious homemade hamburgers, tomato and basil soup, French fries, apple pie, steaks with peppers, etc.
  • Florentine Tea Room, a 1930's themed tea room to relax and sweeten you up. Their pecan pie with jasmine green tea will delight your palate. You can also listen to old-time 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 lovers there is nothing better than the views and the salty wind of the Mediterranean Sea. First, start your adventure at Ruta Senderista de Punta del Caballo, a 1.6 km trail that will take you to Mirador Sierra Helada, Punta de Cavall o Seguró and Mirador Punta del Caballo. The three destinations are relatively close to each other.

Also, here is the address of Punta de L' Escaleta according to Google Maps. As you can see, this tourist site and viewpoint of Benidorm is also in the vicinity of 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 make 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 Benidrom

10. Walk along the promenade in Benidorm

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

Along thePoniente Beach is Benidorm's Paseo Marítimo, 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 pictures, etc., but also has spectacular views of the sea.

Also, when you walk through it you will have natural areas to one side and the urban traffic area, clothing stores, food to another. For example, towards the urban side you will get British food, hamburgers, pizza, Spanish rice dishes, seafood, sweets, etc. In other words, there is a little bit of everything, so you can choose the food you want.

During the day you can walk along Benidorm's Paseo Marítimo until you reach the Balcón del Mediterráneo. All the way offers views of the sea and the city, but on the balcony you will have 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 the Benidorm Promenade.

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 skyline of Benidorm, although I also recommend you to approach each skyscraper to see its external part up close, why not, enter them through guided tours. As you might guess, you don't have to pay anything if you want to admire the skyscrapers and take pictures for your social networks.

However, there are several skyscrapers, so I have decided to recommend you 3 of my favorites:

Intempo

The Intempo offers 256 apartments, which you can rent for your vacations 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.

Grand Hotel Bali

If you are looking for a 4 star hotel, I recommend the Gran Hotel Bali, besides, this way you will be able to see the city of Benidorm from the top, depending on the floor where you stay. The place offers restaurant, swimming pool, gym, game room, playground and much more. Of course, check out the guided tours, as this way 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 2 I mentioned above. It is 158 meters high and has 43 residential floors, so you can search on the Internet for their apartments for rent, in case you want to stay there while visiting Benidorm. The Lugano Tower is located at C. de Viena, Benidorm. Also, I inform you that this tower has a swimming pool, fitness center and free WiFi.

12. Live a pleasant experience in Mundomar with your family

Mundomar with your family|©Sheena Suthreland
Mundomar with your family|©Sheena Suthreland

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

Likewise, if you want, in Mundomar you will become a trainer for a day, an experience you will never forget. And among the animals you will see there are also parrots, lemurs and lorises. Take pictures with as many of them as you want and walk through the green areas and the different aquatic spaces.

On the other hand, you will have the opportunity to see birds such as the stork, the black-necked swan and the flamingo. Also, in Mundomar you will find otters, monkeys, turtles and meerkats. The Mundomar park is located on Calle Sierra Helada. An important advantage is that it is close to Aqualandia Benidorm, another place I recommend you to visit 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 all year round. So it is not surprising to find tourists even in low season as in the months of October or December. However, if you are one of those who prefer vacations for travelers I advise you to book flights and accommodation in advance because it usually has a large influx of people, especially in the months of July, August and September.

If you are one of those who prefer to have all the plans tied up and you are overwhelmed by so many proposals, relax, I leave you our itineraries for days so you only have to worry about packing your suitcase and enjoy everything the city of Benidorm has to offer!