Benidorm is situated on the Costa Blanca within the province of Alicante and has evolved from a modest fishing village into one of Spain's most prominent tourist hubs. The city is globally recognized for its distinctive skyline, boasting the highest density of high-rise buildings per capita in the world, including the 202-meter-tall Intempo skyscraper. Geographically, the bay is bisected by the Canfali rock, which separates the Levante and Poniente beaches and hosts the famous Mediterranean Balcony viewpoint. The region enjoys a unique microclimate protected by the surrounding mountains like the Sierra Helada, which block cold northern winds and ensure mild temperatures year-round. Historically, the transformation began in 1950 under Mayor Pedro Zaragoza, who implemented a visionary urban plan and famously permitted the use of bikinis on public beaches. Today, the city serves as a primary economic driver for Valencian tourism, accommodating a permanent population of around 70.000 that swells to over 400.000 during peak season.
Location: Galicia, Spain
Top sights: Levante Beach · Mal Pas Beach · Almadrava Cove
Nearby: l'Albir (6 km)
Population: ~70.450
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Avg °C
12
12
14
16
19
22
25
26
24
21
16
13
Rain mm
43
30
44
45
33
11
5
19
51
51
62
46
Live webcam – Benidorm
See what it looks like near Benidorm right now.
Benidorm: Poniente - Puig Campana · 0.6 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Population
70,450
Coordinates
38.53420, -0.12870
Facts
The Intempo building stands 202 meters tall, making it the tallest residential building in Spain.
Benidorm was the first Spanish city to permit the wearing of bikinis in 1953.
The city contains over 300 buildings that exceed a height of 35 meters.
The Sierra Helada Natural Park covers over 5,000 hectares of land and sea area.
Benidorm Island, located offshore, is a significant sanctuary for various bird species.
In 1950, the settlement had a total population of only about 2,700 residents.
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→15:493.6 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€
Start your day in the heart of Benidorm's Old Town, the Casco Antiguo. Wander the narrow streets to the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana, then take in the breathtaking views from the Balcón del Mediterráneo. At midday, find shade in the tranquil Parque de Elche before sunbathing on the relaxed Poniente beach. In the afternoon, cross the city to the bustling Levante beach, where you can enjoy the vibrant life and water sports. End the day with a sunset drink at one of the many beachside bars.
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09:10 · 47'
Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
Get lost in the narrow streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
Start the morning in the narrow, sheltered alleys of the Old Town. By noon, the San Jaime Church provides a dry refuge from the showers. The afternoon walk to the Balcón requires caution on the wet, slippery tiles. End the day in one of the cozy cafes along the Levante promenade.
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09:10 · 47'
Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
The narrow streets provide shelter from wind and light rain.
Enjoy the mild morning with a stroll through the quiet Old Town. At noon, the sun is most pleasant around the San Jaime Church. The afternoon visit to the Balcón offers fantastic views in the clear winter air. Finish the day by watching the early sunset on Poniente beach.
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09:10 · 47'
Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
First-rate time to explore the streets without the summer heat.
Start your bike tour from Parque de Elche and ride along the elegant Poniente promenade. Enjoy the quieter atmosphere before cycling back to the heart of the city to explore the Old Town. Lock up your bike to stroll to the Balcón del Mediterráneo. Spend midday at the lively Levante beach, with its countless restaurants. In the afternoon, a challenge awaits: the climb up to the Serra Gelada Natural Park, rewarding you with spectacular views of the entire coastline.
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09:10 · 47'
Parque de Elche
A good starting point with bike rentals available nearby.
Start carefully from Elche Park on the wet paths. The ride to Poniente Beach offers wide views of the grey sea. At noon, the Old Town's narrow streets provide brief shelter. The climb to Serra Gelada is slippery in the rain and requires maximum concentration.
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09:10 · 47'
Parque de Elche
Watch out for slippery leaves and smooth tiles on the paths.
A refreshing morning start in Elche Park in the cool sea breeze. The flat ride along Poniente Beach is especially relaxing in winter. At noon, explore the Old Town before the sun gets lower. The athletic highlight is Serra Gelada in the afternoon with crystal clear views.
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09:10 · 47'
Parque de Elche
Good starting point with plenty of space on the bike paths in winter.
Start the day by driving to the Serra Gelada Natural Park for a morning hike with panoramic views. Park the car and walk to the summit cross. For midday, drive to the bustling Levante beach to soak up the sun and atmosphere. In the afternoon, park in the center and explore Benidorm's historic heart on foot: the Old Town and the Balcón del Mediterráneo. End the day with a short drive to Poniente beach to catch a peaceful and scenic sunset.
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09:10 · 47'
Serra Gelada Natural Park (Parking)
Park here and start your hike up to the cross for an incredible view.
Start the day with a panoramic drive to Serra Gelada in the shelter of your car. At noon, parking at Levante Beach offers direct access to covered promenades. The Old Town can be visited while staying dry via underground parking. End the tour with a drive along the illuminated coastal road.
Start the clear winter morning with a drive up to Serra Gelada. At noon, you will easily find a parking spot in the sun at Levante Beach. The Old Town is easily accessible in winter, offering short walks to the Balcón. The day ends with a drive along Poniente Beach in the golden light.
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09:10 · 47'
Serra Gelada Natural Park (Parking)
In winter, it's significantly cooler up here than in the city.
A popular viewpoint at the top of Sierra Helada, offering wide views over the Benidorm bay.
Parc d'Elx🌳 park
A city park located near Poniente Beach, known for its palm-lined avenues and shaded promenades.
Torre de les Caletes🗼 tower
Ruins of a 16th-century watchtower on a cliff, once used for defense against pirates.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Benidorm called the 'Manhattan of Spain'?
Because of its impressive skyline with the most skyscrapers per inhabitant in the world.
Which are the two main beaches in Benidorm?
Playa de Levante is famous for its nightlife, while Playa de Poniente is slightly quieter and popular with families.
What is the 'Balcony of the Mediterranean'?
A viewpoint on a rock between the two beaches with magnificent views of the sea and the city.
Are there theme parks in Benidorm?
Yes, 'Terra Mítica' (adventure), 'Aqualandia' (water park), and 'Mundomar' (animal park) are very popular destinations.
Is Benidorm only suitable for partygoers?
No, besides the nightlife, the old town has much charm, and the surroundings offer great hiking trails in the Sierra Helada park.
Benidorm: where is it located?
Benidorm is located in Galicia, Spain.
Benidorm: what is there to see?
Highlights include Levante Beach, Mal Pas Beach, Almadrava Cove.
Benidorm: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Benidorm: why is it worth visiting?
Benidorm is situated on the Costa Blanca within the province of Alicante and has evolved from a modest fishing village into one of Spain's most prominent tourist hubs.