Benidorm Holidays

Benidorm puts you in the perfect place to explore more of the Costa Blanca.

• Guadalest Valley – Just a short drive from Benidorm, Guadalest Valley is a hidden gem in the mountains, famous for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape and turquoise reservoir below. You can explore the historic Castell de Guadalest – a centuries-old castle perched on a rocky outcrop – and the village, full of cute shops selling local crafts, handmade ceramics and regional delicacies like honey and olive oil. Don’t miss the museums, either, including the Museum of Microminiatures, which shows off intricate art pieces that you can only see through magnifying glasses.
• Altea, Villajoyosa or Calpe – The nearby villages of Altea, Villajoyosa and Calpe offer a much more chilled and authentic vibe. Altea is a haven for artists, with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses and the iconic, blue-domed church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Villajoyosa is known for its colourful seafront houses, charming old town and the famous Valor Chocolate Museum. Then, Calpe is all about Peñón de Ifach, a limestone rock that you can hike up for breathtaking views.
• Fonts de l’Algar waterfalls – Nature lovers will be obsessed with the Fonts de l’Algar – a series of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools, less than a 40-minute drive from Benidorm. You can swim in the water, enjoy a picnic or eat out in the nearby rustic restaurants.
• Canelobre Caves – These gorg caves are near the village of Busot and feature stalactites and stalagmites. The cathedral-like chamber is an absolute marvel of geology and even hosts occasional musical performances.
• Alicante – The coastal city of Alicante is just 40 minutes’ drive from Benidorm. Castillo de Santa Bárbara is perched on Mount Benacantil, with stunning views and a glimpse into the region’s medieval past. Stroll along the Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade with intricate mosaic tiles, or explore the Museo Arqueológico Provincial (MARQ) to learn about the area’s ancient history.

Holidays to Benidorm aren’t all about laying out on the beach… they can be, or you can pick from these activities.

• Watersports – Kayakers and paddleboarders can explore the calm waters around Cala Tío Ximo and Cala Almadrava – two secluded beaches that are perfect for a peaceful explore. For scuba diving, head to Benidorm Island, where clear waters and colourful marine life make it a diver’s dream. Equipment rental places are all along Levante Beach, so it’s easy to get yourself sorted if you already dive, or book yourself some lessons.
• Hiking and nature trails – Sierra Helada Natural Park has stunning trails for all levels of hikers. The most popular route is the Lighthouse Walk, or Ruta del Faro, an easy path leading to the Albir Lighthouse, with panoramic views of the coastline. For more experienced hikers, the Crest Route – Ruta de las Crestas – offers a challenging trek along rugged cliffs to reach unreal viewpoints like La Cruz de Benidorm. Make sure you bring sturdy footwear, water and suncream, as the trails can be steep and exposed.
• Boat tours – Glass-bottom boats let you check out the underwater life while cruising around Benidorm Island. Or, for a daytrip, look up ferries to Tabarca Island, a small, gorg island with 4K-clear waters, a charming village and yummy seafood restaurants. Sunset cruises are another popular pick, departing from the marina and sailing on the water as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Cycling routes – Benidorm’s cycling routes are ideal for amateur riders and serious cyclists. The Coastal Route to Altea is perfect for a scenic ride, with flat terrain and stunning views of the Mediterranean as you pass through different villages. For more of a challenge, take the Guadalest Loop, which winds through the mountains to open up panoramic views and you can stop off to visit the historic village. Dedicated bike lanes also make it much safer to cycle along the main roads.

If you’re going self-catering, get to know where the best local markets are, and everyone loves a bit of souvenir shopping…

• Local markets – Benidorm’s local markets offer everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. The Benidorm Outdoor Market is held every Wednesday and Sunday near the Levante area, and is perfect for picking up clothes, souvenirs and locally grown fruits. For a more traditional experience, the Foietes Market is also on every Wednesday, where locals gather to shop for fresh vegetables, seafood and other regional delicacies. Nearby towns like Altea host artisan markets, too, with Altea Craft Market taking place in the summer months along the seafront promenade.
• Souvenirs – Look out for hand-painted ceramics, including plates and tiles decorated with traditional Mediterranean designs. Food lovers should stock up on turrón, a sweet almond nougat that’s an Alicante speciality – shops like Turrón Monerris offer premium selections. For something to drink, bring back a bottle of Alicante wine or olive oil.
• Shopping Centres – La Marina Shopping Centre in Finestrat has your international brands like Zara and H&M, as well as local boutiques and a big food court. For more exclusive finds, visit Centro Comercial Plaza Mayor, where you can find stylish boutiques and artisan shops. Smaller retail hubs like Benidorm Indoor Market are also great for browsing unique items, including handmade jewellery and souvenirs.

Yep, Benidorm’s got a bit of history about it – the Old Town’s a real gem for that authentic feel.

• La Cruz de Benidorm – This monumental cross sits at the top of Sierra Helada and offers panoramic vistas of the city and coastline. The hike up here is a popular local activity, especially at sunset.
• Tossal de La Cala – The ruins of an ancient Iberian settlement, found on a hill overlooking Poniente Beach. These archaeological remains date back to the 3rd century BC.
• Museo Boca del Calvari – In the heart of Benidorm’s Old Town, this small but well-curated museum showcases exhibitions on the region’s cultural and historical evolution, from its fishing village origins to its transformation into a global tourist hub. Entry is affordable, and the central location makes it easy to pair a museum visit with a day of exploring the Old Town.
• Traditional Festivals – Benidorm’s got a decent festival scene. The Moors and Christians Festival is celebrated in October, featuring historical reenactments of battles, colourful parades and elaborate costumes that honour the region’s medieval past. Then, there’s Carnival, which is held before Lent. It’s a lively celebration of dance, costumes and community spirit – don’t miss the parade through the city’s streets.