All about Benidorm

Perched on Spain's Costa Blanca, Bendiorm is a City that always meets our expectations and more! We have visited ongoing now for over 10 years, and every holiday just keeps getting better and better. We love the weather, the entertainment, the value for more, but must of all we love the people! With its iconic skyline and twisted streets in the Old Town to the wild strip, we think there is something for everyone to enoy in Benidorm. If you have not been, be careful as you might get the Benidorm Bug and keep returning time and time again!

The Great Divide: Old Town vs. New Town

The city is effectively split into two distinct worlds by the Canfali Hills:

• The New Town (Levante): This is the Benidorm of postcards—a forest of skyscrapers, neon lights, and the bustling Levante Beach. It is the heart of the "British Square," packed with tribute acts, late-night clubs, and international eateries.

• The Old Town (Casco Antiguo): Centered around the blue-domed Church of San Jaime, the Old Town is a maze of narrow, winding streets. Here, the atmosphere is authentically Spanish. You’ll find "Tapas Alley" (Calle Santo Domingo), where locals and tourists gather to enjoy small plates and glasses of Rioja in a lively, standing-room-only setting.

Popular Places and Activities

• Balcón del Mediterráneo: This white-stone viewpoint, situated on the site of the ancient castle, offers panoramic views of both Levante and Poniente beaches. It is arguably the most photographed spot in the city.

• Benidorm Island: A short boat ride away, this nature reserve is perfect for snorkeling and viewing the skyline from the water.

• Theme Parks: For families, the city is a hub of entertainment, featuring Terra Mítica (history-themed rides), Aqualandia (one of Europe's largest water parks), and Mundomar (marine life).

Gay History and Pride

Benidorm has a long-standing reputation as a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Even during the repressive Franco era, the town’s cosmopolitan nature allowed for a level of freedom rarely found elsewhere in Spain. The first gay bar, Pretex, opened in 1962, marking the start of a thriving "gay village" tucked within the Old Town.

Today, the LGBTQ+ scene is concentrated in the Old Town's narrow streets (near Calle Santa Fa), featuring dozens of friendly bars and world-class drag cabarets. Benidorm Pride, held every September, serves as the "European Summer Closing Pride." It is famous for its colorful parade along the Levante seafront, ending with a massive open-air party that celebrates diversity against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

Benidorm is often affectionately dubbed the "Manhattan of Spain" due to its iconic skyline, yet beneath the high-rise hotels lies a rich history and a surprisingly diverse cultural identity. Whether you are looking for high-octane nightlife or a quiet tapas bar in a cobbled alley, Benidorm offers a unique dual experience.