Benidorm is part of Spain’s Costa Blanca region, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is found north east of Alicante (around 45 kilometers’ drive) and is south of the Altea.

Benidorm’s beaches and cosmopolitan atmosphere (it has a skyscraper skyline that looks stunning at night) makes it famous for swimming by day, partying by night. And not even winter can dampen this paradise. Enclosed by mountains that stand up to 1558 metres high, Benidorm is shielded against the sometimes cold north winds. Thus, the weather is never harsh, and continues to be a favorite winter escape.

In the summer, Benidorm transforms into one big party place. It has over a thousand restaurants, over thirty discos and bars. This is the night life that attracts thousands of visitors a year. They flock to the hotels, which have a total of over 35,000 beds. Or they rent out the apartments and other alternative vacation accommodations (numbering over 200,000). Some tourists have fallen in love with the place so much they actually bought their own properties there, and it has a flourishing British and Irish community.

THE ATTRACTIONS

There are many things to see in Benidorm. One of them is the Casco Antiguo, which is the historical part of the city. The key features of this place are the streets of the San Lorenzo, Santa Fez and San Vicente Streets.

Of course the beaches continue to be the biggest selling point of Benidorm. You can enjoy the sun and sea at the Playa de Poniente Beach, which lies next to the main road of the city. It is not very quiet (because of the traffic on the road) but it is very accessible and near the shops. If you want something more serene and relaxing then you should go to the Playa de Levante.

Don’t forget the Benidorm golf courses, the theme parks, and family attractions like Terra Mitica, Mundomar and Aqualandia. These places all sorts of activities and games that the kids will enjoy.

GETTING AROUND

If you plan to explore Benidorm and the surrounding areas of Costa Blanca and Altea, you should rent a car. There are nearly two dozen car rental companies in Benidorm alone, or you can book a car at the airport.

The public transportation system includes cabs and buses. You can take the shuttle from the airport or tide the railway system to the Alicante’s downtown area. Another method of getting around is through the Benidorm Denia train.