Life in Benidorm: A Guide to The Best Beaches, Living Tips, and Affordable Housing

Wondering what life in Benidorm is truly like? In this guide, we’ll explore daily living in Benidorm, including the best beaches, affordable housing, and essential living tips to help you settle in this vibrant city.

Key Takeaways

Benidorm features a rich blend of historical charm and modern development, making it a key tourist destination on the Costa Blanca.
The city offers diverse living options with affordable housing, reasonable living costs, and excellent healthcare services, appealing to both residents and expatriates.
Benidorm’s vibrant nightlife, picturesque beaches, and cultural attractions, including its Old Town and local cuisine, provide a comprehensive entertainment experience for all visitors.

Discovering Benidorm

Benidorm, a city that never fails to impress, stands proudly on the Costa Blanca with its breathtaking skyline and vibrant tourism scene. Known as the ‘Manhattan of the Mediterranean,’ Benidorm is renowned for its beautiful beaches that attract countless visitors each year. Nestled between the bustling cities of Alicante and Valencia, Benidorm’s strategic location makes it a prime destination for travelers seeking sun and sea.

The city’s historical roots run deep, with settlements dating back to 3000 BC. Over the centuries, Benidorm has evolved from a small fishing village to a bustling tourist hotspot, blending its rich heritage with modern amenities. The Old Town, known as El Castell, showcases a captivating mix of medieval architecture and narrow streets that tell the story of its past.

Modern Benidorm is a marvel of urban planning, featuring impressive high-rise buildings that offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean. The juxtaposition of historical charm and contemporary skyscrapers highlights the city’s evolution and its ability to cater to the diverse tastes of its visitors.

Location and Accessibility

Located in the Alicante province, Benidorm sits conveniently between Alicante and Valencia, easily accessible by road and public transport. This prime location ensures visitors can reach the city effortlessly from various nearby areas, enhancing its appeal as a top travel destination.

Historical Significance

Benidorm’s historical significance dates back to settlements around 3000 BC. The Arab period had a lasting impact on the town’s architecture and culture. The Old Town, El Castell, showcases a blend of historical architecture, including remnants of ancient walls and watchtowers that once protected against piracy.

A key historical landmark is the Church of San Jaime, built in the late 18th century. This church, along with local museums, highlights Benidorm’s rich heritage and artistic significance, offering a glimpse into the town’s storied past and its evolution.

Modern Appeal

Benidorm’s modern appeal lies in its stunning skyline, characterized by high-rise buildings with spectacular Mediterranean views. The city blends historical charm with contemporary architecture, creating a unique urban landscape that attracts tourists and new residents alike.

The Beaches of Benidorm

Benidorm’s beaches draw tourists from around the world. With four miles of sandy shores and a vibrant promenade, the city offers a coastal experience hard to match. Among its beautiful beaches, Levante and Poniente are the most famous, known for their natural beauty and entertainment and dining options along the promenade.

Levante Beach is one of the most popular spots, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning scenery. On the other hand, Poniente Beach offers a more tranquil environment, ideal for those seeking relaxation and serene scenic views. Both beaches provide essential services and amenities, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.

Whether you prefer the lively vibe of Levante Beach or the peaceful ambiance of Poniente Beach, Benidorm’s beaches cater to every type of beachgoer, allowing visitors to choose their ideal coastal experience.

Levante Beach

Levante Beach on the Costa Blanca is a hub of activity and excitement, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Visitors can rent sunbeds, take showers, and engage in various water sports and leisure activities, perfect for a lively beach experience.

Poniente Beach

Poniente Beach offers a serene and tranquil environment, ideal for visitors seeking relaxation. With amenities like sunbeds and beachside restaurants, it is a favorite among families and couples looking to unwind.

Two Beaches Comparison

Levante and Poniente beaches each offer a distinct experience. Levante Beach is known for its lively and bustling environment, attracting many visitors with its commercialized vibe.

In contrast, Poniente Beach provides a quieter, more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. This ensures a beach experience for everyone in Benidorm.

Living in Benidorm

Living in Benidorm offers a diverse range of housing options, from budget apartments to luxury villas. Researching housing options carefully ensures you find the best fit for your needs.

The cost of living in Benidorm is attractive for potential residents. Monthly expenses for a couple range from €1,500 to €2,500, depending on lifestyle choices and housing arrangements. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is about €850, making it relatively affordable.

Benidorm offers excellent healthcare services, with both public and private facilities available. Public transport is efficient, with buses connecting many areas within the city and surrounding regions, ensuring residents have access to high-quality medical care and convenient transportation.

Overall, Benidorm provides a comfortable and enjoyable living environment, with diverse housing options, a reasonable cost of living, and essential services and amenities for its residents.

Housing Options

Benidorm’s housing market is diverse, offering numerous affordable options. Apartments start at around €150,000, though lower-priced options may need renovations. Many neighborhoods offer a range of accommodation, from apartments to shared houses, accommodating various budgets.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Benidorm is relatively affordable, with monthly expenses for a couple ranging from €1,500 to €2,500, influenced by housing and lifestyle choices. Daily transportation costs are also reasonable, with a one-way ticket on public transport costing about €1.55.

These factors make Benidorm an attractive option for those looking to live in a vibrant coastal city affordably.

Services and Amenities

Benidorm offers excellent healthcare services, including public hospitals and private clinics with English-speaking staff, ensuring access to high-quality medical care regardless of language preferences. The public healthcare system is robust and complemented by private options.

Public transport in Benidorm is efficient, with buses connecting many areas within the city and surrounding regions. This makes it easy for residents to navigate the city and access essential services. The city’s infrastructure also supports a comfortable living environment with numerous recreational and leisure facilities.

Exploring Benidorm's Old Town

Exploring Benidorm’s Old Town, known as El Casco Antiguo, is like stepping back in time. Steeped in history dating back to the 18th century, the Old Town showcases a blend of historical architecture and charming narrow streets. Whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flower pots line the picturesque streets, reflecting traditional Mediterranean architecture and offering stunning coastal views.

The Old Town is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Church of San Jaime, built in the late 18th century. This church, along with local museums, highlights Benidorm’s deep-rooted traditions and rich heritage. Visitors can explore these sites to gain a deeper understanding of the town’s historical and artistic significance.

Local cultural events, including fiestas and traditional celebrations, are often held in the Old Town squares. These events engage both locals and visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcases the town’s unique identity. Whether exploring historical streets or participating in local festivities, Benidorm’s Old Town offers a truly immersive cultural experience.

Historic Streets

The narrow, winding streets of Benidorm’s Old Town are a testament to its rich history. Lined with vibrant traditional buildings, these streets reflect the town’s maritime past and provide a charming atmosphere for visitors.

Walking through these historic streets feels like a journey through time, each corner revealing a new piece of Benidorm’s storied past.

Cultural Attractions

Benidorm’s Old Town is home to several key cultural attractions that offer a glimpse into its rich history and artistic heritage. The Church of San Jaime, an 18th-century landmark, symbolizes the town’s deep-rooted traditions. Additionally, museums like Museo Boca del Calvari provide insights into the region’s history and art.

Visiting these cultural sites enriches your understanding of Benidorm’s unique identity.

Local Cuisine

Benidorm’s Old Town is a haven for food lovers, offering a variety of local culinary delights. Traditional dishes, such as ‘y calabaza,’ highlight the region’s agricultural and marine flavors. Popular spots like Zodiac Tapas Bar offer affordable, authentic tapas, while street vendors serve local favorites like churros and freshly made paella.

The vibrant food scene in the Old Town showcases Benidorm’s rich culinary heritage.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Benidorm is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, drawing visitors with its dynamic mix of bars, clubs, and live entertainment venues. From bustling bars along Levante Beach to lively clubs in the city center, there’s always something happening in Benidorm after the sun sets.

Nightlife hotspots in Benidorm include popular venues like Klee Kafee, known for its fantastic atmosphere and signature drinks, and Morgan’s Tavern, celebrated for its nautical theme and live entertainment. Other notable spots include Planet Benidorm and The Hippodrome, where you can dance the night away to contemporary music, ensuring no shortage of excitement for night owls.

For families, Benidorm offers a range of activities. Zodiac Bar provides comedy shows suitable for all ages, and during the summer, certain venues feature kids’ shows and entertainment options for younger audiences, ensuring even the youngest visitors can enjoy their time.

Nightlife Hotspots

Levante Beach is a nightlife hotspot, boasting numerous bars and restaurants that create a lively atmosphere. Venues like Klee Kafee and Morgan’s Tavern are must-visits, offering fantastic atmospheres and entertainment.

For live music, places like The Fox and Morgan’s Tavern frequently host tribute acts and entertainment shows, ensuring a vibrant nightlife scene for all.

Family-Friendly Activities

Benidorm caters to families with a variety of entertainment options. For instance, Zodiac Bar offers comedy shows suitable for all ages.

During the summer, many venues feature kids’ shows and entertainment options that keep younger audiences entertained until late evening, making Benidorm a great destination for families.

Festivals and Events

Benidorm’s vibrant cultural scene is showcased through its numerous festivals and events. In August, the city hosts the Benidorm Fest, a music festival that celebrates various musical genres and attracts large audiences. The annual Low Festival features international bands and musicians, while the fancy dress party in August draws both locals and tourists for parades and street festivities.

These events highlight Benidorm’s lively and engaging cultural atmosphere.

Outdoor Activities and Sports

Benidorm offers a plethora of outdoor activities and sports, catering to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The city’s coastal location makes it perfect for water sports, while the surrounding natural landscapes provide excellent hiking opportunities. Whether you’re looking to explore the sea or the mountains, Benidorm has something for everyone.

Water sports are particularly popular in Benidorm, with activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving drawing both locals and tourists. Jet-skiing allows participants to explore scenic coastlines and hidden coves, while parasailing offers stunning aerial views of the coastline. Diving enthusiasts can explore diverse marine life and underwater landscapes, making Benidorm a top destination for water sports.

For those who prefer land-based activities, Benidorm features several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean landscape. The Sierra de Bernia and the Natural Park of Serra Gelada are among the most recommended hiking areas, providing varied terrains and stunning coastal views. Additionally, Benidorm’s parks and recreational facilities offer green spaces for relaxation and leisure, enhancing the city’s appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.

Water Sports

Benidorm’s coastline is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving are popular choices, offering thrilling experiences and stunning views of the sea.

Parasailing, in particular, provides a unique aerial perspective of Benidorm’s coastline, while jet-skiing allows for the exploration of scenic coastlines and hidden coves. These activities make Benidorm a top destination for adventure seekers.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Hiking in Benidorm offers access to some of the most stunning trails in the region. The Sierra de Bernia and the Natural Park of Serra Gelada are popular hiking areas, featuring breathtaking views of the Mediterranean landscape. The Torre de Caletes hike, with its panoramic vistas, is another favorite among hikers.

These trails provide a perfect escape into nature for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

Parks and Recreation

Benidorm is home to several parks and recreational facilities that enhance the natural beauty of the area and provide perfect spots for leisure activities. Parks like Parque de Elche offer beautiful gardens and green spaces for relaxation and picnics.

These parks are not only ideal for outdoor activities but also serve as tranquil retreats for residents and visitors alike.

Dining Out in Benidorm

Benidorm’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering a wide range of dining options that cater to various tastes. From local specialties to international cuisine, the city’s restaurants and eateries provide a delightful gastronomic experience. Traditional dishes such as pumpkin rice and fish casseroles reflect Benidorm’s coastal and agricultural history, making dining out an essential part of the Benidorm experience.

Local restaurants are a highlight of Benidorm’s dining scene. La Cava Aragonesa, located in the Old Town, is renowned for its traditional tapas, while Restaurante Taita offers a personalized dining experience with exceptional food. Tapas bars in Benidorm serve a wide range of traditional dishes, emphasizing fresh, regional ingredients and authentic Spanish flavors. These local eateries provide a taste of Benidorm’s rich culinary heritage.

For those craving international cuisine, Benidorm has plenty to offer. The city’s dining scene includes a variety of international restaurants specializing in:

Italian
Chinese
Indian
American cuisines

This diversity ensures that visitors can enjoy a wide range of flavors from around the world, making Benidorm a true culinary melting pot.

Local Restaurants

Local restaurants in Benidorm are celebrated for their traditional Spanish cuisine. Here are some must-visit spots:

La Cava Aragonesa, which is a must-visit for tapas lovers
Mena’s in Tapas Square, known for its authentic Spanish dishes
Restaurante Taita, offering a personalized dining experience with exceptional food, making it a favorite among locals and tourists

These eateries highlight the rich culinary heritage of Benidorm.

International Cuisine

Benidorm’s international dining scene is equally impressive, with numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Chinese, Indian, or American food, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

This diversity of international cuisine ensures that every visitor can enjoy a wide range of flavors, making dining in Benidorm a delightful experience.

Street Food

The street food scene in Benidorm is vibrant and diverse, offering quick and delicious options for locals and visitors alike. Tortilleria de Benidorm is celebrated for its delicious tortillas, while Localolita is known for its burgers and casual dining experience.

Street vendors throughout the city serve local favorites like churros and freshly made paella, making street food an integral part of the culinary landscape in Benidorm.

Shopping in Benidorm

Benidorm offers a vibrant shopping scene with a variety of venues ranging from traditional markets to modern malls. The city’s diverse shopping options cater to different preferences, ensuring that every visitor can find something to their liking. From local markets offering fresh produce and unique local products to upscale malls featuring fashion and electronics, Benidorm has it all.

Local markets and bazaars are a popular choice for those looking to experience the authentic side of Benidorm. The Benidorm Municipal Market and Rincon de Loix Market are bustling spots where visitors can find an array of goods, including clothes, shoes, and local delicacies. These markets provide great value and a unique shopping experience, making them a must-visit for both residents and tourists.

For a more modern shopping experience, Benidorm’s shopping malls offer various retail options alongside dining and entertainment facilities. La Marina Shopping Centre, the largest in the region, features over 100 stores, including fashion, technology, and dining options. These malls enhance the shopping experience by providing a wide range of choices under one roof, ensuring that visitors have a convenient and enjoyable time.

Markets and Bazaars

The markets and bazaars in Benidorm are a treasure trove of fresh produce and unique local products. The Benidorm Municipal Market and Rincon de Loix Market are popular spots, offering an array of goods such as clothes, shoes, and local delicacies.

These markets are not only great for shopping but also provide a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.

Shopping Malls

Benidorm’s shopping malls offer a modern and convenient shopping experience. La Marina Shopping Centre, the largest in the region, features over 100 stores, including fashion, technology, and dining options.

These malls often include entertainment facilities, enhancing the overall shopping experience and making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Local Boutiques

For those seeking unique fashion items and handcrafted gifts, Benidorm’s local boutiques offer a distinct shopping experience. These boutiques showcase the work of regional designers and provide a range of unique items that reflect the region’s culture.

Shopping at local boutiques is a great way to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and support local artisans.

Inmoluk Proprietăți imobiliare în Altea, Spania

Just a short drive from Benidorm, the picturesque town of Altea is another gem on the Costa Blanca. Known for its stunning landscapes and pleasant climate, Altea has become a sought-after destination for those looking to invest in real estate. The town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting potential buyers from all over Europe.

Altea’s real estate market is diverse, featuring seaside apartments, luxury villas, and traditional houses. The cobblestone streets and bohemian atmosphere of Altea reflect its artistic influences dating back to the 16th century. This unique charm makes Altea an attractive option for those seeking a serene and culturally rich environment.

Inmoluk, a real estate agency specializing in the Costa Blanca region, provides expert support for Romanian buyers interested in investing in properties in Altea. The agency offers a range of services to help buyers navigate the real estate market, ensuring a smooth and informed purchasing process. With the Mediterranean Sea as its backdrop, Altea offers an idyllic setting for those looking to find their dream home.

The Spanish real estate market offers a variety of options, including modern apartments and vacation villas, ideal for a comfortable lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a holiday home or a permanent residence, Altea has something to offer for everyone. The combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a supportive real estate agency makes Altea a top choice for property investment on the Costa Blanca.

Summary

In conclusion, Benidorm stands out as a vibrant and appealing destination on the Costa Blanca, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern allure. From its stunning beaches to its lively nightlife, Benidorm caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. The city’s diverse housing market, reasonable cost of living, and excellent services and amenities make it an attractive option for both tourists and potential residents.

Exploring Benidorm’s Old Town provides a glimpse into its rich history and cultural heritage, while the city’s dining scene offers a delightful array of local and international culinary delights. The vibrant shopping options and numerous outdoor activities further enhance Benidorm’s appeal, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re visiting for a holiday or considering making Benidorm your new home, this guide has provided you with valuable insights into what makes this city so special. We hope you feel inspired to explore and experience all that Benidorm has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best beaches to visit in Benidorm?

The best beaches to visit in Benidorm are Levante Beach, celebrated for its lively atmosphere and extensive amenities, and Poniente Beach, which provides a more serene and peaceful experience. Choosing between them depends on your preference for activity or relaxation.

What is the cost of living in Benidorm?

The cost of living in Benidorm typically ranges from €1,500 to €2,500 per month for a couple, influenced by lifestyle and housing choices. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around €850 in rent.

What cultural attractions can be found in Benidorm's Old Town?

Benidorm's Old Town offers significant cultural attractions such as the 18th-century Church of San Jaime and the Museo Boca del Calvari, both of which showcase the region's rich history and artistic heritage.