All lit up and ready to rumble, this super-sized sun-soaked resort is one of Spain’s most sought-after cities. Home to more than 1,000 bars and pulling in an amazing five million holidaymakers a year, Benidorm is so legendary, they named a TV show after it!

But it’s not all about after-dark shenanigans - Benidorm leads a double life with its ancient attractions and unmissable Spanish charm. Not quite sure what to do in Benidorm? You’re in luck.

Benidorm Old Town

Benidorm’s skyline is pierced by a sea of high-rises so it’s hard to believe that an enchanting Old Town lies hidden away behind them. With checkered tiles, ornate archways, pastel perfect buildings and lantern-topped shopfronts, Benidorm’s Old Town is a total dark horse when it comes to complete and utter Spanish-ness. Yes, you’ll still see all the typical shops and cafés and there’s still the resort’s general hustle and bustle, but there’s authentic accents in every direction you look.

Aqualandia Benidorm

Just when we thought Benidorm couldn’t get any more fun, we found out there’s a waterpark! The amazing Aqualandia Benidorm is just on the edge of the Serra Gelada Natural Park, around 3km out of town, so you’ll need a car or the bus to get here – but it’s well worth the short drive when these slides are your prize! Attractions include the Verti-Go, a 28m and 33m slide duo, and the latter is the highest slide in Europe! You can reach speeds of up to 100km/hr!

Playa de Levante

This stunning stretch of sand is perfectly pristine, in a shade of gold that’d even make postcards green with envy. Playa de Levante is in a prime position too, right on the edge of town and backed by the famous Madrid Avenue. The stunning sands and great location mean that beach can get pretty busy, but there are plenty of sun loungers for kicking back, relaxing and getting stuck into a good holiday read! Be sure to look out for people crafting sand sculptures, they’re really impressive!

MundoMar

Black and white ruffed lemurs, giant tortoises and jaribu storks are just a handful of the wacky and wonderful wildlife you’ll see at the amazing MundoMar animal park. Wander among the enclosures and admire the creatures minding their own business or if you want to make the day even more magical, the park offers some exciting activities and experiences.

Benidorm market

Held on Wednesdays and Sundays, El Pueblo market can be found on Avenida de L'Admirall Bernat de Sarria between around 8am and 1:30pm. The market is huge, with stalls selling all sorts of fashion, souvenirs and accessories. But El Pueblo isn’t the only place to pick up a bargain around these parts – El Cisne flea market is great for ancient antiques and cool collectables. Located around what was once an old stone farmhouse, it’s a welcome breather from Benidorm’s bright lights and big nights. In fact, this quaint little corner is an absolute must-visit if you want to see the city’s hidden side.

Terra Mítica

Ready for a trip back in time? This history-inspired theme park will take you all the way to the ancient Greek, Egyptian and Roman times in one action-packed day. Exciting attractions include the Falls of the Nile with its two drops and the Labyrinth of the Minotaur where you use laser light guns to fight off the dreaded creatures that call this place their home.

Terra Natura

Say hello to Benidorm’s zoo! Animal fans, you’re in for a treat here at Terra Natura! Look out for the fluffy, the feathered and the scaly with creatures including tigers, peacocks, parrots, rhinos and elephants! It’s located around 6km outside of Benidorm, so Jet2Carhire would come in useful!

Night out

Benidorm is famous for its nightlife and for good reason! The main zone is the English Square, which is neon-lit and lively to put it lightly! Expect loud crowds and a lot of stag and hen groups. You’ll be spoilt for choice for bars and clubs around here, but Hippodrome and Café Benidorm are two of the best known.

West Beach Promenade

This is a promenade with a difference, thanks to its unusual shape that mimics the silhouettes of cliffs and waves. Designed by architects Carlos Ferrater and Xavier Marti Gali, West Beach Promenade has won several awards!