Last updated on 14 November 2023 | by Stefan Hotel Follower
Benidorm is located on Spain’s east coast and is part of the popular Costa Blanca. Part of the Valencia region, it is famous for it’s great weather and gorgeous beaches.
Once a small fishing village, the industry started to decline around the 1950s. It was during this time that the town council decided to reinvent Benidorm as a tourist hot spot. Permission was granted for multiple hotels and resorts and the past fifty years have seen Benidorm transform into a mecca for tourists looking to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle both day and night.
In fact, Benidorm is now the biggest resort in not only Spain, but Europe too. Part of its success may be down to its appeal to all ages. Once suffering under the reputation for encouraging bad behaviour and drinking to excess, Benidorm is a much mellower city these days and many ex-pats have chosen to make it their permanent residence.
The area of Benidorm is divided into five main neighbourhoods. Poniente (which roughly translates as ‘sun setting’) and Levante (translating as ‘sun rising’) are two of these and are both next to beaches of the same name. The Old Town of Benidorm is called El Caste and then to the west of Poniente is the area of La Cala and to Levante’s east side is the fifth and final area, El Rincon de Loix (sometimes also known as El Raco de l’Oix).
Although there has been a lot of redevelopment over recent years, there are strict rules by the local council to ensure all areas of construction also keep free land space, preventing the city from becoming overdeveloped and crowded, helping to retain its traditional charm.
What’s the best area to experience the city for families, for swimming & beaches, or where to stay for nightlife or shopping ? Read on below to find out more best neighbourhoods to stay in Benidorm Spain.
Quick Overview – Contents
What is the Best Area to Stay in Benidorm?
Best for First Time (Holiday): Levante Beach or Old Town
Benidorm offers a wide range of places to stay during your visit, but the two main areas are the beaches or the Old Town. If you are looking to spend your trip close to one of the beaches, the Levante area is a great option. Close to its beautiful, palm tree lined promenade, you can enjoy a stroll in the sunshine before heading for some sea and sand. The Old Town too offers a taste of traditional Spain with its winding cobbled streets, relaxed atmosphere and authentic, whitewashed properties. Although a little further from the beach, the Old Town still brings the opportunity for some great sea views from its plaza.
Where to Stay in Benidorm Spain
- Best Luxury Hotels in Benidorm
Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia • The Level at Meliá Villaitana - Best Great Value – Top Rated Hotels
Hotel Don Pancho – Adults Only • Hotel Presidente - Best Cheap Hotels in Benidorm
Hotel Castillo Benidorm • Hotel Fetiche Alojamiento con Encanto - Best Holiday Apartments for Rent
Sunset Holidays Benidorm • Don Cesar - Best Budget Hostel
Welcome Benidorm Beach Hostel
Best Areas to Stay in Benidorm
Where to stay in Benidorm for swimming & the beach? Playa de Levante – Playa de Poniente
Both Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente offer plenty of activities and water sports to enjoy during your stay in Benidorm. Poniente beach is the larger of the two and is usually less busy and crowded than Levante beach. Poniente is particularly good for families, offering lots of outdoor play areas along the beachfront as well as a beach library and extra shady areas for when the sun is as its highest.
There are always lifeguards on duty to make for safe swimming and floating platforms to sunbathe on too. Levante beach is famous for its arc shape and spotless golden sands, so you can often find it very busy and lined with tourists. It is safe to swim here too and you can even give water skiing a try if you are feeling adventurous.
What’s the best district for nightlife in Benidorm? Levante Beach Area
Benidorm has long been synonymous with stag parties and hen dos, and if it’s nightlife you are after, the Levante Beach Area area offers everything you need right on the seafront. The Levante area is where the main discos, clubs and bars are situated so you can enjoy them all easily in one place. With so many different venues to choose from, a lively atmosphere (especially in the summer months) and drinks at reasonable prices, it is easy to see why Benidorm is now one of Europe’s must visit night spots. Moving from venue to venue is encouraged, so you can sample a huge variety of different places. Zone 9 is the traditional starting point for a Benidorm night out and from here you can make your way down Cats Alley and right along the Levante seafront while stopping in at different bars and clubs along the way.
Where to stay in Benidorm with a family? Poniente Beach
Poniente Beach is ideal for families. This neighbourhood is close to the Old Town and a favourite with locals. The long sandy beach is perfect for family fun and with the harbour close by, there is plenty to see and do. The Poniente Beach area is also filled with great restaurants and cafes, so there is sure to be something to keep all members of the family happy after a day at the beach.
Best area to stay in Benidorm for shopping? Old Quarter or Parte Vieja in the Old Town
If you fancy a spot of retail therapy, the Old Quarter or Parte Vieja in the Old Town is a great place to visit during your stay. Here you can find lots of boutique shops selling a wide variety of local products, or why not stop off in one of the smaller handmade craft shops selling souvenirs. The neighbourhood is one of the most charming in Benidorm, with its cobbled streets and outdoor cafes, making it the perfect place to take some time out and relax after shopping.
What’s the best neighbourhood to stay for tapas bars in Benidorm? Calle de Santo Domingo
No visit to Spain would be complete without sampling some of the local tapas bars. Traditionally, tapas is bite sized portions of various breads and meats which can be eaten hot or cold and are usually served in small terracotta dishes. The street known as
Calle de Santo Domingo, situated in the Old Town, is part of the famous ‘tapas alley’ which starts at Plaza de la Constitutio and goes all the way along Santo Domingo. The entire street is comprised of lots of different tapas bars, so there are plenty to pick from and sample. There is always a great atmosphere, with the area attracting locals and tourists alike.
The 4 Best Neighbourhoods in Benidorm for Tourists
1. Old Town
The Old Town district is great for tourists, offering plenty of Mediterranean charm and a laid back atmosphere. There are plenty of tapas bars to sample a traditional taste of Spain or why not take in the sunset at the Balcon del Mediterraneo, the famous look out point of Benidorm.
The perfect place for those wanting to enjoy the quieter side of Benidorm, the Old Town is also handily located right between the two beaches of Poniente and Levante, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds during your stay.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia • Gastrohotel Boutique RH Canfali
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Hotel Castillo Benidorm • Rosabel
2. Poniente Beach
Poniente Beach has lots to offer for tourists. Its modern promenade, designed by architect Carlos Ferrater, is a spectacular focal point of clean lines and modern edges. There is plenty to see and do with organised beach activities including scuba diving and beach games such as volleyball.
The beach itself stretches for 3km and is also lined with plenty of bars and restaurants which really come alive especially in the evenings. It’s the best place to stay in Benidorm for families.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Hotel RH Corona del Mar • Hotel Villa del Mar – Ultra All Inclusive
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Hotel Colón • Hotel Tanit
3. Levante Beach
The golden sands of Levante Beach are a must visit for any tourist during their Benidorm stay. Known as part of the ‘New Town’, Levante is definitely one of the more lively areas of the city and is famous for its nightlife and wide selection of bars and clubs.
The beach is slightly smaller than Poniente at 2km and its spotless sands attract tourists all throughout the year. Close to the beach is the Mundomar marine wildlife park where you can see dolphins perform during a spectacular show and even feed Meer cats. Benidorm Palace is just a stone’s throw from the beach and offers fantastic shows. It’s the best place to stay in Benidorm for nightlife and a first time visit.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Hotel Don Pancho – Adults Only • Port Benidorm Hotel & Spa 4* Sup
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Hotel Nadal • Hotel Servigroup Calypso
4. Rincon de Loix
Rincon de Loix comprises the biggest neighbourhood area of Benidrom. It is situated to the north and here is where you will find most of the city’s skyscrapers and apartments. Levante beach is part of Rincon de Loix and is considered one of the main attractions of the area.
Tourists may also enjoy visiting Benidorm’s aqua park, Aqualandia and the marine wildlife centre of Mundomar which are both situated in Rincon de Loix. Brits abroad can also enjoy a home away from home in the British area, otherwise known as The Square. Here there are bars and restaurants serving British cuisine and the opportunity to connect with other British tourists on holiday in Benidorm. Many cheap places to stay in Benidorm are located in this area.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Hotel Deloix 4* Sup • Hotel Levante Club & Spa – Adults Only (+16)
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Medplaya Hotel Regente • Apartamentos Levante Lux (Aparthotel)
Best Luxury Hotel in Benidorm: Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia
There are a wide variety of accommodation options in Benidorm, but if you are looking for luxury, the Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia (Plaza San Jaime, 1, 03500 Benidorm) has everything you need for a fabulous stay. Located between the beaches of Poniente and Levante, the hotel offers unparalleled sea views and is perfect for those looking to add some romance to their stay.
Close to the Old Town, you can step right from the hotel into the heart of Benidorm and enjoy all the local tourist attractions as well as the best in shopping. The hotel offers all the extras you would expect, from a spa and wellness centre to chauffeur services and private terraces. Their meeting rooms also make it the ideal choice for those who wish to enjoy a conference with a touch of Spanish class.
Best Mid Range Hotel in Benidorm: Hotel Nadal
If you are looking to stay on budget but don’t want to have to sacrifice on style, Hotel Nadal (Avenida Madrid, 41, 03503 Benidorm )is a great choice. A few steps from Levante beach, this hotel has a great location and all rooms come complete with private balcony and sea views.
The hotel offers a variety of dining options which can be served in their beautiful out-door garden terrace. One of the top hotel choices for couples visiting Benidorm, the hotel is famed for being a quiet and relaxed destination choice.
Best Cheap Hostel in Benidorm: Welcome Benidorm Beach Hostel
Welcome Benidorm Beach Hostel (Carrer del L’Alcalde D.Jaume Ferrer Nomdedeu, 13, 03501 Benidorm ) is ideal for those looking to use hostel accommodation during their stay. The Welcome Benidorm Beach Hostel is as welcoming as its name, with a shared lounge, garden and bar for guests to enjoy.
Close to Levante beach and near to the water park Aqualandia, this hostel provides easy access to many of Benidorm’s most popular attractions without the high price tag. All rooms are fitted with a kettle and microwave to make your stay a little more comfortable and as it is close to Alicante airport too, there is no long transfer time to contend with. Perfect for those looking to sample Benidorm on a budget.
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