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.
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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.
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.
