Gastronomic Benidorm 2023 - Days of the Spoon 3rd to 12th March
Gastronomic Benidorm 2023 #BenidormFreshandTasty, known as Days of the Spoon, this is the 11th year for this event, which is held to celebrate the fantastic local food of Benidorm, the commitment of our local restaurateurs for both quality and local products and for their innovation in gastronomic creations.
This is a fantastic opportunity to try some of Benidorm's local stews, rice and fish dishes, all of which are prepared with products that are grown locally such as citrus fruits from the Valencian orchards, vegetables from the Segura and fish from the markets.
There are 11 restaurants participating all offering a fabulous Menu del Dia for only 25€ see details below.
Benidorm Gastronomic Events for 2023
May 12th to 21st - III Tuna Days
June 16th to 25th - XIII Tapas and Pinchos Contest.
September 1st to 10th - II Cocktail Contest.
October 20th to 29th - XII Days of the Rice of the Earth.
Click on the photo for more information and maps.
Gastronomic Benidorm 2023 - Days of the Spoon
Toni Pérez, Mayor of Benidorm - The 'Gastronomic Benidorm' is already one of the bastions of our offer essential, both to project the image of the city wherever we go, and to remind the people who live here that we can enjoy quality culinary proposals. And one of the most popular quotes in the succession of restoration events are the 'Jornadas de la Cuchara', which this March celebrates its eleventh edition.
The gastronomic heritage of Benidorm is an added value to our tourist attraction, capable of helping us to promote in a very powerful way our image as a destination nationally and internationally. Because of that I want First of all, value the growing commitment of our restaurateurs for both quality and local products and for innovation in their gastronomic creations. And if we think of the few days of cold and some rain that we are experiencing in Benidorm, it is undoubtedly the best time to temper the body and sharpen the mind with a good spoon dish. Stews that take us to aroma of those pots of inveterate tradition, which almost make us listen again to the crackle of the wood fire. flavours created in clay and iron pots, flavours that take us home.
Our restaurants will offer you proposals that are very much ours, from the land, but also dishes from a good part of the national territory that, thanks to the melting pot of cultures that is Benidorm, dishes that are the flag of our traditional stove. I want to congratulate ABRECA for its permanent effort to promote our culinary offer with the events of the Gastronomic Benidorm 2023, and also to all the restaurants that will put our spoon dishes back 'in everyone's mouth.
*Translated from Spanish to English.
President of ABRECA Xavier del Castillo - One more year, it's time to take out the spoon to attack the stews of our grandmothers, those hot delicacies that take us back to our childhood, reviving flavours and memories. From ABRECA we continue to spread the gastronomic quality of which our Benidorm has always shown off.
Quality: We are an outstanding gastronomic destination, not only because of our climate but also for the products that are grown on these privileged lands: citrus fruits from the Valencian orchard, vegetables from the Segura and fish from the market are the star ingredients of our recipes spoon.
The image of Benidorm is of vital importance, since the gastronomic offer is one of the main reasons why a tourist choose a destination. . For tasting these fantastic recipes you should visit our establishments, where we will be delighted to welcome back customers who in many cases already they have become friends.
*Translated from Spanish to English.
Gastronomic Benidorm 2023 - Days of the Spoon
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BENIDORM INDOOR MARKET - Centro Comercial Mercaloix
If you enjoy buying inexpensive things in a friendly environment, pop into the Benidorm Indoor Market.
There’s something here for everyone: clothes, shoes, accessories, electronics, toys, jewellery, personalised gifts, books, local farm produce, money exchange booths hairdressers, property rental agents and a few stands selling snacks and refreshments.
Benidorm Indoor Market is located in the Rincon de Loix area of Benidorm, and has 3 wheel chair friendly entrances, one is next to the Mas y Mas Supermarket and opposite KFC, another one is next to the Hotel Sol Pelicanos, and another opposite the Hotel Nereo
Some of the wonderful shops in the Indoor Market -
Some recommendations.........
Delicious Pastries and Cakes to Order or to eat in.
BB Balloons, Paulines Pick a Card
Card and gift shop. All you need for your parties including printed t-shirts, hats, mugs and loads of personalised gifts, situated on Aisle 2B
Gorgeous homemade cakes along with a freshly made tea or coffee.
For all your hairdressing and beauty needs, also gents barbers
Jenny Fashion - Local 41 - 42
Ladies fashion from Paris, Italy, America, great variety for all tastes. New Stock every week
Offers preferential rates on the first visit if you mention Benidorm Seriously.
The Specialist shop for all your vaping needs, Situated in the Indoor Market.
Quality designer inspired fragrances, direct from the laboratory, saving you up to 80% off High Street Prices.
Tony´s Money Exchange, offering an honest and competitive service since 2002.
The Indoor Market is open from:
Mon – Friday - 08:00 to 18:00
Saturday's - 08:00 to 18:00 (most stalls will be closed by 16:00)
Closed Sundays
CLOSED- Christmas day and New Year's day (as long as they are not Saturday or Monday, as the market generally will not be closed 2 days in a row).
Bank holidays RED DAYS - Open until 15:00
For information on all the local markets in the area click HERE
Walks in and around Benidorm
Walks in and around Benidorm - Benidorm is much more than just bars, there is something here for everyone and if you enjoy walking there are some fabulous places to enjoy a relaxing stroll, along the beach or in the marvellous local parks or if feeling more adventurous hill/mountain walking.
Benidorm Beach front walks
The obvious choice for many and here in Benidorm itself we are lucky enough to have 2 fantastic beaches that are just perfect for a stroll anytime of the day or night, both have plenty of bars to pop into for refreshments.
Levante Beach, also known as Sunrise Beach
Levante Beach in Benidorm runs for almost 2km from Punta Pinet to Punta Canfali, Levante Beach is one of the best-known beaches in Europe, the beach is south facing, so enjoys the sun all day and is classed as a Blue Flag Beach. This is the busiest beach in Benidorm. There are hundreds of bars and restaurants along the promenade offering everything from just ice creams to live music and everything in-between.
Poniente Beach, known as Sunset Beach
At more than 3km long Poniente Beach is the longest beach in Benidorm, making it an ideal place to stroll along during the day or evening, it is usually much quieter and features a new modern promenade designed by the architect Carlos Ferrater, there are a wide selection of restaurants, bars and clubs.
Mountains and Beaches enjoy the Sierra Helada/Geleda
Follow the coast road round from Levante beach (to the North of Benidorm) and you will come across two wonderful coves, Cala Almadrava and Tio Ximo both these small coves are situated at the base of the steep cliffs of the Sierra Helada, and enjoy the stunning views. Follow the road down to Tio Ximo cove and you will see a path to the left, this leads to a lovely look out point to enjoy the views looking out to sea and over Benidorm itself.
For a slightly longer walk just at the top of the Almadrave cove you will see another entrance to the Sierra Helada, this is a great walk with stunning scenery and leads to the Punta del Cavall watchtower. This route is about 3 km round trip, and can be done in an hour, there are a few seats to stop, rest and enjoy the views along the way.
Walk to Benidorm´s famous Cross, La Cruz.
The views from the cross (La Cruz,) are spectacular both day and night, it is well worth a visit just to see the stunning scenery across Benidorm and the surrounding area.
It is situated at the top of the Sierra Gelada Natura reserve and stands around 438m above sea level.
There are various routes to get to The Cross from the town depending upon where you are, from somewhere such as The Flash Hotel the shortest walking route is about 2.6km and would take about 45 minutes for someone quite fit, bear in mind that it is ALL uphill. Read about the history of the cross and find maps here.
Walks in and around Benidorm
Albir to Altea or vice versa
This is another seafront walk enjoyed by many, catch the number 10 bus to either Altea or Albir and follow the coast Road. Both Albir and Altea have lots of lovely bars and restaurants along the route. More information about Albir and Altea. From the seafront of Albir to the port at Altea is about 2.5 km and takes around half an hour.
Albir Lighthouse
The lighthouse can only be reached on foot (or bike) and the walk to it is started from the entrance to the Sierra Helada natural park. There is a large car park as well as a new visitor centre, which is open most days. To reach the natural park from the anchor monument on the seafront, take the road above it (Opp the Correos Post Office) and head uphill, following the road for around 600m. The entrance to the car park is at the top of the street. Distance approx 4.5 km round trip, Easy/moderate terrain, Approx time 1 hour.
Walks in and around Benidorm
La Cala - Watchtower of l'Aguilò
Take a walk to the Renaissance watchtower of l'Aguilò, situated the other side of La Cala Bay, this is actually classed as being in the municipality of Villa Joyosa.
There are two routes but the longest is the easiest and begins on the road as you head out of La Cala from the beach, the entrance is on the left, its a comfortable paths to walk with some steep climbs, so go with appropriate footwear, at the foot of the tower, the views are breath taking and there are places to rest. The walk will take approximately 90 minutes (about 1.5km), make sure you take some water with you as there is nowhere to obtain any on this walk, there are also no toilets.
From here there are various coastal paths that lead to Villa Joyosa.
The photos below were taken on 19th November 2020
Walks in and around Benidorm
Parks in Benidorm
There are four main parks in Benidorm that are perfect for a lovely relaxing stroll.
L’Aiguera Park - Known as the great centre of Benidorm.
You can find its main entrance by the Town Hall in the Old Town, to walk from top to bottom it will take you around 15-20 minutes. It’s the park that connects the old town with the new, crossing it you will come across the Julio Englasias Ampetheatre, which is used by the town to organize musical and cultural events. At the very end you will find the Benidorm Bull ring.
Note, in the main areas of the park dogs are not permitted, but up past the bullring you will find a small dog park.
Foietes Park, near the sports centre in the old town, is another green space that you will find in Benidorm. Just like l’Aigüera, in this park you will find different playgrounds, recreational areas for young and old and shady areas with tables designed for picnics.
Adolfo Suárez leisure and recreation area and pet park. This covers an area of 1,460 square meters and includes a fenced dog park in which different structures have been installed so that pets can move freely, jump and run. In addition, the area is equipped with gravel and pipeclay pavements, there are plenty of picnic table and even Bio healthy exercise areas.
El Moralet Park, also known as the Forest of Foietes y Moralet - A green zone of more than one million square meters that serves as a recreation area with more than 17 kilometres of hiking trails and cycling routes that partly go over an old train tracks.
Several areas can be found with picnic tables and for the children swings, climbing frames, ziplines etc are available.
Explore the surrounding area.
Guadalest Reservoir, Embalse de Guadalest
There is lovely walk around the reservoir, on minor roads and paths The journey is about 12.7km (7.9 miles). see map below. Find More information on Guadalest itself HERE
For the more serious hikers
ALWAYS CHECK THE WEATHER CONDITIONS BEFORE HEADING INTO THE MOUNTAINS
If climbing take plenty of time and allow yourself enough daylight hours, mountain rescues are not uncommon
Leave your detail, name, telephone number and route etc with someone before you attempt the climb.
Never go on your own.
It can also get very cold at the summit so be prepared. Take plenty of water and food with you.
Wear the proper clothing and shoes etc.
If it becomes too difficult turn back. SAFETY FIRST, ALWAYS.
The 7 Peaks of the Sierra Helada
Feeling fit? you can walk from the Benidorm cross to Albir. This is the most challenging walk of the Sierra Gelada natural park as the walk passes along the seven peaks between Benidorm and Albir. You can walk in either direction but remember to arrange transport at the other end as it is one way. The panoramic views are breath-taking, and well worth all the climbing up and down.
From Benidorm the walk starts at the Cross. There is then a marked pathway up and down seven peaks, before arriving in Albir at the Sierra Gelada visitor centre. Many walkers prefer to get a lift to the Cross.
This is only recommended for people with moderately high fitness levels and full mobility. Distance 11km one-way trip. Moderately difficult, but worth the challenge! Allow 4.5 hours.
Sierra Cortina, Finestrat
The Sierra Cortina is another marvellous experience – quite an easy route along the crest which gives you some of the most panoramic views of Benidorm and the other coastal resorts of the Marina Baja region.
If you head to Residencia Golf Bahia, from the roundabout, it's fairly obvious which road to take and about 100m up this residential road you will see a path that leads steeply uphill. This path takes you straight to the high point, where there's a cairn and cross "Alto de Cortina
Photo from Benidorm Seriously Member Gerrich Schoels
Walks in and around Benidorm
There are three routes you can take: “Volta de la Serra” is the most common route to the peak, the second route “Ascension Puig Campana is a bit more complex, and the third route is the “Cami de la Cove del Roget”.
The most direct ascent is from Finestrat, starting at Font del Molí, heading towards the mountain's south face. From here, a long, steep, scree slope can be seen. It is possible (although unpleasant) to ascend the scree directly or follow the trail which runs parallel to the scree slope on the right-hand side. Both the trail and the scree slope are marked with fading red painted symbols. The trail is easy to lose in mist so only attempt this in good clear weather conditions. From the top of the scree slope, the trail turns east towards the summit. There are lots of criss-crossing paths here, which makes the route very difficult to follow.
The routes are classed as low to medium difficulty, so they are apt for all hikers and the duration of the routes vary between 4 to 6 hours depending on the route chosen. All routes start from the Font del Moli.
Sierra Bernia Mountain
This mountain with a length of 9 km between the Algar's valley river and Mascarat's ravine, divides the Marina Alta and the Marina Baixa. In it, is the Mascarat, a huge and spectacular rocky ravine which reaches the highest point of Bernia (1126 meters) this mountain covers 1,900 hectares and the towns of Altea, Calpe, Callosa d'Ensarria, Benissa and Jalon (Xaló)
The route begins at Font del Garrofer (Altea La Vella). There is a steep path which leads up to Les Penyes ravine, from there the trail goes between abandoned crop patches which then lead to a recreational area. Continuing on you will reach the beginning of a circular trail. To walk this trail, you must go in the direction of Font Bernia, which are the ruins of an old fortress, following the trail you will arrive at Casas de Bernia, Font de Bernia and El Forat. Finally passing through the Forat, you will once again be back at the circular trail.
At the highest point (1,128 meters above sea level) you can see the entire coastline from the Cape La Nao in Javea to the port of Alicante. On a clear day you can even see the island of Ibiza.
Length: 15,2 km (Round trip), Duration: 4h 35 min
Marco Polo and the DownHill Bike Ride also provide guided walks, find more information HERE
What are your favourite walks, have we covered them? If not comment below.
PLACES TO VISIT COSTA BLANCA NORTH
PLACES TO VISIT, COSTA BLANCA SOUTH
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Cycling in Benidorm
It has long been our quest to provide as much information to our members as possible regarding Benidorm and the surrounding area. We have shared our experiences from our road trips as we explored many parts of Spain beyond Benidorm. For those experiences reserved for the visitors and very seldom tried by those of us who have made Benidorm our home, we have been guilty of leaving that to our members. Today we decided to put some old theories to the test. The first is that you often miss the most beautiful things right on your own doorstep. The second was a test on the theory, "its like riding a bike". If you have done it once you never forget it. Armed with these two challenges Derek and I accepted an invitation from Sergio of Visit Benidorm to go cycling in Benidorm.
Cycling in Benidorm
Benidorm actually has more then 100km of cycle paths and today we were going to explore a small portion of them, one being the beautiful Sierra Helada/Gelada Natural Park, which is right outside our door and an area we walk our dogs every day. This time we would do it by Bicycle. I have to admit we did cheat a little with the use of Electric Bikes (E-bikes). After some encouragement from the proprietor of Tao Bike and the reassurance of Sergio´s more youthful years travelling with us, one or two trial circles of the immediate area outside the shop to make sure I would not need children´s stabilizers Derek and I were ready for our adventure.
Rather than face the deadly hills around the coast, we headed first of all to the Viewing point, EL Mirador de la Punta del Canfali in the old town. It's true, it was just like riding a bike. Within a few minutes our confidence was rising and peddling uphill toward the Mirador really was surprisingly easy with the assistance of electric power.
The view from El Mirador was as spectacular as ever. Even though this is an area we are very familiar with, and with the weather a little duller than what we normally experience in Benidorm, it is from this point Benidorm can really be experienced in all its grandeur.
Looking to the east past Mal Pas Beach and along Poniente Beach, Benidorm´s longest Beach towards La Cala bay, we can marvel at the fabulous M shaped building the Intempo Apartments and the The Gran Bali Hotel as it stands proudly as Europe´s tallest hotel.
To the West, Levante Beach looks equally as inviting and the view stretches right across to the Punta del Cavall look out tower. Sergio suggested that should be our next destination. To a walker that would have seemed quite daunting as it stands around 5 km away. But if you really want to explore, I suggest you consider cycling in Benidorm.
Downhill through the Old Town and along Levante beach seemed a breeze with our now enhanced cycling skills and we again began to ascend up into the Sierra Helada Natural Park, this entire area took on a completely new feel.
Under Electric power, the hills disappeared and the freedom of rolling around some of Benidorm´s jagged but stunning coastline liberates the entire experience when the sun is not zapping your energy as you dread each uphill slope.
This is an area not often visited by the British, but is an area of outstanding natural beauty which demonstrates to perfection that Benidorm really has something for everyone. You could spend hours here just soaking up the sun on the beaches of Tio Ximo and Almadrava and enjoying the stunning scenery, in peace and tranquility, two words not often used to describe Benidorm.
After snapping a few pictures from the lookout tower, it was approaching lunch time. Where else would be better to finish off our tourist prospective of Benidorm than Tapas Alley.
La Taperia Aurrera tapas bar was suggested as the place to dine, situated in the heart of Tapas Alley and with a mouth watering selection of reasonably priced Tapas and friendly staff, we relaxed and enjoyed some of the best tapas we have ever found in Benidorm accompanied by the ever popular Pan y Alli Oli. A favourite throughout Spain, not just in Benidorm.
In closing, we have both enjoyed yet another experience in Benidorm. Derek is already 60 years of age and I am not all that far behind him. If cycling in Benidorm has sounded a little daunting in the past, I suggest you do not let age put you off, It is a relaxing way to see some of Benidorm´s most glorious places. Its true, it is just like riding a bike even after 30 odd years.
Many thanks to the VisitBenidorm team and Tao Bikes for a wonderful day out.
E-Bikes can also be hired from Marco Polo and Benidorm Trips
Find more information on things to do in Benidorm HERE. There are also guided bike trips available, more information can be found here.
Top 25 Things to do in Benidorm
Benidorm is a holiday destination that has something for everyone, whether you want to party 24/7 or have a quiet relaxing holiday. Below is a list of the top 25 things to do in Benidorm itself as suggested by Benidorm Seriously Members, these are listed in no particular order.
For details of things to do in the SURROUNDING AREA
1) ENTERTAINMENT IN BENIDORM
The entertainment scene in Benidorm is the best in Europe with something to suit, whatever age you are. With hundreds of entertainers around the town in different venues from Hypnotists to Tribute Bands, top Comedians and so much more. To find out who is on when and where click HERE
2) BENIDORM PALACE
See an absolutely fabulous show in the theatre styled nightclub Benidorm Palace. Before the show you can have a meal or just book to see the show, Benidorm Palace produces a different show every year and is the home to the biggest stage in Europe.
The current show is FIRE - BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE
Top 25 things to do in Benidorm
EATING AND DRINKING IN BENIDORM
3) DINING OUT
Everyone needs to eat and Benidorm offers something for everyone from a typical British Full English Breakfast to top a la carte restaurants and everything in-between, you will certainly never go hungry here in Benidorm.
You will find lots of ideas of where to eat here
4) TAPAS ALLEY
Tapas Alley is a must visit if you want to soak up the real Spanish atmosphere whilst enjoying some traditional Spanish Tapas, this is situated in the old town, more information here.
5) DRINKING
A favourite pastime for many, and once again Benidorm has 1000s of different bars from small intimate bars to busy cabaret bars, Karaoke bars, sports bars and sophisticated cocktail bars, everyone will have their favourite.
You will find lots bars listed here all with interactive maps
Many of the bars and restaurants are open all day, some until the early hours of the morning. No mater what time, day or night you will always be able to find somewhere to eat or drink
Top 25 things to do in Benidorm
6) Visit Benidorm during one of its many Fiestas.
Spain is famous for its wonderful, colourful and noisy fiestas, and Benidorm is no different, with over 55 local fiestas each year, some are quite small but others such as the March Fallas, The Moors and Christians fiesta and the famous November Fiestas are massive events, and tourists from far and wide visit, during these special times. Find the main fiestas with dates listed here.
7) ENJOY BENIDORM'S BEACHES
Did you know Benidorm actually has 5 beaches? Levante, Poniente, Mal Pas, Almadrava (Almadraba) and Tio Ximo. Find out more about each one of the beautiful beaches here.
SCENIC PLACES TO VISIT IN BENIDORM
8) WALK/DRIVE UP TO THE FAMOUS CROSS - Mirador de la Cruz
The views from the cross are spectacular both day and night, it is well worth a visit just to see the stunning scenery across Benidorm and the surrounding area. It is situated at the top of the Sierra Gelada Natura reserve. There are various routes of getting to it from the town, you can also drive most of the way and then take the steps and path up to the actual cross itself. The number 24 bus will take you about 1/3rd of the way up. You can also continue walking across the mountains to Albir Lighthouse. Make sure you take water etc with you as there are no services etc at the cross itself.
Find our more information about the famous cross including the history and maps etc HERE
9) El Mirador de la Punta del Canfali – THE CASTLE, LOOK OUT POINT
The castle/fortress was situated on the big rock that divides the two beaches (Lavante and Poneinte) and its main purpose was to guard against invasions of the Berber pirates. The castle was thought to have stood here around 1325, this is the highest point in Benidorm, with its characteristic white balustrade it is one of the symbols of the city. The viewpoint has two parts, a top with benches and rest areas, and another viewing point down quite a few quite steep steps which offers views closer to the sea.
The Mirador, this area is also known as "Balcony of the Mediterranean." and one of Benidorm Old Towns most visited tourist spots with panoramic 360º views.
10) Visit 'San Jaime' Church (St James) Benidorm Old Town
The church of "Saint James" is dedicated to the patron saint of the town. It is set at the very top of the Old Town on Canfali hill. It is a Neoclassical building, built in the 18th Century with the typical blue Mediterranean tiled dome.
Inside you´ll find a statue of the Virgen del Sufragio, the well-loved patron saint of Benidorm. The Virgin has her own small chapel containing the little wood sculpture which, as the story goes, was found on a boat adrift on the high seas.
11) Parque de Elche
The famous Elche park is home to hundreds of beautiful white doves and know to many as Dove Park, it is also known for its spectacular palm trees.
It is located just in front of Poniente Beach and is close to Benidorm Harbour. This is a lovely shady park and a great place to sit and people watch. Find more information here
12) Parque De L’Aiguera – Known as the great centre of Benidorm
This is a long, extensive public park in the neoclassical style, designed by architect Ricardo Bofill. It´s a truly beautiful park and well worth a visit. The park separates the old city from the modern buildings and it has two amphitheatres used for cultural events in the summer months. The Benidorm song festival takes place in the Julio Iglesias auditorium in the park for two days in the month of June, and various other music festivals are held during the year. The park ends at the Bullring and an enclosure which is used for fairs during fiestas.
13) Visit one of Benidorm´s Museums, More information HERE
14) Boat Trip to Benidorm Island (Isla de Benidorm, peacock island) Find information on other boat trips available from Benidorm HERE
Some call it Peacock Island, others Benidorm Rock and the locals refer to it as simply L’illa (the island), if you’ve never made the journey across the bay to explore it, then you really should, because it’s a great day out. Enjoy the amazing views of the Benidorm skyline from the Mediterranean framed by the towering Puig Campana mountain (the one with the hole in the top) it is simply stunning – in fact the whole trip is worth it just for that view. More info HERE
15) Visit the top of the Gran Bali Hotel
Europe’s tallest hotel, the 52-floor Gran Hotel Bali has a viewing platform that is open to residents and non residents for a small fee, once on the viewing platform you will have spectacular views right across to Calpe, the whole of Benidorm, La Cala and the surrounding area.
16) Enjoy a Walk in the Sierra Geleda/Helada Natural Park
Sierra Helada is a natural park and includes the areas of Benidorm, L'Alfàs el Pì and Altea. Sierra Helada means Ice mountain in Spanish. The name is said to come from the way the cliffs look from the sea on a moonlit night. Fisherman on the Mediterranean Sea found that the rocks looked like an iceberg and also due to the cliffs orientation which creates a colder macro-climate.
It is a protected site with a total surface area of 5,564 Hectares, 4,920 hectares of which are a marine reserve and in these waters are some of the most interesting underwater areas of the Mediterranean peninsular. The coastline is one of the most beautiful in the Valencian region. The park also includes three islands: Illot de la Mitjana, the Illot de Benidorm and the Illots of Olla and la Galera.
Top 25 things to do in Benidorm
MARKETS
17) Pueblo Market
One of the biggest markets in the area, known as "El Pueblo", it is situated near the Servigroup Pueblo Hotel and is held every Sunday and Wednesday, starting around 08.30 until 13.30ish. Here you can find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to leather goods and hot food. For details of other markets in the area click here.
18) El Cisne Rastro
One of the best Rastros in the Benidorm area is the El Cisne Rastro, (which in Spanish means the Swan) also known as El Cisne Antiguedades. Only 15 minutes outside Benidorm and near the towns of Alfaz del Pi, Albir and Altea, the El Cisne market is a wonderful place to spend a few hours, not just for the cheap shopping but for the food and entertainment too. Open, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
Top 25 things to do in Benidorm
19) BENIDORM SITE SEEING TOURS
Benidorm is a large place with plenty to see and lots of different ways of seeing the sights by bus, trains, trams and even by Segway or Scooter. Find more information here
20) Open top Buses
The perfect way to see the city and seafront without walking too far. You can catch the open top bus from the Rincon near Mc Donalds. There are two buses available - The Number 30 goes to Cala Finestrat starting at “Rincón de L’oix” (opp Grand National Bar) and along the Avd Mediterranean round the town Centre, by the “Parque de Elche”, “Paseo de Poniente” and finally, it gets to “Cala de Finestrat”.
The number 31 also starts from the “Rincón de Loix” and goes via Avd Atmella de Mar, Avd Severo Ocho. And then, it goes to Albir and Altea beaches.
Top 25 things to do in Benidorm
ANNIMAL PARKS
21) Terra Natura - Open all the year. (But not every day, check HERE for opening hours and directions etc)
At Terra Natura Benidorm you can see more than 1,500 animals from 200 different species, 50 of which are in serious danger of extinction, and over 2,500 examples of more than 160 species of trees, shrubs and ground cover plants from these regions. As well as the hugely varied collection of wildlife, our educational information (through placards with biological details and information points), the architectural theming and the range of shows, entertainment and adventure activities make Terra Natura the venue of choice for families looking to spend an interesting and entertaining day in a natural setting. More information HERE
22) Mundomar Find 2023 opening times here
A great day out for all the family Mundomar is a marine animal park, It is twinned with the water park Aqualandia which is directly adjacent to it, and shares the same car park.
Many different species can be viewed at Mundomar, including dolphins, sea lions, penguins and meerkats and many more marine and land animals.
There are dolphin, sea lion, and parrot displays several times a day at the park, where visitors can watch trained handlers interacting with the animals, and putting on spectacular shows.
23) Aqua Natura - Open every day from April 1st to October 31st 2023
Perfect for any age and situated right next to Terra Natura. There are more than 1.000 meters of exciting slides and exclusive bathing zones for children Aqua Natura has five large sections: the wave pool, the water slides, the kid’s pool, the lighthouse breakwater and the Spa-Sun Deck.
24) Aqualandia - Open from 1st June to 24th September
Aqualandia in Benidorm, the first water park built in Spain, opened in 1985. Since then it has been not only one of the largest water parks in the world, but also ranks among those which offer the most attractions and facilities as well as outstanding customer service. Situated right next door to Mundomar.
Top 25 things to do in Benidorm
THEME PARKS
25) Terra Mitica - Open from 1st June (CLOSED 5th & 6th June) to 10th September 2023
Discover ancient Mediterranean civilisations at Terra Mitica, Benidorm, where the theme park will transport you directly to the history of Greece, Egypt and Rome. Terra Mitica will let you enjoy the finest days of summer, with shows and rides to excite and fascinate you, whilst taking your adrenaline to new limits. Are you ready to live the dream?
Hire a e-Bike, Segway, Scooter or even a quad bike and see the sights, you can hire from Marco Polo or Benidorm Trips, you will find lots of hire options HERE
Read about our experience seeing the sights by E-Bike here
PLACES TO VISIT ON THE COSTA BLANCA NORTH
What are your favourite things to do in Benidorm, comment below.