Children in Bars, Spanish Law

Children in Bars, Spanish Law

Children in Bars, Spanish Law

Children in Bars, Spanish Law.  We are always being asked about children in bars here in Benidorm are they allowed?

In plain English children are allowed in bars but only when accompanied by a sensible adult.  However the local police have the right to consider the environment harmful to children, which could result in a significant fine for the bar concerned, not to mention a potential arrest for the responsible adult.

This is the reason many bars opt to disallow children completely, whilst other bars use periodic discretion, depending on the individual circumstances on the night which here in Benidorm could just mean the type of clientele in at the time, how busy the venue is or the type show on stage.

A heavy police presence in the area will often result in the bars choosing the safe option on that night.

FOR A LIST OF PLACES SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES CLICK HERE

Use the Whats ON Guide to find suitable entertainment

Things to do for Families in Benidorm 

Children in Bars, Spanish Law - This is what the Spanish Law says.....

Spanish law defines anyone under 18 to be a minor. Any unaccompanied minors that come to the attention of the Spanish authorities (for whatever reason, but particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) are judged to be vulnerable and may be taken into a minors centre until a parent or guardian can be found.

You must provide photographic ID (your passport) if requested by a police officer. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until your identity is confirmed. Ignoring direct requests or challenging a police officer may be viewed as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.

The legal drinking age in Spain is 18 years old

You can drink alcohol at a restaurant if you’re with older people....The law applies to the restaurant as well but you can do it as long as you are supervised by older people. The waiters cannot intervene if you mum ordered it and then gave it to you but be sure to don’t overdo it and take advantage of it. The restaurant could be fined.

Those under the age of 16 may purchase beer or wine if accompanied by parents 

If children under the age of 16 who wants to try the wines in Spain, then a parent or an older person would proxy the person under 16 to buy alcoholic beverage. The law does state that it is illegal for minors to buy alcoholic beverages but the law does not make any reference about drinking inside homes.

Any establishment selling or serving alcohol to minors under the age of 18 will be fined 

According to the law selling or serving alcohol to minors under the age of 18 will be fined with a minimum penalty of 30,000 Euros and a maximum penalty of 600,000 Euros.

It’s okay to let minors have a taste  

As we all know, Spain is famous for its high-quality wine production so it wouldn’t hurt to let minors just to have a sip, so they would know what it tastes like. The law is about buying or selling any alcoholic beverages to minors but if the parent is the one who gave it, it is an exemption but just a minimal amount enough for minors to taste.

Usually, bartenders and sales people are not really concerned - We are not suggesting it is totally okay to drink alcoholic beverages if you are a minor but if you look older than your age, bartenders usually won’t ask for your age or your identification card. But you still have to be careful. Better safe than sorry.

There is another law that does not allow stores to sell drinks after 10:00pm  

Well, if there is a law about minors being forbidden to buy alcoholic beverage, then there is also a law that forbids stores to sell drinks after 10:00pm to avoid “botellion”. It is a Spanish phenomenon where there is a street party with lots of noisy drunken people, disturbing neighbours, and damaging public places.

Children in Bars, Spanish Law

Legal alcohol drinking age in Spain is a federal law 

In Spain, every state or region should follow the law about the legal drinking age of 18 years old. No exemption.

For 18 years old below, it is prohibited to buy but not prohibited to drink - Note that the legal drinking age only prohibits 18 years old and under to buy alcoholic beverage but they are not prohibited to drink it. Therefore, it is perfectly okay to drink alcohol if you are below 18 years of age in Spain, only if you are not the one who bought it and if you consume it indoors.

Night Clubs, Bars

The law expressly prohibits the entry of persons under 18 years in nightclubs and similar establishments at night time, including theatres, night cinemas, television shows, etc.

Children can come if accompanied by their parents or legal guardians demonstrating that they are full, under his/her responsibility, as long as the establishment's activities do not cause harm in their physical, psychological and moral.

FOR A LIST OF PLACES SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES CLICK HERE

Harmful Places

Spanish law does not allow children and young people under 18 years being in these kind of places. If parents or legal guardians will allow children (or even accompany them) this can be seen as committing a crime and they may lose guardianship.

Examples of dangerous places covered by Spanish law can include: places where drugs are distributed or consumed, areas with pornographic or violent performances, problem areas with high crime, prostitution areas, places with high health risk, gambling places, etc.

Children in Bars, Spanish Law

Places for gambling - Spanish Law do not allow this for people under 18 years.

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Emergency telephone numbers

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS in SPAIN

The European Emergency telephone Number 112 is not the only emergency number here in Spain.

As well as 112, the following emergency numbers are available
062 - Guardia Civil
091 - National Police - Reporting robberies etc.
061 - Health emergencies
080 - Fire Service
092 - Local Police
090 - Report traffic incidents
011 - Road information (traffic jams and incidents)
016 - Reporting Domestic Violence

Coastguard/Sea rescue 900 202 202

Medical Care 24hrs: 900 161 161

Disabled people can send a fax and an SMS to the National Emergency Numbers.
112 Calls are answered on average within 5 seconds.

In addition to the national language(s) the calls can be answered in English, French, Portuguese, Arabic and German, depending on the call centres. 

It is no longer possible to make a police report over the phone in English in Spain. If you have been a victim of a theft or robbery in Spain you can report the incident to the National Police in English online using the "Virtual Complaints Office” 

Once submitted, you can then make an appointment at your local police station (Comisaria de Policia.) to formally sign and ratify the "denuncia" 

Download the ALERTCOPS APP

 

S.A.T.E - Benidorm Office - 96 681 23 34/96 680 98 70

The Foreign Tourist Assistance Service is a police department whose role is to offer foreign tourists, visiting the city, personalised assistance after having suffered a criminal offence or similar incident.  Assistance is given by the National Police Service and personnel from the Tourist. Board.  The tourist is given assistance in their own language and will be helped in reporting crime, lost passports etc.

The consulate is open to visitors Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 1.30pm, excluding public holidays. Consular phone lines are open from 8am to 4pm.

Consulate of The United Kingdom in Alicante - 0034 965 21 60 22

Other useful numbers -

Benidorm Town Council - 965 855 500
Benidorm Town Hall- 965 855 500
Citizens Advice Bureau - 9668 020 121
Red cross (Cruz Roja) - 900 100 333
Samaritans - 900 525 100

BENIDORM HOSPITALS
Hospital Comarcal de la Marina Baixa
Av. Alcalde en Jaume Botella Mayor, 7. La Vila Joiosa
Tel. 966 907 200

Hospital Clínica Benidorm
Av. Alfonso Puchades, 8.
Tel. 965 853 850

Hospital de Levante
C/ Doctor Ramón y Cajal, 7.
Tel. 966 878 787

CONSULATES
United Kingdom
Edificio Espacio, Rambla Méndez Núñez 28-32, 6ª planta, 03002 Alacant, Alicante
If you’re in the communities of Valencia and Murcia and you need urgent help (for example, you’ve been attacked, arrested or someone has died), call +34 965 21 60 22. If you’re in the UK and worried about a British national in Spain, call 020 7008 1500. We are experiencing technical issues with our telephone line. If you cannot reach us on our usual number, please call the British Embassy Madrid on +34 917 146 300.

British Embassy - Emergency Assistance Free Phone - 917 146 300

Iceland
Av. Mediterráneo, 37. Edif. Casa de las Flores;
Tel. 965 851 667

Finland
C/ Almendros, 37, 2º izq.
Tel. 965 866 942

Norway
C/ Pal, 1. Edif. Aurea 6º A y B.
Tel. 965 852 166

Netherlands
Ctra. Finestrat, 7. El Planet. Edif. Servitour.
Tel. 965 857 012

Honorary Consulate of the Czech Republic
C/ Ibiza, 15. Apartamentos Triomar. Tel. 965 853 283

TOWN BUSES
Llorente Bus, C/ Castellon, Poligono Industrial de Finestrat - 96 585 43 22

REGIONAL BUSES
Grupo Alsa (Enatcar-Ubesa), Avda. Jaime I, Aptos. Valencia II
Av. Europa, (Centro Comercial La Noria) - 902 42 22 42
Bilmanbus, C/ Lepanto - 96 586 15 58
Jimenez, C/ Lepanto - 96 586 15 58

INTERNATIONAL BUSES
Grupo Alsa (Eurolines), Av. Europa - 902 42 22 42
Iberbus-Linebus, C/ Portugal - 96 522 93 36/96 522 95 04

TRAINS
Ferrocarriles de la Generalitat Valenciana (FGV), C/ Estacion - 96 585 18 95
Renfe, Avda. Salamanca - 902 24 02 02

Movistar - 1002 (reporting problems) 1004 all enquiries, say ENGLISH after hearing the message.

Cancellation of Credit/cards

Amex - 914 004 250

Mastercard - 900 971 231

Visa - 900 991 124

Emergency telephone numbers, Spain

Emergency telephone numbers

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Venues suitable for Children

Venues suitable for Children - Fun for All the Family

🎭 Venues suitable for children in Benidorm – Fun for All the Family

Looking for cabaret bars/venues in Benidorm that are suitable for children? You’re in the right place. The venues listed below come highly recommended by members of the Benidorm Seriously Facebook group, so you can trust they’re great for a family night out.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Share Your Recommendations

If you know a cabaret bar that’s perfect for kids, don’t keep it to yourself – add your vote and help other families plan their holiday evenings.

Important to Know

Some bars have cut-off times for children, often due to the content of the shows later in the evening. A few venues have a strict no children policy, while others decide on the night depending on the clientele and atmosphere.

Understand the Rules

Make sure you’re aware of Spanish laws regarding children in bars before heading out. Click HERE to read our full guide so there are no surprises.

🎟️ Plan Your Evening Entertainment

Want to know what’s on while you’re here? Check out our online What’s On Guide for the latest family-friendly shows and entertainment across Benidorm.

👉 View the What’s On Guide here

Which Venues do you recommend for Children
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Here are a few others we know who allow Children, but as yet have never been recommended by members of Benidorm Seriously.  Feel free to add them to the list if you would recommend them as bars suitable for suitable for Children at night

Morgan Tavern - Cabaret Bar, (part of the Presidente Hotel)  No children under the age of 16 are permitted.

Phillipines 10 (part of the Presidente Hotel)  No children under the age of 16 are permitted.

To discuss the topic with other members add your comments below of join our Facebook Group or comment below.

Benidorm areas of town explained

Benidorm Areas Explained – Find the Best Spot for You

Benidorm Areas Explained – Find the Best Spot for You:  If you’ve ever wondered why some people absolutely love Benidorm while a few say it’s not for them, the answer is simple: they were probably staying in the wrong area for their style of holiday.

This guide will help you find the perfect spot. Whether you want to party until dawn, relax on a quiet beach, or soak up traditional Spanish culture in the old town, Benidorm truly has something for everyone.

Benidorm, The different areas of town explained

🎤 New Town (Green Zone) – Party Central & British Entertainment

The New Town stretches along Levante Beach, famous for its nightlife. Here you’ll find:

This area is ideal if you’re looking for non-stop nightlife.

🌟 Rincon de Loix – Entertainment Without the Crowds

Part of the wider Green Zone, Rincon de Loix is slightly quieter and popular with:

  • Families with children

  • Older visitors

  • Those who enjoy entertainment but prefer to avoid rowdy groups

Here, bars often feature top acts from the main Strip but in a more relaxed environment.

🎭 Looking for Live Entertainment?

Check out our What’s On Guide to see daily listings of who’s performing, when, and where across Benidorm.

🏙️ Benidorm Old Town (Red Zone) – Spanish Culture & Tapas Bars

The charming Old Town is a maze of narrow streets filled with tapas bars, Spanish restaurants, and hidden gems blending local and British styles. It’s perfect if you:

  • Love traditional Spanish culture and cuisine

  • Want to explore the famous Mirador (lookout point), Benidorm Port, Cala Mal Pas Beach, or Elche Park (Dove Park)

  • Wish to experience local fiestas, as most parades and events take place here

This area is also known for its lively LGBTQ+ scene, with intimate bars and drag performances creating a friendly, vibrant nightlife.

🛍️ Modern Old Town (Orange Zone) – Shops, Restaurants, and a Quieter Vibe

This area includes parts of both Poniente and Levante Beaches. Favoured by Spanish visitors, it’s great if you:

  • Want a more authentic Spanish holiday experience

  • Prefer traditional Spanish food and entertainment

  • Like to avoid the busier, noisier tourist spots

🌴 Poniente Beach Area (Blue Zone) – For a Relaxing Beach Holiday

Poniente Beach and the neighbouring bay of La Cala are perfect if you prefer a quieter, more laid-back beach holiday. This area is lined with friendly bars and traditional Spanish restaurants, ideal for peaceful evenings with beautiful sea views.

✔️ Long, wide golden sand beach
✔️ Quieter atmosphere compared to Levante Beach
✔️ Beautiful promenade for evening walks
✔️ Traditional Spanish bars and cafes
✔️ Stunning sunset views

🏖️ La Cala Finestrat – Quiet and Family Friendly

Technically part of Benidorm, La Vila Joiosa, and Finestrat, La Cala Finestrat is only 3 km from Benidorm’s busiest areas but offers a peaceful retreat with:

Benidorm, The different areas of town explained

  • A clean, golden-sand beach ideal for children

  • Plenty of cafes and restaurants along the promenade

  • A quieter atmosphere even in summer, compared to Benidorm’s main beaches

If you want a relaxed holiday with easy access to Benidorm’s nightlife and shopping by bus or taxi, La Cala Finestrat is an excellent choice.

🏨 Ready to Book?

Now that you’ve discovered the perfect area of Benidorm to suit your needs, it’s time to find the ideal place to stay.

👉 Use our Accommodation Search page to find the best hotels and apartments in your chosen area.

 

 

💡 Quick Tip

If your search shows zero results, remember – it’s impossible to be five minutes from everything in Benidorm!

Try this:
Select your most important criteria first, one step at a time, and click “Show me where to stay” after each choice. This will narrow down the options efficiently and help you find the best match.

Like and follow Benidorm Seriously for even more insider guides, reviews, and updates to plan your perfect holiday.

🗨️ Which area of Benidorm do you love the most?

We hope this Benidorm areas explained guide helps you plan your ideal trip. Share your favourite area in the comments below.

Sunday Lunch in Benidorm
Sunday Lunch in Benidorm

The Best Sunday Lunch in Benidorm Vote Now

🍽️ Where to Find the BEST Sunday Lunch in Benidorm

Looking for the perfect Sunday roast while you’re in Benidorm? 🤔🥩

This is one of the most popular questions and with so many great places to choose from, the best way to find out is by asking you – our amazing members!

👉 Have your say:
We’ve created a poll below where you can vote for your favourite Sunday lunch spots in Benidorm. ✅

🔄 How it works:

  • The poll is updated regularly by removing votes older than one month.

  • If you’ve already voted but found somewhere even better since, you can vote again after 30 days.

💡 Can’t decide?
You can vote for up to 5 venues if choosing just one is too hard!

✨ All these places have been recommended by our Benidorm Seriously Group Members – so you know they’re tried, tested, and loved.

👉 Vote now and help others enjoy the perfect Sunday roast!

Who does the best Sunday Lunch in Benidorm?
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👉 Once you’ve chosen where to try…

🗺️ Click on the links to find interactive maps that will guide you straight to the door.
📞 You’ll also find contact details to book a table or check for any special dietary requirements in advance.

Good luck on your Sunday roast quest!
And remember – if you discover what you think is the BEST Sunday lunch in Benidorm, come back and let us know. We love hearing your recommendations! ❤️

Contact Benidorm Seriously

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Office Hours

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Benidorm Seriously Phone

(0034) 672 98 30 60

Office Hours

Mon to Fri

(10am to 2 pm)

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About Benidorm Seriously®

Benidorm Seriously are a Benidorm based advice service for Tourists and Ex Pats alike. We rely totally on support from local businesses to provide the service. We urge you to give them your support in return.

No assistance is given from the Benidorm Tourist Board

About Benidorm Seriously®

Benidorm Seriously are a Benidorm based advice service for Tourists and Ex Pats alike. We rely totally on support from local businesses to provide the service. We urge you to give them your support in return.

No assistance is given from the Benidorm Tourist Board

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