Benidorm Old Town – A Complete Guide - Benidorm is a city of two parts. The New Town is lively and packed with entertainment, while the Old Town offers a more traditional, Spanish experience.
Why Visit Benidorm Old Town?
In the Old Town, you’ll find:
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Charming whitewashed houses
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Beautiful churches
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The famous El Mirador de la Punta del Canfali, a castle-like lookout with stunning views
You’ll also see:
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Mal Pas and Poniente beaches
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Benidorm Port
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Green parks like Parque de Elche and Parque de L’Aigüera
Wander through cobbled streets filled with shops, boutiques, cosy restaurants, and bars bursting with character.
No visit is complete without a stop at Tapas Alley, where you can enjoy traditional Spanish tapas dishes.
The Old Town area is also where nearly all the Fiesta Parades take place. Fiesta Dates for 2025
Benidorm has been gay-friendly since the late 19th century, making it one of the oldest welcoming towns for LGBTQ+ visitors in Spain. With its vibrant nightlife and friendly gay scene, it continues to be a favourite destination for all. Read more HERE
Walking Street – Passeig de la Carretera
This famous pedestrian street runs through the Old Town, parallel to the sea. It’s lined with bars, restaurants, and shops spilling out onto side streets.
How to Get There
Option 1:
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Walk down Avenida Mediterráneo to the end.
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Head between Bankinter and El Italiano restaurant.
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Walk under the bridge and turn left at Hotel Bristol Park.
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Continue straight to reach Walking Street.
Option 2:
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At the end of Av. Mediterráneo, take the street left of Bankinter.
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You’ll see Specsavers on your left.
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Turn right just past Specsavers, then left at Ale-Hop to reach Walking Street.
As you stroll, you’ll eventually arrive at Dove Park (Parque de Elche).
Optional Detour: The Blue-Domed Church
Near Pinocchio café, take the left fork up the hill to reach:
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The Church of San Jaime y Santa Ana
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The Balcón del Mediterráneo (El Mirador) with panoramic sea views
Benidorm Old Town Nightlife
Evenings in the Old Town are diverse. You’ll find karaoke, cabaret, traditional bars, and even transvestite shows. There’s entertainment for everyone.
Beaches in Benidorm Old Town
Cala Mal Pas
A small, scenic cove between Levante and Poniente beaches. It’s just 120 metres long, with golden sand and a calm atmosphere. More information HERE
Poniente Beach
Over 3 km long, Poniente is quieter than Levante Beach. Its modern promenade was designed by architect Carlos Ferrater. It’s perfect for walking, dining, or relaxing with sea views. More information HERE
Church of San Jaime y Santa Ana
This 18th-century Neoclassical church sits atop Canfali Hill. It’s known for its blue-tiled dome.
Opening Hours
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Daily Mass at 10:00 and evenings at 19:00 and 20:00
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Sundays: multiple services all day
Inside, you’ll see the Virgen del Sufragio, patron saint of Benidorm, linked to the legend of a mysterious ship burned at sea, leaving her statue untouched among the ashes.
The Legend of the Virgen del Sufragio
In 1740, the people of Benidorm were startled by the arrival of a mysterious, crewless ship drifting into the harbour. Fearing the crew had succumbed to the plague, local authorities made the difficult decision to burn the ship in order to protect the town.
After the flames had died down, local children searched through the ashes and discovered, untouched and shining, a small statue of the Virgin holding the Child Jesus in her arms.
Since then, the Virgen del Sufragio has been venerated as a protector of Benidorm. Her Fiesta Day is celebrated each year on the second Sunday of November.
El Mirador de la Punta del Canfali (Balcón del Mediterráneo)
Once a fortress to protect against pirate invasions (built around 1325), today it offers:
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An upper terrace with benches
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A lower viewpoint with stunning sea views
Though much of the castle was destroyed in 1812, remains of its walls and an arch are still visible.
In the sea near Punta Canfali, you may notice a geyser-like structure. This was once a functioning water jet, but sadly, it is no longer in operation.
It was discovered that the force of the water was causing erosion to nearby structures, including the white balustrade, surrounding buildings, and even the natural rock formations of Punta Canfali. For safety and preservation reasons, it was permanently deactivated a few years ago.
Benidorm Port
Walk around the port to see boats heading to Benidorm Island, Tabarca, and Calpe.
Parque de Elche (Dove Park)
Located by Poniente Beach, this shady park is home to hundreds of white doves and towering palm trees. It’s perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
Tapas Alley
Located along Pl. de la Constitutio and Santo Domingo Street, this is the place to try authentic tapas. Tapas are ideal for sharing and tasting premium Spanish dishes without spending too much.
Benidorm Old Town Market
Held on Wednesdays, the market is full of fresh produce, cured ham (jamón ibérico), churros, and local oranges. It’s the perfect place to buy authentic Spanish food.
Plaza Mayor
A small but iconic square, ideal for a sangria break at sunset. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of shops for souvenirs or gifts.
House Museum – Casa Museo de Benidorm
This 19th-century home shows how wealthy families once lived. It hosts art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. Visit at 16 Calle de Tomás Ortuño.
Boca del Calvari Museum
Once the old town hall, this museum opened in 2015 and hosts rotating exhibitions. Check the board outside for what’s currently on display.
Opening Hours
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Monday: Closed
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Tuesday: 17:00 – 20:30
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Wed-Fri: 10:30 – 13:30, 17:00 – 20:30
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Sat-Sun: 10:00 – 13:30
Parque de L’Aigüera
Designed by Ricardo Bofill, this neoclassical park separates Old Town from the modern city. It has two amphitheatres used for cultural events and music festivals throughout the year.
Benidorm Bullring (Plaza de Toros)
Opened in 1962, it hosted bullfights and fiestas. Plans are underway to convert it into a library and civic centre with cultural spaces and an auditorium.
Where to Stay in Benidorm Old Town
Many hotels are on charming cobbled streets, offering great value for money. They’re perfect if you want a more authentic and peaceful stay near the beach.
USE THIS PAGE TO FIND YOUR PERFECT HOTEL OR APARTMENT SITUATED IN THE OLD TOWN AREA
Regards
Richard
There are many that have been holidaying in Benidorm for years, and have still not seen everything it has to offer, which is why people come back year after year. More ...