The picturesque allure of Benidorm Old Town

Lifestyle and activities

Unlike other areas of Benidorm, such as the city centre and the famous Rincón de Loix, the Old Town is a peaceful place with a dated yet charming atmosphere. It sits on the coast, near beaches and a natural park, and close to a wide array of amenities and services within the city. Furthermore, while the Old Town has its share of bars and cafés, Levante—with its abundance of nightlife activities from casinos to dinner shows—can easily be reached in only a few minutes by foot.

Living in Benidorm Old Town provides one with the ease and convenience of being close to a lot of important establishments and leisure facilities, while residing in an environment that is unlike the rest of Benidorm. Many parts of the Old Town do not permit vehicles, making the area more tranquil than other places in the city. It is a quaint, peaceful, and historic haven where residents and visitors can breathe the authentic air of a traditional Spanish town, while still being able to enjoy the amenities, services, and sights of a bustling city.

Attractions in Benidorm Old Town

Balcón del Mediterráneo

At the edge of Punta del Canfali—the promontory in which the Old Town lies—is Balcón del Mediterráneo, a large observation plaza and platform looking out onto the sea. The area is a gigantic balcony in the shape of a pentagon, situated at the base of white-stone steps leading down from Mirador del Castell. From here, people can see and truly appreciate the splendour of the Mediterranean as far as the horizon stretches. Since Punta del Canfali separates the two beaches of Poniente and Levante, the Balcón also offers views of both beaches, as well as the rows of skyscrapers that make up Benidorm’s skyline.

Mirador del Castell

The Balcón del Mediterráneo actually sits on the base of the rocky remains of a centuries-old castle fortress. Known as Mirador del Castell, the area features a long flight of white-stone stairs leading up to a spacious outdoor deck with tiled floors and intricately designed stone pillars. The Mirador offers a piece of history, as well as gorgeous views of Benidorm and the Mediterranean Sea.

Plaza de Santa Ana

Plaza de Santa Ana is a large, tiled plaza square with panoramic views of Benidorm and the Mediterranean Sea. It can be reached as one ascends to the Mirador del Castell. Here, you will find four iron cannons, each pointing to a cardinal point. These cannons are part of the remains of the old castle fortress, destroyed in the 19th century and preserved to represent a piece of the town’s history.

The Church of Saint James and Saint Anne (Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Anna)

This church is a testament to Old Town’s rich and long-standing history. Built in the 1700s, Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Anna is a beautiful hilltop church featuring neoclassical architecture, with whitewashed walls and shiny, blue domes typical of Mediterranean structures. Inside is a statue of the Virgen del Sufragio, the patron saint of Benidorm, encased in her own small chapel.

Elx Park (Parque de Elche)

Situated between Old Town and Mas Pas Beach, Parque de Elche is a spacious public park popular for its large pool-like fountain in the centre, surrounded by towering palm trees. Benches are strategically placed under the palm fronds, providing ideal spots for relaxation. At night, the fountain is beautifully lit, and occasional performances by bands or dancers take place.

Mal Pas Beach (Cala del Mal Pas)

Mal Pas Beach, often overlooked compared to the more famous beaches of Levante and Poniente, is a hidden gem nestled between Punta Canfali and Benidorm Port. This smaller beach offers a quieter, more secluded atmosphere, and its calm, clear waters have earned the beach a Blue Flag since 1987. It’s perfect for those seeking tranquillity, with sunbeds, showers, restrooms, and a First Aid station available.

Benidorm Marina (Puerto Deportivo de Benidorm)

Benidorm’s spacious marina serves as not only a port for sailboats and yachts, but also a scenic setting for visitors to unwind and enjoy the port atmosphere. Fronting the marina are numerous bars, cafés, and restaurants offering outdoor seating facing the water. Patrons can dine or enjoy cold beverages while appreciating the fresh sea breeze and lovely views, especially during sunsets.

At night, the marina comes alive, with waterfront bars featuring live music and dancing.

Club Náutico

Situated on the Benidorm Marina, Club Náutico de Benidorm is a yacht club with an in-house restaurant featuring indoor and roof terrace seating. No membership is required to enter, and visitors are welcome to relax and enjoy the views. Club Náutico also offers rental packages for yacht and boat hire, which include a skipper and some drinks to be enjoyed while cruising on the water.

Plaza Mayor

Located in Paseo de la Alameda, along Calle Gambo and Calle Mayor, Plaza Mayor features a large square with tiled floors and multiple archways. Within the square are outdoor tables belonging to the restaurants and cafés. Shops and services are found on the second floor and feature a wrap-around terrace with white balustrades and small hanging lamps. Plaza Mayor is home to many lovely cafés and shops selling handmade crafts and local goods.

Best bars and restaurants in Old Town

Much of Old Town’s gastronomic scene is centred around tavern-style restaurants along the narrow cobblestone streets and open-air cafés in the squares or on the seafront. Recommended spots include:

• D-vora Gastrobar – Modern Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine with balcony ocean views.

• Bar Mal Pas – Mediterranean restaurant specialising in seafood and steak.

• Taberna Saltoki – Famous for paella, perfect for group dining.

• Italian Twist – Cosy Italian restaurant offering authentic pasta dishes.

• Restaurante Marisquería Córdoba – Renowned for large servings of seafood paella.

• Restaurante Son De Mar – A luxurious waterfront venue with authentic Spanish and seafood dishes.

• Mandolino Beach – A beachfront Italian restaurant with cocktails and a relaxed vibe.

• O’Maras Benidorm – A British pub offering classic cuisine and drinks.

Shopping - Benidorm Old Town

Passeig de la Carretera, located at the northern end of Old Town, is the area’s primary shopping district. This long avenue is lined with clothing and shoe stores, as well as shops selling sporting goods, house décor, jewelry, and other items. Smaller streets branching off offer a variety of shops and stalls. Several cafés, restaurants, and hotels are also situated here, making it an ideal place to stay when visiting the Old Town.

Types of properties for sale and rent in Benidorm Old Town

Residential properties in Benidorm Old Town mostly consist of apartments that echo the area’s iconic architecture, featuring stucco walls, low-pitched shingle roofs, and casement windows opening onto small balconies. Many of these apartments boast a quaint, traditional-Spanish façade, combined with modern interiors and furnishings that make them a comfortable and cozy home. Residents can enjoy the charm of cobblestone streets, quaint plazas, and local shops, while still being within walking distance of the beach.

Benidorm Old Town offers a unique blend of history, charm, and modern convenience. Its peaceful atmosphere, combined with a wide range of local attractions, amenities, and properties, makes it an ideal place for those seeking both tranquillity and convenience by the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking to invest in property, experience the charm of traditional Spanish life, or simply enjoy a peaceful holiday, Benidorm Old Town has something for everyone.