Looking for the traditional side of Benidorm? While many know this city for its beaches and nightclubs, there’s a completely different world waiting in the Benidorm Old Town. This historic quarter, with its winding streets and family-run tapas bars, shows off the real Spanish character that first drew visitors here.
I’m going to share my favourite spots, from the best local restaurants to amazing viewpoints that will make you fall in love with this amazing part of Benidorm.
Where to find Benidorm Old Town
The Old Town sits between the Levante and Poniente beaches, perched on a rocky point that juts out into the Mediterranean. You’ll spot it straight away – it’s the part of Benidorm with narrow, winding streets and traditional white buildings.
You can get there easily by walking up from either beach. From Levante Beach, head towards the high-rise buildings. If you’re coming from Poniente beach, walk along the promenade until you reach the start of the hill.
The area sits on quite a steep hill. The streets are mostly pedestrianised and made of cobblestones. If you’re not keen on walking uphill, there are two lifts – one from the Poniente beach end and another from Plaza Triangular. Otherwise, if you’re on the other side of town, you might consider taking a Benidorm taxi to get there quicker.
The Mediterranean Balcony
Visiting the Mediterranean Balcony (Balcón del Mediterráneo) is one of my favourite things to do in Benidorm, and its free. It’s a white stone viewpoint at the highest point of the Old Town, between the two main beaches.
I suggest visiting the balcony at sunset – the views are absolutely amazing. You can see both beaches stretching out on either side, and on clear days, you might even spot Benidorm Island in the distance.
Church of San Jaime
The Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana is right nearby the balcony, near the middle of the Old Town. It’s the oldest church in Benidorm, built in the 18th century.
The square in front of the church is a lovely spot to sit and people-watch, with plenty of cafes around the edges.
Restaurants and tapas in the Old Town
The Old Town has some of the best food spots in Benidorm. The most popular area is ‘Benidorm’s Tapas Alley‘, which runs from Pl. de la Constitutio and along Santo Domingo. . This narrow street is packed with traditional Spanish tapas bars, each with their own specialities and character.
See below for a map of the best spots for tapas in the Old Town:
Most bars here serve excellent tapas from about €2-4 per plate – incredible value for the quality you get. Between 1:30pm and 4pm tends to be the busiest time as this is when Spanish families come for their main meal of the day.
My favourite spots
Bar La Mejillonera – Famous for their mussels (mejillones) which come in huge portions. The atmosphere is always lively and it’s popular with locals.
Taberna Andaluza – Does the best jamón ibérico in town. Sit at the bar and watch them slice it fresh – pure theatre!
Casa Toni – A tiny place that serves the most incredible tortilla española. Get there early as they often sell out.
If you’re unsure where to go, just follow the locals – if a place is busy with Spanish people, you know the food will be authentic and delicious!
As the sun sets, the Old Town transforms completely. The streets light up with fairy lights strung between buildings, and the bars fill up with both locals and visitors enjoying drinks and tapas. The area around Santo Domingo becomes particularly lively, with live music floating out of various bars and plenty of outdoor seating.
As the sun sets, the Old Town takes on a different feel. The streets light up with fairy lights strung between buildings, and the bars fill up with both locals and visitors enjoying drinks and tapas. The area around Santo Domingo is particularly lively in the evenings, with live music floating out of various bars.
Shopping in the Old Town
The main shopping area runs along Passeig de la Carretera and Martínez Alejos street. The shops here are much more interesting than the typical tourist stores you’ll find elsewhere in Benidorm.
You’ll discover:
- Local boutiques selling unique Spanish garments
- Traditional ceramics and pottery shops
- Spanish delicatessen stores with local products
- Sweet shops selling traditional Spanish treats like turrón and polvorones
- Small art galleries featuring local artists
The shops here tend to close for siesta between 2pm and 5pm, so plan your shopping accordingly. Many stay open quite late in the evening, particularly during summer.
Wednesday market in the Old Town
Every Wednesday, the Old Town comes alive with its weekly market in Benidorm. Running from about 8am to 2pm, this market spreads across several streets and is a real treat for visitors.
You’ll find everything from fresh local produce to handmade crafts, clothing, and unique souvenirs. The fruit and vegetables here are incredible – so much fresher and cheaper than the supermarkets. Local farmers bring their produce down from the mountains, including amazing oranges, lemons, and seasonal specialities.
I always recommend getting there early, around 9am, when the best items are still available and before the midday heat becomes too intense. Bring cash as most vendors don’t accept cards, and don’t be afraid to practice your Spanish – the stallholders are usually very patient and friendly.
I’d suggest getting there early (around 9am) when it’s cooler and less busy, especially in the summer.
Museums worth visiting
Boca del Calvari Museum
This small museum on Passeig de la Carretera tells the story of how Benidorm changed from a tiny fishing village into the city it is today. It’s in a lovely old building and has some really interesting old photos of Benidorm.
L’Hort de Colón
This is a restored 19th-century house showing what life was like in old Benidorm. You’ll find it near the church square. The gardens are lovely for a peaceful break from the busy streets.
Local festivals and events
The Old Town is the heart of Benidorm’s local celebrations, and if you’re lucky enough to visit during a festival, you’re in for a real treat.
Festes Majors Patronals (November) – The biggest celebration of the year, with processions, music, and the beautiful flower offering at the church. The whole Old Town is decorated, and there are concerts and traditional dancing.
Three Kings parade (January 5th) – A magical evening when the Three Kings parade through the narrow streets, throwing sweets to children. The atmosphere is absolutely wonderful.
San Juan (June 23rd) – Midsummer celebrations with bonfires on the beach and late-night festivities in the Old Town bars.
La Magdalena (March) – A religious procession that’s been happening for centuries, with locals dressed in traditional costumes.
Getting around the Old Town
The entire Old Town is walkable, but those cobblestone streets can be slippery when wet, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The area is completely car-free in most parts, which makes it lovely for wandering.
If you have mobility issues, stick to the main streets like Passeig de la Carretera, which are flatter and more accessible. The lifts I mentioned earlier are also helpful for avoiding the steepest climbs.
Best times to visit
The Old Town is beautiful all day, but I find it most enjoyable in the morning or late afternoon when the Benidorm weather is cooler. Many shops close between 2pm and 5pm for siesta, but the restaurants and bars stay open. This afternoon break is actually a perfect time to sit with a drink and watch the world go by.
In summer, those narrow streets provide wonderful shade from the sun, making the Old Town perfect for afternoon walks when the beaches become too hot. Winter visits are lovely too – the Old Town rarely feels crowded, and you can really appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.
