Banish the idea that Benidorm is only a cheap beach holiday destination: there’s a luxurious side to the city most don’t experience. Intimate boutique hotels nestle between resorts with modern facilities, top-tier restaurants line the attractive boulevard and quiet coves interrupt the network of wide Mediterranean beaches. Further into the city, you’ll find bags of authentic charm, mouthwatering traditional food and adventurous activities to elevate your days.
From the best places to stay to incredible experiences hidden in plain sight, use the top tips in this guide to plan Benidorm holidays that go beyond the norm yet won’t break the bank. You’ll be surprised at how many ways you can do Benidorm in luxury.
Upgraded travel
Start as you mean to go on and upgrade your travel arrangements so your holiday begins from the moment you enter the airport. Book with an airline that offers a pleasant flying experience with good flight times, additional legroom, more baggage allowance and in-flight dining. Private taxi transfers are the most direct way to access Benidorm once you’re on Spanish soil, and these can be organised in advance.
Upscale accommodation
When it comes to holiday accommodation, ‘upscale’ means something different to everyone. For many, it brings to mind five-star resorts with exceptional amenities and private sea-view villas with personal chefs, while for others it applies to anywhere that ensures peace and quiet.
In Benidorm and the surrounding areas, you’ll find luxury hotels to satisfy all tastes. Just 1.8 miles from the centre is The Level at Meliá Villaitana, a high-end resort featuring facilities to keep the whole family happy, from a kids club to a golf course. Drive 20 minutes out of Benidorm and you’ll reach Calpe, a picturesque town in a beautiful coastal setting that feels a world away from the city.
Fine dining
Forgo the lively bars and pubs of Levante Beach at the centre of the tourist trail and instead head over to Poniente Beach. Here, a parade of quality hotels and restaurants offer peaceful dining options inside or overlooking the water, serving local dishes and culinary favourites from around the world.
Top choices for your consideration include the highly-rated La Falua Café Pub and Restaurant Ulia, and Amigos Restaurant and Roof Terrace Benidorm which serves well-priced steaks and other international cuisine in a relaxing laidback setting.
Exceptional activities
Discover Benidorm beyond its beaches – although don’t overlook these entirely, there are peaceful places to indulge in some sea and sand such as the local favourite Playa de Poniente. You could also consider heading out to see on a jet ski if you’re feeling energetic!
If you’re thirsty for culture, explore Benidorm’s Old Town, a maze of paved alleyways with attractive architecture on all sides. Here there are also two museums for a more in-depth understanding of the area including the Maritime Culture Centre Museum. Just 15 minutes to the south is the colourful town of Villajoyosa which was ranked the best hidden gem in Europe in 2024.
