Who said that Benidorm was just beach and sun? Its streets are the result of years and years of Alicante tradition. Benidorm’s Old Town is a clear reflection of this tradition. Don’t miss a single line in this publication to discover all the secrets of Benidorm’s Old Town… What are the places you can’t miss? Where to start?
The origins of the city of Benidorm
As you can imagine, the Old Town marks the origin of the city of Benidorm and were its first streets. It was born as a small coastal and fishing village in the Alicante region. Its privileged enclave has always stood out for any activity in the sea, in fact, in the 14th century its famous castle was built in Punta Canfali. This geographical resource consisted of a natural cliff that marked a point of union for the two beaches of the municipality.
A century later, the Costa Blanca was besieged by pirates. In one of their attacks, a large part of the castle was destroyed. Although it was not until the 19th century that it was completely destroyed, during the interventions in the War of Independence. At the end of the 20th century, it began to be refurbished and rehabilitated. Today, it is a key point in the city that brings together tourists to enjoy music, fairs, traditional gastronomy and craftsmen.
In the summer months, the square is the venue for the “Nits al Castell” (Nights at the Castle). Nights when the square is full of life.
Touring the Old Town of Benidorm
The Castle is the heart of the Old Town. The Balcony overlooking the Mediterranean, which is drawn by the old castle, is the symbol of the city. The Plaza del Castell, as it is called today, is the end point of a network of narrow, pedestrianised streets. Between these streets, you can find the parish church of San Jaime and its viewpoint. Its characteristic bluish dome is never missing from postcards of the city. Inside, you will find the chapel of the Virgen del Sufragio, patron saint of the city and an essential point for official events in Benidorm.
From the Plaza del Castell, you can access the main port of the city and a small cove, known as the Cala del Mal Pas. The descent is via a beautiful cobbled staircase and at the harbour you can stroll down to the lighthouse.
Once here, there is a lovely park next to the sea waiting for you. We are talking about Elche Park. A whole esplanade with palm trees and swings for the little ones. Also, if you come on the right days, you will find small street markets. This is the beginning of the Paseo de la Playa de Poniente.
Returning to the city centre, most of its streets are pedestrian and cobblestone. These streets include Paseo de la Carretera, Calle Alameda, Calle Ruzafa and Calle Gambo. In these streets, you will find plenty of leisure options in the form of restaurants and other shops. Clothing shops, ice-cream parlours with traditional Alicante ice-cream, cafés of well-known franchises, local restaurants, craft shops… And many more! There is no better way to enjoy the city to the fullest, both as a couple and as a family.
But if you feel like enjoying some classic tapas, you can’t miss the famous Basque area. This area is full of tapas bars. And if you feel like dancing and enjoying the city’s nightlife, this area is also home to El Callejón. There are several streets with pubs that are well known even outside the city.
On the other hand, if you start heading from the Old Town towards the Levante Beach, you will pass the famous Plaza del Torrejó. This is where the city’s old Town Hall used to stand. This building has been refurbished to house other activities of tourist interest, such as the town’s main tourist office.
If you’ve never been to Benidorm… With this guide you won’t miss anything in the Old Town! At Hoteles Benidorm we are waiting for you to discover the city of Benidorm from a different point of view.
