There are two main bays called Levante (sunrise) and Poniente (sunset). Both beaches have awards for having the cleanest beaches in Europe. The skyline of Benidorm is one of it’s most unique and successful features, and is often referred to as the ‘New York of Spain’. The idea to build hotels upwards was dreamt by Benidorm Mayor and businessman Don Pedro Zaragoza who is credited with turning the once sleepy fishing village into international tourist destination. The reason? He wanted as many people as possible to have a sea view!

Areas of Benidorm

Benidorm is split into four distinct areas each with it’s own characteristics and personality.

Poniente - This area covers the left side of the town and stretches right across the bay. It only has a handful of hotels compared to it’s neighbouring area and is mostly residential but it is becoming the ‘exclusive’ side of Benidorm as pricey apartments are continually being developed here.

The New Town - The most popular, and the core region of Benidorm as it is where all vast majority of the hotels are. It also encompasses the large area of shops and bars.

The Old Town - This area is a hidden gem yet sits firmly in the heart of Benidorm between the two beaches. Within the Old Town hides a real taste of Spanish culture and history with narrow streets, old buildings and a fantastic shopping zone.

Rincon - Translated as ‘the corner’, Rincon is the area just under the hillside which stretches from the beach to the campsite.

Quick facts

• The official population is about 68,000 but there are probably around 110,000 people actually living in the town.
• There are 140 buildings officially classified as skyscrapers (20 floors or more) which is more than anywhere else in the world, apart from New York.
• The tallest building in Benidorm is the Hotel Grab Bali. It has 52 floors but for superstitious reasons, there is no 13th floor!
• There are well over 40,000 hotel beds plus many apartments which is the highest amount in Europe after London and paris.
• There are more than 800 bars, leaving you spoilt for choice when going for a crafty beer!

Emergency Services (Police, Ambulance, Fire)

112

British Consul

965 216 022

Benidorm Police (non-emergency)

092

Albir/Alfaz Police (non-emergency)

965 887 100

Benidorm Town Hall

965 855 500

Dentist

965 861 860

Alicante Airport

966 919 400

If you are ill but not seriously ill, there are chemists on just about every street corner in Benidorm. This is true for most large towns in Spain and they’re easily located by the flashing pharmacy cross signs outside the store; you can’t miss them! There is a 24 hour chemist on the Avenida Meditteraneo (the road that runs parallel to the beach).