Let’s cut straight to the chase, shall we? One popular question tourists are asking each year is how far is Albir from Benidorm and is it easy to get to.
Albir and Benidorm, those two Costa Blanca gems, are roughly 8 kilometres apart as the seagull flies. That’s about 5 miles for those of us still clinging to imperial measurements back home. Not far at all – but how you tackle this short journey can make all the difference between holiday bliss and transport trauma.
I’ve made this trip more times than I’ve had paella (and that’s saying something), so let me walk you through the options for hopping between these neighbouring but distinctly different Spanish resorts.
The Walking Option: Yes, You Absolutely Can!
Believe it or not, walking from Benidorm to Albir is entirely doable – and rather lovely if you ask me.
Distance: Approximately 8km (5 miles) Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace Cost: Free as the Spanish sunshine (save perhaps for an ice cream stop)
The coastal path connecting these towns is nothing short of gorgeous. Starting from Benidorm’s Levante Beach, you’ll wind your way around the spectacular Serra Gelada Natural Park, passing by the picturesque Punta del Cavall lighthouse. The terrain isn’t particularly challenging, though there are a few gentle hills that might have you puffing slightly after one too many sangrias the night before.
Last summer, I set off at 9am to beat the heat and was utterly spellbound by the Mediterranean views. Crystal-clear waters to my right, dramatic cliffs to my left, and barely another soul in sight. Halfway through, I discovered a tiny cove accessible only by foot – a perfect rest stop for a quick paddle.
Pro tip: Take water, wear proper shoes (not those flimsy flipflops), and slather on the sunscreen – there’s precious little shade along the way.
The Bus: Budget-Friendly But Clock-Watching Required
Cost: €1.50 one-way (absolute bargain!) Journey time: About 30 minutes Frequency: Hourly during peak season
The Line 10 bus connects Benidorm and Albir, running along the main coastal road. It’s ridiculously cheap but requires a bit of planning around the timetable.
Pros: Costs less than a coffee and offers some decent views along the coastal road.
Cons: The hourly schedule can be a right pain if you miss one by a whisker (as I did after spending “just five more minutes” browsing a beachfront shop). The buses also stop running surprisingly early – around 8pm in summer and earlier in winter months – which can scupper evening dinner plans.
During Easter break, I watched in horror as an elderly British couple attempted to pay with a €50 note. The driver’s face was an absolute picture! Bring exact change or prepare for some serious Spanish tutting.
Taxi: The Convenient Option
Cost: €15-20 one-way Journey time: 10-15 minutes
When the sun’s beating down or you’re laden with shopping bags from Benidorm’s markets, a taxi suddenly seems like the most brilliant invention since sliced bread.
Pros: Available around the clock, door-to-door service, and blissfully air-conditioned.
Cons: Not the cheapest for such a short distance. Also, be aware that some drivers might take the scenic route if they clock you as tourists – I once had a driver who seemed determined to show me every residential street in the area despite my polite “por favor, directo.”
The fares can fluctuate slightly depending on time of day (expect a small surcharge at night) and whether you’re being picked up from a taxi rank or pre-booking.
Car Hire: Freedom on Four Wheels
If you’ve hired a car for your holiday (which many do to explore this gorgeous coastline properly), the drive between Benidorm and Albir is straightforward.
Cost: Just petrol money if you already have a hire car Journey time: 10 minutes
Pros: Ultimate flexibility, plus you can stop at the supermarket in La Vila Joiosa on the way back for significantly cheaper groceries than the tourist shops.
Cons: Parking in both towns can be a proper headache during peak season. Prepare to circle like a vulture or pay for parking (roughly €1-1.50 per hour in the public car parks).
During one memorable August visit, I spent longer looking for a parking space in Albir than I did driving there. Lesson learned – now I park on the outskirts and enjoy a five-minute stroll into town.
Cycling: The Happy Medium
Cost: Bike rentals from about €10 per day Journey time: 30-40 minutes at a leisurely pace
Several shops in both Benidorm and Albir offer bicycle hire, and the route between them is mostly flat with dedicated cycle paths in many sections.
Pros: Environmentally friendly, great exercise to offset those holiday indulgences, and you can stop wherever catches your fancy.
Cons: Can be properly sweltering in July and August. My attempt last summer left me looking like I’d jumped fully clothed into the sea.
So, Which Option Wins?
It completely depends on what kind of holidaymaker you are!
For the active types, the walk is genuinely spectacular – just time it for early morning or late afternoon to avoid heatstroke. This is my personal favourite as the coastal views are absolutely worth the effort.
If you’re popping over for dinner or a couple of hours, bite the bullet and take a taxi. The €15-20 fare seems steep, but when you factor in the convenience, it’s worth every cent.
For budget travellers with flexible schedules, the bus is a no-brainer at just €1.50 – just keep that timetable handy. We always check the Omio website for public transport tickets.
Whatever method of transport you choose, the journey between these two resorts is part of the adventure. Benidorm offers that classic British-abroad experience with its high-rise hotels and buzzing nightlife, while Albir delivers a more laid-back, upmarket vibe with its Blue Flag beach and excellent restaurants.
Trust me when I say both are worth visiting – and at just 8km apart, you’d be daft not to experience both on your Costa Blanca holiday!
Scenic Routes and Attractions Along the Way
The journey between Albir and Benidorm is a scenic delight, offering picturesque routes and attractions that enhance your travel experience.
As you commence this short 3-mile trip, take the seafront promenade known as the Avenue of the Stars. It connects Albir to Altea, treating you to stunning coastal views. Don’t miss Playa Cap Blanc, where the Mediterranean Sea and Calpe create a perfect backdrop for photos.
Continue along the cobbled streets of Altea to discover the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Consolidación, a true architectural gem.
For breathtaking vistas, stop at the Mirador viewpoint for panoramic views of the Costa Blanca.
Each of these scenic routes and attractions makes the journey between Albir and Benidorm truly memorable.
So, What’s Actually Worth It?
Here’s the quick-fire summary:
- Want to save money and burn calories? Walk it—but wear proper shoes and go early.
- Want easy, breezy, and budget-friendly? Take the Linea 10 bus.
- Need speed or comfort (or both)? Grab a taxi or pre-booked ride.
- Feeling lucky? Open Uber and cross your fingers.
For me, the sweet spot is usually the bus during the day and a taxi back after tapas and too many tinto de veranos. Walking? Only if the weather’s right and I haven’t had three days of full-English breakfasts.
One Last Thing About How Far Is Albir From Benidorm…
Once you get to Albir, don’t miss the Albir lighthouse walk. It’s an easy, scenic stroll with stunning sea views and—crucially—shade. Plus, there’s usually a man selling cold drinks halfway up. Bless him.
So yes, Albir is close. And totally worth the trip—whether you’re escaping the noise or just chasing a better café con leche. Just don’t forget your suncream and sense of direction.
