Right, let’s get one thing straight from the off – when most people think of Benidorm, they picture towering concrete blocks, Brits in questionable holiday attire, and enough neon to power half of Valencia. But here’s the thing that’ll knock your flip-flops clean off: tucked away between those infamous beaches lies Old Town Benidorm, a proper Spanish gem that’s been quietly getting on with being absolutely lovely while everyone else was distracted by the karaoke bars.
I’ve been wandering around Spain for the better part of three decades now, and I can tell you that Old Town Benidorm is one of those places that makes you do a proper double-take. One minute you’re dodging selfie sticks on Levante Beach, and the next you’re standing in a medieval square that looks like it’s been lifted straight from a Spanish fairytale. It’s like finding a vintage Rioja in a crate of Lambrini – unexpected, delightful, and guaranteed to change your perspective entirely.
The History of Old Town Benidorm: From Fishing Village to Tourist Treasure
Let’s wind the clock back a bit, shall we? Benidorm’s history dates back to 1325, when it was nothing more than a sleepy fishing village perched on the Mediterranean coast. Picture this: weathered fishermen mending nets, whitewashed houses clinging to the clifftops, and not a Union Jack beach towel in sight. Those were simpler times, when the biggest excitement was probably a particularly good catch of sardines.
The real turning point in Old Town Benidorm’s story came in 1740, and it’s got all the drama of a proper Spanish telenovela. The Virgen del Sufragio, patron saint of Benidorm since her discovery intact among the ashes of a ship in the year 1740, was found miraculously preserved after a shipwreck. This discovery was such a big deal that the locals decided to build an entire church in her honor – the Church of San Jaime, which still dominates the Old Town skyline today.
The Church of San Jaime stands at the upper part of the old town, at the summit of Canfali Hill. It was built in the 18th century following the discovery in 1740 of Virgin Sufragio… built between 1740 and 1780. The construction took the better part of 40 years, which tells you something about the Spanish approach to deadlines – they’re more like gentle suggestions really.
For centuries after, Old Town Benidorm remained largely unchanged, a proper Spanish pueblo where generations of families lived, worked, and probably argued about whose turn it was to sweep the plaza. It wasn’t until the 1960s tourism boom that Benidorm began its transformation into the resort destination we know today. But here’s the brilliant bit – while the rest of the city grew upward and outward, the Old Town stayed true to its roots, preserving that authentic Spanish character that makes it so special today.
Best Places to Visit in Old Town Benidorm
Church of San Jaime (Iglesia de San Jaime)
You can’t miss this beauty – literally. Built in the 18th century, its iconic Mediterranean blue dome makes it an unmistakable landmark in Benidorm’s skyline. The church sits proudly atop Canfali Hill like a azure crown, and it’s absolutely stunning whether you’re approaching from the beach or wandering up through the narrow streets.
Inside, you’ll find the revered image of the Virgen del Sufragio, and the whole place has this wonderfully peaceful atmosphere that’s a world away from the chaos below. The views from the church square are absolutely spectacular – you can see both Levante and Poniente beaches stretching out like golden ribbons, with the Mediterranean sparkling beyond.
Plaza de la Señoría
This is where the magic really happens, people. The main square of Old Town Benidorm is one of those places where you could happily spend an entire afternoon just watching Spanish life unfold. Surrounded by traditional whitewashed buildings with their characteristic blue shutters, it’s got that timeless quality that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The square comes alive in the evenings when the locals emerge for their traditional paseo (evening stroll). Pull up a chair at one of the terrace bars, order yourself a proper Spanish beer – none of that imported nonsense – and settle in for some world-class people watching.
The Balcón del Mediterráneo (Mediterranean Balcony)
Right, this viewpoint is absolutely mandatory, and I’m not having any arguments about it. Located at the tip of the peninsula that separates Levante and Poniente beaches, this scenic lookout offers views that’ll have you scrambling for your camera faster than you can say “Instagram story.”
The best time to visit is during sunset when the Mediterranean turns into liquid gold and the whole coast is bathed in that magical golden hour light that photographers would sell their grandmothers for. It’s also a popular spot for wedding photos, so don’t be surprised if you accidentally photobomb someone’s special moment.
Playa de Mal Pas
Just a stone’s throw from the Old Town, you’ll find beautiful beaches like Playa de Mal Pas. Don’t let the name fool you – “Mal Pas” might translate to “bad step,” but this little cove is anything but bad. It’s a small, sheltered beach tucked between the rocky outcrops, perfect for a quick dip or just soaking up some rays away from the crowds.
The water here is crystal clear, and because it’s somewhat hidden from the main tourist areas, it maintains a more local, authentic feel. It’s like having your own private slice of Mediterranean paradise, just without the private price tag.
The Old Town Streets and Squares
One of the greatest pleasures of Old Town Benidorm is simply wandering its narrow, cobbled streets. Every corner reveals something new – a hidden plaza, an old fountain, a traditional Spanish house with flowers cascading from its balconies. The architecture here is classic Mediterranean coastal style: white walls, terracotta roofs, and those gorgeous blue accents that seem to echo the sea and sky.
Don’t miss Plaza de Castelar, a charming square that’s perfect for a coffee break, or the various smaller plazetas (little squares) that dot the area. Each has its own character and charm, and many host local festivals and events throughout the year.
Best Time of Year to Visit Old Town Benidorm
Here’s where my years of Spanish weather-watching come in handy. The beauty of Old Town Benidorm is that it’s genuinely lovely year-round, but there are definitely optimal times depending on what you’re after.
Spring (March to May) is absolutely brilliant. The weather’s warming up but not yet scorching, the tourists haven’t fully descended, and the Old Town has this lovely, relaxed atmosphere. The average temperatures hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for exploring without melting into a puddle. Plus, this is when the local festivals start kicking off, so you might catch some authentic Spanish celebrations.
This is an ideal time to explore Tapas Alley, it’s not too hot and not too crowded.
Summer (June to August) is peak season, which means crowds but also the most energy and activity. If you don’t mind sharing the cobblestones with fellow travelers and can handle temperatures that’ll make you question your life choices (we’re talking 30°C+ or 86°F+), then summer offers the full Mediterranean experience. The evenings are particularly magical when the streets stay warm long after sunset.
Autumn (September to November) might just be the sweet spot. The weather’s still gorgeous – often better than British summer, let’s be honest – but the crowds have thinned out considerably. September is particularly lovely, with warm sea temperatures perfect for swimming and that golden Mediterranean light that makes everything look like a postcard.
Winter (December to February) is mild and peaceful, though some businesses might have reduced hours. Temperatures rarely drop below 15°C (59°F), making it perfect for those seeking a gentle escape from northern European winters. You’ll have the Old Town largely to yourself, which is either wonderfully romantic or slightly eerie, depending on your perspective.
Where to Stay in Old Town Benidorm
Now, accommodation in the actual Old Town is limited – this isn’t a place that’s been overdeveloped, which is part of its charm. But there are some cracking options nearby that put you within easy walking distance of all the historic goodness.
The beauty of staying near Old Town Benidorm is that you get the best of both worlds: easy access to the historic quarter’s charm and authenticity, plus proximity to Benidorm’s main beaches and amenities. Most of the hotels and apartments are just a short stroll from the Old Town, typically clustered around the Levante Beach area.
Look for accommodations along Avenida Martinez Alejos or the streets near Plaza Triangular – these put you within a 5-10 minute walk of the Old Town while keeping you connected to the main resort facilities. Many of these offer sea views and easy beach access, so you can have your historic exploration and beach time too.
For a more authentic experience, consider looking for traditional Spanish pensions or small family-run hotels in the area. These often provide better insight into local life and typically offer more personalized service than the larger resort hotels.
What to Do and See in Old Town Benidorm
Cultural Experiences
The Old Town isn’t just about pretty buildings and nice views – though it certainly has plenty of both. It’s a living, breathing part of Spanish culture, and there are plenty of ways to dive deeper into that heritage.
Start with the local museums and cultural centers that occasionally host exhibitions about Benidorm’s fishing heritage and maritime history. The transformation from fishing village to tourist destination is fascinating, and understanding this history adds layers to your exploration of the cobbled streets.
Keep an eye out for local festivals and celebrations. The Spanish love a good fiesta, and Old Town Benidorm hosts several throughout the year. The Fiestas Patronales in honor of the Virgen del Sufragio in November are particularly special, with processions, traditional music, and enough Spanish folk dancing to make your head spin.
Culinary Adventures
Right, let’s talk about the food, because this is where Old Town Benidorm really shines. Forget the tourist traps serving questionable paella to sunburned Brits – the Old Town is where you’ll find proper Spanish cuisine that’ll make you weep with joy.
The traditional restaurants here serve authentic Valencian dishes, including proper paella that would make the locals nod in approval rather than shake their heads in horror. Look for places where Spanish families are eating – that’s always your best bet for authentic, quality food.
Don’t miss trying the local seafood, particularly the fresh fish that reflects Benidorm’s fishing heritage. The restaurants near the harbor often serve the catch of the day, prepared simply but perfectly. Pair it with a local white wine from the Valencia region, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’ll spoil you for airport food forever.
Shopping and Local Crafts
The Old Town offers a completely different shopping experience from the tourist-focused stores elsewhere in Benidorm. Here, you’ll find traditional Spanish crafts, local artwork, and authentic souvenirs that actually mean something.
Browse the small boutiques and artisan shops tucked into the historic buildings. Many sell locally-made ceramics, traditional Spanish textiles, and handcrafted jewelry. These make for much more meaningful souvenirs than the mass-produced tat you’ll find in the main tourist areas.
The local market, when it’s running, is a fantastic place to pick up fresh produce, local specialties, and get a real taste of Spanish daily life. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s worth wandering through just to soak up the atmosphere.
Evening Entertainment
As the sun sets, Old Town Benidorm transforms into something quite magical. The harsh daylight gives way to warm, golden illumination from street lamps and restaurant terraces, and the whole area takes on a romantic, almost ethereal quality.
The evening paseo is a Spanish tradition that’s alive and well in the Old Town. Join the locals as they take their leisurely evening stroll through the streets and squares, stopping for drinks and tapas along the way. It’s a lovely way to experience authentic Spanish culture and maybe strike up conversations with locals.
Many of the restaurants and bars have outdoor terraces that are perfect for long, leisurely dinners under the stars. The pace here is deliberately slow – very Spanish – so don’t expect rushed service. Instead, embrace the opportunity to relax and enjoy the moment.
Getting Around Old Town Benidorm
The brilliant thing about Old Town Benidorm is that it’s perfectly sized for exploring on foot. The entire historic quarter can be comfortably covered in a few hours, though you’ll probably want to linger much longer once you start discovering its charms.
The streets can be quite steep in places – remember, the Church of San Jaime is perched atop a hill – so wear comfortable walking shoes. Those cobblestones might look charming, but they’re not particularly forgiving on ankles or high heels.
From the main Benidorm resort areas, the Old Town is easily accessible on foot. From Levante Beach, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk along the coast. The route is well-signposted and mostly flat until you start climbing up into the historic streets themselves.
Final Thoughts: Why Old Town Benidorm Deserves Your Time
Look, I get it. When you’re planning a trip to the Costa Blanca, Old Town Benidorm might not be the first thing that springs to mind. You’re probably thinking beaches, theme parks, maybe a bit of sangria-fueled nonsense. But here’s the thing – skipping the Old Town would be like visiting Paris and avoiding Montmartre, or going to London and never setting foot in a proper pub.
This historic quarter offers something that much of modern Benidorm simply can’t: authenticity. It’s a genuine piece of Spanish coastal heritage that’s managed to survive and thrive despite being surrounded by one of Europe’s most developed resort destinations. The fact that it exists at all is something of a minor miracle.
Whether you’re drawn by the history, the architecture, the food, or simply the chance to experience a different side of this famous resort town, Old Town Benidorm delivers in spades. It’s proof that even in the most unlikely places, you can still find corners of the real Spain – you just need to know where to look.
So next time someone tells you Benidorm is nothing but high-rises and theme bars, you can smile knowingly and tell them about the hidden gem you’ve discovered. Just don’t tell everyone, yeah? Some secrets are worth keeping.
Finally, don’t forget to take time to discover Tapas Alley, or if you’ve been before re-discover the delicious dishes there.
