Benidorm Old Town
Discover Benidorm's authentic heart in its charming Old Town, a maze of whitewashed streets, vibrant plazas, and the famous Tapas Alley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere and tapas
Benidorm Old Town
Best Time
Lively atmosphere and tapas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Benidorm's authentic heart in its charming Old Town, a maze of whitewashed streets, vibrant plazas, and the famous Tapas Alley.
"Escape the high-rises and get lost in the charming, winding streets of Benidorm's Old Town."
🎯 Wander the Winding Streets
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town for a true taste of Benidorm's history. :camerawithflash:
🍻 Dive into Tapas Alley
Sample a variety of tapas from different bars on Calle de los Gatos for a true culinary experience. :forkandknifewithplate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tapas Alley (Calle de los Gatos)
Old Town
A vibrant street brimming with tapas bars, offering a delicious culinary journey through Spanish flavors.

Balcón del Mediterráneo
Old Town
Stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and Benidorm's coastline.

San Jaime y Santa Ana Church
Old Town
A picturesque church with blue domes, a serene spot amidst the bustling old town streets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Benidorm's Old Town
Tapas Alley: A Culinary Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wander the Winding Streets
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town for a true taste of Benidorm's history. :camerawithflash:
🍻 Dive into Tapas Alley
Sample a variety of tapas from different bars on Calle de los Gatos for a true culinary experience. :forkandknifewithplate:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cobbled streets are beautiful but can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Catch the Sunset Views
Head to the Balcón del Mediterráneo for breathtaking sunset views over the sea. :sunriseovermountains:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wander the Winding Streets
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town for a true taste of Benidorm's history. :camerawithflash:
🍻 Dive into Tapas Alley
Sample a variety of tapas from different bars on Calle de los Gatos for a true culinary experience. :forkandknifewithplate:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cobbled streets are beautiful but can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Catch the Sunset Views
Head to the Balcón del Mediterráneo for breathtaking sunset views over the sea. :sunriseovermountains:
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Tapas are a great way to eat affordably, with many bars offering deals on drinks and small plates. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the authentic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Benidorm Old Town, a delightful contrast to the modern resort. The highlight for many is the culinary adventure offered by Tapas Alley, with its endless variety of delicious small bites. While it can get very crowded, especially in the evenings, the lively energy and picturesque streets make it a must-visit.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily walk from the new town to the Old Town, it's about a 15-20 minute stroll. Alternatively, local buses run frequently and are a cheap option. Taxis are also readily available if you prefer a quicker journey.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town can be challenging due to narrow streets and high demand. There are several public car parks nearby, but they can get busy, especially during peak season. Consider using public transport or walking if possible.
Benidorm does not have a tram system. The nearest tram station is in Alicante, from where you would need to take a bus or taxi to Benidorm. If you are arriving by tram to Alicante, the bus is the most common way to reach Benidorm.
The best way to explore Benidorm Old Town is on foot. Its charm lies in its narrow, winding streets, which are best discovered by wandering. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven.
The Old Town is conveniently located close to both Levante Beach and Poniente Beach. You can easily walk to Levante Beach in about 10-15 minutes and Poniente Beach is a slightly longer but still manageable walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Benidorm Old Town is a public area and does not require any tickets for entry. You are free to wander its streets and plazas at any time.
Benidorm Old Town is accessible 24/7. However, shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, with many coming alive in the late afternoon and evening, especially in Tapas Alley.
While the Old Town itself is free to enter, individual attractions like museums or specific historical sites might have small entrance fees. The San Jaime y Santa Ana Church is generally free to visit.
Yes, there are numerous hotels, apartments, and Airbnbs available for booking in Benidorm Old Town, offering a more immersive experience.
Yes, guided tours are available that can offer historical insights and highlight the best spots in the Old Town, including Tapas Alley. Check local tourist information for options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Tapas Alley, also known as Calle de los Gatos, is a famous street in Benidorm's Old Town lined with numerous bars and restaurants serving a wide variety of delicious tapas. It's a must-visit for food lovers.
Popular tapas include Patatas Bravas, Chorizo in cider, garlic prawns, and various small bites on toasted bread. Many bars offer unique specialties, so be adventurous!
Absolutely! Beyond tapas, you'll find restaurants serving traditional Spanish cuisine, seafood, paella, and even international options like Ukrainian food.
Pintxos is frequently recommended for its excellent tapas. La Cava Aragonesa is known for its extensive selection and lively atmosphere. El Bodegon Aurrera and El Txoko are also highly praised.
Tapas prices can vary, but generally, you can expect to pay between €2-€5 per tapa. Many bars offer a tapa with a drink for a set price, making it a very affordable way to dine.
📸 📸 Photography
The Balcón del Mediterráneo offers stunning panoramic views. The narrow, whitewashed streets, the blue-domed San Jaime y Santa Ana Church, and the vibrant atmosphere of Tapas Alley are also fantastic photo opportunities.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for capturing the charm of the streets and the sea views. Evenings are great for capturing the lively atmosphere of Tapas Alley, though it can be crowded.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from the staff or patrons before taking close-up shots, especially during busy meal times.
There are no general restrictions on photography in public areas of Benidorm Old Town. However, always be mindful of people's privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the narrow streets and expansive views, while a good low-light capability is beneficial for evening shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for ice cream shops scattered throughout the Old Town for a sweet treat. Many restaurants in Tapas Alley are accommodating, and you can often find simpler options like bread and cheese that appeal to younger palates. The proximity to the beaches also means you can easily combine a stroll through the Old Town with some beach time.
💰 Budget Travelers
Accommodation in the Old Town can also be more affordable than in the prime beachfront areas, with options like apartments and budget-friendly hotels available. Walking is the best way to get around, saving on transportation costs. Many of the Old Town's charms, like its streets and viewpoints, are free to enjoy.
couples
An evening spent exploring Tapas Alley is ideal for couples looking for a fun and social dining experience. Share a variety of small dishes, enjoy a glass of wine, and soak in the lively ambiance. Many of the bars have a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Contrasting Charm of Benidorm's Old Town
Exploring the Old Town is best done on foot, allowing you to stumble upon hidden gems, local artisan shops, and quaint cafes. The architecture itself tells a story, with balconies overflowing with bougainvillea and laundry lines strung between buildings. It’s a photographer's delight, offering endless opportunities for capturing picturesque scenes.
While the modern part of Benidorm is known for its lively nightlife and entertainment, the Old Town offers a different kind of buzz, particularly in the evenings. Tapas Alley comes alive with locals and tourists mingling, creating a vibrant and convivial atmosphere. It’s a place that truly showcases the duality of Benidorm, offering something for every type of traveler.
Tapas Alley: A Culinary Hotspot
The concept of tapas is central to the experience here. You can hop from one establishment to another, trying a different specialty at each. Popular choices include the classic Patatas Bravas, spicy chorizo cooked in cider, succulent garlic prawns, and various creative pinchos (small snacks on bread). Many bars offer a 'tapa y caña' (tapa and a small beer) deal, making it an affordable and social way to dine.
Some of the most frequently recommended spots include Pintxos, known for its excellent selection, and La Cava Aragonesa, celebrated for its extensive variety and energetic ambiance. El Bodegon Aurrera and El Txoko are also highly regarded by visitors. The atmosphere in Tapas Alley is electric, especially as the evening progresses, making it a perfect spot for a fun and delicious night out.
Key Landmarks and Viewpoints
Another significant landmark is the San Jaime y Santa Ana Church. This beautiful church, with its distinctive blue domes, provides a serene contrast to the bustling streets surrounding it. It's a peaceful place to pause and admire the local architecture.
Beyond these specific sites, the entire Old Town is a visual feast. The narrow, cobbled streets themselves, lined with traditional whitewashed buildings and adorned with vibrant flowers, create a picturesque setting. Simply wandering through these alleys, discovering hidden squares and local shops, is an experience in itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit