Benidorm is one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, famed for its towering skyscrapers and golden beaches. However, its surroundings also boast charming towns and hidden gems worth visiting.
If you're planning a trip to Benidorm, be sure to explore these nearby towns.
Albir
Just 13 minutes from Benidorm, Albir is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquillity and nature. It’s also close to Altea, with a scenic walk from its beach to the historic centre.
One of Albir’s main attractions is the Sierra Helada Natural Park, where you can hike to the Albir lighthouse and take in breathtaking coastal views.
Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is known for its colourful houses and as the birthplace of the region’s finest chocolate. Just 14 minutes from Benidorm, it also boasts stunning beaches and a breathtaking natural landscape.
A visit to the Chocolate Museum is a must, offering insight into the history and production of this beloved treat. Racó del Conill cove is perfect for a tranquil coastal escape, with its crystal-clear, calm waters.
Altea
Just 16 minutes from Benidorm, Altea is one of the most picturesque towns on the Costa Blanca, renowned for its charming old town with iconic whitewashed streets.
The Church of Our Lady of Consolation, with its striking blue dome, is the town’s most recognisable landmark and offers spectacular Mediterranean views – plus, admission is free.
Other must-visit spots include the Cronistas de España viewpoint and Altea’s beautiful beaches, such as Cap Negret and La Roda.
La Nucía
Just 17 minutes from Benidorm, La Nucía is a paradise for nature lovers, offering excellent hiking and cycling trails alongside top-tier sports facilities.
One of its highlights is Font de la Favara, a stunning natural spot perfect for exploring. The park features a picturesque waterfall with a five-metre drop, but its diverse flora and fauna make it truly special.
Finestrat
Finestrat offers the perfect blend of sea and mountains, with its charming old town at the foot of Puig Campana and its golden sandy beach. True to its name, "Window to the Sea," it’s just a 20-minute drive from Benidorm.
In addition to scenic hiking trails, be sure to visit the San Bartolomé church and the Santísimo Cristo del Remedio hermitage, located atop the castle and surrounded by lush vegetation.
Polop de la Marina
Polop, just 21 minutes from Benidorm, is a town steeped in history and charm. Its castle, of Muslim origin, sits atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the Costa Blanca.
A highlight is the Plaza de los Chorros, with its 221 water spouts and the Gabriel Miró House Museum, which is free to visit. For hiking enthusiasts, the routes through Barranc de la Rubia and Salt per l'Almasere offer great opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Calpe
Calpe is renowned for the towering Peñón de Ifach, a striking 332-metre rock that rises dramatically above the sea and is one of the Costa Blanca's iconic landmarks. The town is just a 23-minute drive from Benidorm, and hiking enthusiasts can trek to its summit for stunning panoramic views.
In the town itself, you’ll find notable attractions like the 16th-century Torreón de Peca and the famous Muralla Roja, a favourite among locals. For beach lovers, Cantal Roig is a must-visit spot.
Guadalest
If you're looking for things to do in Benidorm beyond the beach, a visit to Guadalest is an excellent choice, just a half-hour drive away. This medieval mountain village is one of the most picturesque in Spain, with an impressive castle overlooking a turquoise reservoir.
Don't miss San José Castle, perched atop a rocky hill. From there, you can explore the old town via the Costera del Portal steps, a tunnel carved through the rock.
Torrevieja and its Instagrammable Pink Lagoon
Torrevieja (meaning old tower) is just over an hour from Benidorm, and takes its name from the watchtowers dotted along the coast, which once played a crucial role in defending the region. One of the most iconic is the Torre del Moro or Cabo de Cervera. The town’s promenade and beaches are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Another highlight is the Lagunas de la Mata-Torrevieja Natural Park, famous for its striking Pink Lagoon. This remarkable landscape is also one of the main centres for salt production and export.
Tabarca Island
If you're wondering about Benidorm Island, it’s known as Journalists' Island, and is actually an extension of the Sierra Helada rock massif to the southwest.
However, that's not the only island near the city. Tabarca Island, the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, is about two hours by boat from Benidorm. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and exploring its historic centre. Despite being just 2 km long, its charm is undeniable. Located directly opposite Santa Pola, it’s also ideal for enjoying its beaches.
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