Benidorm is not just a popular resort on Spain’s Costa Blanca but also a unique place with an intriguing history, remarkable achievements, and features that set it apart from other Spanish cities. Here are some fascinating facts about Benidorm that might capture the interest of future visitors as well as those who are already enchanted by this exceptional city.

Benidorm is Called the “Spanish Manhattan”

Among Spanish resort cities, Benidorm stands out with its unique skyline, featuring many high-rise buildings that have become its signature. The city ranks as one of the leaders in the world for skyscrapers per capita, only trailing New York City in density. This vertical growth allows for the preservation of natural areas around the city, making Benidorm one of the most environmentally sustainable resorts on the coast.

The First City in Spain to Legalize Bikinis

In the 1950s, Benidorm became the first city in Spain to legalize wearing bikinis on its beaches. At the time, this bold move sparked debates and controversy, but it quickly made the city popular with tourists. Benidorm began attracting both Spanish nationals and foreign visitors who sought freedom and new experiences, marking the city as a symbol of modern resort culture and freedom.

The Capital of Festivals and Celebrations

Benidorm is known for its busy calendar of events and festivities. One of the most famous is the Benidorm International Song Festival, held since 1959, which attracts musicians and spectators from all over the world. Additionally, Benidorm hosts colorful carnivals, fiestas, and traditional Spanish celebrations like Fallas and Moors and Christians. Major concerts, music festivals, and sports events are also frequently held here, making Benidorm the cultural and entertainment hub of the Costa Blanca.

A City with the Mildest Climate on the Mediterranean

Benidorm is known for its mild climate: extreme heat is rare in summer, and winter is pleasantly mild. Surrounded by mountains, the city is protected from northern winds, ensuring comfortable temperatures year-round. The average annual temperature is about 19°C, with over 300 sunny days each year. This makes it an ideal place for both holidays and year-round living.

Benidorm was a Pioneer of Package Tours in Europe

In the 1960s, Benidorm became one of the first European cities to offer "package tours," making it a popular destination for tourists from the UK, Germany, and other countries. These packages, which included flights, transfers, hotels, and meals, made vacations affordable for a large number of Europeans. This tourism model allowed millions to discover Spain and helped establish Benidorm as a pioneer in mass tourism.

Benidorm Has Two Large Blue Flag Beaches

Benidorm takes pride in its clean, well-maintained beaches. Levante Beach and Poniente Beach are the city’s main beaches, consistently awarded the Blue Flag for high standards of cleanliness and safety. The beaches in Benidorm are ideal for families, thanks to the calm sea, soft sand, and excellent infrastructure, which includes cafes, restaurants, sports facilities, and water sports areas.

A Lively Nightlife and Variety of Entertainment

Benidorm is famous for its vibrant nightlife and abundance of entertainment. The city offers more than 150 nightclubs, bars, and restaurants, making it one of the top spots for evening fun on the Costa Blanca. Every night, there’s something to enjoy for everyone, from live music and dance to shows and karaoke. For family fun, there are water parks, theme parks, and attractions like Terra Mitica and Aqualandia.

A Popular Destination for British Visitors

Benidorm has become especially popular among British visitors, who not only vacation here but often choose it as their permanent home. In fact, neighborhoods and areas have emerged where English pubs, shops, and cafes featuring British cuisine are common. This has led to Benidorm being affectionately called “Little Britain” on the Costa Blanca. The British community has added its own cultural flavor to the city, which now reflects a blend of traditions and cultures.

Conclusion

Benidorm is much more than just a resort town on the coast. It’s a place with an extraordinary history, bold decisions, and a unique style that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. Benidorm offers its visitors not only beach holidays but also a wealth of entertainment, events, and opportunities for active recreation. This city has preserved its charm and atmosphere of freedom, making it a true gem of the Costa Blanca.