When it comes to planning a holiday on Spain’s Costa Blanca, people are often confused as to the difference between Alicante vs Benidorm.

In this post, we hope to offer some insights to help with travellers planning their trips, helping them discern the differences between the two destinations. Our goal is to empower our readers to create unique holidays that suit their preferences perfectly. We live in Alicante city and that might lead you to expect bias, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We hold a Genuine affection for both Alicante and Benidorm and that drives our narrative. In fact we were on a holiday in Benidorm when we first made the decision to move from the UK to Spain.

One important thing to be aware of is the difference between Alicante the region and Alicante the city. Think of Alicante like a big area on a map. In this area, there’s a city called Alicante, but there are also other places nearby that are part of the same area. Benidorm is one of these places. So, when people talk about Alicante, they might mean the city or the whole area around it. In this post , we are referring to Alicante the city.

Both destinations offer unique experiences but cater to different types of tourists. Here’s a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which destination is perfect for your next getaway.

Alicante: A Blend of Culture and Relaxation

1. Atmosphere and Vibe:

• Cultural and Authentic: Alicante is a vibrant Spanish city that warmly welcomes visitors without relying solely on tourism. Its historic old town, local festivals, and an excellent repututation for good food create a relaxed and culturally rich atmosphere
• Mixed Use: Serving as a functional city with a mix of locals and tourists, Alicante balances daily life with tourism, providing an authentic Spanish experience.

2. Beaches:

• Playa del Postiguet: Located conveniently near the city centre, this beach is known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. It has the feel of a very international city beach which makes for a great vibe.
• San Juan Beach: A short distance from the city (via tram ride) , San Juan Beach is longer and quieter, ideal for those seeking a more relaxed beach experience.

3. Accommodations:

• Variety of Options: Alicante offers a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to luxury resorts and many Airbnb apartments. Some accommodations are located in historic buildings, adding to the cultural experience.

4. Activities:

• Historical Sites: Rich in history, Alicante features landmarks like the Santa Bárbara Castle, the Explanada de España promenade, and various museums and world class art galleries.
• Shopping and Dining: The city is great for shopping with a variety of big name brands. There is the famous Avenida de Maisonnave which has the best shopping right in the city centre. There are also two shopping centres in the city (Plaza Mar 2 and Gran Via). When it comes to food, Alicante is a stand out destination boasting some of the finest restaurants in the country. Whether you crave fresh seafood, traditional rice dishes, or mouth-watering tapas, your taste buds are in for a treat.
• Festivals: Alicante hosts loads of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Bonfires of Saint John (Hogueras de San Juan) that take place in June.

Benidorm: Lively and Entertainment-Focused

1. Atmosphere and Vibe:

• Lively and Energetic: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Benidorm is often considered a party destination. It’s popular with tourists, especially from the UK (due to the large ex-pat community), looking for a lively and fun holiday experience.
• Tourist-Centric: The town is filled with bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, offering a range of pubs and shows tailored to the UK market.

2. Beaches:

• Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente: Benidorm boasts two main beaches, both of which are expansive and well-maintained. These beaches are known for their lively atmosphere and are packed with facilities and activities. Levante is the beach on the English side and Poniente is the Spanish side. Our favourite is poniente for family visits.
• Water Sports: Numerous opportunities for water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, and boat excursions.

3. Accommodations:

• High-Rise Hotels: The dramatic skyline is dominated by high-rise hotels and apartments, providing a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury. It’s often called the Miami of Spain and you can totally see why when you stand on the beach and look across the bay
• All-Inclusive Resorts: Many visitors opt for all-inclusive packages, which are quite common in Benidorm but there is every other option in between; accomodation only, Bed and Breakfast, Half Board and Full Board. Depending on how often you want to eat out.

4. Activities:

• Theme Parks: Home to several theme parks and attractions such as Terra Mítica, Aqualandia, and Mundomar, making it ideal for family holidays.
• Day Trips: Benidorm is close to attractions like the Algar Waterfalls and Guadalest, a picturesque village in the mountains.
• Festivals: Benidorm is home to the famous BenidormFest competition that takes place in January of each year where Spain decides on it’s song to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest for that year. There is also a fabulous and fast growing Fancy Dress festival that takes place every November that attracts more than 40,000 people.

Historical Development

Alicante

• Historical Roots: With a history dating back to ancient times, Alicante has been a landmark city for hundreds of years with influences from the Romans, Moors, and Christians. This historical depth is reflected in its architecture, cultural landmarks, and traditions.
• Urban Growth: The city developed as a significant port and trading centre, leading to a more diverse economic base and a focus on both commerce and tourism.

Benidorm

• Modern Development: Benidorm’s significant growth started in the mid-20th century when it transformed from a small fishing village into a major tourist destination. The town’s development was heavily influenced by the tourism boom of the 1960s and 1970s.
• Tourism-Focused: Designed and built with tourism in mind, Benidorm has an urban layout that prioritises high-rise hotels, apartments, and tourist amenities.

Urban Landscape

Alicante

• Historic Architecture: Alicante features a blend of historical and modern architecture with key landmarks such as the Santa Bárbara Castle, Casa Carbonnell, El Palacio de diputacion, Plaza Luceros and the Explanada de España promenade.
• Low to Mid-Rise Buildings: The cityscape is characterised by a mix of historic buildings and modern developments, with fewer high-rise buildings compared to Benidorm.

Benidorm

• High-Rise Skyline: Benidorm is known for its skyline dominated by high-rise hotels and apartment buildings. It has one of the highest concentrations of skyscrapers per capita in the world. The skyline include the striking Intempo building with is the 5th tallest building in the whole of Spain and the tallest residential building in Europe.
• Beach-Oriented Layout: The urban layout is designed to maximise access to its main beaches, Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente, with extensive beach front promenades and bars, cafes and restaurants all the way along.

Target Audience

Alicante

• Diverse Tourist Base: Alicante attracts a diverse range of visitors, including those interested in culture, history, shopping, and gastronomy. It is also a functional city with a significant local population, attracting business travellers and students.
• Cultural Tourism: Many tourists visit Alicante for its historical sites, museums, and authentic Spanish experiences.

Benidorm

• Mass Tourism: Benidorm primarily targets tourists looking for a vibrant, all-inclusive holiday experience. It is especially popular with families and young adults seeking nightlife and entertainment.
• International Focus: The town is a major destination for international tourists, particularly from the UK, and offers numerous amenities and services tailored to these visitors. Although the old Town of Benidorm is gorgeous and the Spanish side of Benidorm does attract a lot of the older Spanish generations too.

Nightlife in Alicante vs Benidorm

The nightlife culture in Benidorm and Alicante offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. Benidorm is renowned for its vibrant and energetic nightlife, making it a favourite amongst party-goers and young tourists. The town is packed with an array of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, many of which are tailored to international visitors, particularly from the UK. Popular spots like the “English Square” buzz with activity until the early hours, offering a mix of live music, karaoke, and themed parties. Benidorm’s drinking culture is prominent and lively, with many all-inclusive resorts and bars offering drink specials and happy hours, creating a festive and social environment where bar-hopping and themed parties are the norm.

In contrast, Alicante offers a more relaxed and culturally rich nightlife experience. While the city has lively bars and nightclubs, especially around the old town area of Santa Cruz which is really popular with a younger crowd at weekends. Alicante is also home to several very well known nightclubs such as the iconic Marmarela which attracts some of the worlds top DJ’s. Overall, the atmosphere is generally more sophisticated and laid-back. Alicante’s nightlife often includes enjoying tapas at a traditional Spanish bar, listening to live jazz or sipping cocktails and chatting whilst a DJ plays a more Spanish focused set. Or simply strolling along the Explanada de España with an ice cream soaking up the atmosphere. The drinking culture in Alicante is more subdued and traditional, focusing on enjoying drinks as part of a cultural and social experience. Visitors and locals alike enjoy sipping wine or cocktails at tapas bars, often paired with gourmet bites, emphasising quality.

This difference in the nightlife culture between Alicante vs Benidorm means that Benidorm is ideal for those seeking a high-energy, party-filled holiday, while Alicante generally appeals to those looking for a more authentic, cultural evening out. Both destinations offer unique, rich and enjoyable experiences, depending on what kind of holiday you are looking for.

Benidorm: A Tale of Two Parts

Benidorm is actually quite a fascinating blend of two distinct areas, each offering a unique experience. The town is effectively divided into the Spanish part, centred around the quieter Poniente Beach, and the English part, centred around the bustling Levante Beach. The Spanish part near Poniente Beach, which is great for families with young children, is characterised by a more relaxed atmosphere. Then, right in the middle of the two beaches is the vibrant old town with its traditional tapas bars, local markets, and a more authentic Spanish vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy leisurely strolls along the promenade and dine at local restaurants. On the other hand, the English part near Levante Beach is renowned for its lively and energetic environment, catering predominantly to international tourists, especially from the UK and is a truly fun place to be.

Alicante: An Elegant Mediterranean Experience

Alicante exudes an undeniable sense of style that permeates every aspect of the city’s ambience. From its chic waterfront promenades adorned with sleek yachts to its fashionable boutiques lining the charming streets of the Old Town, Alicante effortlessly blends traditional Spanish charm with contemporary flair. The city’s architectural treasures, such as the strikingly modern Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante and the elegant Casa Carbonell, stand as testaments to its sophisticated aesthetic sensibilities.

Renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, Alicante’s trendy bars and rooftop lounges offer the perfect setting for socialising and indulging in the latest cocktail trends. Whether strolling along the bustling Explanada de España or dining in one of its trendy rooftop restaurants with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, Alicante radiates an undeniable aura of style and elegance that captivates visitors and locals alike.

FAQ’s Alicante vs Benidorm

These are some of the questions that we get asked a lot:

• Which has better beaches?
  • Alicante is known for its beautiful, sandy beaches like Playa del Postiguet (which is the city beach) and San Juan Playa. Benidorm also boasts stunning beaches such as Levante and Poniente, famous for their golden sands and clear waters. Both cities offer great beach experiences. Benidorm’s beaches are both lively and great for families. Poniente is best for disabled access. Meanwhile in Alicante, Postiguet is a very busy beach. being so close to the city it is full of tourists and residents all the time. It can get very busy in the summer. Out top tip: head to the far end where it’s a little less packed and there’s also a nice chiringuito. San Juan playa is a 7km long stretch of white sand. It’s very beautiful and much quieter. (Beaches: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Draw)
• Is Alicante or Benidorm better for nightlife?
  • If you’re looking for a loud and “in your face” nightlife, Benidorm is the place to be. With numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment options, you can party until the early hours. Alicante also has a good nightlife scene, particularly in the Old Town, but it’s generally more laid-back compared to Benidorm. (Nightlife: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Benidorm)
• Which is more family-friendly?
  • Both cities are family-friendly, but they offer different experiences. Alicante has a more cultural and relaxed atmosphere with attractions like the Santa Barbara Castle and the Explanada de España. Benidorm, on the other hand, is known for its theme parks such as Terra Mítica and Aqualandia, making it a hit with kids. (Family Friendly: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Benidorm)

• How attractive is each city?
  • Alicante is rich in history and culture, featuring landmarks like the Castle of Santa Barbara, the MARQ Archaeological Museum, and beautiful parks. Benidorm is famous for its skyscrapers, hectic nightlife, and fun attractions like the Benidorm Palace (we love this place!) and the Old Town with its narrow streets and lively atmosphere. (Eye Appeal : Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Alicante)
• Which city offers better dining options?
  • Both Alicante and Benidorm have fantastic dining scenes but it depends on what you are looking for. Alicante has a very vibrant gastronomic scene boasting some of the best restaurants in Spain. Although it also has a lots of tapas and mid range restaurants as well as the expensive ones. The focus tends to be on more traditional Spanish dishes. Benidorm offers a wide variety of cuisines, from British pubs to international restaurants, catering mostly to tourists. You can get everything here that would expect to find in the UK. Including the great British breakfast. In terms of budget, eating out in Benidorm is likely to be a cheaper experience. (Dining: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Alicante)
• How do the costs of accommodation and activities compare?
  • Generally, Benidorm is known for being more budget-friendly, with plenty of affordable accommodation and dining options. As Benidorm is primarily a holiday resort you will find a lot more Hotels with swimming pools. Alicante might be slightly more expensive, but it offers a more authentic Spanish experience. (Accomodation: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Benidorm)
• Is Alicante or Benidorm better for cultural experiences?
  • Alicante wins hands down if you’re looking for culture. It has a rich history, museums, and historic sites as well as hosting loads of festivals. Benidorm is more about modern entertainment and traditional leisure activities. It’s excellent for karaoke, tribute acts and live music. (Culture: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Alicante)

• Which city is more suitable for an expats lifestyle?
  • Both cities have thriving expat communities, but Benidorm is particularly popular with British expats due to its familiarity and abundance of English-speaking services. Alicante also has a significant expat population but offers a more traditional Spanish lifestyle. (Expats lifestyle: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Benidorm)
• What is the transportation like in each city?
  • Alicante has a well-developed public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a busy international airport. Benidorm also has good transportation links, including buses and easy access to Alicante airport. Alicante is much closer to the airport (The bus only takes 20 minutes from the airport). The tram is a great, clean and cheap way to move around the city. (Transport: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Alicante)

• Which city is less crowded or more relaxing?
  • Alicante tends to be less crowded and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling streets of Benidorm. Somebody once described Benidorm as a cross between Blackpool and Ibiza which is quite a good way to imagine it if you haven’t been before. If you’re looking for a slightly quieter holiday, Alicante might be the better choice, although, that is not to say Alicante is a quiet place. In fact it’s a bustling city and the beach can get packed in the summer but the vibe feels a bit more relaxed. (Relaxed: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Alicante)
• How do the shopping options compare between the two?
  • Alicante offers excellent shopping. In the elegant Avenida Maisonnave you have a mix of high-street shops including famous Spanish brands such as Zara, Mango, Pull&Bear, Desigual and Massimo Dutti. As well as two shopping centres and the iconic Central Market. Benidorm tends to be more about souvenir shops, smaller shopping centres, and markets catering to tourists. (Shopping: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Alicante)

• Which city has a better climate throughout the year?
  • Both Alicante and Benidorm enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. You can expect plenty of sunshine in both cities year-round. The two places are so close that they pretty much enjoy the same weather. Although Alicante does hold the title of the “Sunniest city in Europe”. You can still do beach days in the winter in both towns, although the sea will be very chilly and in the mornings and evenings you’ll need a jacket. (Weather: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Draw)
• What outdoor activities are available in each location?
  • Alicante is great for hiking, sailing, and exploring natural parks. Volleyball is popular on the beaches of Alicante with free courts on most beaches. It also has a lot of bicycle lanes around the city. Benidorm offers plenty of water sports, beach activities, and theme parks. (Outdor Activities: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Draw)

• Finding English-speaking services Alicante vs Benidorm?
  • Benidorm, being a major tourist destination for Brits, has plenty of English-speaking services. Alicante also caters to tourists but to a lesser extent, so you might need to brush up on some basic Spanish phrases. (English Spoken: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Benidorm)
• Which city has better accessibility for day trips?
  • Benidorm provides great day trip options, including visits to the nearby mountains and coastal villages as well as all the fantastic theme parks around Benidorm but you’ll need a taxi or a car. Alicante has direct links with Madrid and Valencia via very fast and economical trains and there are coach trips to many places but quite a few are up towards Benidorm anyay. (Day Trips: Alicante vs Benidorm – winner: Draw)

Good News…You don’t have to choose between Alicante vs Benidorm!!

The good news is that you don’t have to choose between Alicante vs Benidorm. Why not spend a few days in each or at least plan a day trip? It’s easy to travel from one to the other with the excellent and cheap tram or bus service. If you book your accommodation yourself via platforms such as like Booking.com, it becomes even easier to create a holiday that involves both. Maybe you prefer most of your holiday in Benidorm with a couple of days in Alicante to chill before returning home, or you like the idea of a city holiday with just a couple of days of crazy partying in Benidorm. Although we live in the centre of Alicante, we often love to go to Benidorm on the tram to escape for the weekend.

Summary

Benidorm is ideal for those seeking an energetic holiday with plenty of entertainment, nightlife, and family-friendly attractions. It’s perfect for those who enjoy bustling beaches and an all-inclusive resort experience. The town’s population swells significantly in the summer, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere. For Brits who really want to find a “home from home” holiday experience then Benidorm is perfect

Alicante, on the other hand, is better suited for travellers looking for a more laid-back holiday with cultural and historical experiences, great dining, and a blend of city and beach relaxation. Being a larger city than Benidorm, Alicante offers a more authentic Spanish experience with its historic sites and local festivals. Like Benidorm, Alicante’s population also grows during the summer months, but it maintains a balance between locals and tourists, offering a different vibe.

Choosing between Alicante vs Benidorm depends on the type of holiday experience you are looking for. Whether you prefer the cultural richness and relaxed ambience of Alicante or the lively and entertainment-packed atmosphere of Benidorm, both destinations promise a memorable holiday on Spain’s beautiful Costa Blanca.