Although Benidorm has a reputation for being a wild party town, it boasts rich culture and heritage, most evident in its charming old town filled with historic marvels, cultural attractions, and jaw-dropping architecture. You can also enjoy a lively art scene with skilled street artists showcasing unbelievable talent.
So, when you next book cheap all inclusive holidays to Benidorm, make it a point to discover more than the region's hip pubs and bars. If you’re planning your first visit to the bustling city, this quick guide can help you plan the perfect itinerary for your Benidorm holiday.
Cultural Highlights in Benidorm:
Modern Benidorm is renowned for its skyscrapers, tracing its origins back to a small fishing town, with evidence of ancient settlements dating back to 3,000 BC. The following is an excellent way to experience its rich history and culture in the most authentic way.
Benidorm Old Town - Historical Roots
Your cheap holidays to Spain all inclusive for a tour of Benidorm will be best spent when you begin your sightseeing adventure with a visit to the historic old town. Offering a more traditional and relaxed ambience than the modern party strip, it boasts iconic attractions like the 18th-century Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana, and the picturesque Balcón del Mediterráneo viewpoint built on the remains of a striking 14th-century castle. Here are some top experiences in Benidorm Old Town for culture:
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Church of Sant Jaume and Santa Anna for Spirituality and History: The 18th-century neo-classical church is renowned for its distinctive blue domes, white facade, ornate altars, and religious art.
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Placa del Castell for Tranquil Strolls: The town's central plaza and once the site of the old castle, it's now teeming with shops, cafés, and other hotspots.
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Plaza Mayor for Lively Evenings: The bustling square is a major hub of activity in the evenings and is beautifully lit, elevating its allure.
Festivals and Events
Benidorm hosts a wide range of cultural festivals and events that offer a peek into its rich heritage, going well beyond its party scene. The best ones to be a part of during your visit include:
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St. John's Festival: Celebrated with traditional bonfires on Poniente and Levante beaches around the summer solstice, it's a beautiful gathering you'll remember for a long time.
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La Festa del Fadrí: Among the oldest festivals in Benidorm, it takes place annually since the 1810s and includes traditional games and dances.
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Benidorm Fest: Held usually round January or February, the landmark event is Spain's national competition to select the country's entry to the Eurovision Song Contest.
Local Arts Scene
When you book a holiday to Benidorm through reliable agencies like PlanMyTour, ensure to include in your itinerary a visit to some of the most remarkable venues to experience its rich and multifaceted arts scene. Some of the top places to see this are:
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House Museum (Casa Museo): Find a collection of priceless modern Spanish art, ensuring a more tranquil and traditional ambience with its easy layout and pleasing décor.
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Urban Art Murals: Gawk at large-scale murals by legendary artists like Ángel Toledo, found on important buildings and featuring significant historical elements and cultural objects that speak about Benidorm.
