Benidorm, Spain: City of Sun, Skyscrapers and Beaches

Benidorm is the jewel of Costa Blanca, located in the province of Alicante, Spain. This unique Mediterranean coastal city attracts millions of tourists with its golden beaches, mild climate and vibrant nightlife. Benidorm is not only a popular resort but also a place chosen for permanent residence by expats and investors. Discover why Benidorm is called "Mediterranean New York" and what makes it ideal for vacation and living.

Why is Benidorm so popular?

Benidorm combines the atmosphere of a cosmopolitan resort with a cozy city. With a population of about 70,000 people, during tourist season the city receives up to 400,000 guests. About 30% of residents are expats, mainly from the UK, Netherlands and Germany, making Benidorm one of the most international cities in Spain. The Rincón de Loix area is particularly popular among British residents.

Key features of Benidorm:

• Beaches: Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente - two main sandy beaches with crystal clear water.
• Climate: More than 300 sunny days per year, mild winter (12-15°C) and warm summer (29-32°C).
• Skyscrapers: Unique skyline with high-rise buildings such as Intempo (202m) and Gran Hotel Bali (186m).
• Infrastructure: Developed network of transport, medical centers, schools and shopping centers.

History of Benidorm: From fishing village to tourist capital

Origin of the name

The name "Benidorm" comes from the Arabic prefix "Beni-" (descendants) and possibly the Latin word "Tormo" (rock), reflecting the geography of the region. Modern researchers believe the name was formed as a result of Arabic-Latin mixing after the Reconquista.

Main historical stages:

1. Early history: Benidorm started as a fishing settlement with Iberian, Roman and Arab roots.

2. Middle Ages (1325-1502): Founded in 1325 by Bernardo de Sarria, the city remained a small settlement suffering from pirate raids.

3. Agricultural and fishing period (1666-19th century): Development of agriculture and fishing, especially tuna fishing using the "almadraba" technique.

4. Tourist boom (1950s-present): Mayor Pedro Zaragoza and his 1956 urbanization plan transformed Benidorm into a tourist center. Allowing bikinis in the 1950s was a revolutionary step that attracted tourists from all over Europe.

Benidorm skyscrapers: Architectural uniqueness

Benidorm is among the top ten cities in the world by number of skyscrapers, making its landscape unique for the Mediterranean. High-rise buildings are residential complexes and hotels with panoramic views of the sea and mountains.

Famous skyscrapers:

• Intempo (202m, 47 floors): Spain's tallest residential building, with M-shaped architecture.
• Gran Hotel Bali (186m, 52 floors): Iconic hotel with panoramic observation deck.
• Torre Lugano (158m, 43 floors): Elegant residential complex with pools and gardens.
• Neguri Gane (145m, 43 floors): Prestigious residential complex on Playa de Levante.
• Edificio Kronos (140m, 41 floors): Modern building with curved facade.

These skyscrapers provide comfortable housing and solve the problem of land shortage while preserving natural areas.

Benidorm climate: Sun all year round

Benidorm's Mediterranean climate is one of the reasons for its popularity. The average annual temperature is 18-20°C, and rainfall is only 300-350mm per year. Summer is hot (up to 32°C), winter is mild (12-15°C). The sea warms up to 25-27°C from May to October, and there are about 300 sunny days per year.

Benidorm infrastructure

Benidorm offers everything necessary for comfortable living and recreation:

• Transport: Llorente Bus buses, TRAM train to Alicante, Alicante-Elche airport 45 minutes away.
• Medicine: Private hospitals (Hospital Clínica Benidorm, IMED Levante) and public clinics.
• Shopping: Supermarkets (Mercadona, Lidl), La Marina shopping center, Mercadillo de Benidorm and El Cisne Rastro markets.
• Education: Public schools (CEIP Ausiàs March), private international schools (Sierra Bernia School, The Lady Elizabeth School) and kindergartens (Kids Garden Benidorm).
• Sports and recreation: Gyms (Gimnasio Arena Alicante), water sports, golf clubs.
• Gastronomy: Restaurants (La Mejillonera, Amigos Restaurant), bars and nightclubs (Penelope Beach Club).

Entertainment in Benidorm

Benidorm is a city for all ages:

• Theme parks: Terra Mítica (attractions based on ancient civilizations), Aqualandia (water park with Verti-Go slide), Mundomar (dolphinarium and zoo).
• Marine entertainment: Diving, kayaking, excursions to Benidorm Island.
• Cultural events: Benidorm Fest, Fiestas Mayores Patronales with parades and fireworks.
• Theaters: Benidorm Palace with Las Vegas-style shows.

Why choose Benidorm?

Benidorm is the perfect combination of beach vacation, modern infrastructure and international atmosphere. The city attracts tourists, expats and investors thanks to affordable real estate, mild climate and variety of entertainment. Want to learn more about living in Benidorm or real estate investments? Contact us or visit our blog for current information!