Old Town (Casco Antiguo) Benidorm – The Historic Heart of the Costa Blanca

Old Town (Casco Antiguo) Benidorm – The Historic Heart of the Costa Blanca
Tucked between the modern skyline and golden beaches, the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) of Benidorm offers a completely different side of the city—one filled with charm, culture, history, and authentic Mediterranean atmosphere.

While Benidorm is famous for its high-rise hotels and vibrant nightlife, the Old Town reveals its true origins as a traditional Spanish fishing village, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Costa Blanca.

📍 Where is Benidorm Old Town?
The Old Town is located on a small hill between:

Playa de Levante (east side – lively and vibrant)
Playa de Poniente (west side – quieter and relaxed)
At the very top lies the iconic Balcón del Mediterráneo, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea.

🏛️ A Glimpse into History
Before becoming one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations, Benidorm was a small fishing village. The Old Town preserves this heritage with:

Narrow cobbled streets
Whitewashed houses
Traditional balconies and shutters
The area developed around a former fortress that once protected the coastline from pirate attacks, giving the Old Town both strategic and cultural importance throughout history.

🌟 What Makes Old Town Special?
1. Authentic Spanish Atmosphere
Unlike the modern parts of Benidorm, the Old Town feels traditional and relaxed. You’ll find:

Quiet plazas
Local residents
Boutique shops
Family-run businesses

2. Beautiful Streets & Architecture
The Old Town is perfect for exploring on foot. Highlights include:

White-painted buildings with blue accents
Flower-filled balconies
Hidden alleys and stairways
Traditional tiled facades
Every corner offers a new photo opportunity.

3. Cultural Landmarks
⛪ Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana
Located near the top of the Old Town, this historic church is one of Benidorm’s most important landmarks.

Features:

Blue domes
Classic Mediterranean architecture
Peaceful square surroundings

🌊 Balcón del Mediterráneo
This famous viewpoint is the highlight of the Old Town.

From here you can:

See both Levante and Poniente beaches
Enjoy panoramic sea views
Watch stunning sunsets

🍽️ Food & Dining in Old Town
The Old Town is one of the best places in Benidorm for food lovers.

What to Expect:
🥘 Traditional Spanish Cuisine
Tapas bars
Paella restaurants
Fresh seafood
🍷 Local & International Options
Wine bars
British pubs
Italian and international restaurants
Must-Try Experiences:
Tapas hopping in the evening
Dining in a small plaza
Seafood with sea views

🍹 Nightlife in Old Town
While quieter than the main strip, Old Town nightlife has its own charm.

You’ll find:

Cozy cocktail bars
Live music venues
LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife (very popular in this area)
It’s ideal for those looking for a more relaxed and social evening atmosphere.

🛍️ Shopping in Old Town
The Old Town offers a more authentic shopping experience compared to modern shopping areas.

What You Can Buy:
Handmade souvenirs
Local crafts
Jewelry
Spanish food products
Small independent shops dominate the area, making it perfect for unique finds.

🌅 Best Things to Do
✔ Wander the Streets
Simply walking around is one of the best experiences.

✔ Visit the Viewpoint
Head to the Balcón del Mediterráneo for unforgettable views.

✔ Enjoy Tapas
Try multiple small dishes in different bars.

✔ Watch the Sunset
One of the best sunset spots in Benidorm.

✔ Explore Both Beaches
Walk down to Levante or Poniente directly from the Old Town.

⏰ Best Time to Visit
Time
Experience
Morning
Quiet, local atmosphere
Afternoon
Busy with tourists
Evening
Lively and vibrant
Night
Romantic and relaxed

🚶 Getting Around
The Old Town is:

Pedestrian-friendly
Compact and easy to explore
Best visited on foot
Nearby areas are easily accessible via walking promenades.

🚐 Getting There from Alicante Airport
The easiest way to reach Benidorm is via a private airport transfer from Alicante Airport.

Benefits include:

Direct hotel drop-off
No waiting or shared rides
Fixed pricing
Comfortable vehicles
This is the most convenient option, especially if staying in or near the Old Town where streets are narrow.

🧭 Nearby Attractions
While visiting Old Town, you can easily explore:

Mal Pas Beach – a hidden cove
Levante promenade – lively and energetic
Poniente promenade – peaceful and scenic

❤️ Why Visit Benidorm Old Town?
The Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is:

✔ The most authentic part of Benidorm
✔ Full of history and culture
✔ Ideal for food, shopping, and relaxation
✔ Home to the city’s best viewpoints
✔ A perfect contrast to modern Benidorm

📝 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a week, the Old Town of Benidorm is a place you shouldn’t miss. It captures the essence of the Costa Blanca—combining history, beauty, and Mediterranean charm in one unforgettable location.