These days, as a holiday destination, Benidorm barely needs an introduction. One of the most famous and frequently-visited resorts on the Costa Blanca (and indeed Europe), it’s equally loved by fun-loving party goers and families alike. Not to mention that we Brits have practically claimed Benidorm as our own – even setting a smash hit TV series there!

Apart from the requisite delights of sun, sea, and sand (with an almost endless supply of all three), one of the most appealing things about Benidorm is its accessibility, in terms of the cost of a holiday. Not only are flights to Alicante Airport plentiful and cheap from the UK, there’s a host of good restaurants, plenty of attractions in and around the city, and affordable accommodation that puts you right in the thick of the fun. 

Benidorm on Any Budget

If you’re watching the holiday pennies, here are a few insider tips on how you can enjoy Benidorm on a budget.

Travel Out of Season

This isn’t always an option, we get it (particularly for families); but if you can possibly travel outside the peak times, between June and August, you’ll save a bundle on both flights and accommodation. Of course, peak time is called that for a reason – it’s summer – so, naturally, the weather is fantastic and demand is high. But if you’re savvy at either end of high season (in April/May and September/October) you’ll still be able to enjoy mild weather and favourable conditions.

In addition to this, the most popular local attractions often have great offers in the low season if you book ahead, and you can visit theme parks like Terra Mitica, Aqualandia and Mundomar at a fraction of the cost – individually or sometimes as a package deal. 

Walk!

Once in Benidorm, the easiest way not only to save money but also to get right under the skin of this vibrant city is… walk! Taking a long meander or a short stroll is completely free, and you’ll get to see so much more than when you just tick off the tourist traps. This is particularly pertinent in the Old Town, which is a fascinating place to wander around. Even the kids will appreciate its character and ambience, and it’s a sneaky history lesson as well. For those who are genuinely interested in history, the architecture and cobblestoned streets reveal a trove of neo-Classical treasures. 

Scope Out the Free Activities

Benidorm is all things to all people and anyone with money to burn will have no trouble spending it. However, on the other side of the coin, there’s a plethora of free activities if you look for them. 

First and foremost, both the city’s main beaches – Levante and Poniente – are absolutely free to visit. You can swim and sunbathe to your heart’s content without cost, although of course you’ll need to pay for sunbeds, umbrellas and any water sports. 

There’s also a host of free city parks and playgrounds, including some right down near the beach, and you should definitely not miss the famous Balcón del Mediterráneo for the best views ever. But possibly the most fulfilling free activity you can enjoy in Benidorm is a visit to the Sierra Helada Natural Park, where you can hike through nature with stunning views over the Mediterranean. 

Take your Cue from the Locals

You can save a lot of money if you steer clear of the high-profile tourist restaurants and follow your nose to where the locals eat and drink – not to mention you’ll probably enjoy better food. Sometimes it’s as simple as stepping off a main street and rounding a corner to find a small local restaurant that offers wonderfully authentic food that costs a lot less than you’d pay at an establishment that caters solely to tourists. They might not be as convenient as the ones that are “in your face” along the promenade or the popular areas of the city around high-profile attractions, but it’s often very surprising how much cheaper they can be. 

This also goes for stocking up on food for picnics, snacks or lunch in the local markets or supermarkets, rather than at a theme park or tourist venue. Again, you’ll have the advantage of access to “real” Spanish food, rather than simply replicas of what you find on the shelves at home. 

Be Smart with Souvenirs

There’s a seemingly endless array of souvenirs of your holiday in Benidorm to be had – and who doesn't love a good bit of tatt? But rather than purchase your keyrings, fridge magnets, T-shirts, caps, and other “authentic” mementoes of your time in the Spanish sun from shops down on the promenade, busy streets, or outside attractions, once again, if you seek out the small local markets you’ll be able to purchase the same items for far less. 

C’mon Get Happy!

This one’s for the party people! Benidorm is well and truly geared to a good time, and that means the infamous “happy hour” stretches quite a bit further than in other parts of the world. Most bars offer some version of a two-for-one deal, cheap cocktails, or wine and beer specials, pretty much every night of the week. Some specials may literally be for an hour (so plan to get there early), but many go for several hours, or even all evening in some cases. Often the pub, bar or club will also provide free snacks when you purchase drinks. There’s a lot of fun to be had on an evening of cheap drinks, but the advice is always, of course, to drink responsibility and ensure you stay safe. 

Final Bonus Tip

If you choose to stay in a self-catering apartment rather than a hotel, you’ll save even more money. Both our Sabesa apartment complexes (La Caseta and Benimar) situate you in highly convenient locations, walking distance to all amenities and within easy reach of the beach, parks and the city centre. Instead of having to eat out for two or three meals a day, you can shop (at supermarkets and local food markets) and make home cooked meals, and even take a packed lunch when you get out and about.  

Book your Benidorm Holiday

We’ve made it super easy and affordable to book a Sabesa apartment. As soon as you know your dates, head to the website and lock it in! Then get ready to enjoy a relaxed holiday knowing you’re not only getting value for money, but also some of the best accommodation on the Costa Blanca.

If you need any help or have questions, get in touch today and allow us to assist.