Costa y Campo
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Benidorm may be synonymous with high-rise hotels and bustling beaches, but venture beyond the Costa Blanca’s most famous resort and you’ll discover a treasure trove of experiences.
From medieval mountain villages to cosmopolitan cities, ancient castles to natural wonders, the region offers day trips that will transform your Benidorm holiday from ordinary to extraordinary.
Here are eight unmissable excursions that showcase the very best of the Valencia region beyond Benidorm.
If you are in Benidorm for a week or more, a day trip to Valencia really is a must-do.
And Valencia will undoubtedly reward the intrepid day-tripper with a perfect blend of futuristic architecture, historic charm, and culinary excellence.
The City of Arts and Sciences alone justifies the journey – Santiago Calatrava’s otherworldly structures house Europe’s largest aquarium, an interactive science museum, and a stunning opera house.
Wander the ancient Ciutat Vella – the Old Town district – and atmospheric neighbourhoods such as Barrio del Carmen; sample authentic paella in the birthplace of Spain’s national dish, and explore the magnificent Central Market.
Take a stroll along the old riverbed, Jardín del Turia, which has been developed into a wondrous linear park connecting past and future in this dynamic Mediterranean metropolis.
And don’t forget to order a glass of horchata, Valencia’s famous beverage which can be found in some of the city’s traditional horchaterías.
PRE-BOOK YOUR ORGANISED DAY TRIP TO VALENCIA
The Streets of Valencia
The town of Jalón transforms every Saturday into a treasure hunter’s paradise, when the famous Rastro – Car Boot Sale – spreads along the main street of this charming inland town.
Bargain hunters of all nationalities navigate stalls selling everything from antiques and crafts to clothing and local produce, creating a vibrant atmosphere that epitomizes Spanish market culture.
Beyond shopping, the valley’s terraced hillsides produce excellent Moscatel wines, and traditional bodegas offer tastings of these sweet dessert wines while the surrounding countryside, dotted with almond and orange groves, provides scenic walking opportunities.
The organised excursion from Benidorm includes a stop off at The Caves of Skulls, formed over 150 million years ago and with evidence of life dating back 50,000 years, these unique rock formations are a fascinating glimpse into the past.
PRE-BOOK YOUR ORGANISED DAY TRIP TO JALON VALLEY AND THE CAVES OF SKULLS
Jalón Rastro
The Fonts del Algar offer a refreshing escape into pristine nature, where crystal-clear mountain springs create a series of natural pools and cascading waterfalls.
This protected natural area provides excellent swimming opportunities in remarkably blue waters, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Well-maintained paths and bridges allow visitors to explore the different pools safely, while designated picnic areas make this perfect for family excursions.
Probably one of Costa Blanca’s most famous tourist destinations it can get busy during high season, however, it’s more than worth visiting as the area is truly spectacular and just wading waist deep in the waters with high rock faces either side of you makes for a memorable trip.
The village of Algar also has some traditional Spanish restaurants, serving up delicious pans of paella along with a buzzing atmosphere.
One of our serious Must-Do’s when on holiday in Benidorm.
PRE_BOOK YOUR ORGANISED DAY TRIP TO FONTS DEL ALGAR
Algar Waterfalls
Perched impossibly on a rocky outcrop, Guadalest appears like something from a medieval fairy tale.
This fortified village, carved into the mountainside, offers breathtaking views across the Guadalest Valley and its turquoise reservoir.
Meander through narrow cobbled streets to reach the castle ruins, explore quirky museums including the peculiar Torture Museum, and browse artisan shops selling local almonds and honey.
The dramatic approach road alone, winding through pine forests and limestone peaks, makes this journey unforgettable.
For many Benidorm holidaymakers the Guadalest day trip is a rite of passage, a destination you simply have to visit.
We agree!
PRE-BOOK YOUR ORGANISED DAY TRIP TO GUADALEST
Street Life, Guadalest
Alicante combines beach resort relaxation with genuine Spanish city life.
The imposing Castillo de Santa Bárbara, accessible by lift through the rock face, dominates the skyline and offers panoramic coastal views.
Below, the marble-paved Explanada de España provides elegant promenading, while the Barrio Santa Cruz’s narrow streets hide tapas bars beloved by locals.
The Archaeological Museum houses treasures including the famous Lady of Elche, and the modern MARQ museum brings ancient history to life.
Alicante’s authentic atmosphere, combining a quaint Old Town district with a modern, contemporary marina make it an essential Costa Blanca experience.
PRE-BOOK YOUR ORGANISED DAY TRIP TO ALICANTE
Calle de Las Setas, Alicante
creating a vibrant atmosphere that epitomizes Spanish market culture
‘Happy Town’ is so close to Benidorm yet many people seem to give it a miss. Perplexing, for sure!
One of our favourite beach resorts on the Costa Blanca, its multi-coloured old fishermen’s houses are blasted with a Mediterranean palette, brightening up the beachfront as well as your day!
And of course you can get to La Vila by bus or train but why not go a little off-piste with an e-bike tour.
Enjoy the fresh air and freedom as you weave your way through Benidorm Old Town, along Poniente Beach and onwards via a wonderfully winding approach to Villajoyosa through orange and lemon groves.
Suitable for all levels and a perfect choice for groups on holiday to Benidorm interested in doing something a little different.
PRE-BOOK YOUR E-BIKE TOUR TO VILLAJOYOSA
Old Fishermen’s Houses, Villajoyosa
Calpe’s dramatic silhouette is unmistakable – the ancient limestone monolith of Peñón de Ifach rises 332 meters from the Mediterranean, creating one of Spain’s most photographed natural landmarks.
This precious nature reserve offers challenging hiking with spectacular summit views, while Calpe itself combines excellent beaches and a genuine working fishing port.
But it is the Old Town, a peaceful jigsaw of interconnecting streets and alleyways, that has managed to retain its authentic Spanish character and made Calpe a must-visit destination.
It is also the perfect location for lunch, especially if you’re a big fan of spectacular seafood and traditional Alicante rice dishes.
BOOK YOUR ORGANISED DAY TRIP TO CALPE
Calpe Rock
Taking in seven locations including Altea, Polop and Finestrat, this is the day trip where you truly get a feel for the Marina Baixa region of Costa Blanca.
From coast to country, stopping off at some of the awesome towns and villages that we feature in the BEYOND section of our website, the journey highlights the real Spain surrounding Benidorm.
Your camera is an essential requirement on this feast for the eyes road trip.
But one word of warning – it might just make you want to move here permanently!
BOOK YOUR ORGANISED MAGNIFICENT 7 DAY TRIP
Altea – One of the Magnificent 7
When you are on holiday in Benidorm you can quite easily get to most places in a variety of ways, from car hire to taxis and local buses to trains.
But often there is something pretty reassuring about pre-booking your excursion and travelling in the company of like-minded souls, all excited to go beyond Benidorm and discover an original and unforgettable region of Spain.
Enjoy!
