Benidorm

Benidorm is the Costa Blanca's big personality: a compact resort city with one of Europe's densest skylines, two wide sandy beaches and a reputation for nightlife that hides a more charming core. Between the beaches of Levante and Poniente sits the old town on a rocky headland, where a blue-domed church, the Church of San Jaime, stands beside the Mirador del Castillo, a terrace known as the Balcon del Mediterraneo. From there you see the bay, the island of Benidorm out to sea and the glittering towers that give the city its silhouette. Narrow pedestrian lanes behind the church are lined with bars and tapas places, and the beach promenades are among the liveliest on the coast. A day tour from Alicante gives time to see the old town, stroll the seafront and decide whether you want to stay for an evening. Benidorm also functions as a base for the region's theme parks, water parks and cabaret shows, so it makes sense to treat it as a hub as well as a stop.

High-rise tourism here is a deliberate design, and the city is surprisingly efficient. Dense vertical building leaves open space for beaches, and tall hotels keep sea views accessible for many visitors. Walk the Levante promenade, with its wavy mosaic paving, and the shorter Poniente promenade, then climb into the old town for the mirador. Boats leave from the harbour for the island of Benidorm, a protected rock in the bay with a reputation for good snorkelling.

As a day trip, Benidorm works best if you decide your priority: beach, old town, theme park or nightlife. Tours often combine it with Villajoyosa, known for its colourful houses and chocolate, or with Guadalest. In midsummer the beaches are crowded, so arrive early; in the cooler months the city is busy with older travellers and locals, and temperatures remain mild.

Public transport is straightforward, with a tram and buses linking to Alicante. Wear sun protection and plan for a little walking. The old town has steps, but the promenade is flat and accessible. Whatever your taste, Benidorm is easy to enjoy on its own terms.

To avoid crowds, walk the promenade early in the morning, when joggers and dog walkers outnumber sunbathers, and the sea is flat. Visit the old town before lunch, and save the beach for the afternoon. Evenings are lively, so pick a restaurant away from the busiest street if you want a quieter meal. Many hotels offer sea views from the upper floors, which are well worth requesting.

For a taste of local life, try a small bar in the old town where you can stand at the counter, order a coffee and watch the neighbourhood go by. A short boat trip around the island is a pleasant way to see the skyline from the water.