From Yorkshire to the Costa Blanca: Your Ultimate Guide to Benidorm

By Dean | Yorkshire Travel Guide

If you are looking to swap the unpredictable Yorkshire weather for guaranteed sunshine, vibrant nightlife, great food, culture, and world-class entertainment, then Benidorm remains the undisputed king of the Costa Blanca.

For holiday makers flying from Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), the journey is so easy. With a flight time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, you can be descending over the stunning Mediterranean coastline and trading those rolling hills of Sheffield for the iconic skyscrapers and long golden sands of one of Spain’s most famous resort towns.

Benidorm has evolved significantly over recent years. While it still holds its title as the undisputed nightlife capital of Spain, it has also blossomed into a top destination for families, foodies, and nature lovers alike. Here is why your next holiday should start at Leeds Bradford Airport and end in excitement as you arrive in Benidorm.

The Ease of the Journey

The beauty of flying from Leeds Bradford is the convenience. It's a really compact, friendly regional airport that makes sure you avoid the overwhelming crowds of nearby Manchester. Once you touch down at Alicante Airport, it's only a short transfer—whether it be by taxi, bus, or train, all are easily available right outside the front door. You know that you will soon be checking in to your accommodation and out on the promenade sipping your favourite tipple in no time at all.

Top 3 Must-See Highlights

To help you plan your holiday, here are the three essential experiences that are a must during any Benidorm stay:

1. The Tale of Two Beaches (and an Enchanting Old Town)

Benidorm is famous for its two main beaches: Levante and Poniente. Levante is the "sunrise" beach, bustling with energy, great water sports, and a spotless promenade lined with lively cafes and bars, perfect for an early evening stroll. Poniente, its quieter neighbor, offers a more relaxed, local feel, perfect for a peaceful morning coffee.

Connecting these two stretches of sand is the Casco Antiguo (Old Town). This is the historic heart of the city, where you will find narrow, winding cobblestone streets which offer a real, beautiful contrast to the modern skyline behind. Make sure you visit the Balcón del Mediterráneo. This shining white stone viewpoint is situated on the top of the cliff which separates the two beaches; it will give you the most iconic panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea and the city. A wonderful place for that perfect photo at sunset.

Golden sands and blue skies: The famous beaches of Benidorm.

2. The Spectacle of Benidorm Palace

No trip to Benidorm is complete without experiencing the glamour of the Benidorm Palace. Voted as one of the best nightclub venues in Europe, it offers a high-caliber cabaret experience that rivals even the shows of Las Vegas.

The evening usually starts with a fabulous four-course meal followed by a whirlwind of feathers, sequins, incredible choreography, and world-class specialty acts, ranging from magicians to acrobats, flown in especially for the season. It is a fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a true night to remember.

World-class cabaret right on your doorstep.

3. Adventure at Terra Mítica

For those fun seekers eager for that adrenaline rush, Terra Mítica is a true premier theme park that transports you back to the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean. Divided into exciting zones like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, the park features some of the most thrilling rollercoasters in Spain—make sure you ride the famous Magnus Colossus.

Beyond the rides, the park is known for its detailed Mediterranean landscaping and large-scale vibrant street performances that recreate historical myths. It’s a fantastic day out for families—the kids will love it. If you're looking to take a break from those amazing beaches and engage in some high-energy fun, then Terra Mítica is the place for you.

A Culinary Journey

While you're in Benidorm, please don’t miss "Tapas Alley" (Calle Santo Domingo) in the Old Town. Here, you can experience the authentic Spanish tradition of moving from bar to bar (yes, this is where it all started). You will be sampling small plates of jamón ibérico, fresh seafood, and fabulous local cheeses, all washed down with a glass of the best crisp Rioja or a cold caña of beer.

Whether you are heading for a long weekend or a fortnight of family relaxation, Benidorm offers a unique blend of British home comforts and true authentic Spanish charm. Pack your sunscreen and floppy hat and head to Leeds Bradford, and prepare for a Mediterranean escape that truly has it all.