Once a small fishing village on Spain's beach-lined Costa Blanca, Benidorm is now a bustling seaside town. It has two popular beaches that stretch over 5km in total and meet in the middle at the old town, a quaint hillside of winding cobbled streets that look out over the glittering Mediterranean. After a day of lounging on the beach with a glass of sangria in hand, many travellers head to Benidorm's bars, clubs and pubs, where live music and DJ sets continue late into the night.

Stay in a Benidorm hostel only a short 5-minute amble down to the beach. Here you can relax in a private room, complete with a balcony and cosy lounging area, or take an evening dip in the pool after a long day of exploring. There are even hostels in Benidorm with camping options, where you can lounge in homely bungalows or tents surrounded by calm nature.

Benidorm is divided in two by the Canfali, a small hill where you’ll find the Old Town. Wander through the streets to the medieval Church of Saint James and Saint Anne (known locally as Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana) and the Balcón del Mediterráneo, a large viewing platform with sweeping sea views. The Old Town is also a hub of restaurants serving fresh tapas and seafood. On either side of the Canfali, Benidorm’s beaches stretch into the distance, Poniente to the west is a little quieter, while Levante is lined with stylish international bars.

There’s plenty to do in Benidorm, especially for nature-lovers. Where Levante beach ends, the town gives way to the Sierra Helada Natural Park: a 5600-hectare conservation area with hiking routes and panoramic views. There are trails leading to the tranquil Cala Tio Ximo cove, where you can swim in the cool, clear waters away from the bustle of Benidorm. To explore the coast by sea, book a day trip boat tour to see 150 million-year-old caves and to visit nearby towns like the medieval Benissa.

Just down the coast from Benidorm sits Alicante, a port city with an international airport. To get to Benidorm, you can either hop in a taxi outside arrivals or take an intercity ASA bus – both will get you to the town centre in just under an hour. Once you’re in Benidorm, explore the town using the easy bus service, or venture further afield to Dénia or Villajoyosa by train.