Things To Do
in Benahavís

Benahavís is a charming village located in the hills of Costa del Sol, Spain, known for its picturesque whitewashed buildings and stunning mountain views. With a rich Moorish history, the village offers a blend of culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty. It is often referred to as the 'gourmet capital' of the region, attracting food lovers with its high-quality dining options.

The surrounding natural parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Village
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then stroll through the narrow streets to visit the Benahavís Church and the charming Plaza de España.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a tapas lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the nearby natural park for an easy hike with scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at one of Benahavís's renowned restaurants, sampling local specialties like grilled meats or seafood, followed by a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then head to the nearby Guadalmina River for a morning of kayaking or paddleboarding.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the local art galleries or take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Spanish dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views, followed by a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the village's vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍷Bottle of wine$10
🚕Taxi ride$20
🏨One-night hotel stay$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities available.
  • Rich culinary offerings and a vibrant dining scene.
  • Warm and welcoming local community.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "No entiendo" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Benahavís

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de España

A picturesque square surrounded by local shops, restaurants, and flowers, perfect for capturing the essence of Benahavís.

Benahavís Church

The beautiful church with its classic architecture and surrounding gardens provides a stunning backdrop for photographs.

Natural Park of Los Arqueros

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Benahavís

Benahavís is a culinary haven, offering a delightful array of traditional Spanish dishes and gourmet cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Benahavís Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sopa de Ajo

A traditional garlic soup, often garnished with poached eggs and served with crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Tortilla Española

A classic Spanish omelette made with eggs, potatoes, and onions, served as a tapa or main dish.

Chato de Cerdo

Grilled pork from local farms, seasoned and served with a variety of sauces.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Benahavís Market

A vibrant local market held weekly, showcasing fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Benahavís enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can peak around 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winters are generally mild, averaging around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is most common in late autumn and winter, while summers are typically dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly greeting is customary; use 'Hola' (Hello) and a handshake or kiss on the cheek when meeting locals.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit and refrain from starting to eat until everyone is served.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable personal space and avoid being overly direct in conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Benahavís is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. It's also advisable to stay informed about local emergency contacts.

Tipping in Benahavís

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping in restaurants is generally appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is the perfect time to visit, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making outdoor activities enjoyable.

Summer

Expect hot temperatures, making it ideal for enjoying the beach or pool, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

The weather cools down, providing a pleasant atmosphere for hiking and exploring without the summer rush.

Winter

Mild winters allow for outdoor activities, but some services may have reduced hours during the off-peak season.

Nightlife Guide

Benahavís at Night

Benahavís offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and restaurants that come alive in the evenings. Visitors can enjoy live music, tapas bars, and traditional Flamenco shows. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it easy to socialize and mingle with locals and other travelers alike.

Hiking in Benahavís

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Gordo Trail

A moderate hike that offers stunning views of the coastline and the chance to see local wildlife.

La Zagaleta Trail

A more challenging hike that winds through beautiful landscapes and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Airports

How to reach Benahavís by plane.

Malaga Airport (AGP)

The nearest major airport, approximately 70 km away, offers a wide range of international flights and connections to Benahavís via car or shuttle services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Benahavís is a highly walkable village with narrow streets and pedestrian-friendly areas. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the charming village at their leisure. However, be prepared for some steep inclines due to its hilly terrain.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The village has a mix of locals, including families and retirees, who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

Benahavís attracts tourists from various countries, particularly those interested in food, nature, and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

With several world-class golf courses, Benahavís is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the sport amidst stunning landscapes.

Hiking

The surrounding mountains and parks provide excellent hiking opportunities, with trails suitable for all levels of experience.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Benahavís is generally light, especially compared to nearby coastal towns. The village is best explored on foot, but cars are useful for reaching surrounding areas. Public transportation is limited, so it's advisable to rent a car or use taxis for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Benahavís.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options, especially in tapas form, but it’s advisable to confirm with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments cater to gluten-free diets, but checking in advance is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Benahavís is generally good, with several clinics and pharmacies available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, larger hospitals are located in nearby towns like Marbella. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide