Things To Do
in Benisa

Benissa, Spain sits on the Costa Blanca with a dramatic hillside village that overlooks the Mediterranean. Its medieval old town blends Valencian heritage with whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, and panoramic viewpoints. The coastline around Benissa features rugged cliffs, rocky coves, and small sandy beaches connected by scenic drives.

A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal base to explore nearby towns, beaches, and hiking trails along the coast.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Arrive in Benissa and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the charming atmosphere of this quaint town. Spend the morning wandering through the cobblestone streets, taking in the beautifully preserved historical buildings, including the iconic church of Puríssima Xiqueta. Stop by a local café for some traditional Spanish breakfast, like tostada with tomato and local drink, horchata.

afternoon
:

After lunch, make your way to the nearby Natural Park of Peñon de Ifach, where you can enjoy stunning views from the summit. Engage in some light hiking and immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna that the park has to offer. As you descend, take some time to relax at one of the nearby beaches, enjoying the pristine waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

evening
:

As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes that the Costa Blanca is famous for. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade, where you can enjoy the gentle sound of waves and the beauty of the twilight sky. Cap off the night with a glass of local wine or a cocktail at a beach bar, embracing the Mediterranean nightlife.

day 2
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Benissa Cultural Centre, where you can explore local art exhibitions and learn about the region's history. Participate in a workshop or a guided tour to better understand the rich heritage of this beautiful area. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery, indulging in some freshly baked pastries.

afternoon
:

Afterwards, visit the nearby coastal town of Calpe by bus or bike, where you can marvel at the impressive Ifach Rock and its dramatic cliffs. Spend some time on the beach or visit the local fish market, experiencing the lively atmosphere. Satisfy your afternoon cravings with tapas at one of the local bars, sampling a variety of flavors.

evening
:

Return to Benissa in the evening and enjoy a traditional paella dinner at a local restaurant, where you can immerse yourself in the culinary culture of the area. Attend a community festival or cultural event if available, experiencing the vibrant local traditions and music. Wind down your night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🧃Bottle of water (1.5L)$1-1.5
🧺Local grocery item (1kg fruit)$2-3
🚗Taxi 5km$10-15
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$90-140

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastline and old town
  • Relaxed pace, great for families and couples
  • Good value compared to other coastal towns
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger towns
  • Some hills require effort to explore on foot
  • Certain sections may be crowded in peak season
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please

Places to Visit in Benisa

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Streets of Benissa

Colorful doorways, hanging flower pots, and winding staircases provide texture and depth for street photography.

Mirador de Bernia

A viewpoints area overlooking the coast and inland hills with dramatic valley and sea vistas, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Cala de la Fustera and rocky coves

Rocky shoreline, turquoise water, and cliff-backed beaches ideal for landscape and seascape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Benisa

Benissa and the Costa Blanca region savor Mediterranean flavors enriched by citrus groves, olive oil, seafood, and rice dishes. Expect bright, lemony notes, fresh herbs, and simple preparations that let coastal ingredients shine.

Benisa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz a banda

Rice cooked in fish stock with seafood, typically served with alioli; a coastal staple found in many seaside restaurants.

Must-Try!

Suquet de peix

Traditional fisherman's fish stew with tomatoes, garlic, and saffron; best enjoyed with crusty bread to soak up the broth.

Fideuà

A noodle-based seafood dish cooked in a shallow pan, often with shrimp, squid, and mussels; look for it at local seafood eateries.

Pimientos rellenos

Stuffed peppers typically filled with meat, rice, or chickpeas; a hearty option in tapas bars.

Rogettes de naranja (orange desserts)

Citrus-forward sweets showcasing the region’s abundant oranges; great as a light finish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat Municipal de Benissa

Weekly fruit, vegetables, fresh bread, and regional specialties held in the town market square; a great place to sample local produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Benissa experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Sea breezes moderate daytime heat, making outdoor activities comfortable for much of the year; spring and autumn are especially pleasant for exploring on foot.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is standard; handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common among friends.

Dress Code

Smart casual for dining; modest attire when visiting religious sites; keep shoulders and knees covered in churches.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall, Benissa is a safe destination with typical travel precautions. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas, especially at markets and beaches. Be mindful of currents and swimming conditions at less-frequented coves; swim near lifeguard stations when available.

Tipping in Benisa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not obligatory. Round up the bill or leave 5–10% in nicer restaurants; modest tips in cafes or casual bars are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small shops may prefer cash, especially for under-the-table purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming citrus groves, and comfortable humidity—great for hiking and outdoor dining.

Summer

Hot and dry with sea breezes; beach days are vibrant; afternoons can be busy in coastal towns; stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Autumn

Cooler evenings and pleasant daytime temperatures; ideal for coastal drives and orchard visits.

Winter

Milder than much of Europe; occasional rain; perfect for exploring the old town, markets, and nearby towns without crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Benisa at Night

Benissa’s nightlife tends to be low-key, with terraces and local bars offering cocktails and light music. For a livelier scene, nearby towns like Moraira, Calpe, or Denia provide more bars, live music, and clubs, especially on weekends during peak season.

Hiking in Benisa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra de Bernia Ridge Trail

Popular ridge walk offering expansive coastal and valley views; suitable for intermediate hikers.

Montgó Natural Park trails

Extensive network of trails with panoramic views over Denia and the coast; best with sturdy footwear and sun protection.

Airports

How to reach Benisa by plane.

Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC)

Major international airport about 70-110 miles away; well-connected to Europe; accessible by highway or busRental options.

Valencia Airport (VLC)

Another major hub roughly 150-200 km away; convenient for northern routes and frequent domestic/European flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Benissa's old town is highly walkable with narrow lanes and viewpoints. The coast is accessible by car or bike, and several beaches require short walks from parking areas. Some routes involve stairs and steep sections.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A mix of locals, expatriates from the UK, Netherlands, Germany, and other EU countries; a sizable retiree community with families and seasonal visitors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Coastal towns offer sailing and windsurfing opportunities; marinas near Moraira and Calpe.

Hiking

Trail networks in the Sierra de Bernia and nearby Montgó massifs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate. Summer coastal routes can get busy; consider early departures for day trips. Old-town streets can be tight and parking limited during peak season; a car is useful but not always necessary for exploring the town itself.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Benisa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many menus offer vegetable-forward options, egg-based dishes, and cheese plates. Ask for pescado-free and meat-free versions of paellas or rice dishes; rock-bottom options include salads, grilled vegetables, and tortilla española.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is provided by the SNS in nearby towns; private clinics exist in Moraira and Calpe. If you need medical attention, carry your European Health Insurance Card where applicable and know local emergency numbers.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide