El invierno. Heard of it? No? Well, if you’re dreaming of that moment when you sink into the seat of your transfer from Alicante to Benidorm around the tail end of the year then it’s one Spanish phrase you’re not going to have to learn – because el invierno means “winter”, and it seems they didn’t get that memo down on the Costa Blanca.
Spend Winter In a Summer Paradise
While the UK shivers under a cold, grey blanket of gloom, it’s pretty much business as usual in Benidorm, with the majority of the shops, restaurants and tourist attractions staying open throughout winter. The centre of town, while certainly quieter than in peak summer season, still enjoys a laidback, buzzy vibe, unlike many other seaside resorts in Spain at this time of the year. The shuttle services from Alicante to Benidorm ply their trade without much pause during the winter as tourists from the northern climes seek refuge from the snow.
For more mature visitors, the months between October and April are very popular. The town enjoys a thriving semi-permanent British ex-pat community and extended stays during the winter period are not uncommon.
Whatever the Weather
Winter on the Costa Blanca sees a cooler change, sure, but while you’ll need a sweater or wrap in the evenings, during the day it’s very mild, with most people out in short sleeves. There’s very little rain and it’s still comfortable enough to get out on the beach or poolside to top up your tan. For nature lovers and keen ramblers, this is actually a wonderful time of the year, because you can enjoy lovely long walks without getting too hot.
Even in the coldest month (January) daytime temperatures are around 15°C on average, dropping to 6°C overnight. The temperature of the ocean rarely drops below 15°C if you don’t mind an invigorating swim.
Off Season Benefits
Many local businesses tend to have sales at this time of the year with the drop off in visitor numbers, so you can often pick up some great luxury retail bargains at the high-end boutiques. Rolex for Christmas? Gracias!
Because it’s out of season, you’ll also often find some excellent offers from flights and accommodation to the taxis from Alicante Airport to Benidorm – meaning you could get a month-long luxury break for the price of two weeks. Do keep in mind that if you’re planning on spending Christmas Day itself here, the prices of flights go up around that immediate period.
Christmas, Benidorm Style
If you’re going to be in Benidorm over the festive season (whether or not the rest of the extended family is invited is up to you!), you certainly won’t be feeling nostalgic for a mince pie and a pint – because, while we all know the Spanish love a fiesta, over Christmas the celebrations ramp up a notch. And the best thing about it is you won’t have to lift a finger.
All the big luxury hotels put on their own gala events, with fabulous banquets and entertainment programmes featuring live cabaret and comedy acts, or you can venture out beyond your doorstep for a gourmet feast at one of the local restaurants.
Locals’ tip: For top quality food and a wonderful ambience, Amigo’s Restaurant and Roof Terrace has one of the finest Christmas lunch or dinners on offer.
Eating Out in Winter
As mentioned, the majority of the cafes and restaurants remain open during the winter season so you’ll never have to go far for a good quality meal. If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket than the usual tourist fare, here are a few recommendations that won’t disappoint and are open all year round.
La Cava Aragonesa: The cooler weather is the perfect time to sample all those sizzling, exotic tapas dishes you’ve always wanted to, and nowhere in Benidorm does it better than La Cava Aragonesa. There are more than 100 dishes on the menu and, while the food is totally authentic, most of the staff can speak English.
Find it: Plaza de la Constitución, Old Town
Try it: The Churrasco Beef
Paneils: This ambient restaurant offers sophisticated surrounds and a fine dining menu of traditional European and British favourites updated with a contemporary twist. It’s only small but the kitchen pumps out some absolutely mouthwatering dishes, and their extensive steak menu is out of this world.
Find it: Calle Palma 12, Old Town
Try it: Anything from the Steakhouse Selection
India Gate: If you have a yearning for a curry, India Gate is famous throughout the Costa Blanca and is extremely popular with British visitors and ex-pats. It’s renowned as the only Indian in Benidorm under genuine Indian ownership, which should give you some idea of the quality of their menu.
Find it: Calle Gerona
Try it: I’m just going to say… everything!
How to Get to Benidorm
The most convenient airport to Benidorm is Alicante, which is less than two and a half hours flight time from the UK. A range of carriers service the route to Alicante International Airport, including British Airways, with plenty of scheduled flights from destinations throughout the UK.
When you land at the airport, the fastest and most convenient way of getting from Alicante Airport to Benidorm without having to navigate public transport is on a pre-booked private transfer with Shuttle Direct. You’ll be met by a friendly local driver and taken the short 45-minute journey in style and comfort.
Where to Stay:
After you’ve booked the flight and the shuttle transfer from Alicante Airport to Benidorm, you’ll need some great accommodation. Here is a selection of our favourites.
Helios Benidorm – Set in the heart of town within walking distance of bars, restaurants and shops, the Helios Benidorm provides a warm and friendly welcome with facilities to match the service. Just a short walk from the beach, the hotel has a huge onsite pool, hair salon, café, restaurant and a lovely garden.
Hotel Benikaktus – Explore the restaurants of wonderful Levante Beach on your doorstep at the Hotel Benikaktus. With a stylish décor, excellent buffet restaurant, views to die for and a fabulous sun terrace and pool overlooking the ocean, everything is at your fingertips in this friendly beachside hotel.
Marconfort Essence Adults Only – Enjoy the beauty of Benidorm in a more refined way in the Marconfort Essence Adults Only. Just a few minutes walk from Levante Beach, the hotel offers sophisticated surrounds, gorgeous views, two pools and onsite restaurant and bars. Wander the short walk into the Old Town for dinner then enjoy a nightcap in the comfort of your own luxury accommodation.
About Shuttle Direct:
With the most extensive range of airport transfers in Europe, Shuttle Direct has a well-earned reputation for quality, affordability and great service.
Wherever you choose to holiday, Shuttle Direct has a fast, convenient shared or private service to suit any budget and group size. You can book online via the user friendly website and all your travel arrangements will be confirmed before you leave home.
For the best airport transfers, contact the friendly team of professionals at Shuttle Direct and allow them to take the hassle out of organising your travel arrangements.
