Planning a Benidorm Weekend: A Short Break Guide from the UK

Thinking about a quick escape to the sun? Benidorm combines easy flights from the UK, sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and an Old Town packed with tapas bars. Whether it’s a two-night dash or a long weekend, here’s how to plan a smooth, good‑value break with realistic timings, activity ideas, and transparent cost guidance.

Planning a Benidorm Weekend: A Short Break Guide from the UK

Benidorm weekend away

A Benidorm weekend away suits travellers who want straightforward logistics and plenty to do in a short window. Flights from major UK airports to Alicante typically take around 2.5 to 3 hours, and transfers to Benidorm usually take 45–60 minutes by shared shuttle or taxi. For a two-night plan, focus on Levante Beach for daytime relaxing, the Old Town for tapas-hopping, and a sunset stroll along the Balcón del Mediterráneo. Spring and autumn deliver warm weather and often calmer crowds than midsummer.

Benidorm long weekend

A Benidorm long weekend gives time to add a day trip or slow the pace. After a beach day, explore Poniente’s calmer promenade, visit the Old Town’s blue-domed church, and sample classic rice dishes from the Valencian region. If you have a fourth day, consider Altea’s whitewashed old quarter or the hilltop village of Guadalest. Evenings can be low-key in local bars or lively in entertainment venues; mix and match to keep energy levels up and avoid over-scheduling.

Mini breaks to Benidorm

Mini breaks to Benidorm work well with hand-luggage-only travel and early or late flights to maximise time on the ground. Pre-book airport transfers or use local buses from Alicante Airport to Benidorm via Alicante city connections. Accommodation ranges from simple apartments to beachfront hotels; pick a location that matches your priorities—proximity to nightlife, quieter bays, or easy access to the Old Town. Check room-only versus half-board options; short stays often benefit from flexible, pay-as-you-go dining so you can try different tapas spots.

Benidorm short break deals

When evaluating Benidorm short break deals, compare total trip value rather than headline prices. Factor in luggage fees, transfers, flexible booking policies, and on-site amenities. Packages can be cost-effective for weekends because they often bundle hold baggage and airport transfers. DIY itineraries can work if you’re flexible on flight times and happy to use shared shuttles. Watch for school holiday surcharges and major event dates, and review accommodation policies carefully; local tourist taxes or deposits may apply depending on property and municipality.

Benidorm weekend city break

Treat your trip like a city break with sea views. Start with a morning café con leche in the Old Town, visit local markets, and browse independent shops on pedestrian streets. Add a coastal walk between Levante and Poniente for viewpoints and photo stops, or take a short bus ride to smaller coves. Public buses and taxis are widely available, and the compact centre makes walking practical. If you prefer quieter evenings, stay west toward Poniente or inland from the beachfront.

Costs and real providers

The following price guidance reflects typical weekend packages for two adults sharing a mid-range hotel (2–3 nights, outside peak school holidays) from UK airports to Alicante. Costs vary by season, departure airport, baggage, transfers, and room type. Use these ranges as estimates only.


Product/Service Provider Cost Estimation
2–3 night flight + hotel package (3★) Jet2holidays £220–£400 per person
2–3 night flight + hotel package (3★) TUI £200–£380 per person
2–3 night flight + hotel package (3★) easyJet Holidays £180–£350 per person
2–3 night flight + hotel package (3★) Loveholidays £150–£320 per person
2–3 night flight + hotel package (3★) On the Beach £160–£330 per person
2–3 night flight + hotel package (3★) British Airways Holidays £230–£420 per person

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

For context, shoulder-season weekends generally price lower than midsummer; adding hold luggage and private transfers can add £30–£80 per person. Central Old Town or beachfront hotels usually command a premium over properties a few streets back.

Benidorm packs plenty into short stays, from easy beach time to an atmospheric Old Town and quick day trips along the coast. With realistic planning—choosing convenient flights, a location that matches your pace, and a package that includes the extras you’ll use—you can keep travel simple and make the most of a sunny weekend without overextending your schedule or budget.