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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Benalmadena: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Benalmadena
- A Coastal Gem with Layers of Charm – Benalmádena is not simply a beach town; the coastline, the traditional whitewashed village, and the tranquil mountain views make it three separate destinations in one.
- A Castle Built from Love – One man created the storybook-style monument to celebrate Columbus. Castillo de Colomares is an extraordinary blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Moorish architectural styles that shouldn’t be overlooked.
- Where the Sea Meets the Sky – Get on the cable car at Arroyo de la Miel and go up Mount Calamorro to enjoy the spectacular views that go far beyond Africa when the sky is clear.
- Home to a Dove’s Palace – The Parque de las Palomas is a tranquil retreat with fountains, doves that are allowed to fly freely, and colourful gardens — a place that both locals and lovebirds adore.
- Nights That Never Sleep – Benalmádena’s nightlife is a great combination of coastal glamour and Andalusian soul – it includes, among others, lively marina bars, and a flamenco show that you can hardly find in small taverns.
- Dive Beneath the Surface – The SEA LIFE Aquarium is a dream underwater experience where one can even take a walk in a glass tunnel with sharks and stingrays on all sides.
- Culture with a Twist – Come to the Butterfly Park of Benalmádena , the largest in Europe, where you can see hundreds of brilliantly colored butterflies flying freely in a temple built in the Thai style.
- Sunshine That Never Ends – Thanks to more than 300 days of sun every year, the sun that is typical of Benalmádena makes every walk along the promenade with its palm trees look like an endless summer.
- Capital: Madrid (Benalmádena is a town in Spain’s Andalusia region)
- Population: Around 70,000 residents
- International Airport: Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) – about 12 km away
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) / UTC +1
- Driving Side: Right
- Main Electricity: 230V, 50Hz (Type C & F plugs)
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Benalmadena
- Puerto Marina Magic - Walk along one of Europe's most magnificent marinas, where luxury yachts are moored next to attractive cafés, and the air from the sea carries the smell of salt and adventure.
- Colomares Castle - Imagine a fairy tale castle constructed to honor Christopher Columbus, with the mixture of Gothic, Byzantine, and Moorish styles combining to form an amazing single masterpiece.
- The Butterfly Park of Benalmádena - Experience the nature under a glass dome which is a true paradise for the hundreds of free-flying butterflies, and also is home to exotic birds and delicate orchids.
- Sunset at La Paloma Park - The peacocks will entertain you by their walking and you may relax at the shimmering lake surrounded by palm trees—a perfect place to rest in the middle of the city.
- Cable Car to Mount Calamorro - With the help of a car cable, you can reach above the Suns Coast of the sea line with a view of the terrain lazing from Gibraltar to the Moroccan mountains if it is a clear day.
- Benalmadena Pueblo Charm - Get out the beauty of Costa del Sol by walking through whitewashed lanes and flower-decorated streets, discovering the small squares and tapas bars.
- Stupa of Enlightenment - A walk to the largest Buddhist Stupa in Europe might be a perfect idea. This tranquil symbol of peace, which looks over the Mediterranean, is an ideal place both for introspection and the views.
- Tivoli World & Nightlife Buzz - After the sun goes down in Benalmádena you can go to Tivoli World and feel the energetic vibe of the city with its theme park and nightlife including the live shows, flamenco rhythms, and open-air terraces that are vibrant under the stars.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Benalmadena
- Spring (March–May) – Colour returns to the town along the sea gardens and the air is fresh and fragrant. Beach walks are perfect and no crowd is seen.
- Summer (June–August) – The Mediterranean is brilliant and people live at the rhythm of the waves. Flamenco shows, open-air markets, and beachside tapas are what you do during bright evenings.
- Autumn (September–November) – There are no crowds but the nice weather stays. The sea is still suitable for swimming, and the sunsets are getting more and more beautiful. Time of wine tastings, hiking and slowing down Andalusian pace.
- Winter (December–February) – A cold winter Benalmádena is still shining with the sun of the day. The air is fresh but gentle, palm trees are moving slowly, and streets are white and peaceful. Great for cafes, mountain day trips, and sea view from quiet places.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Benalmadena
Sea Life Beneath the Marina
- Experience the Sea Life Aquarium in Benalmadena and see many marine species.
- Go through a clear tunnel, without the sharks, rays and tropical fish in the tunnel with you.
- Swim in the ocean with the sharks where they belong.
- Watch colorful, tropical fish swim all around you.
- Participate in touch pools full of starfish and other safe ocean creatures.
- Have a great time learning about marine conservation via displays.
Cable Car to the Sky
- Ride the Teleférico (cable car) in Benalmádena.
- Travel up Mount Calamorro for a scenic trip.
- Get spectacular panoramic 360° views of the Costa del Sol.
- On clear days, see Gibraltar in the distance from the top.
- On incredibly clear days, see the coast of Africa just beyond that.
- Experience the contrast of mountains and the sea from above.
- Take pictures and get some nice panoramic views on the way up.
The Butterfly Park (Mariposario)
- Go to The Butterfly Park (Mariposario) in Benalmádena.
- Inside the park, it is a temple-like structure, designed in a Thai style.
- Walk around and see hundreds of butterflies flying around you.
- Experience the pleasure of butterflies from all over the world.
- Feel as though you stepped into a fairy tale that is alive.
- A great experience for nature lovers or those who enjoy cellphone photography.
- A transportive and placid experience for all ages.
Colomares Castle
- Colomares Castle – An extraordinary castle located in Benalmádena.
- A Tribute to Columbus – Constructed as a tribute to Christopher Columbus.
- Inventively Designed – An appreciated castle for its storybook appeal.
- Architectural Fusion – It combines Gothic, Romanesque, and Mudejar architecture.
- A Surprising Landmark – A hidden treasure in plain sight that travellers do not expect to find.
- Cultural Value – It champions Spain’s history, as well as, Columbus’s expeditions.
- Excellent for Photography – The views of the castle and artistic designs lend to stunning photography subjects.
Buddhist Stupa of Enlightenment
- Europe's Biggest Stupa – The Buddhist Stupa of Enlightenment is the largest in Europe.
- Quiet Location – It offers peaceful, calm views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Meditation Sessions – Many visitors to participate in guided meditation.
- Great Spot for a Sunset – As it is a quiet area it is a popular spot for a sunset.
- Spiritual Ambiance – The stupa has an intrinsic quality of peace and mindfulness about it.
- Focusing on the travelers: Tourists primarily visit this destination to experience its cultural and spiritual offerings.
- Great for Photographs – The beautiful area is also perfect for taking great pictures.
Benalmádena Pueblo’s White Charm
- Lovely Streets - Stroll through the cute cobbled streets of Benalmádena Pueblo.
- See real, traditional buildings from an Andalusian village.
- Whitewashed Homes - See charming whitewashed houses around the village.
- Flowerpots - Look for colorful flowerpots that brighten up every wall.
- Quiet Corners - Track down a corner, and you'll probably find local character and charm.
- Great Photo Spots - Take a picture without walking for more than a few minutes in any direction.
- Relaxing Atmosphere - Enjoy the tranquil and timeless presence of a timeless village.
The Hidden Night Sky
- Arroyo de la Miel Observatory: A great place in Benalmádena to see the sky.
- Evening Visits: The best time to visit is when the sky is clear at night.
- A Hidden Gem: It's a quiet, private place that not many people know about.
- Beautiful Night Sky: Because it is on the coast, the skies are very clear.
- Views of the Milky Way: This is the best place to see our galaxy in all its beauty.
- Southern Spain's advantage: Benalmádena is one of the best places in the area to do astronomy.
- One-of-a-kind experience—great for people who love astronomy and want to try something new.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Benalmadena Off the Beaten Track
Hidden Art Corners
- Discoverable Art Locations - Look for secluded places with art around Benalmádena.
- Outdoor Art Work Murals - Unusual Colorful Murals cover walls in uncommon places.
- Street Artwork - Unusual pieces of street Artwork cheer up back streets.
- All Over the Town - There is Art you can experience in busy Mills and local back lanes.
- Local Colors and Experience - Each piece is based on the speak of local stories.
- Mind and Personality - Each mural demonstrates not only the mind of the artists but the character of the work.
- Walking Adventure - As you walk around, it is a custicle to discover and find concealed and astounding art work.
Local Tapas Trails
- Find the Tapa Trails – Enjoy food tasting and learn about Benalmádena's unique food history.
- Tapa Tour – Experience the best tapas bars in the town by following a set event path.
- Bar Experience – Go into small local bars that create interesting surroundings, atmospheres, and experiences.
- Creative Tapas – Try fun and appetizing small plates made of local chefs and foodies set out to thrill you.
- Cooking Competition – Bars competing against each other to craft and serve you the best tapas they can make.
- Andalusian Experience – Taste and live the heart of Andalusia—its unique food and ways of life.
- Food Experience – Ensure your food sampling is as exciting and delightful as possible.
Underwater Adventure
- Underwater Walk - Join a guided underwater walk and enter the ocean for a new experience on the sea floor.
- Scuba Diving Experience - Move down with scuba equipment and enjoy the Mediterranean's amazing hidden gems.
- Shipwreck Exploration - Swim around old shipwrecks and experience interesting marine history.
- Coral Reefs - See colorful reefs with lots of fish and underwater scenes.
- Playful Dolphins - On your underwater journey you may get lucky and see dolphins relaxing nearby.
- Marine Photography - You will capture many different varieties of amazing photographs of underwater scenery and different exotic sea creatures.
- Mediterranean Blue - Feel the magic of the deep blue Mediterranean clear water.
Traditional Flamenco Nights
- Warm Tablaos - To experience flamenco, visit the warm, traditional Tablaos—they're small and intimate.
- Vivid Emotions - Dancers embody passion with each step they take.
- Live Soundtrack - The music in every performance is authentic, featuring guitarists and vocalists.
- Dance Storytelling - Each show tells a distinct narrative expressed in rhythm and expressions.
- Candlelit - The low-light creates warmth and intimacy in the performance.
- Cultural Experience - Experience traditional Andalusian culture and customs.
- Memorable Cultural Experience - It was a memorable cultural evening—very emotional, with wonderful songs and amazing artistry.
Hidden Caves of Benalmádena
- Cueva del Toro - A breathtaking hidden cave that is in Benalmádena for you to go explore.
- Some Less known caves - There are some less-known caves to explore in the area of Benalmádena.
- Prehistoric drawings - Witness line drawings done by early people thousands of years ago.
- Natural formations- You can see incredible natural stalactites, stalagmites, & rock formations in the caves.
- Ancient secrets - Each cave has secrets & tales of life from hundreds of years ago.
- Exciting exploration - It is an exciting adventure for anybody that enjoys history or is looking for an adventure.
- Cultural understanding - An understanding of human life and cultural artistic expression of human life.
Festivals of Fire and Flowers
- Cueva del Toro - A breathtaking hidden cave that is in Benalmádena for you to go explore.
- Some Less known caves - There are some less-known caves to explore in the area of Benalmádena.
- Prehistoric drawings - Witness line drawings done by early people thousands of years ago.
- Natural formations- You can see incredible natural stalactites, stalagmites, & rock formations in the caves.
- Ancient secrets - Each cave has secrets & tales of life from hundreds of years ago.
- Exciting exploration - It is an exciting adventure for anybody that enjoys history or is looking for an adventure.
- Cultural understanding - An understanding of human life and cultural artistic expression of human life.
Olive Grove Escapes
- Engage with local farms in their journey of producing olives and olive oil.
- Engage with family farms filled with stories and traditions.
- Have the opportunity to learn hands-on and practice your hand picking abilities of olives.
- Get up close and personal with the olive press.
- Learn about everything that happens in creating high-quality oils.
- Taste freshly pressed oils that are aromatic.
- Enjoy the natural beauty of sun-safe olive farms.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Benalmadena Culture and Traditions
- Andalusian Spirit – Flamenco guitars can be heard in the Benalmádena where the atmosphere is full of the rhythmic soulful of Andalusia, flamenco guitars echo through whitewashed alleys and every festival feels like a celebration of life itself.
- Blend of Traditions – The town’s culture is a colorful mix of Moorish heritage, Spanish passion, and Mediterranean ease- that is the reflection of it in the architecture, food, and warm lifestyle of the locals.
- Local Fiestas & Romerías – The time from Feria de Benalmádena to the Romería de San Juan the streets are full of music, dancing, horses, and carts covered with flowers, live the old customs.
- Art & Expression – A couple of galleries and open-air exhibitions present local artists who combine the modern creativity with Andalusian folklore turning every street into an art space.
- Spiritual Serenity – Proudly in Benalmádena stands the Stupa of Enlightenment
- the biggest Buddhist stupa in the Western world, a rare cultural gem peace and harmony among different faiths.
- Taste of Tradition – CULTURE here is through Tapas and local wines- from crunchy boquerones to smooth gazpacho and every eating tells a story of the sea, sun, and Spanish soul .
- Community & Celebration – Benalmádena culture is not just the thing that people see, but that which is lived. Neighbors meet in plazas; music comes from everywhere, and every sunset is like the beautiful life shared among people calling for it.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Benalmadena: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Food
#FOOD
- Seaside Flavours: The Mediterranean fresh food is the main point for everything you eat. How about sardines grilled on an open-boat fires (espeto) or soft octopus to which you just add your own olive oil and sea salt?
- Tapas Culture: Go bar-hopping and find a good place to have a chat with a few locals over tapas like croquetas, jamón ibérico, or spicy patatas bravas. Each tapa is a tiny piece of the Andalusian warmth story.
- Chiringuito Magic: Enjoy your meal right on the beach in a simple “chiringuitos” style restaurant, where the smell of seafood and the sea breeze combine just right under the amber sunsets.
- Fusion Surprises: Meet creative chefs who not only keep the tradition of Spanish recipes but also spice them up with worldwide influences - like sushi with a Mediterranean twist or paella with tropical fruits.
- Sweet Andalusia: How about churros in thick hot chocolate? Or maybe you would prefer tocino de cielo, a smooth caramel dessert that tastes like the sun?
- Local Wines & Sangria: Enjoy a glass of fresh Málaga wines or a colorful fruit-filled sangria — just right for an afternoon by the marina.
- Market Fresh Moments: Come to local markets like Mercado Arroyo de la Miel, where you can find full-packed stalls with olives, cheeses, and fresh figs - a delight not only for the eyes but also for the soul.
Fun
#FUN
- Stroll the Puerto Marina – Visit one of the most colorful and lively marinas in Europe with beautiful boats, nice cafes, and fun nightlife that starts after the sunset.
- Tivoli World Magic – Enter a fun theme park with rides, shows, and old-style fun that is nice to both children and grown-ups.
- Benalmádena Cable Car Adventure – Fly up Mount Calamorro for great views over the Costa del Sol and see the birds of prey (the flying and hunting) show.
- Secret Garden at Castillo de Colomares – Find a magical castle made for Columbus, with a mix of different architectural styles from all over the world.
- Selwo Marina Encounters – Be close to dolphins, sea lions, and birds (birds that come from far away) in this small marine park, which is the best place for the lovers of animals to get the most.
- Sunset from Mirador de Benalmádena Pueblo – Walk the whitewashed streets of the old town and see amazing sunset views over the Mediterranean from this quiet place to look out.
- Hidden Beach Hopping – Walk around small quiet beaches like Playa de Bil-Bil and relax in water which is very clean and clear and which you will not find with a large number of people, great for you to have sun and rest in private.
Fashion
#FASHION
- Seaside Style – Local fashion focuses on easy-going, relaxed styles for a walk along the marina or beach. Expect light linen shirts, flowy dresses, and fancy sandals in everyone’s wardrobe.
- Art-inspired Accessories - The local art scene has cleaned up and now many locals and shops sell goods that are handmade, colorful scarves, bags with art prints, and jewelry, all of which represent Benalmádena's creative components.
- Day-to-Night Pieces – Outfits can easily transition from sunbathing on Playa Malapesquera to dining in town squares, easily mixing casual beach-attire pieces with a stylish outfit layer like a light. blazer or trendy cover-up.
- Mediterranean Style – The color palette will be filled with turquoise, coral, and sun-warmed color neutral tones, which represent the sparkling oceans, vibrant bougainvillea, and warm sunsets.
- Bohemian Elements – Many local shops and projects display flowing skirts, embroderied tops, and hand-made sandals from leather to highlight Benalmádena's cool, bohemian lifestyle.
- Night Glam at the Marina – When night falls, guests can expect laid back, yet glamorous elements, such as linen pants, silk tops, and statement earrings, all of which are perfect for dining with the paraf lights near the harbor.
- Sustainable and Local – Many boutiques in Benalmádena focus on sustainable clothing and products made locally, focusing on fashion and conscious consumption by default, animal friendly nature, and Mediterranean style.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Benalmadena: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- Sea Meets Sky – There are great cliff-side views where the deep blue Mediterranean and horizon meet, which are perfect to enjoy your sunrise and sunset moments.
- Butterfly Paradise – Visit the Butterfly Park. It is a tropical garden with butterflies of all colors and sizes, flying freely around you.
- Mountain Serenity – At the foot of the Sierra de Mijas, you can find peaceful hiking trails that will lead to hidden waterfalls, pine forests, and views of the coast.
- Botanical Gems – Paloma Park is an island of greenery, exotic plants, koi ponds, and peacocks in the town. It is a peaceful escape from the town.
- Coastal Walks – As you wander along the Benalmádena promenade, you will come across small coves, dramatic cliffs, and natural rock pools that are waiting to be explored.
- A Mediterranean Floral Tapestry – Walking through the hills, you will find fragrant wild rosemary, thyme, and olive trees that together, create a living tapestry of both scent and colors typical of the region.
- Starlit Skies - Away from town lights, mountain hills provide amazing night skies to contemplate and enjoy the tranquility of the Andalusian landscape.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Benalmadena Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- Feria de San Juan – The summer is coming! Benalmádena will be full of bonfires, live flamenco, and street parties at the beaches at the end of June.
- Benalmádena International Puppet Festival - A funky, colorful festival where theaters or all the best puppetry is happening, fun for kids and adults.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) - Beautiful religious processions mixing traditional Andalusian music, beautiful floats, and the devotion of local people into an immersive cultural experience.
- Festa de la Noche Marina - Puerto Marina will be the scene for fireworks, live music, and a magical maritime feel over the water reflecting off every boat.
- Benalmádena Jazz Festival - An intimate and soulful festival bringing world-class jazz artists into coastal venues creating a chic space to relax and enjoy.
- Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen - A procession celebrating the patron saint of fishermen where all the sailors and locals have a celebration in the sea, will colorful boats, and music all along the coast.
- International Street Art Festival - Artists from all over the world turning the walls and the streets into canvases of living art, combining graffiti, sculpture, and performance art to build a visual feast.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Benalmadena Holiday
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