Hotels in Benidorm

As one of the most visited destinations in the Algarve, holidays to Albufeira are undeniably fun. Its spectacular golden sand beaches pull in the crowds, while its buzzing nightlife scene could rival that of any party resort. You’ll find a good mix of traditional and modern charms here too. For a peek into the past, stroll through the stunning Old Town admiring its Moorish beauty, before discovering its super stylish marina, whose colourful buildings are a stark contrast to the area’s whitewashed houses. And when you’re done sightseeing, Albufeira is home to some fantastic activities with a surf school and championship golf courses at your fingertips.

Things to do

From fun-filled excursions to relaxing days on the beach, families won’t run out of things to do on holidays to Albufeira. Find a spot for your towel on the silky sands of Salgados beach, or take a stroll around the ruins of Paderne Castle to learn more about the region’s history. How about some dolphin spotting at the resort’s luxury marina? Here, fancy yachts and speed boats fill the turquoise waters. If it’s adrenaline-inducing watersports you’re after, paragliding, kayaking, wakeboarding and scuba diving boat trips all depart from here.

World-class beaches

Not many places can compete with the Algarve’s beaches, and Albufeira is home to some of the area’s most striking spots. If you don’t want to wander far for a day on the sand, Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman’s Beach) can be found to the front of the Old Town. Stretching for about 225 metres, its combination of soft sand and shallow waters is perfect for families with young children. Plus, there’s no shortage of nearby restaurants when you need to refuel.

To the west, Praia da Coelha promises extraordinary beach scenery with its yellow cliffs and calm waters. Keep walking further along the coast and you’ll come to the stunning Praia de São Rafael. A must for couples seeking privacy, find your own secluded sunbathing spot behind the beach’s scattered rocks. Praia da Falesia is another beautiful stretch thanks to its magnificent red-hued cliffs made from ochre stone. Prefer an upbeat atmosphere while you work on your tan? Then, the Blue Flag Praia d’Oura has a great selection of watersports.

History and culture

Originally Albufeira was known as Baltum and was later renamed Al-Buhera by the Moorish settlers in the 8th century.  Look out for historical gems hiding in the Old Town like The Igreja Santana, an 18th century church, or head inland to see the sandstone ruins of Paderne Castle. From here, you can even explore what’s left of a roman villa with a trip to the ancient site, Cerro da Vila. For a more in-depth look into the site’s past, visit the museum and see artefacts from three eras; Roman, Islamic and the Bronze Age..

A nightlife scene for everyone

What was once a sleepy fishing village is now a nightlife heaven. And there’s a party for all tastes on holidays to Albufeira. Head to the neon-lit Strip for the biggest nights, where the bars and restaurants span for a mile. Sip relaxing post-beach cocktails in a chilled-out setting, or dance until the sun comes up at must-visit clubs like Kiss Disco, which hosts regular themed nights. Those looking for a family-friendly evening will prefer the tamer Old Town. When you’re not sinking cocktails in Sir Harry’s and Merlin’s Bar, the square has a great after-dark atmosphere with street performers and market stalls creating a nightly buzz.

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One of Lanzarote’s biggest resorts, Playa Blanca holidays serve up a trio of pristine beaches (well, Playa Blanca does mean 'white beach'!), a chic marina and a lively promenade brimming with smart bars and seafood restaurants. Backed by the spectacular volcanic mountains on the southwestern tip of the island, it's ideal for your next adventure. There’s so much to explore nearby, like the boiling pots of Los Hervideros (it’s a sort of Giant’s Causeway). And the kids will love the terrific waterpark that’s not too far away.

Things to do

For some, Playa Blanca holidays are all about lazing around on the glorious white beaches and splashing about in the sea. It’s easy to spend your whole time on the sand. How about getting active on Playa Dorado, with its wealth of water sports? And you can while away an afternoon exploring the boutiques on the marina. If you’re travelling with the kids, you won’t want to miss the nearby waterpark. When you come back to the resort, you’ll see that Playa Blanca has a sociable and easy-going vibe when the sun goes down, with great clubs that welcome everyone. You’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink around the harbour and along the promenade. 

Fun in the sea and sand

A choice of three beaches makes Playa Blanca a great place for a holiday in the sun. There’s one that’s perfect for paddling, another that’s ideal for watersports, plus one that’s right next to the centre of the resort. And if you’re into idyllic, empty beaches, make sure you visit the remote Papagayo National Park.

Visit Marina Rubicón

This is one of the most exclusive developments in the Canary Islands, with hundreds of stunning yachts right at the heart of Playa Blanca. Browse souvenirs at the upmarket boutiques, order some delicious fresh seafood at one of the restaurants, or go on a luxury speed boat ride. If you’re hoping to learn to windsurf while you’re in Lanzarote, you’ll find one of the island’s windsurfing schools at this marina, too. Pick up a Playa Blanca map and you should be able to find your way around quite easily.

Marina Rubicón is also home to the Atlantic Museum, a special artificial reef of concrete sculptures. It’s the first underwater museum in the Atlantic, and you can explore it by joining a guided diving excursion, which you can book all year round. Don’t worry if you’re new to diving, either, because you’ll be accompanied by an experienced instructor, who will guide you through this amazing, man-made aquatic wilderness.

Other places of interest in and around Playa Blanca

Aqualava

If you’re keen to try something different to the beach and the sea, use your map of Playa Blanca Lanzarote to get the family to Playa Blanca’s Aqualava waterpark, where adults and children will have hours of fun on the waterslides. Recharge your batteries at the restaurant, where you can enjoy a tasty buffet, or head to the lazy river, the Magma River, to relax for a while. Before you leave, have a look at the gift shop, where you can find some great gifts to take back with you.

The Timanfaya National Park

If you have time, try heading further off the beaten track. Use your Playa Blanca map to find the best route to the Timanfaya National Park, a remarkable volcanic wilderness. The volcanoes are dormant but the lava is hot just beneath the surface, and the landscape is like nothing else you’ll have seen. Playa Blanca even has its own volcano, Montana Roja, and climbing it is a must-do if you’re looking for an amazing view of the coast.

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For fun in the sun, you can’t beat Playa De Las Americas holidays. This vibrant and dynamic destination hums with energy all year round in its bars and nightclubs, where some of the world’s top DJs do guest spots all through the summer to keep everyone dancing from dusk to dawn. Once you’ve finished raving all night, take a morning stroll along powder-soft beaches and catch the ocean breeze as shimmering water laps gently against Tenerife’s south coast. Families are looked after too on Playa De Las Americas holidays, with plenty of attractions and resorts that are perfect for all ages. If it’s lazy days on a sun lounger, dipping your toes in the water, and building sandcastles that you're after, then it’s easy to find a place to unwind among the fabulous beaches of Playa De Las Americas.

Things to do

There’s plenty to see and do in Playa de las Americas, whether you’re here with your friends for a week of dancing until dawn, or have the family with you for a fabulous beach holiday in the sun. Although it has a reputation as clubber’s central on Tenerife, holidays to Playa De Las Americas are just as good for families or couples. And with year-round sunshine, you can choose to take your break in high season, or during the quieter autumn and spring months. Adrenaline junkies will love the water sports on offer, while a trip into the interior of the island will take you on a journey of discovery through a unique landscape. 

Vibrant nightlife
Being the party capital of Tenerife, Playa de las Americas does not disappoint when it comes to a great night out. Party out on the strip until the sun comes up, or have a quieter night in one of their many bars and clubs. Mingle with the locals and make it a holiday to remember. If you delve into the nightlife scene deep enough, you may find some hidden gems.

Family friendly
Away from heavy bass music and flashing lights, Playa de las Americas is incredibly family friendly. A wide range of activities including water parks, tours and paddle-friendly beaches, your children are guaranteed to have the time of their lives. Over half of the hotels in the resort are family friendly, many offering daytime clubs and night time entertainment, so you’ll definitely find one that is suitable for your needs.

Stunning beaches
Tenerife boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Particularly the unique volcanic beaches with black sand. Chill out with a group of friends, enjoy watching your child play or walk hand in hand with your partner under the stars. The beaches offer an amazing day out and what makes it better, is that it’s absolutely free.

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This glorious resort on the shores of the sunny Costa Blanca is best known for its huge Penon de lfach rock, which dominates the coast here. With beautiful fine sandy beaches, ample leisure facilities, ancient history, and fantastic hotels, it's no wonder so many families and couples book holidays here year after year.

The atmosphere here is a little quieter and more laid-back than bustling Benidorm, so if you're looking for somewhere where you can really unwind and take things slowly, this is the place to be. Whether you're here for just a few days or a fortnight, you'll find Calp has something for everyone, from foodies to water sports enthusiasts.

Things to do

Spend some time at Cova dels Arcs, a breath-taking cove with dramatic arches and steep cliffs, 22km from Calpe. Or visit the Aqualandia water park, where you can zoom down water slides, splash in the swimming pool, ride on the river rapids, or just soak up the sun on the terraces. 

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Dubbed the Miami of Costa del Sol, holidays to Marbella are perfect for those seeking year-round sunshine, pristine beaches and glitzy nightlife. You can soak up more days of unspoilt sunshine here than you can in the Canaries. And when the sun sets, head down to the world-famous Golden Mile for an evening of high-profile clubbing.

There are plenty of things to do in Marbella with the kids, too, from the thrilling water parks to the beautiful eco reserves. And the region is full of old-world charm, from the pretty village of Mijas to the cobbled streets of Old Town. So if you want guaranteed sunshine, ancient architecture and a heavy dose of glamour, holidays to Marbella are for you!

Beaches 

Marbella holidays are heaven for sun-seekers with over 20km of golden coastline. There are 23 beaches to explore, including six with Blue Flag status. The weather in Marbella is also calmer than its neighbour town, thanks to the towering Sierra Mountains, creating a sun-trap for sunbathers.

Playa de Puerto Banus

A popular choice for families, Playa de Puerto Banus, has soft golden sands and paddle-friendly waters. The shores are calm thanks to the breakwater, while full-time lifeguards monitor the area. Located alongside the famous Puerto Banús Marina, it's also one of the most glamorous beaches in Marbella.

Playa de la Fontanilla

Playa de la Fontanilla is popular among both tourists and locals. This is the place to be to get a real taste of Marbella. You'll find a wide variety of local shops and restaurants along the Paseo Marítimo – or promenade, where you can enjoy delicious regional specialities. This is also an excellent beach for jet-skiing.

Playa del Faro

Playa del Faro boasts a wonderful children's play area. The sea is shallow and sheltered, making it ideal for paddling with your little ones. In a vibrant location, you'll find the marina and lighthouse to the west and plenty of attractions along the promenade. It's a short stroll from exclusive shops, terraces, and restaurants, too.

Playa de Artola

Playa de Artola lies away from the hustle and bustle of the glamorous Marbella shopping zones. Surrounded by sand dunes and lined with ancient watchtowers, it's one of the most remote spots in the city.

Playa de la Vibora

Famous for its stylish club, Nikki Beach Marbella, Playa de La Vibora is a hub for the rich and famous. Splurge on some opulent lunches or Champagne tastings. Or just enjoy some quiet time on the beach. It's remote enough to disconnect from the buzz of the city.

Nightlife

Marbella holidays have been a favourite amongst the rich and famous since the 60s. White villas meet the yacht-filled marina, making it look like something straight out of a James Bond film. Many celebs come simply for the nightlife, which bursts into life after dark on the legendary Golden Mile. Enjoy the glamour of the lavish nightclubs, where the party usually starts after midnight, so be prepared to dance until the sun comes up. 

History & Culture

Marbella has a rich and fascinating history. Long before it attracted jet setters, it was home to civilisations, from the Phoenicians to the Romans, and later the Moors; you'll see architecture that stretches back to the 1st Century AD. Take a trip to Basilica Vega Del Mar to see the 4th-century Roman ruins. Here you can walk among some of the most ancient archaeological findings of early Christianity. Visit the public Guadalmina Thermal Baths and the unique mosaics in Rio Verde.

Shopping

Shoppers can flex their bargain-hunting muscles in Puerto Banus, which is also where you're likely to spot a celebrity or two. For booshy boutiques, head to Marbella Old Town. It's filled with cosmopolitan pavement cafés, vintage shops and Mediterranean restaurants. Order your travel money before you go, and you can practice your haggling skills at the famous Nueva Andalusia Market.

Natural Beauty 

Standing at 1200m, La Concha Mountain in Spain is the highest point in Marbella. There are many viewing points on the way up, so you can make it as challenging as you want. Mirador del Macho has a well-marked path that will take you through the olive groves. If you're going to take on the peak, bring food, water and plenty of charge on your phone. It will take roughly 4 hours, and the views are breathtaking.

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Holidays in Salou on the famous Costa Dorada are perfect for all the family, and it’s easy to see why this is one of Spain’s most popular destinations, especially during the summer months. Located on the country’s northeastern coast, and within easy reach of the vibrant city of Barcelona, Salou is renowned for the great choice of activities it has on offer. As well as the beaches, bars, clubs, and shops, you’ll find the big theme park of PortAventura on the outskirts of the town, offering a multitude of exciting rides and live entertainments.

Enjoy a choice of water sports on the beaches of Capellans, Llarga, and Levante, or explore the old town with its stylish marina, long promenade, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. This is a real family-friendly resort, with play areas for the kids along the beaches so you can easily keep an eye on them while you relax and soak up the Spanish sun.

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Lloret de Mar has the golden good looks of a classic Spanish beach destination, with the personality to back it up! Fun, friendly and with something new to offer every day, you could chill out on the quietest part of the beach or head into the thick of the action and try some water sports. The nightlife here is thriving, too, with enough venues and clubs to go to a different one every night during your Lloret de Mar holiday.

Things to do

Take the family to Water World Parc where adults and children can zoom down the slides and ride the waves in the wave pool. The attraction also has a children's lagoon and plenty of restaurants and snack bars where you can quickly recharge your batteries. Or head to the Museu del Mar to learn about the Costa Brava's maritime heritage, then explore the scenic Italian Renaissance themed Santa Clotilde Gardens on a cliff above the resort.

Go to Barcelona, just over an hour away by car, and see its distinctive Gaudi architecture such as the Casa Milà arts venue and the Sagrada Familia church. Wander through the city’s lively tree-lined promenade of La Rambla, where you'll find many of the city's best boutiques, visit the huge indoor market of La Boqueria, and spend some time at the enchanting Gothic Quarter with its quaint narrow streets and vibrant nightlife venues. The Catalonian capital is the perfect daytrip for your Lloret de Mar holidays.

Attractions

Once you step away from the hotels, the bars and the beaches, there’s plenty of interesting attractions to discover. Lloret de Mar has a history stretching back to the Romans, and if you take a wander around the town you’ll find 11th century castles built to defend the locals from pirate attacks, gardens designed in the Italian Renaissance style, and the stunning bronze sculpture, Monument to the Fisherman’s Wife; one of the town’s most iconic attractions.

One of the real gems is the biotope. This artificial reef is an absolute wonder for snorkellers and divers, while still preserving and protecting the fragile ecosystem that lies just under the water, from Cala Canyelles all the way to the centre of Lloret de Mar.

Entertainment

Lloret de Mar holidays primarily focus on the beach during the day, and the town’s thriving nightclubs, bars and restaurants during the evenings. As many hotels are located close to both the beach and the main entertainment centre, you shouldn’t have too far to walk, so a taxi probably won’t be necessary.

Clubs have a relaxed dress policy in general, although beachwear is perhaps a little too relaxed for the more popular clubs and bars, so bring some glad-rags for the evening. You’ll find a lot of bars run by ex-pats, so expect theme nights, big-screen TVs (football is a passion in this part of the country so expect all the bars to be packed when Barcelona are playing), and a friendly welcome wherever you go.

Towns and cities

Lloret de Mar is surprisingly big, and there’s plenty to see and do. However, if you fancy a healthy dose of Spanish high culture then the historic city of Barcelona is only 48 miles down the coast. With fabulous art galleries, museums, parks and top-class shopping on offer, it’s the perfect day trip and should only take you around an hour and a half to reach.

For a slightly longer journey, head north to Perpignan, around 80 miles away and packed with 13th and 14th-century buildings, elegant parks, and the beautiful 14th century Cathedral of St Jean Baptiste.

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