If you are stuck for something to do on a warm and balmy evening why not head up to the Old Town. Benidorm has in some people´s minds acquired a reputation of solely being a stag and hen destination for those wanting nothing more than sun and cheap booze. Up to a point that is the case, particularly in the Rincon de Loix area, but if you head up to the Old Town you will think you are in a completely different part of Spain.
Home of the Gay quarter
You can wind up and down the narrow cobbled streets, which are full of predominantly Spanish bars and restaurants - the famous Tapas Alley is located in this part of town. It is something that you should definitely try at least once - and once you have I am sure you´ll be hooked. With literally hundreds to try you will never tire of the flavour combinations... and most have descriptions in both languages as well so you can even practice your Spanish! This is also where you will find the popular Gay quarter - with most bars proudly displaying the iconic rainbow flag. Things really come to life here around midnight so if you fancy a great night then this is the place to go - there is a fantastic selection of welcoming bars and you are guaranteed a great and very late night! Try Casa Don Juan for a spin on "Play your Cards Right", Sensations Bar or after midnight, People for an early morning bop.
Craft market every night
If you head up towards the blue domed church at the top and go under the arch you come to the Mirador, sometimes referred to as the look out point, or as the Spanish call it "El Castell". For the fifth consecutive year, the nightly craft market has opened for the Summer season, with the stalls setting up at around 6pm and there till around midnight. The market stalls will be there until the end of the Summer - 30th September.
Plenty of caricature artists
There is an assortment of art and craft stalls, hand made jewelry and hair braiding. But mostly you will find artists offering to paint portraits, sketches and caricatures. You can even hand them an image on your iPhone or a photograph and they can replicate it in pastels while you go and wonder around or have a drink at one of the bars around the square.
Artisan stalls
You will find plenty of locals as well as holiday makers strolling around taking in the atmosphere. One of the stalls "Asmbe" is selling bits made by the disabled and underprivileged and all money raised will go to the charitable organization. You can purchase a selction of pottery, glass products, have your name written on a grain of rice or small leather goods. All of the stall holders are from the region - coming from as far as Alicante. It´s a lovely place to walk up to and you get a superb view of both the bays from the top, so don´t forget your camera... or a pair of sensible shoes!
