Benidorm’s Balcony of the Mediterranean

If there is one place you simply must visit in Benidorm, it is the Balcony of the Mediterranean, also known as the Castle Viewpoint. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this iconic viewpoint offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea, Benidorm Island and the beaches of Levante and Poniente.

The Balcony of the Mediterranean is not only one of the most photographed spots in the city, but also a place steeped in history, culture and tradition. Whether you are visiting Benidorm for the first time or already know the city well, this viewpoint is an absolute must.

What is the Balcony of the Mediterranean?

The Balcony of the Mediterranean is a spectacular panoramic viewpoint perched on a rocky headland separating Benidorm’s two most famous beaches: Levante Beach and Poniente Beach.

Its distinctive white balustrades, sweeping staircases and magnificent views have made it one of the most recognisable landmarks in Benidorm and on the entire Costa Blanca.

History of the Balcony of the Mediterranean

Long before becoming one of Benidorm’s main tourist attractions, this site was home to an important defensive fortress.

Between the 14th and 19th centuries, the old Castle of Benidorm, popularly known as El Castell, stood here. Its purpose was to protect the town from the frequent attacks by Barbary pirates and corsairs that plagued the Mediterranean coast.

In 1812, during the Peninsular War, the castle was occupied by French troops. Shortly afterwards, it was almost completely destroyed following attacks by the British fleet and was eventually abandoned.

Today, only a few archaeological remains of the former fortification survive beneath the present-day viewpoint, although the site retains enormous historical significance.

 Why is it also known as the Castle Viewpoint?

The name Castle Viewpoint refers to the ancient fortress that occupied this site for centuries.

Today, several cannons can still be seen in Plaça del Castell, recalling the important defensive role once played by this strategic location.

Although the castle disappeared more than two centuries ago, the viewpoint keeps alive the memory of one of the most important chapters in Benidorm’s history.

Where is the Balcony of the Mediterranean?

The Balcony of the Mediterranean is located right in the heart of Benidorm’s Old Town, in Plaça del Castell, on Punta Canfali.

Its privileged position offers almost 360-degree panoramic views of the coastline.

How to get to the Balcony of the Mediterranean

The Balcony of the Mediterranean is located in the very heart of Benidorm, just a short walk through the Old Town.

To reach the viewpoint, you first need to make your way uphill through Benidorm’s historic quarter. The walk has a charm of its own, offering a glimpse into the city’s origins as a small fishing community.

There are several ways to reach this iconic viewpoint on foot, with two main routes taking approximately 10 to 15 minutes:

• Route 1 – From the beaches: Walk along the Levante or Poniente seafront promenade towards the centre, passing Elche Park and following the harbour. From there, climb the stone steps that lead directly up to the viewpoint.

• Route 2 – Through the Old Town: Head towards Ruzafa Street and continue along Alameda Street until you reach the palm-tree square. Climb the steps leading to the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana; the viewpoint is just behind it.

If you prefer to use public transport, several local Avanza bus routes stop close to the square where the viewpoint is located.

What can you see from the Balcony of the Mediterranean?

The views are undoubtedly the main attraction. From the viewpoint, you can admire:

• Benidorm Bay

• The marina

• Benidorm Island

• Sierra Helada

• Benidorm’s skyline

• Unforgettable sunsets over the Mediterranean

Every time of day offers a completely different perspective, although sunset is particularly spectacular.

Benidorm Island

Just off the coast, directly opposite the viewpoint, lies Benidorm Island, one of the city’s best-known natural landmarks.

Located around two nautical miles from the harbour, this small island is home to an important protected marine ecosystem and can be visited by boat for much of the year.

Benidorm Island is also known as Journalists’ Island, following a twinning ceremony held in 1970 with the Federation of Press Associations. During the event, a symbolic document was signed naming the federation as the island’s honorary godmother and, by extension, all journalists in Spain as its honorary godparents.

In addition to its ecological importance, the island is surrounded by numerous legends that have been passed down through generations. The most famous tells how the island is actually the missing piece of the nearby Puig Campana mountain, kicked away by the legendary hero Roland in an attempt to save his beloved.

The famous white steps

One of the most photographed features of the Balcony of the Mediterranean is its elegant white stone staircase. Its equally distinctive white balustrades have become an iconic image of Benidorm.

At the bottom is a small square where many couples attach padlocks as a symbol of everlasting love. Inspired by the famous love-lock bridges of Paris and Rome, this tradition has been enthusiastically embraced by visitors, who see this beautiful Alicante landmark as the perfect romantic setting.

Things to do near the Balcony of the Mediterranean

After visiting the viewpoint, you can take the opportunity to discover several nearby attractions:

• Stroll through Benidorm’s Old Town

• Visit the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana

• Discover Mal Pas Beach

• Walk around the marina

• Explore the Poniente promenade

• Sample the local cuisine or enjoy tapas at the restaurants in the historic centre

An unmissable place to visit in Benidorm

From this privileged spot, you can begin to understand how Benidorm evolved from a small fishing village into one of the Mediterranean’s leading tourist destinations.

The views, history and atmosphere make the Balcony of the Mediterranean an experience no visitor should miss.

If you are planning a getaway to the Costa Blanca, make sure you set aside some time to discover this unique corner of Benidorm!

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to pay to visit the Balcony of the Mediterranean?

Access to the viewpoint is completely free and it is open all year round.

How long does a visit take?

A visit usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes, although many people choose to stay longer to enjoy the scenery.

How high is the Balcony of the Mediterranean?

The viewpoint stands approximately 30 to 35 metres above sea level.

What is the best time to visit the Balcony of the Mediterranean?

Although the viewpoint can be visited at any time of day, there are a few particularly special times to go:

• At sunrise: the peaceful atmosphere and soft morning light provide spectacular views.

• At sunset: the sky and sea take on beautiful shades of orange as the city begins to light up.

• At night: Benidorm’s illuminated skyline creates a completely different and highly photogenic scene.

¿Es posible visitar la isla de Benidorm?

Yes. Boats depart every hour from Benidorm harbour, and the crossing takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.