Practical Tips for Living in Benidorm – Everything You Need to Know

Benidorm is one of Spain’s most popular destinations for expats, retirees, and long-term visitors. With its year-round sunshine, affordable cost of living, and large English-speaking community, it’s an ideal place to call home.

If you’re considering moving to Benidorm, this guide covers essential practical tips, including residency, healthcare, banking, transport, and day-to-day life to help you settle in smoothly.

Residency and Legal Requirements

Do You Need a Visa to Live in Benidorm?

If you’re from the UK or outside the EU, you’ll need a visa or residency permit to live in Spain for more than 90 days. There are several visa options available:

• Non-Lucrative Visa – For retirees or those with passive income who don’t plan to work.
• Golden Visa – For those who invest €500,000 or more in Spanish property.
• Self-Employed Visa – If you plan to run a business in Spain.
• Digital Nomad Visa – For remote workers earning from outside Spain.

EU citizens do not need a visa but must register for a Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) if staying long-term.

How to Get an NIE Number in Benidorm

The NIE (Foreigners' Identification Number) is essential for:

• Opening a Spanish bank account
• Buying property or renting long-term
• Getting a mobile phone contract
• Registering with a doctor

You can apply at the Benidorm National Police Station or through a gestor (legal advisor) who can handle the paperwork for you.

Healthcare in Benidorm

Spain has an excellent healthcare system, with both public and private options.

Public Healthcare

Residents with an NIE can access Spain’s public healthcare system through:

• Social Security Contributions – If you work in Spain, you’re automatically covered.
• S1 Form (for UK pensioners) – If you receive a UK state pension, you can transfer healthcare rights.
• Convenio Especial – A pay-in scheme for expats who don’t qualify through work or pensions.

The main public health centre in Benidorm is the Centro de Salud Foietes, with the Marina Baixa Hospital in nearby Villajoyosa providing full hospital services.

Private Healthcare

Many expats choose private health insurance for faster treatment and English-speaking doctors. Popular private hospitals include:

• IMED Levante Hospital – High-quality private healthcare with English-speaking staff.
• Hospital Clínica Benidorm – A private hospital offering a wide range of services.

Finding Accommodation in Benidorm

Benidorm offers plenty of housing options, from high-rise apartments with sea views to gated communities and caravan parks.

Where to Live in Benidorm

• Levante Beach Area – Lively and tourist-friendly, ideal for those who enjoy nightlife.
• Poniente Beach Area – A quieter alternative with a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Rincon de Loix – Popular with British expats, with many English-speaking services.
• Finestrat / La Cala – Just outside Benidorm, offering a more residential feel.

Buying vs Renting

• Renting is common for new expats, with prices ranging from €500–€1,200 per month for a one or two-bedroom apartment.
• Buying property is a great long-term option, with apartments starting from around €100,000.

Many expats also choose long-term caravan park rentals, such as Camping Villamar or Camping Benisol, which offer an affordable, community-focused lifestyle.

Banking and Finances

Opening a Spanish bank account is recommended to handle bills, rent, and day-to-day expenses.

Best Banks for Expats

• Santander – Offers English-speaking services and expat-friendly accounts.
• CaixaBank – One of Spain’s biggest banks, with digital banking options.
• Sabadell – Popular among expats for its straightforward account setup.

To open a bank account, you’ll typically need:

• Your NIE number
• Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
• Passport or ID

Getting Around Benidorm

Benidorm has an excellent public transport system, making it easy to get around without a car.

Public Transport

• Buses – Operated by Llorente Bus, covering all major areas, with a single ticket costing around €1.50.
• Tram (Tramvia Alicante) – A great way to explore nearby towns like Altea and Alicante.
• Taxis – Readily available, with affordable rates.

Driving in Benidorm

• If you’re staying long-term, you may need to exchange your UK driving licence for a Spanish one.
• Parking can be difficult in the town centre, so many residents rely on public transport.

Everyday Living – Supermarkets and Shopping

Supermarkets in Benidorm

• Mercadona – Spain’s largest supermarket chain, great for fresh food.
• Carrefour – Offers a mix of Spanish and international products.
• Iceland Overseas – Sells British products for expats.
• Lidl & Aldi – Good for budget-friendly groceries.

Shopping and Markets

Benidorm has plenty of shopping malls and local markets for clothes, electronics, and household goods.

• La Marina Shopping Centre (Finestrat) – Benidorm’s biggest mall.
• Benidorm Outdoor Market (Sundays & Wednesdays) – Great for fresh produce and bargain shopping.

Social Life and Meeting Other Expats

Benidorm has a large expat community, making it easy to meet people.

Where to Meet Other Expats

• Benidorm Expat Facebook Groups – A great place to ask questions and make friends.
• Bars and Social Clubs – Popular spots include The Union Jack Bar and Benidorm Expat Club.
• Spanish Language Classes – Learning basic Spanish can help you integrate more easily.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Move

• Learn Some Basic Spanish – While many people speak English, knowing a few Spanish phrases helps.
• Get Health Insurance – Even if you qualify for public healthcare, private insurance can be useful.
• Use a Gestor – A gestor (local legal expert) can handle Spanish bureaucracy and paperwork.
• Check Residency Rules Regularly – Rules for UK citizens post-Brexit may change.

Is Benidorm the Right Place for You?

Living in Benidorm offers great weather, affordable living costs, and a welcoming community. Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or just spending a few months in the sun, this city has everything you need for an enjoyable lifestyle.

If you’re thinking about making the move, use this guide as a starting point, and explore local resources and expat communities to help you settle in smoothly.