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Benidorm is known for its vibrant illumination, all-inclusive resorts, and affordable beers.

However, just a few minutes from the strip is something you may not expect—a Roman scenery that dates back over 2,000 years.

Ancient pathways still traverse the shoreline, a military fortress commands the bay below, and the ruins of an entire Roman city lie not far away.

It’s a facet of the Costa Blanca destination that most tourists don’t encounter.

And it’s a choice that provides significantly more cultural exposure than one might anticipate fromBenidorm.

First Choice has highlighted several key historical sites for travelers eager to explore the cultural aspect of a traditional British expatriate location.

Tossal de La Cala provides a complimentary glimpse into Benidorm’s Roman history, offering unrestricted access to the ruins of a military post from approximately 77 BC.

Located on a hill with a view of the coastline near the resort area, the location offers marked walking trails and informative signs, providing a convenient and straightforward choice for tourists.

For a more detailed day trip, Lucentum (Tossal de Manises) is an ancient Roman archaeological site that can be easily reached from Benidorm, allowing guests to discover the remaining streets, baths, and defensive walls of a once-flourishing city.

The entry fee is only €3 (£2.60), and reduced-price tickets are offered.

Travelers can also explore parts of the Via Augusta near Altea and Villajoyosa, one of the longest roads in ancient Spain, which remains visible along sections of the coastline.

These locations, together with coastal finds such as shipwrecks and amphorae, make up an underappreciated system of Roman ruins along the Costa Blanca.

Nowadays, structured historical tours and coastal archaeological excursions offer a more accessible way to discover this lesser-known aspect of Benidorm.

Only two and a half hours away from the UK, Benidorm experiences early summer weather with average temperatures of about 20°C in May, offering a dependable option for sunshine and beach activities.

Beyond just sunshine and beaches, the resorts conceal a rich history that could match some of Europe’s most famous cultural sites.

Rome is well-known for its iconic sights, yet it also features busy streets, extended lines, and increased daily expenses, particularly during the busiest times of the year.

In comparison, Benidorm is much more budget-friendly.

Pints range from €2.50 (£2.20) to €3 (£2.60), as opposed to €6 (£5.25) or higher in Rome, and a two-person three-course meal can be 25 percent less expensive.

To experience a more genuine flavor of the area, visitors can skip the British-style pubs and explore the lively tapas bars in the Old Town.

The locals’ favorite, La Fava, offers a unique ‘Fava style’ potato salad along with an Oxtail croissant topped with bull sauce and arugula.

In the meantime, Bar Mal Pas offers a range of genuine tapas dishes and is known for its seafood paellas.

However, it’s not only the regional specialties that are more affordable.

A three-day stay costs nearly £160 less for a couple compared to Rome.

For travelers looking to stay, Cuco hotel serves as a practical hub, easily accessible to both the beaches and nearby Roman attractions.

Its prime location also makes it easy to discover the Old Town’s traditional tapas bars or ride a tram along the coastline to find hidden Roman roads, and it offers half-board for only £201 per person.

Kevin Nelson, the managing director of First Choice, stated: ‘Many individuals view Benidorm primarily as a party location.’

However, just a few minutes away from the beach, visitors can discover Roman roads, old forts, and villas that very few people encounter.

You can explore history throughout the day while also appreciating the sunlight and coastal views; it provides a completely new way to see the location.

Although Benidorm is still most famous for its nightlife, its rich history offers a different perspective—blending history, sunshine, and affordability, all just a short distance from the main area.

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