Benidorm is one of the UK’s leading holiday destinations. The Spanish resort is so popular with Brits, holidaymakers might even mistake it for the UK if the weather wasn’t so sunny.
In one study it was even described as Spain’s most ‘British’ town due to the high number of expats and pubs and restaurants catering to British tastes.
But is it possible to reach the sunny spot without catching a flight? Express.co.uk spoke to the expert travel team at Omio to find out how Britons could get to Benidorm without catching a plane.
While these routes will take a lot longer than a flight, Brits won’t have to worry about liquid limits or airport queues.
The team at Omio have also factored in some fun stops along the way to make the trip much more fun.
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Route One: London > Benidorm
Three trains from London > Paris > Barcelona > Valencia, then a bus to Benidorm
Day One: London > Paris > Barcelona
- 07:01 – 10:23: London > Paris (Eurostar) (2h19m)
- Depart from London in the morning by train (Eurostar) to Paris. Soak in the scenic journey through the English and French countryside.
- Arrive in Paris in the afternoon, and live out your Emily in Paris fantasy. Head to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River.
- Lunch in Paris – Le Bouillon Chartier: Known for its belle époque decor, this historic brasserie offers a range of French classics at reasonable prices.
- 14:42 – 21:27: Paris (Paris Gare de Lyon (departure) ) > Barcelona (Barcelona Sants (arrival) (6h 49m)
- 12h 48m transfer time – hotel with good view/bar: Ohla Chillout Terrace at Ohla Barcelona
- Or spend an extra day in Barcelona and discover Montjuïc Hill, which offers a range of attractions and beautiful views of the city. Enjoy the historic fortress with panoramic views of Barcelona.
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10min metro ride into the city centre:
- City’s famous street – Las Ramblas (amble down La Ramblas, for a bite to eat and a memento)
- Picasso Museum – Barcelona’s collection of almost 4,000 pieces
- Take in the whole city with stunning views at Gaudi’s Park Guell
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- 10:15 – 13:13: Barcelona Sants > Valencia (Joaquín Sorolla – Renfe Euromed: 13:13)
- 33min walk – Lunch
- 15:00 – 17:15 Valencia, Estació d’autobusos > Alsa (2h15m) 17:15: Benidorm bus station
- 17:15: Arrival in Benidorm
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Must see in Benidorm:
- Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente: Who can get enough of golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing are waiting for you.
- Balcon del Mediterraneo: This viewpoint offers panoramic views of both Levante and Poniente beaches, along with the island of Benidorm. It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
- Aqualandia: Escape the reality with thrilling slides, wave pools and family-friendly attractions. No children? You can have the all for yourself.
- Terra Mitica: This theme park is divided into different areas based on ancient civilisations, such as Egypt, Greece and Rome. It offers a variety of rides, shows, and entertainment.
- Benidorm Old Town: Be the historian in this part of Benidorm which is known for its narrow streets, charming architecture, and the blue-domed church of San Jaime and Santa Ana. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and enjoying local cuisine.
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- Day one: London to Paris
- Once you’ve arrived in Paris, spend your afternoon taking in iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum.
- Day two: Paris
- Enjoy a full day in Paris, visiting additional attractions like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, and strolling along the Seine River.
- Day three: Paris to Lyon
- Explore the city’s historical architecture, including Old Lyon and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
- Day four: Lyon
- Spend a day delving deeper into Lyon’s cultural and culinary offerings. Visit local markets, try traditional Lyonnais cuisine, and explore the Traboules, hidden passageways in Old Lyon.
- Day five: Lyon to Avignon
- Travel to Avignon, known for the Palais des Papes and the Pont Saint-Bénézet. Take in the medieval charm of the city.
- Day six: Avignon to Marseille
- Head to Marseille, a port city. Explore the Old Port and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
- Day seven: Marseille
- Get lost in the Old Quarter and relax in vibrant restaurants and cafes. Gaze at the architectural wonder that is Cathédrale De La MajorCross.
- Day eight: Marseille to Montpellier
- Travel to Montpellier. Explore the historic Place de la Comédie and the medieval streets
- Day nine: Montpellier to Barcelona
- Take a train to Barcelona, Spain. Spend the day exploring the vibrant street life, markets, and the Gothic Quarter.
- Day 10: Barcelona
- Enjoy a full day in Barcelona, visiting iconic attractions such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, check out local cafes and hot spots to find out about local events.
- Day 11: Barcelona to Valencia
- Explore the City of Arts and Sciences, the Old Town, and the beautiful Turia Gardens.
- Day 12:Valencia to Benidorm
- Finally, take a bus to Benidorm. Relax on the beaches and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Source: Read Full Article
Total travel cost: £93 one-way
Total duration: 34h
If interrailing is more to your taste, check out this 12 day slow travel route or read about one of the best cities to visit on an interrail trip.
12 day slow-travel option
London > Benidorm
Spread the trip across 12 days and see eight cities.
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Must see in Benidorm:
