Old Town, Benidorm

The Old Town sits on the headland between Levante and Poniente beaches, around the blue-domed church of Sant Jaume i Santa Anna and the Balcón del Mediterráneo viewpoint. Its narrow streets hold the most Spanish side of Benidorm — and some of its best nights out.

Start on Calle Santo Domingo, known to Brits as Tapas Alley, for pinchos and cañas. From there, British bars such as the Pig and Whistle and a cluster of Old Town pubs offer singers, quizzes and sport, while the gay village around the church is home to drag cabaret at Klee Kafee — open since 1994 — and Almirante.

The atmosphere is more relaxed than the Strip, with Spanish families out for dinner until late and a mix of locals, residents and visitors. It livens up considerably after midnight in the gay village, and the whole area becomes the centre of attention during the November fiestas, when processions start from the church.

Stay in or near the Old Town if you want character, restaurants and easy access to both beaches.