Benidorm and its surroundings hold a surprising cultural wealth: award-winning museums, first-class archaeology, contemporary art, and unique spaces that tell stories of the Mediterranean. If you’re looking for a plan beyond sun and beach, or just want to discover the Costa Blanca’s heritage, this guide is for you.

🏛️Did you know? In 2024, Benidorm’s heritage sites — including the Boca del Calvari Museum and the Tossal de la Cala — received over 100,000 visitors, proving that culture shines as bright as the coast itself.

🥇 1) MARQ – Archaeological Museum of Alicante (Alicante)

Theme: Cutting-edge archaeology and immersive exhibits (European Museum of the Year Award).
Location: Plaza Dr. Gómez Ulla s/n, Alicante.
Hours / Admission: Check the official site; special promotions and free entry days available.
Why visit: Innovative interactive displays, stunning temporary exhibitions (in 2024/25: “Cities of Light”), and linked archaeological sites like Lucentum.
Accessibility: Fully accessible and equipped for all audiences.
Perfect for: History lovers, families, and educational visits.

🥈 2) Vilamuseu – Museum of La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa)

Theme: The city’s history from Iberian times to the present, with rotating cultural exhibitions.
Location: Calle Colón 57, La Vila Joiosa (about 8 km from Benidorm).
Hours:

• Winter: Tue–Sat 10:00–19:00; Sun/Fest 10:00–14:00.
• Summer: Tue–Sat 10:00–14:00 & 18:00–21:30; Sun/Fest 10:00–14:00.
  Tickets: General €3 / Reduced €1.50 / Free Sundays, under 18, over 65, unemployed, people with disabilities.
  Accessibility: Recognized as one of Europe’s most accessible museums.
  Perfect for: All audiences, families, and guided tours from Benidorm.

🥉 3) MACA – Museum of Contemporary Art of Alicante

Theme: Modern and contemporary art with masterpieces by Picasso, Miró, Dalí, and other 20th-century icons.
Location: Plaza de Santa María 3, Alicante.
Hours: Sat 11:00–20:00; Sun/Fest 10:00–14:00; Closed Mondays. Free entry.
Perfect for: Art lovers combining culture with a visit to the Santa Bárbara Castle.

4) Boca del Calvari Museum (Benidorm)

Theme: Contemporary art and local history in the heart of Benidorm’s old town.
Location: Calle Tomás Ortuño, Benidorm.
Hours: Vary by season; usually open daily 12:00–20:00 (winter) / until 22:00 (summer).
Admission: Free.
Why visit: A cultural icon representing Benidorm’s identity through photography, design, and historical exhibitions.

5) Valor Chocolate Museum (La Vila Joiosa)

Theme: The delicious history of cacao and the Valor chocolate factory, including guided tours and tastings.
Location: Villajoyosa (exact address on official site).
Visits: Reservation required — especially on weekends.
Hours: Tours typically at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00 and 17:00, 18:00, 19:00 (check before visiting).
Perfect for: Families, foodies, and anyone with a sweet tooth!

6) Casa Orduña Museum (Guadalest)

Theme: A 17th-century noble mansion that connects to the Castle of San José, showcasing period rooms and local heritage.
Location: El Castell de Guadalest.
Hours: Summer 10:15–20:00; Winter 10:15–18:00 (daily).
Perfect for: Cultural day trips to Guadalest combined with other local museums.

7) Microgigante Museum (Guadalest)

Theme: Miniature and micro-sculpture art by Manuel Ussà — tiny wonders with enormous impact.
Location: Calle Sol 2, Guadalest.
Hours: Summer 10:00–21:00; Winter 10:00–18:00.
Tickets: Adults €4 / Children €3 (see combo offers).
Perfect for: Families, photographers, and curious minds.

8) Motor Museum (Finestrat – near Benidorm)

Theme: Vintage cars, motorcycles, film vehicles, and a restoration workshop.
Location: Calle Joan Fuster 4, Finestrat.
Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00 (seasonal); Admission ≈ €12 (adults).
Perfect for: Car lovers and groups seeking a unique experience near Benidorm.

9) Navarro Ramón Museum (Altea)

Theme: Paintings and drawings by Altea-born artist Navarro Ramón, a pioneer of Spanish avant-garde art.
Location: Casa de la Cultura, Altea.
Hours:

• Summer: 09:00–14:00 & 16:30–21:30
• Winter: 09:00–14:00 & 17:00–22:00
  Perfect for: Art enthusiasts exploring Altea’s charming old town.

10) Agricultural Museum (Benidorm)

Theme: Traditional tools, carts, and irrigation systems that reveal Benidorm’s farming past before tourism.
Location: Parque de L’Aigüera, Benidorm.
Admission: Free.
Hours: Variable by season.
Perfect for: Visitors who want to understand how Benidorm evolved from farmland to a world-famous resort.

💡 Tips for Planning Your Cultural Route

• Top combinations from Benidorm:
  • Culture in Alicante: MARQ + MACA + Santa Bárbara Castle.
  • Sweet & historical: Vilamuseu + Valor Chocolate Factory.
  • Charming day trip: Guadalest with Casa Orduña + Microgigante Museum.
• Accessibility: Vilamuseu and Boca del Calvari are fully adapted for wheelchairs.
• Best time: Morning visits during weekdays = fewer crowds.
• Family idea: Mix a museum + a walk + an ice cream by the beach.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
In some cases yes — for example the Valor Chocolate Museum requires online reservation on weekends.

Which museum is the most impressive for a first visit?
Start with MARQ (award-winning archaeology) and Boca del Calvari to discover Benidorm’s local soul.

Are any museums free?
Yes! MACA is always free, and Vilamuseu offers free entry on Sundays and for several groups.

⚠️ Note

Schedules and prices can change depending on the season or special exhibitions — always check the official websites before visiting.