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Benidorm bars packed as Cheltenham Festival fever hits the Costa Blanca

Benidorm / 10 March 2026

Benidorm is once again experiencing a surge of British visitors as thousands of racing fans descend on the Costa Blanca resort to follow the Cheltenham Festival, which runs from today, Tuesday 10 March, to Friday 14 March.

The famous four-day horse racing meeting, held annually at Cheltenham Racecourse in Cheltenham, is one of the biggest events in the British sporting calendar. However, many fans are choosing to watch the action from the sunshine of Benidorm rather than making the trip to the racecourse itself.

Across the resort, bars and sports venues are preparing for large crowds throughout race week, with giant screens and projectors set up to broadcast every race live from the UK. Many venues along the famous entertainment district are opening early each afternoon to accommodate the race schedule, with terraces and pubs expected to be packed with racing fans.

Local businesses say the festival provides a welcome boost to tourism during early spring. Hotels, bars and restaurants report increased bookings as visitors combine watching the races with enjoying the resort’s beaches, restaurants and nightlife.

The growing trend has even earned the resort the nickname “Costa del Cheltenham,” as thousands of British and Irish visitors gather each afternoon to follow the races while enjoying the Mediterranean climate.

Tourism officials say the event highlights the strong connection between the Costa Blanca and British holidaymakers, with Benidorm continuing to attract large numbers of visitors year-round.

While the races themselves take place hundreds of miles away in England, during festival week the atmosphere in Benidorm rivals that of the racecourse, as punters gather daily to cheer on their selections and enjoy one of the biggest weeks in the racing calendar.

🌴 What’s On This Week – Costa Blanca (Benidorm & Surrounds)

Easter Events & Local Atmosphere (Just finished but still ongoing vibe)

Benidorm

The tail end of Semana Santa has wrapped, but the holiday atmosphere continues this week. Expect busy beaches and a bustling Old Town, with hotels around 90% full. Daily live music, tribute acts, UK-style cabaret shows, DJs, and themed party nights are keeping the nightlife lively. The Benidorm Punk Weekender is also taking place, offering multi-day alternative music performances. This week is more about the post-Easter buzz, nightlife, and events in venues rather than big parades.

Day Trips & Experiences (Running This Week)

Available from Benidorm, Albir, and Altea:

Guadalest & Algar Waterfalls Tour: Mountain views, waterfalls, and village exploring.
Alicante “Hidden Secrets” Walking Tour: Culture, history, and local stories.
These tours are popular with tourists staying in Benidorm, Albir, and Altea this week.

Altea

After Easter processions, Altea is quieter this week. Visitors can enjoy street performers and small local gigs, with major festivals scheduled later in the year.

L’Alfàs del Pi / Albir

Local markets, cafés, and expat events continue, along with live music nights in bars and seafront venues.

Finestrat

Finestrat is relatively quiet this week, with the next major event being the April Fair on 25–26 April featuring flamenco, tapas, and music.

La Nucía

Maintains a sports-oriented vibe, hosting local training events and small community activities.

Villajoyosa

Offers seafront markets and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for food lovers and visits to the chocolate museum.

Big Picture This Week

Easter tourism is still driving crowds. Beaches, bars, and restaurants are busy, and the main events this week include live music, tours, and local nightlife. Major festivals and larger events will return later in April and throughout the summer.

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Benidorm bars packed as Cheltenham Festival fever hits the Costa Blanca

🌴 What’s On This Week – Costa Blanca (Benidorm & Surrounds)

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