Benalmádena, one of the key tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol, offers visitors a harmonious mix of beach leisure, cultural landmarks, and entertainment. Located just 20 kilometers from Málaga, the city is informally divided into three main areas: the traditional Andalusian district of Benalmádena Pueblo with its whitewashed streets, the commercial and residential center of Arroyo de la Miel, and the coastal area of Benalmádena Costa, known for its marina and tourist infrastructure.
In the upper part of the city, in the Pueblo area, there are two unique landmarks. The Estupa Budista de la Iluminación, standing 33 meters tall, is the largest Buddhist stupa in Europe. This Tibetan temple, opened in 2003, is dedicated to peace and harmony. Unlike many similar sites, its interior space with a meditation hall and murals depicting the life of Buddha is open for free visits. Nearby is the largest Butterfly Park in Europe (Mariposario de Benalmádena). In a building designed to resemble a Thai temple, more than 1,500 butterflies of 150 different species freely fly in tropical conditions.
Benalmádena’s architectural heritage features two notable castles. Castillo de Colomares is a modern monument built between 1987 and 1994 in honor of Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America. This structure, blending Neo-Gothic, Neo-Romanesque, and Neo-Mudejar elements, symbolically narrates the stages of the explorer’s journey. On the coast stands Castillo de Bil-Bil, designed in Neo-Arabic style with its distinctive red façade. Today, it serves as a municipal cultural center that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and official ceremonies.
Nature lovers and fans of panoramic views can enjoy the Teleférico de Benalmádena, a cable car that takes visitors to the top of Monte Calamorro at an altitude of almost 800 meters. The observation decks offer coastal views, and on clear days, Gibraltar and the African shore are visible. At the summit, there are shows featuring birds of prey, as well as trails for hiking and cycling. In the city center lies Parque de la Paloma, a 200,000-square-meter green oasis with a lake where rabbits, peacocks, and other animals roam freely.
Benalmádena is geared toward family recreation. At Selwo Marina, visitors can encounter marine life including dolphins, sea lions, and several species of penguins. The park hosts educational lectures and shows. The Sea Life Benalmádena aquarium, located in the port, is home to more than 5,000 sea creatures—from sharks swimming overhead in a glass tunnel to rays and otters.
The main attraction on the coast is the Puerto Marina sports port, which has twice been named the “Best Marina in the World.” Its architecture, featuring artificial islands connected by bridges and more than a thousand yacht berths, draws tourists year-round. During the day, shops and cafes operate here, while in the evening, numerous restaurants and bars open their doors. The city’s coastline stretches for several kilometers and includes both wide sandy beaches, such as Carvajal and Santa Ana, as well as secluded coves like La Viborilla. Many of these beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag for their cleanliness and quality.
The historic center of Benalmádena Pueblo preserves the atmosphere of a typical Andalusian village. Here you’ll find the city’s oldest church, Iglesia de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, and Plaza de España with its famous “Niña de Benalmádena” sculpture. Nearby are the Jardines del Muro, designed by artist César Manrique, and the Museo de Arte Precolombino Felipe Orlando.
