Things to do near Benidorm: Canelobre Caves, Jijona and 6 more day trips

Looking for things to do near Benidorm? A holiday on the Costa Blanca does not have to mean beaches and skyscrapers every day. Inland Alicante offers spectacular caves, traditional villages, craft industries, mountain scenery and great food. One of the most rewarding day trips is to visit the Canelobre Caves in Busot and then continue to Jijona (Xixona), the Spanish town famous for its nougat.

This guide brings together eight day-trip ideas from Benidorm, including a practical route combining nature and local food, a family-friendly toy-making itinerary and cultural stops in the hills.

1. Canelobre Caves and Jijona in one day: the perfect inland excursion

The Canelobre Caves are in the Cabeçó d’Or mountain area near Busot. Their striking stalactites, stalagmites and huge chambers include a main vault roughly 70 metres high. The limestone formations and acoustics make the guided tour a memorable change from the coast.

Start in Busot: book a guided tour of the caves through the official Busot tourism website. Opening days and times vary by season; in the winter schedule, Mondays are generally closed. Allow some time for the mountain road and, if your itinerary permits, a short walk around the village of Busot.

Continue to Jijona: after your cave visit, make your way to the town whose name has become synonymous with traditional Spanish turrón. Wander through its historic streets and explore a tradition built around roasted almonds, honey and recipes handed down through generations. End the day at our shop, Turrones Fabián, Calle El Vall 3, Jijona.

A simple day-trip schedule from Benidorm

• Morning: drive towards Busot and enjoy your pre-booked Canelobre Caves tour.
• Lunch: eat locally, or continue to Jijona depending on your reservation time.
• Afternoon: stroll around Jijona and visit Turrones Fabián to discover traditional turrón and other specialities.
• Return: drive back to Benidorm, allowing enough time for local traffic and shop opening hours.

This is a suggested independent itinerary, not a packaged or guided tour. Check availability with the caves and the shop separately. See also our guide to places to see in Jijona.

2. Why visit Jijona? Take home a truly Spanish souvenir

Spanish turrón is one of the country’s most iconic traditional sweets, especially associated with Christmas, but it can be enjoyed all year round. Soft Jijona turrón and hard Alicante turrón are classic gifts and edible souvenirs: a little piece of the region that is easy to share when you get home.

Rather than settling for an anonymous souvenir, visit the town where this tradition is part of everyday life. At Turrones Fabián, Calle El Vall 3, you can choose from soft almond turrón, hard almond turrón, pistachio and chocolate varieties, marzipan, nuts and other artisan sweets. We welcome visitors staying in Benidorm, Altea, Villajoyosa and elsewhere on the Costa Blanca.

Fresh turrón a la piedra: something you can only collect in person

Some visitors come specifically for our freshly made turrón a la piedra in a tub. Its delicate, fresh presentation is difficult to transport by parcel, so it is sold only in person and subject to availability. Message us before travelling if this is what you hope to buy. Learn more on our fresh turrón a la piedra page.

3. Onil: a village famous for doll-making

Onil has a long tradition of producing dolls. Its Doll Museum helps explain how toys and the industry have evolved. Some manufacturers offer occasional factory visits by prior arrangement, but they are not open-access attractions. Confirm availability before including a factory visit in your day.

4. Ibi: the history of toys and classic arcade games

Nearby Ibi is another important centre of Spanish toy-making. The Valencian Toy Museum showcases objects from different decades, while Museo Arcade Vintage celebrates arcade cabinets, classic videogames and consoles. Together with Onil, it makes a rewarding family day trip.

5. Alcoy: Art Nouveau architecture and industrial heritage

Inland Alcoy (Alcoi) is known for striking Modernist buildings, particularly Casa del Pavo, as well as the Círculo Industrial and other reminders of the city’s manufacturing history. Walk through the centre, admire the architecture and consider the nearby Font Roja nature area if you enjoy hiking.

6. Villajoyosa: colourful seafront houses and chocolate

Villajoyosa, or La Vila Joiosa, makes an easy outing from Benidorm. Explore its colourful seafront houses, old streets and chocolate-making heritage. Check opening conditions if you want to visit a chocolate museum.

7. Guadalest: mountain views and a striking reservoir

The village of El Castell de Guadalest sits dramatically above the valley and is famous for its rock-built historic centre, viewpoints and reservoir scenery. It is particularly enjoyable for photographers, although it can be busy at peak times.

8. Fonts de l’Algar: pools and waterfalls

Near Callosa d’en Sarrià, the Fonts de l’Algar are known for a river landscape of waterfalls and natural pools. Access arrangements, swimming rules and the water level can vary; check the official information and weather before setting off.

Practical advice for day trips from Benidorm

Having a car makes it easier to combine inland places such as Busot and Jijona, as public transport connections may not suit a multi-stop itinerary. Reserve the caves ahead of time and check museum and shop opening hours. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around caves, steep streets and historic centres.

Staying in a hotel or holiday apartment? You can also ask us about sending packaged turrón to your accommodation. A 24-hour delivery may be possible depending on the order time, destination and courier confirmation. Standard online shipping is free from €59 to mainland Spain for shippable products; freshly made turrón a la piedra in tubs must be bought in person.

Google Maps: our Jijona shop · Photos and details of Turrones Fabián · WhatsApp.

Frequently asked questions

Can I visit the Canelobre Caves and Jijona on the same day?

Yes. It makes an excellent independent day trip by car if you book a cave tour and check the shop opening hours beforehand.

Is a factory tour included?

No. The itinerary recommends visiting Jijona and our shop, not entry to a working factory. Factory visits are separately arranged when available.

How do I receive the 10% discount?

Show this article on your phone or printed when purchasing in person at our Calle El Vall 3 shop in Jijona.

Can you deliver turrón to my hotel in Benidorm?

Ask us about sending your order to the hotel or apartment. Delivery time must be confirmed for your address and dates.

For more ideas, see our Costa Blanca travel guide and where to buy turrón in Alicante.