Benidorm announces major winners of 2026 tourism awards

Benidorm has announced the winners of its 2026 Ciudad de Benidorm Tourism Awards, recognizing the contributions of various businesses and individuals to the city's tourism industry. The ceremony, scheduled for September 25, will take place just before World Tourism Day on September 27.

The international category winner is the Benidorm Half, a popular sporting event that attracts over 9,000 runners annually. The race has helped promote Benidorm as a destination capable of attracting visitors through sporting tourism, in addition to its beaches and nightlife.

McDonald's Spain has been awarded the national prize for its 'Mitiquísimo' summer campaign, which highlighted Benidorm as a defining symbol of the Spanish holiday experience. The regional award goes to Ale-Hop, a retail company founded in Gata de Gorgos that has expanded across Spain and beyond due to its success in Benidorm.

Autocares Grupo Benidorm has been recognized with the local award for its vital role in transporting visitors around the Costa Blanca. The company's reputation is built on years of service to the tourism sector, and its award highlights both its business success and its contribution to visitor movement across the region.

Additionally, Antonia Aguilar Masanet, a prominent Benidorm businesswoman and owner of the Hotel Palmeral, has received the special mention award. Her career, which spans several aspects of the tourism industry, includes managing Restaurante Ulía and founding the La Cala travel agency.