GlynIntroduction
Embarking on a vacation, whether in a hotel or a charming apartment, is a delightful journey filled with exploration and relaxation. Amidst the thrill of discovering new surroundings and immersing oneself in local culture, arises a practical need that adds a unique dimension to the travel experience – the local supermarket. Far beyond being a mere necessity, the local supermarket becomes a crucial ally for holidaymakers, offering a wealth of experiences and opportunities that enhance the overall enjoyment of the trip. In this guide, we will explore why savvy travellers opt to embrace the local supermarket, unravelling the myriad benefits it brings to those seeking a more authentic, convenient, and personalised holiday experience.
Mercadona Supermarket in Benidorm
Mercadona Supermarket stands as one of the largest and most popular supermarket chains in Benidorm, boasting four conveniently located stores that cater to the needs of both locals and tourists. Multiple locations ensure that visitors don’t have to venture far to fulfil their grocery needs.
Two of these supermarkets are in the Old Town at;
- Calle de Mercat
- Calle Invierno s/n
Calle de Mercado is the most convenient being the the centre of the Old Town with a local market upstairs with amazing butchers, veg and bakers to add to your selection. This supermarket has extensive fishmongers for everything you could want from prawns, and squid to salt cod you can even buy a ready-selected paella seafood selection. I did buy one of these once and instead of making paella just cooked all the different clams, squid and seafood separately and ate the lot. I must add the cured ham counter is just the most incredible place to visit.
Fruit and veg in Spain will not disappoint and I often wonder what were are actually being fed in the UK as it tastes nothing like, last time we had an apartment for breakfast I was just eating fresh tomatoes on toast and never got bored.
With the other two being located at;
- Av. Comunidad Europea
- Carrer del Secretario Juan Antonio Baldovi
Consum Supermarket Benidorm
Consum is a popular local Spanish retail chain in Benidorm, known for its wide variety of goods and customer-friendly services.
Consum supermarket offers a vast assortment of goods, ranging from fresh local produce to fresh meats ( I personally like their fresh meat selection), seafood, a range of prepacked and frozen foodstuff, fresh fruits and vegetables, bread baked in-store daily, tinned, bottled and dry goods, fruit juices, soft drinks, beers, wines and spirits. The store also stocks household goods, cleaning products, pet food, and beauty products and offers a selection of lactose and gluten-free products. The supermarket chain has four outlets in Benidorm, all operating from 09:00 am to 9:30 pm Monday to Saturday, with extended hours during the summer.
- C. Herrerías The only one in the Old Town
- Av. del Mediterráneo, which is close
- Calle Hollanda
- Calle Ibiza
Language Assistance
For non-Spanish speakers, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with key Spanish words related to your shopping list using tools like Google Translate before visiting a Spanish-run store. However, due to the high influx of English-speaking tourists in Benidorm, many Mercadona store staff make an effort to understand and assist non-Spanish speakers. While there may be a bit more difficulty at Consum, in reality, communication barriers have rarely been an issue for those with limited Spanish proficiency.
Store Facilities
All Mercadona and Consum stores are equipped with air conditioning for a comfortable shopping experience. Larger locations often provide free parking for added convenience. The stores prioritize accessibility, offering wheelchair access, a plentiful supply of shopping trolleys, smaller wheeled carts for all customers, and lockers for bags.
Product Range
Mercadona and Consum stores boast well-stocked shelves with a diverse array of canned, bottled, and dry goods, catering to a wide range of culinary preferences. Refrigeration units and freezers within the stores offer an extensive selection of prepackaged food items, along with a variety of both non-alcoholic and alcoholic cold beverages to suit different tastes. I tend to buy a 5L water and wine on my first day for the room.
Dietary Options
In response to evolving dietary preferences, Mercadona and Consum also offer a selection of vegetarian options and ready meals. Their product range includes items that cater to specific dietary requirements, such as lactose-free and gluten-free products, ensuring that customers with dietary restrictions can find suitable options at the store.
Conclusion
With a focus on customer convenience, a diverse product range, and efforts to accommodate different dietary needs, Mercadona and Consum Supermarkets emerge as go-to destinations for grocery shopping in Benidorm, catering to the diverse needs of both local residents and the city’s many visitors.
Common questions
Which supermarkets are in Benidorm Old Town?
Mercadona has two stores in the Old Town, on Calle de Mercat (also written Calle de Mercado) and Calle Invierno. Consum has one, on Calle Herrerías. The Calle de Mercat branch is the most convenient, sitting in the centre of the Old Town with a local market upstairs.
How many Mercadona and Consum stores are there in Benidorm?
Four of each. Mercadona’s are on Calle de Mercat and Calle Invierno in the Old Town, plus Avenida Comunidad Europea and Carrer del Secretario Juan Antonio Baldovi. Consum’s are on Calle Herrerías, Avenida del Mediterráneo, Calle Hollanda and Calle Ibiza.
What are supermarket opening hours in Benidorm?
Consum’s four Benidorm stores open 9am to 9.30pm Monday to Saturday, with extended hours during the summer.
Do I need to speak Spanish to shop in Benidorm supermarkets?
No. Given the number of English-speaking visitors, many Mercadona staff make an effort to help. Consum can be slightly harder going, but in practice the language barrier is rarely a problem. Translating your shopping list before you go makes it easier still.
Can I buy gluten-free or lactose-free food in Benidorm?
Yes. Both Mercadona and Consum stock lactose-free and gluten-free ranges, along with vegetarian options and ready meals.
Do Benidorm supermarkets have parking?
The larger locations often provide free parking. All stores are air-conditioned, and they offer wheelchair access, plenty of trolleys, smaller wheeled carts and lockers for bags.
