Tivoli World amusement park, located in Benalmádena (Málaga), has been a cornerstone of entertainment on the Costa del Sol for decades. After closing its doors in 2020, the local community and long-time visitors have eagerly awaited its reopening. Now, an ambitious project has been announced that will not only bring the park back to life but also transform it into a state-of-the-art tourist and commercial complex in Benalmádena.
The history and closure of Tivoli World
Tivoli World first opened in 1972, founded by Danish entrepreneur Bernt Olsen, and quickly became a major entertainment hub in Andalucía. With over 35 million visitors since its launch, the park offered a wide variety of attractions and shows that catered to all ages.
However, in September 2020, Tivoli World shut down due to financial difficulties. Legal disputes over the park’s ownership between the International Parks and Attractions Company (CIPASA) and Grupo Tremón further complicated its situation. During the closure, former employees took it upon themselves to maintain and protect the premises, preventing deterioration and vandalism. Their dedication was key in preserving the park while awaiting a definitive solution.
The new Reopening Project for Tivoli World Benalmádena
In February 2025, a major agreement was reached between Benalmádena’s local government and Grupo Tremón, the park’s current owner. The goal is to revitalize Tivoli World and transform it into a top-tier tourist and commercial destination. The estimated investment for this project ranges between €100 million and €200 million, highlighting the scale and ambition behind the plans.
Expansion and Modernization of the Amusement Park
The project not only aims to reopen the park but also to expand and modernize it. Initially, it was reported that the space dedicated to attractions would increase, but a detailed analysis of the agreement has revealed that the area will actually decrease from 77,000 to 69,000 square meters. Despite the reduction in size, the new facilities are expected to introduce exciting and innovative experiences for visitors. Additionally, part of the amusement park is planned to be built on the roof of the covered commercial area, maximizing the use of available space.
Development of a Shopping Center and Hotels
One of the most significant additions is a new shopping center spanning approximately 58,000 square meters. This commercial space will feature a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment areas, complementing the amusement park. Furthermore, two hotels are planned: a four-star themed hotel and another with around 200 rooms. These accommodations aim to attract both national and international tourists, offering high-quality stays close to the park and shopping center.
Economic and social benefits for Benalmádena
The reopening and redevelopment of Tivoli Park are expected to provide a major boost to the local economy. The project is estimated to create around 1,000 direct jobs, benefiting both former Tivoli employees and new workers in the commercial and hospitality sectors. Benalmádena’s mayor, Juan Antonio Lara, has expressed his confidence that the new complex will have a transformative impact on the city, much like its original opening did in 1972.
Beyond job creation, the renewed Tivoli is expected to attract more tourists, benefiting other sectors such as hospitality, retail, and local services. The combination of a modern amusement park with a shopping center and hotel accommodations will position Benalmádena as a comprehensive tourist destination on the Costa del Sol.
Challenges and next steps before the Reopening
Despite the excitement surrounding the project, there are still challenges to overcome. One of the main hurdles is modifying Benalmádena’s General Urban Development Plan (PGOU) to accommodate the new complex’s specifications. This process requires approval from the municipal council, followed by urban planning adjustments, which could take between 18 months and two years.
The long-awaited reopening of Tivoli World represents the resilience and determination of a community dedicated to preserving its cultural and tourist heritage. With significant investment and an ambitious vision, the city is preparing to offer residents and visitors a renewed experience that combines entertainment, shopping, and holiday rentals in Benalmádena. While challenges remain, the future looks bright for this iconic Costa del Sol amusement park.
