Castellon de la Plana is the capital of the Castellon province, located in eastern Spain, near the Mediterranean Sea. This little province is well known by its huge orange plantations, clear blue skies and nearby beautiful villages that have stood the test of time.
Between the 16th and 17th century the city of Castellon de la Plana left behind its medieval aspect thanks to the economic growth, especially in terms of agriculture. During this period, some important public buildings were built, some of which I mention below.
But the changes that occurred during the 19th century were the most important and the ones that remain today. The population started to grow and the boom of orange plantations occurred, bringing prosperity to the city. Today, Castellon de la Plana main economic activities are the production of mass tiles and the orange plantations.
We can divide Castellón in three areas: the historic city centre, the modern neighborhoods and the harbor named Grao, being the historic centre being the most interesting of the three. This city has a quiet and gentle nature that tourists can find pleasant, as long as they are looking for a warm and relaxing destination to travel.
Key Takeaways
- Castellon de la Plana is a small city on the east coast of Spain and the old town can be explored in a day.
- Castellon de la Plana is located on the main railway line between Barcelona and Valencia
- The museum dedicated to citrus fruit is likely the only one in the world
Things to do in Castellon de la Plana
The Lonja del Cañamo is renaissance building from the 17th century, it is decorated with tuscan columns and allegoric pictures. This is one of the most ancient buildings of the city with other important constructions as El Fadrí, a tower forty-eight meters high placed at the other side of the street.
What do you like best about your city?
What I definitely love about Castellon is the calm you feel living here. There is no traffic, noise or overflowing streets, just a quiet city with people who lives day by day without any stress. The other aspect I really like is the weather. On average, the sun shines on the city 300 days a year. It’s just fantastic!
How to get to Castellon de la Plana from Valencia by train
To get from Valencia to Castellon de la Plana by train, you can take the regional train from Valencia’s main train station, Estacio del Nord. The journey takes about an hour and trains run several times a day.
Here is a step-by-step guide to getting to Castellon de la Plana from Valencia by train:
- From Valencia, go to Estacio del Nord train station. This is the main train station in Valencia and is located in the city center. You can get there by taking the subway, bus, or taxi.
- Once you arrive at Estacio del Nord, go to the ticketing office or use the ticket machines to purchase a ticket to Castellon de la Plana. Make sure to check the schedule to ensure that you are catching a train that goes to Castellon de la Plana.
- Board the regional train to Castellon de la Plana. The train will depart from a platform at Estacio del Nord and the journey to Castellon de la Plana takes about an hour.
- Get off the train at Castellon de la Plana. The train station in Castellon de la Plana is located in the centre of the town, so you can easily walk to your destination from there.
Best Walk in Castellón de la Plana
City Centre
Here I include the whole city centre because unlike other cities, Castellon historic center can be visited entirely in just one afternoon. I recommend starting with La Puerta del Sol, here you will see El Casino Antiguo. Then you can walk down Enmedio street, here you will find many shops, it can be crowded, especially on weekends. The city council is in the Plaza Mayor besides the Mercado Central and the Concatedral de Santa María, which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War. After its reconstruction in
neogotic style, it was reopened in 1999.
Plaza del Mar
If you take the TRAM, you will arrive in less than ten minutes to the seafaring district, El Grao. Plaza del Mar was built in 1990 in order to make the district more attractive to tourist. From this square you will be able to see the sea and feel the warm breeze at any time of the year. Nearby, there are many restaurants where you can eat an authentic arroz castellonense (or a paella, if you prefer).
Best Beaches in Castello de la Plana
Castellon de la Plana is a beautiful coastal city located on the eastern coast of Spain. It boasts a long stretch of coastline with some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. If you’re planning a trip to Castellon de la Plana, here are some of the best beaches you shouldn’t miss:
- Playa del Pinar: Located in the town of Castellon de la Plana, Playa del Pinar is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It’s a long, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also has plenty of amenities, including restaurants, showers, and parking.
- Playa de la Concha: Situated in Oropesa del Mar, Playa de la Concha is another popular beach in Castellon de la Plana. This beach is known for its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach also has plenty of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day.
- Playa del Gurugú: This beach is located in the town of Castellon de la Plana, and it’s one of the quieter beaches in the area. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. The beach is also popular for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Playa de Morro de Gos: Situated in the town of Alcossebre, Playa de Morro de Gos is a beautiful beach that’s popular with families. It’s a relatively quiet beach with calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also has plenty of amenities, including showers, toilets, and parking.
- Playa de la Romana: This is another beautiful beach located in Alcossebre. It’s a small, secluded beach with stunning views of the coastline. The beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, and it’s also a great place to go snorkeling.
- Playa de la Torre de la Sal: Located in Ribera de Cabanes, Playa de la Torre de la Sal is a long, sandy beach with plenty of space to relax and unwind. It’s a great place to enjoy the sunshine and swim in the crystal-clear waters. The beach also has a range of amenities, including restaurants, showers, and parking.
- Playa de la Mar Chica: This beach is located in the town of Benicarlo, and it’s one of the most secluded beaches in the area. It’s a small, hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and a rocky shoreline. The beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and it’s also a great place to go for a walk and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Overall, Castellon de la Plana has some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot or a lively beach with plenty of amenities, you’re sure to find the perfect beach in Castellon de la Plana.
Best Hotels in Castellon de la Plana
Here are our favourite 3 places to stay in Castellon. Please click the links so you will see more details and reviews on TripAdvisor.
Dona Lola is a family friendly hotel. It has a 24 hour front desk, a concierge, and newspaper, to help make your stay more enjoyable. The property also has a free breakfast.
Eurohotel Castellon is very convenient as it is located directly opposite the railway station and also near the central bus station. The rooms are decorated in a modern style. You can dine at the onsite restaurant that serves a la carte menu.
NH Castellon Turcosa has an excellent location overlooking the Mediterranean sea in this picturesque Spanish port.
NH Castellon Mindoro is a 4-star hotel located in Castellón de la Plana, a city in the province of Castellón, Spain. The hotel is located in the city center, close to a number of local attractions, including the Cathedral of Santa María, the Plaza Mayor, and the Museum of Fine Arts. NH Castellón Mindoro offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness centre. The hotel has a modern and stylish design, and it offers a range of guest rooms and suites, many of which have views of the city.
Our Top 5 Places to Stay in the Castellon de la Plana Spain
Our price guide should be taken as a guide only as there is a large disparity between peak and off-season prices. The links take you to TripAdvisor where you can compare prices between Agoda/Expedia etc
| Economy/Backpackers <$75 | Mid Range Hotel $75-$125 | High End / 5 Star Hotel >$125 |
| B&B HOTEL Castellon | Hotel Doña Lola | Hotel Costa Azahar |
| Hotel Civis Jaime I Castellon | Hotel Luz Castellon | Suites Castellon Apartamentos |
| Hotel Bag | Hotel Intur Castellón | RH Silene Hotel & Spa |
| Minotel Zaymar | Intur Castellon | NH Castellon Turcosa |
| Hotel Real Castellon | NH Castellon Mindoro | Hotel Servigroup Trinimar |
Best Restaurants in Castellón de la Plana
Considering I am talking about a Mediterranean city, I have to mentioned El Pairal. Established in 1987, El Pairal offers high quality Mediterranean dishes conserving the tradition thanks to three decades of experience and excellance in the catering sector. If you are looking for a more informal and innovative place, you should visit Le Bistrot Gastronómico. The chefs bet on the fussion of flavors and products from different parts of the world. The place have became very popular in a short time and is always crowded, so you better book in advance.
Best Music/Festival in Castello de la Plana
The biggest party in Castellon is La Magdalena. Unlike other parties, La Magdalena celebrates the origin of the city with a wide range of activities that includes concerts, gastronomic exhibitions, the typical pilgrimage to the Magdalena hill and more. Castellon people wait all the year for this party which begins in the third Sunday of Cuaresma, usually in March. If you want to see how lively and amusing Castellon streets can be, you should travel to the city during La Magdalena.
Best Nightlife in Castellon de la Plana
As I said before, Castellon is a small city, so nightlife is also a bit limited. But there is one place where you can have some fun at night, Las Tascas. Basically, these are a group of bars and small restaurants very active at night where you can have a beer and eat some tapas. In addition, you can visit pubs like Pub Terra and Wallaby’s Creek (you will recognize it by the kangaroo decorating the entry) which remain open until dawn.
Best Trip Out of Castellon de la Plana
This part is quiet hard to answer. There are so many places to visit out of Castellon city that I can hardly decide for one. However, if you have stayed enough to read this part, my duty is to give you my advice. My choice is Peñíscola. This little coastal town is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. Peñiscola has been inhabited by Romans, Arabs, Byzantines and more, but the most important personality who had lived here is the Pope Benidict XIII also know as, Papa Luna. He decided to exile himself in the Peñiscola castle in 1411.
The Peñiscola old town has many wonderful places you should visit. First, to enter the old town you will pass through the Portal de Sant Pere, after that you’ll find El Bufador, a big hole in the rocks below the houses where you can feel the sea “blowing”. If you keep walking, you’ll see La Casa de Petxines, whose facade is decorated with shells. These are just few places you can see in Peñiscola. So, if you travel to Castellon and have the opportunity to leave the city, please go to this magical village.
Something not many travellers would know about Castellon de la Plana
Most tourists and even the Spanish don’t know that Castellon is the second most mountainous province in Spain. Yes, it makes no sense. The full name of the city is “Castellón de la Plana”, La Plana means “flat”… Well, you got it. The point is that there are some hidden towns inland like Morella and Montanejos totally worth-visiting
Interesting facts about Castellon de la Plana
- Castellón de la Plana is a city in eastern Spain, located in the Valencian Community.
- It is the capital of the province of Castellón, and is the third largest city in the Valencian Community, after Valencia and Alicante.
- Castellon has a population of approximately 170,000 people and is named after a Moorish castle (Castle of Fadrell) that sat on the hill of Magdalene .
- The golfer Sergio Garcia is a native of Castellon.
- Castellon is on the Valencia–Sant Vicenç de Calders railway between Valencia and Tarragona. It is also a stop on the Barcelona- Alicante service. It take between 60-90 minutes by train between Valencia and Castellon.
- You can visit Islas Columbretes by renting a boat from the port at Castellon. It takes 2 hours to reach the island one way.
- If you are in Castellon during football season, Villarreal is the neighbouring town if you would like to see a La Liga game or possibly even Champions League as they quite often qualify.
- Castellon has a museum dedicated to the history of citrus fruit. I challenge you to find another one of those in the world.
- Castellón de la Plana is known for its beautiful beaches, including the beaches of Benicàssim and Vinaròs, which are popular with tourists.
- The city is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, such as the Castellón de la Plana Cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Castellón de la Plana is an important agricultural and industrial center, with a number of important industries, including textiles, ceramics, and furniture.
- The city is home to the University of Castellón, which is one of the largest universities in the Valencian Community.
- Castellón de la Plana is known for its rich culinary traditions, which include dishes such as paella, arroz a banda, and fideuà.
- The city is home to a number of festivals and events, including the Feria de la Magdalena, which is a popular annual fair that takes place in March.
- Castellón de la Plana is located near several important natural areas, such as the Columbretes Islands and the Desierto de las Palmas Nature Reserve.
- The city is also home to the Castellón de la Plana Football Club, which plays in the Segunda División, the second division of Spanish football.
FAQ
What are the top things to do in Castellon de la Plana, Spain?
Explore the rich history, indulge in local cuisine, immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene, enjoy outdoor adventures, discover the coastal charms, experience festivals and events, visit the local markets, enjoy a day at the beach, unwind in natural hot springs, explore local wineries, discover nature reserves, experience the local nightlife, and enjoy shopping in the city.
What historical landmarks can I visit in Castellon de la Plana?
You can visit the medieval Castell Vell, the grand Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the charming Plaza Mayor.
What are some traditional dishes to try in Castellon de la Plana?
Don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like paella, tapas, and arroz a banda. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing horchata.
Are there any art galleries in Castellon de la Plana?
Yes, you can visit the Espai d’Art Contemporani, showcasing contemporary art exhibitions, or explore the Museo de Bellas Artes, which houses a collection of fine art from renowned Spanish artists.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Castellon de la Plana?
Embrace the natural beauty by hiking through the Sierra de Espadan Natural Park, taking a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, or cycling along the coastal bike paths.
Are there any charming coastal towns near Castellon de la Plana?
Yes, you can visit the picturesque town of Benicassim, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant music festivals, or head to Oropesa del Mar to relax on its sandy shores and explore its historic castle.
What festivals and events can I experience in Castellon de la Plana?
Join the La Magdalena Festival, a week-long celebration featuring parades, music, and fireworks, or experience the FIB Benicassim music festival, attracting international artists.
Where can I find local markets in Castellon de la Plana?
You can visit the Mercado Central to discover fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional delicacies, or explore the Mercado de Colón for an eclectic mix of goods.
Which are the best beaches in Castellon de la Plana?
Enjoy the sun and relax on the golden sandy beaches of El Gurugú, Playa del Pinar, or Playa del Serradal.
Are there any natural hot springs in Castellon de la Plana?
Yes, you can visit Montanejos, a scenic mountain village renowned for its thermal waters, and enjoy a relaxing soak surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Can I visit wineries in Castellon de la Plana?
Absolutely! Embark on a wine-tasting journey in the local wineries, where you can sample the region’s finest wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Are there any nature reserves in Castellon de la Plana?
Yes, you can explore the Prat de Cabanes-Torreblanca Natural Park, a haven for birdwatchers, or visit the Penyagolosa Natural Park to witness stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
What is the nightlife like in Castellon de la Plana?
Indulge in the vibrant nightlife by exploring the bars and clubs in the city center, where you can dance to live music or enjoy a cocktail in one of the trendy lounges.
Where can I go shopping in Castellon de la Plana?
Shop till you drop in the city’s boutique stores along Calle Colón or visit the Espai Menut, a unique shopping destination offering a variety of local products and crafts.
1 thought on “Things to do in Castellon de la Plana – Spain”
Comments are closed.