Castellón de la Plana, a small city on Spain's Costa de Valencia, is being touted as an unspoilt alternative to crowded tourist hotspots. With a population of just over 174,000, it offers authentic Spanish life without the throngs of holidaymakers found in nearby Benidorm, Valencia, or Barcelona.
The city boasts a rich history dating back to 1233 when it was conquered by a Spanish king, and features castles, stunning panoramic views, and 30°C summer temperatures. It also provides access to the Islas Columbretes Natural Park, known for its dramatic sea stacks and rock formations.
Visitors can explore the bustling Mercado Central for fresh seafood and local produce, or relax in quiet plazas such as the Plaça Major, where they can admire the cathedral's architecture. The city's beaches, including Playa del Pinar and Playa El Gurugu, offer perfect spots for sunrise views over the Mediterranean.
Modern history is preserved at the Refugio Antiaereo, an air-raid shelter turned museum. With numerous bars and restaurants serving traditional meals at reasonable prices, the city is a culinary delight. Ryanair now connects London Stansted Airport to Castellón Airport, located 30 kilometres away, with one-way flights starting at just £13. This makes the city an affordable gateway to the wider Valencia region.
