With one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Valencian Community and Spain, as well as the charming historic centre of its capital Castellón de la Plana, Castellón offers its visitors beautiful villages full of art, culture and history, as well as magnificent beaches and natural parks. For this reason, this Spanish province is one of the most popular holiday destinations for both national and international tourists to spend the summer months and enjoy the sun, nature, culture and relaxation. Discover what to see in and around Castellon and enjoy one of the most beautiful parts of Spain.
6 Essential places to see in Castellón de la Plana
1. Cathedral of Santa María in Castellon, Spain
The Co-cathedral of Santa María, located in the Plaza Mayor of the provincial capital, is a historic building with many battles to tell. The original building dates back to the 13th century, but it has undergone changes and reconstructions due to all kinds of events. For example, a fire in the 15th century, or its complete demolition during the Spanish Civil War. However, although it is not the original construction (of which only the three entrance doors remain), it retains, through the same Valencian Gothic style, its original essence.
The co-cathedral is located in the Plaza Mayor in Castellón de la plana and entry is free.
Opening times: 23 June-23 September: Mon-Sat (8:00-12:45 and 18:00 to 20:45) Sun and public holidays (8:30-13:00 and 19:00-20:45). 24 September-22 June: M-S (8:00-12:45 and 17:00 to 20:45). Sun and public holidays (8:30-13:45 and 18:00-20:45).
2. The Fadri, an icon of Castellon Spain
If you are looking to visit the symbol of this city, without a doubt it is El Fadrí. It dates back to the year 1440, being one of the oldest buildings in this city. El Fadrí was the old bell tower of the Church of Santa Maria. It is currently free of the church and has earned the name of “El Soltero” (the bachelor).
Moreover, it has four floors, 58 metres and some 200 steps from the start of the route to the top, from where you can enjoy unbeatable views of the whole city.
Free entry. Opening times: Tue-Sat: 12:00-13:00
3. Museum of the Sea
This interesting museum explains fishing and its history in the Grau de Castello, as well as the techniques and different evolutionary forms that a tradition as old as history itself has had.
The Museum of the Sea belongs in turn to the Museum of the City of Castellon, Spain, known for its dramatised tours. All these didactic and entertaining activities make it an ideal place for everyone, from the youngest children to adults who are passionate about fishing.
Free admission. Opening hours: 1 October-31 March: Tue-Sat (10:00-16:00) Sun and public holidays (10:00-14:00). 1 April-30 September: Tue,Wed,Thurs,Sun and public holidays (10:00-14:00), Fri-Sat (10:00-13:00 and 17:00-20:00).
4. Ribalta Park
Parc Ribalta, right in the centre of the city, next to the bullring and the train station, is one of the most beautiful areas to see in Castellón de la Plana. It is the ideal place to enjoy the fresh air in the middle of the city. During your walk through Parc Ribalta you will see beautiful paths full of trees and vegetation, as well as some monuments such as the Templete de la Música and the Obelisco. It also has a beautiful lake where you can watch the wildlife and a playground that will keep the little ones entertained while you stroll and appreciate nature.
5. Town Hall of Castellon Spain
Located in the city’s Plaza Mayor, Castellon’s town hall is an incredible baroque style building built between the 17th and 18th centuries. The main façade of this building has five semicircular arches and Tuscan style pillars that give the whole architecture of the town hall that neoclassical touch.
It also has five balconies on each of the upper floors which house paintings by famous European painters such as Puig Roda, Castell and J.B. Porcar. Among these paintings, the painting of San Roque deserves special attention, which is attributed to the painter Ribalta and which has undergone various modifications over the years and especially after the Civil War, having a very important historical meaning.
Free access. Opening times: Mon-Fri (9:00-14:00). For guided tours, please contact the Town Hall directly.
6. Del Pinar Beach
During your walk around Castellon de la Plana, go to the best beach in the area: Playa del Pinar, which is located near the Grao de Castellon. It is very popular due to its large sandy expanse, which allows you to enjoy the wide space and avoid crowds at any time of the year.
You will find showers, toilets, parking area, sun loungers and parasols for hire, as well as playgrounds for children. In addition, there are also green areas and areas with exercise machines near the park, golf courses, and even a planetarium!
The 8 best destinations to see in Castellón province
1. Visit Peñiscola
When you visit Peñíscola, you will feel like you have travelled back in time. You can visit Peñíscola Castle, a place steeped in history and legends from its beginnings as an Arab citadel to its construction on top of it in the 13th and 14th centuries. In addition to being a piece of history, Peñíscola Castle is located by the sea, which makes it a magical place. General admission €5, reduced admission €3.50. Opening times: From 16th October to Palm Sunday (10:30-17:30). From Palm Sunday to 15th October (9:30-21:30).
Another site not to be missed in Peñíscola is the Badum Tower, which was the ancient defence of the city to protect it from pirates and plunderers. There is also the famous Peñíscola Lighthouse, an iconic and highly visited place due to its proximity to the castle and the beautiful views it offers of the sea and the city.
The best part of the route is when you reach the top, where you can take the best panoramic photos of Peñíscola, making your visit an unforgettable experience. If you want to know more about this beautiful city, don’t hesitate to read our post: Things to see and do in Peñíscola.
2. Lose yourself in the streets of Morella
Morella is one of the most beautiful and visited towns in Castellón, and no wonder, as it has a beautiful medieval old town which is a real delight to stroll through and discover its many craft shops.
Morella Castle overlooks the town from above and is an essential stop in Castellon Spain. This magnificent castle is considered one of the most important fortresses in the Mediterranean. It has great historical and cultural importance, as well as standing out for its imposing Islamic-style architecture that embellishes the city.
Morella is made for strolling and getting lost in its narrow streets. Its historic quarter is well cared for and full of special corners. One of its key points is Blasco de Alagón street, known as the square and a meeting point full of atmosphere and architectural treasures such as its arcades or the town hall. Other highlights are the Jewish quarter and the Cuesta de Sant Joan, which runs through the whole town.
But these are just some of the many interesting places to see in this town. Keep discovering Morella and its medieval wall, the Basilica of Santa Maria, its beautiful and imposing 16 towers in our post Things to see and do in Morella.
3. Alcalá de Xivert Castle
The Castle of Alcalá de Xivert is one of the most beautiful historical wonders of the province of Castellón. It shows the grandeur it had in the past, reflected in each wall of its majestic structure. With or without remodelling, they take us back to a distant, almost magical past.
4. Penyagolosa
The Penyagolosa is the second highest peak in the Comunitat Valenciana, earning this position at 1,814 metres above sea level. This giant rock gives you unparalleled views, and a sense of absolute freedom which makes it totally worth the climb.
5. Source of the Baths of Montanejos
The Fuente de los Baños is one of the most popular spots in Montanejos, in the province of Castellón. It is usually very popular due to its marvellous thermal waters from the river Mijares. Absolutely crystal-clear, its waters reach a temperature of 25ºC and their biological properties are beneficial for your health. In addition, in nearby you can see the remains of ancient Arab baths dating from the 12th century.
There are restaurants, toilets and rubbish bins to preserve the environment – and don’t forget to bring your beach shoes!
For more information read our post: What to see and do in Montanejos.
6. Sant Josep Caves
The Coves de Sant Josep consist of a set of illuminated caves located in the municipality of Vall de Uixó, in the Comunitat Valenciana.
You can take a 45 minute leisurely boat ride along the underground river for a distance of around 800 metres, during which you will be accompanied by a guide who will drive the boat and explain the rooms of the Coves de Sant Josep, such as the Bat Room, Diana’s Lake, the Siphon Gallery, the Dry Zone and the Cathedral.
The entrance fee is 10€. Come and explore the Coves de Sant Josep!
7. Sierra de Espadán Natural Park
Get to know one of the most beautiful and iconic parks in the province of Castellon, where you can enjoy a great variety of fauna and flora in a totally natural environment.
You will find forests dominated by pines and cork oaks, as well as mountains where you can go hiking or cycling.
Nature is one of its strong points, but so are the villages that surround this marvellous natural park. Make the most of your trip through this park and explore villages such as Aín, Almedíjar or Veo, which still preserve medieval structures.
8. El Salto de la Novia
In the town of Navajas, a pretty village in Castellón with several interesting attractions, you will find one of the most impressive sights in the whole province. This is the Salto de la Novia, a 30-metre high waterfall that hides a tragic legend. The name of the waterfall may already give clues to this story, as it is said that it was a tradition that, before celebrating a wedding, the bride and groom jumped over the river. If they jumped safely from bank to bank, the marriage would be happy, otherwise, if they fell into the water, the marriage would be unhappy. One of the brides who had to undergo the test was caught in a whirlpool and drowned, and her fiancé drowned when he tried to rescue her.
It is not known whether this legend is true or false, but what we do know is that the waterfall is a beautiful and magical place that should be one of your must-sees in Castellón. You can take the opportunity to swim in the waters of the Palancia river or have an afternoon picnic. The entrance fee is 2€.
3 Beaches to see in the province of Castellón
1. La Concha Beach in Oropesa
Another of the beaches you must see in the province of Castellón is Playa de la Concha. It stands out for its cleanliness, spaciousness and good care. It also has sun loungers, parasols and roller skates for hire. You can also practise sports such as surfing, volleyball or football thanks to the volleyball net, football goals and surfboard rental. What are you waiting for?
2. Morro de Gos Beach in Oropesa
If you are looking for a calm morning or afternoon, we recommend visiting Morro de Gos Beach. It is small in comparison to other beaches, but it offers an incomparable tranquillity where you will be able to watch wonderful sunsets.
It is located to the north of the cape in the municipality of Oropesa, and has security services and easy accessibility. In addition, you can enjoy activities such as boat trips and water sports.
3. Playa del Russo, one of the most pleasant beaches to visit in Castellón
In the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, to the south of Peñíscola, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Castellón. We are talking about Playa del Russo, a sandy 80 metre cove, unspoilt and protected. One of the things that make this cove so beautiful and special is that in order to preserve it (and also the Natural Park) from the wear and tear of leisure and tourism, it has not got any kind of service such as sun lounger rental or kiosks. The ideal place to enjoy a quiet and pleasant day at the beach in a unique natural environment.
Castellón travel map
Here is a map of one of our travellers’ itineraries with the best places to visit in Castellón, so that you can organise your trip easily and quickly. You can also add important documents such as travel tickets, hotel reservations and even invite your friends to be part of the itinerary organisation. Using Passporter is free of charge and will help you travel in a more organised way. You have the option to organise your trip on the web by registering or downloading the app so you can carry everything in your pocket 🙂
Itinerary for your trip to the province of Castellon, Spain
The province of Castellón has a wide variety of tourist sites to see. So that you don’t miss any, we will help you to prepare your itinerary with the places you should see according to your days of stay, in an easy and quick way.
What to see in 1 day in Castellon de la Plana, Spain?
- Castellón Town Hall
- Cathedral of Santa María de Castellon
- El Fadrí
- Ribalta Park
- Del Pinar Beach
- Museum of the Sea
What to see in 2 days in the province of Castellon, Spain?
- Castle of Alcalá de Xivert
- Peñíscola Lighthouse
- Peñíscola Castle
- La Concha Beach
- Penyagolosa
What to see in 3 days in the province of Castellon, Spain?
- Morro de Gos Beach
- Baths Fountain
- Coves de Sant Josep
- Sierra de Espadán Natural Park
- El Salto de la Novia
How to plan your itinerary of the places you want to see in the province of Castellon, Spain?
Download the Passporter app and plan your trip in the most organised way and according to the days and places you want to see.
With the app you can:
- Get inspiration from the experiences of other travellers.
- Save valuable information about the destinations you want to visit that you have found on the internet. Just install the Chrome extension and save everything useful for your trip.
- Save your tickets and reservations.
- Organise your route on google maps with your accommodation as the starting point or any other that you indicate.
- Know the best travel option for each place.
- Save and publish your own photos and experiences as you go along so that other travellers can see your recommendations for Castellon Spain
If you are interested in knowing more about how to use and get the most out of the Passporter app, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
Frequently Asked Questions about Castellon Spain
Castellón is a province located in the east of Spain, more precisely, in the northern part of the Comunitat Valenciana. Its capital, which occupies an important place in the most visited cities in Spain, is Castellón de la Plana.
As well as offering incredible views and attractive places, you can also find restaurants where you will be served the best and traditional Spanish dishes. These restaurants have been rated as the best by travellers; among these are Restaurante El Mirador del Port and Restaurante Mediterraneo.
Castellón has only one airport, known as Aeroport de Castelló. It is located 30 kilometres away in the capital of the province, leaving Villanueva De Alcolea and Benlloch on either side, being quite close to central places such as the capital.
To get to the province of Castellón you have several options, either by car or bus, the latter going to the Castellón de la Plana Bus Station. You can also arrive by train or plane. These four options will take you to Castellón de la Plana.
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