By DealzFlight Staff Reporter
June 20, 2025 ✈
A lesser-known city on Spain’s eastern coast is quietly emerging as a holiday hotspot for travellers looking to escape the crowds — and at a fraction of the cost.
Castellón de la Plana, located just over an hour north of Valencia, offers a mix of Mediterranean beaches, historic charm, and authentic local culture — with return flights starting from just £36 for UK travellers.
While Barcelona and Madrid remain tourist magnets, this low-key destination on the Costa del Azahar is drawing attention for its affordability and uncrowded atmosphere.
“It completely surprised me,” said one visitor on TikTok. “Walking through the charming squares with barely any tourists felt like a secret discovery.”
History, Markets, and Local Culture
Castellón’s historic core features architectural highlights including the Santa María la Mayor church, a 13th-century building rebuilt after the Spanish Civil War, and the El Fadrí bell tower, a Gothic landmark offering panoramic city views.
At the heart of local life is the Mercado Central, a covered market operating since 1949, where more than 80 vendors sell fresh produce, meats, seafood, and regional delicacies.
Nearby, visitors can stroll through Ribalta Park, a popular green space in the city center, or make the short journey uphill to the Hermitage of Santa María Magdalena, a historic pilgrimage site.
Every March, locals take part in the Las Cañas Pilgrimage, walking to the hilltop shrine with green ribbons in honour of the Virgin Mary — a tradition that commemorates the city’s founding.
Museums and Daytime Discoveries
Travellers interested in local history can visit the Museu de la Ciutat de Castelló, which focuses on Castellón’s traditional trades and crafts, or the Fine Arts Museum, which houses works from across the region.
Temperatures in Castellón can reach the low 30s °C in summer, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural excursions and beach relaxation.
Beaches Without the Crowds
Castellón is home to three main beaches, each offering a unique experience:
- El Pinar Beach: A 1.7-kilometer stretch of golden sand next to a protected dune park and family-friendly recreation areas.
- Gurugú Beach: Known for its beach bars and casual vibe, popular among locals.
- Grao de Castellón: Located near the marina, offering restaurants and sunset walks along the promenade.
Restaurants such as La Goleta, Saboritja, and Entrefogones by JR provide options ranging from traditional paella to modern Spanish tapas. For those seeking luxury lounging, Nudo Beach Club offers poolside dining with free access for weekday lunch guests.
Flight Options from the UK
UK travellers have multiple options to reach Castellón:
- Valencia Airport (VLC): Return flights start from £36, with routes from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, and Birmingham. Trains and buses connect Valencia to Castellón in about one hour.
- Castellón Airport (CDT): Direct flights from London Stansted from £40 return, with the city centre just 15 minutes away by taxi or bus.
A Destination for Savvy Travellers
Castellón de la Plana remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism, making it a compelling option for travellers looking for authentic Spanish culture without the high price tag or overcrowding.
With flight deals now bringing the city within easy reach of UK travellers, Castellón may soon become a go-to destination for sunseekers and explorers alike — at least for those who discover it before everyone else does.