Valencia’s hidden gem…with almost no tourists

The planes in the rain fly mainly … to Spain? Or was it … the planes in Spain …? Oh, anyway, there’s no question about it: there’s an unprecedented abundance of tourists heading to the Mediterranean as the summer kicks off, and holidaymakers are wasting no time making their way to the country’s coasts to soak up some sun. However, big cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante, and Palma are promising to be packed this summer, seeing record numbers of tourists and holidaymakers. Luckily for eager visitors, there is a hidden gem in Spain with crystalline waters, beautiful architecture, and the best part? Practically no overcrowding.

Namely, there is one Valencian gem that never disappoints, but is often overlooked by travellers: Castellón de La Plana. Located one hour from Valencia, Castellón de La Plana is a true oasis, where holidaymakers can enjoy sapphire-blue waters, a lively city life, and soak in the authentic Spanish culture without the hassle of cramped crowds and tacky tourism. Not only this, tickets to this beautiful and iconic city are often quite affordable, and could get as low as €45, equivalent to about £40.

Stunning Architecture and Ancient Ruins

Castellón de La Plana’s main square, and particularly its Baroque Town Hall building dating back to the 17th and 18th century, is a feat of architecture that not just history buffs will be able to appreciate. Near it is the Central Market, also an iconic feature of the city and considered the epicentre of Castellón de La Plana. Open Monday to Saturday from 7AM to 3PM, and complete with a beautiful water fountain, visitors will be able to taste local delicacies and immerse themselves in authentic Valencian culture. It’s also a great place to support local workers, and has over 80 stalls to peruse.

The next beautiful building to see is the El Fadrí bell tower, which is another gorgeous building that can be dated back to the 15th century. Near to the incredible bell tower is the Hemp Exchange Market, or La Lonja del Cáñamo, which has Baroque-style architecture. The beautiful and surprisingly vibrant 18th-century Episcopal Palace is also a must-see.

The city is also home to interesting ancient ruins that any architecture nerd, or even fantasy fan, will go wild for. The ancient Carlist walls, the old chapel and castle ruins among the ancient remains at the top of the hill, or the Alonso Turret, a fortified building from the 18th century, are the perfect places to visit if you’re into ruins, history … or even just having second breakfast with your company, of course.

Gorgeous Greens and Crystal Blue Waters

Castellón de La Plana is not just about the architecture, though, incredible as it may be. It also has stunning natural areas, like the Ribalta park, an idyllic green gem in the heart of Castellón de La Plana. Moreover, the beauty of the beaches cannot be overstated. With many nearby options such as the El Pinar beach, the Gurugú beach, or the El Serradal beach, you simply can’t go wrong; they are sure to be much less crowded than other Mediterranean beaches will be this summer, but no less beautiful. The city’s tourism management also recommends eating the arrocitos, or rice dishes, in the El Grao fishing district. They’re typical of the area, but more importantly, positively delicious.

Without a doubt, no matter what you choose to do in Castellón de La Plana this summer, it will be an unforgettable adventure full of history, interesting stories, delicious food, and rich Spanish culture that can’t be found anywhere else.