Locals call it simply: Castellon. A lovely city located by the Mediterranean Sea can boast beautiful beaches, vivid nightlife and beautiful old town. It was granted the charter in 1251, but a settlement was there much earlier. A bit of ruin of fortress buildings are the only remains after full of wars and turmoil times. From guard towers, one could observe an enemy approaching both from land and by boat. And this wasn’t unnecessary precaution – the city was many times attacked by pirates.
Start sightseeing at Plaza Mayor, where there is situated majority of interesting historical buildings, such as an octagonal belfry EL Fadri from the 16th century and the neo-gothic Concatedral de Santa Maria. Next to it since many centuries there has been operating Mercado Central, a city’s market, where juicy fruits, vegetables are grown in Valencia regions and fresh seafood are sold. The third side of the square is occupied by a town hall from the beginning of the 18th century with characteristics façade in Tuscany style.
Sandy, wide beaches are in El Grao district. From the city’s center, you can get there by bus. Do you fancy visiting the wild beach? Go to Playa Serradal. Party covered in grass, it gives a pleasant feeling of privacy, even though it is just the urban beach. The cleanest water is always by Playa Gurugu and Playa El Pinar. If you go to the second one, make sure to stop by a nearby planetarium, where in the middle of the day you can see stars.
When after the whole day of sightseeing and sunbathing you will get hungry, it is time for Mediterranean cuisine. A bit more expensive restaurant, but with delicious seafood, is located by Paseo Buenavista. In Restaurante Mediterraneo you will get the best paella with shrimps and fried calamars. Exquisite home-made dishes you can eat in Restaurante Luisy at Calle Pintor Picasso. And when you will feel like getting pizza in Spanish style, step by Pizzeria Il Solito Posto, at Paseo Buenavista.
