Imagine travelling along Spain’s Mediterranean coast in just 50 minutes, as the landscape shifts gently from the vibrant city of Valencia to the tranquillity of Castellón, crossing a fertile huerta (irrigated orchard) that seems to stretch on forever. This journey is one of the most pleasant routes in the Levante region, perfect for those looking to switch off without losing valuable hours on the road, whether enjoying the speed of the high-speed train or driving along a motorway that skirts the sea.
How to get from Valencia to Castellón de la Plana: a quick overview
The best way to travel from Valencia to Castellón de la Plana depends entirely on whether you prioritise speed, price, or freedom of movement during the journey. If you are looking for maximum speed and comfort, the Euromed train is unbeatable at just 40 minutes, while the car is the ideal choice if you plan to explore the villages dotted through the Valencian huerta along the way. For travellers on a tight budget, the bus offers a perfect balance between cost and time, and is the most affordable confirmed option on this route.
Valencia to Castellón de la Plana by car
Driving from Valencia to Castellón de la Plana is extremely straightforward and fast, covering a distance of 73 kilometres in approximately 50 minutes via toll-free motorways. The main route is via the A-7, known as the Autovía del Mediterráneo or Autovia de la Mediterrània, which is toll-free and offers smooth driving parallel to the coast. Depending on your exact departure point in Valencia, you might also initially take the A-3 (Autovía del Este) or the A-23 (Autovia Mudèixar / Autovía Mudéjar), which are also toll-free roads and will connect you efficiently with the northbound route towards Castellón. As there are no verified toll costs on any of these roads, the car journey is very economical in terms of road infrastructure, allowing you to enjoy a landscape that combines urban areas with the extensive orange groves and rice fields typical of the Comunidad Valenciana (Valencian Community).
Valencia to Castellón de la Plana by train
The train is the fastest and most frequent option for connecting the two cities, operated exclusively by Renfe with a total of 29 daily trains departing from Valencia-Estaciò Del Nord station bound for Castelló station. Renfe’s offering is very varied and adapts to different time and comfort needs: the fastest service is the EUROMED, which completes the journey in just 40 minutes and has 6 frequencies per day. If you are looking for other alternatives, the Intercity takes 47 minutes (4 trains/day), the AVE completes the journey in 51 minutes (3 trains/day), and both the REG.EXP. and the REGIONAL take 52 minutes, with the Regional being the most frequent with 12 daily departures. There is also an ALVIA option that takes 57 minutes with a single daily frequency. The timetable is very extensive, with the first train leaving at 5:50 in the morning and the last at 21:52, allowing great flexibility for day trips or business travel.
Valencia to Castellón de la Plana by bus
The bus is the most affordable verified alternative for this route, operated by the company Hife with a price ranging between 7.80 and 8 euros per journey. This direct bus service has an estimated duration of 65 minutes, making it a slightly slower option than the car or fast train, but very competitive in price. The company Hife guarantees a direct connection without transfers, making the trip easier for tourists who do not want to worry about driving or finding parking in central Castellón. It is an especially recommended option for backpackers or travellers who prioritise saving on transport to spend on local experiences upon arrival at their destination.
Recommended stops along the way
If you decide to drive, the route is dotted with charming towns that are well worth a stop to stretch your legs or enjoy the local cuisine, especially in the Huerta (market garden) area.
- Massamagrell: Strategically located along the route, this town is famous for its connection to rice culture and offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for a short break before continuing north.
- Alboraia / Alboraya: Just north of Valencia, this stop is practically a must for food lovers, as it is the birthplace of the famous horchata (tiger nut milk), perfect for cooling off during the journey.
- Alfafar: Located in the southern Huerta, Alfafar stands out for its residential character and extensive green areas, offering an authentic glimpse of life in the towns of Valencia’s metropolitan area.
- Almassora: Very close to Castellón, Almassora is known for its proximity to the coast and its local festivities, making it an interesting spot to see how the urban landscape transitions into the coastal area.
- Benetússer: Although small, this municipality is a perfect example of the density and character of the Huerta towns, with architecture that blends the traditional and the modern.
- Burjassot: Known for its university and student life, Burjassot offers a vibrant atmosphere and is an excellent stop if you are looking for a bit more bustle and services before reaching your final destination.
Where to stay in Castellón de la Plana
To choose where to stay in Castellón de la Plana, the best approach is to decide between the convenience of the city center or the tranquility of the coastal area, as the city offers a wide variety of accommodations without the need for specific names. If you prefer to be close to historical monuments, shops, and restaurants, we recommend looking for accommodation in the city center, near Plaza Mayor or the Fadrí, where you will find mid-range hotels and tourist apartments ideal for couples. On the other hand, if your visit is in summer and you are looking for the beach, the Gurugú or El Serrallo area is the best option, with beachfront hotels and residential complexes perfect for families. Price ranges usually vary according to the season, being more affordable in winter and rising in the months of July and August, but you can generally find options for all budgets, from budget hostels to four-star hotels with all the amenities.
Frequently asked questions about the Valencia-Castellón de la Plana route
How long does it take to get from Valencia to Castellón de la Plana?
Travel time varies depending on the mode of transport: by car it takes 50 minutes, by Euromed train it takes 40 minutes (the fastest option), and by bus it takes 65 minutes.
Which is cheaper, the train or the bus?
According to verified data, the bus operated by the company Hife is cheaper, with a fixed price between 7.80 and 8€, while train prices are not specified but tend to be variable and generally higher than this base bus fare.
Is it worth renting a car?
Yes, it is worth it if you plan to visit the recommended stops along the route such as Alboraya, Massamagrell, or Burjassot, as public transport does not stop at all these specific points and the A-7 motorway is free and fast.
When is the best time to travel?
The best time to travel depends on your interests: in summer to enjoy the beaches of Castellón and Almassora, or in spring and autumn to explore the Huerta and the inland towns with milder weather and fewer crowds.