Things To Do
in Benicarló

Benicarló is a picturesque coastal town located in the province of Castellón, Spain. It is known for its sandy beaches, charming old town, and delicious seafood cuisine. The town is surrounded by beautiful orange groves and vineyards, adding to its scenic beauty.

Benicarló also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination for visitors.

  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • Coffee: $1.50 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Beach Day
morning
:

Start your day with a relaxing walk along the golden sands of Benicarló Beach. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze as you watch the sunrise over the Mediterranean.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely lunch at a beachfront café, spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing. Don’t forget to try some local tapas in the beach bars.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset stroll along the promenade. Grab dinner at a seaside restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood dishes.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the historic Church of Santo Domingo and take in its beautiful architecture. Spend some time exploring the nearby local markets and shops.

afternoon
:

Head to the Benicarló Museum to learn about the town's rich history and art. Take a stroll around the picturesque old town to soak in the cultural vibe.

evening
:

Discover local cuisine at a traditional Spanish restaurant. Enjoy an evening of flamenco performance for a taste of Spanish culture.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal views and beautiful beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks.
  • Pleasant Mediterranean climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Vibrant local markets and delicious cuisine, including seafood.
  • A relaxed and friendly atmosphere for residents and visitors.
  • Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
  • Tourist influx can lead to crowded areas during peak season.
  • Some areas may have limited public transport options.
  • Higher cost of living in popular tourist zones.
  • Seasonal economy can affect local businesses outside of peak periods.

Best Activities in Benicarló

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Beach day at Playa del Morrongo

Enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing at this beautiful beach with clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.

Hiking in Serra d'Irta Natural Park

Explore the stunning natural landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna of this protected area while enjoying scenic hiking trails.

Cycling along the coastal promenade

Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque coastal promenade, enjoying beautiful sea views and fresh sea breezes.

Places to Visit in Benicarló

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirador de la Foradada

Offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding area, perfect for capturing beautiful landscape photos.

Platja del Tio Roig

Scenic beach with picturesque views, ideal for capturing sunset and beach photography.

Castell de Benicarló

Historic castle dating back to the 13th century, providing a panoramic viewpoint of the town and its surroundings.

Food in Benicarló

Benicarló, a beautiful coastal town in Spain, is not only famous for its stunning beaches, but also for its delicious culinary offerings. The local cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and fresh seafood, with a strong emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

Benicarló Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz a Banda

A classic rice dish cooked in fish stock, flavored with saffron, and served with a side of aioli. You can savor this dish at Restaurante El Cortijo, a popular spot known for its authentic flavors.

Must-Try!

Fideuà

Similar to paella, but made with short strands of pasta instead of rice, cooked with a rich seafood broth. For an exceptional Fideuà experience, visit Restaurante Rafael, where they prepare it to perfection.

Olla de San Antón

A hearty stew featuring a variety of beans, meat, and vegetables, this traditional dish is best enjoyed at Mesón de Juan.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Benicarló

This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and a variety of seafood. You can also find street food stalls offering grilled sardines, empanadas, and other local delights.

Weather

The climate in this coastal town is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, featuring hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures in the summer months can reach around 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winters typically see averages around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is relatively low and is mainly concentrated in the autumn and spring months, with long periods of sunshine throughout the year. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea moderates the temperature, leading to comfortable evenings even in the height of summer. Due to its location, it also experiences light to moderate breezes, especially during the summer, which can provide relief from the heat. Overall, the climate is ideal for outdoor activities and tourism, particularly during the warmer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting etiquette

In Benicarló, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, and close friends and family members may exchange kisses on the cheek. It is important to maintain eye contact and greet individuals with a warm and friendly attitude.

Respect for mealtimes

Mealtimes are highly valued in Benicarló, and it is important to be punctual for meals. During meals, it is common to engage in lively conversations and it is considered polite to try a bit of everything that is served.

Celebration of local customs and traditions

Benicarló has a rich cultural heritage, and residents take great pride in their traditions. Visitors are encouraged to show respect for local festivals and customs, such as the annual festival of Sant Antoni, by participating in or observing the cultural events.

Safety

Safety in the area is generally considered to be good, with low crime rates typical for this part of Spain. Residents and visitors often report feeling secure while walking around, even at night. Common precautions should still be observed, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping personal belongings secure, particularly in crowded areas or tourist spots. Emergency services are reliable, and the local police are present and approachable. Community initiatives may also contribute to safety and help foster a sense of security among locals and tourists alike. Additionally, areas near beaches and popular attractions are usually well patrolled. In terms of natural safety, the region experiences mild weather, though it's wise to stay informed about local weather conditions, especially during the summer months when heat can become an issue. Overall, the combination of a friendly atmosphere and a low crime rate makes this area a safe destination for travelers.

Tipping in Benicarló

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Benicarló, Spain, as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, it is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% for exceptional service.

Payment

In Benicarló, Spain, cash is widely accepted for small transactions, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and to check if a particular establishment accepts card payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit for pleasant weather and blooming flowers, with average temperatures around 15-20°C.

Summer

Peak tourist season with hot and sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor events, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C.

Autumn

Mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for relaxing and exploring, with temperatures around 15-20°C and occasional rainfall.

Winter

Off-peak season with cooler temperatures around 10-15°C, perfect for budget travelers and enjoying local festivals and cultural events.

Benicarló at Night

Nightlife in Benicarló is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with an array of bars, cafes, and traditional Spanish tavernas where locals and tourists gather to enjoy delicious tapas and local wine. For those who love music and dancing, there are several clubs and discos that play a mix of contemporary hits and traditional Spanish music. Live music performances are also common, with everything from local bands to flamenco shows available, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. For a more laid-back evening, visitors can stroll along the picturesque promenade by the sea or visit one of the beachfront bars for a cocktail while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves. During the summer months, the town hosts numerous festivals and cultural events, including outdoor concerts and street performances, which add an extra layer of excitement to the nightlife. Overall, Benicarló's nightlife is a mix of relaxation and entertainment, making it an appealing destination for both those looking to unwind and those seeking a lively night out.

Hiking in Benicarló

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Natural de la Sierra de Irta

A natural park located to the south of Benicarló, offering a range of hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline and diverse wildlife.

Sendero del Marjal de Almenara

A scenic hiking route near the Almenara wetland area, ideal for bird watching and enjoying the natural beauty of the marshlands.

Camino de Santiago (Ruta del Arco Mediterráneo)

A portion of the Camino de Santiago that passes through the region, offering both cultural and natural experiences along the trail.

La ruta del Peñagolosa

A challenging hiking route that leads to the highest peak in the province, offering panoramic views and a rewarding hike.

Serra d'Irta coastal walk

A beautiful coastal path that runs along the cliffs of Sierra d'Irta, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Aiports

How to reach Benicarló by plane.

Valencia Airport (VLC)

Located approximately 100 km south of Benicarló, Valencia Airport is one of the major international airports in Spain serving the Valencia region.

Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)

Approximately 200 km northwest of Benicarló, Barcelona El Prat is a major international gateway to Spain and one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC)

Located roughly 180 km south of Benicarló, Alicante-Elche Airport serves the Costa Blanca region and offers numerous international flights.

Reus Airport (REU)

Situated around 150 km west of Benicarló, Reus Airport primarily serves the Costa Dorada area and is a secondary airport for Barcelona.

Walkability

This coastal town is known for its charming layout and accessibility, making it quite walkable. The town center features a grid of narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and local markets, encouraging pedestrian exploration. There are several parks and plazas where residents and visitors can relax, enhancing the overall pedestrian experience. Walking along the seafront promenade offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean, and the beach is easily accessible from various points in the town. Public transportation is available, but many find that they can comfortably stroll between key locations such as the historical sites, beaches, and shopping areas. In addition, the relatively low traffic levels in certain areas contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians. The prevalence of designated pedestrian zones further enhances the walkability, making it easy to navigate without relying heavily on vehicles. Overall, the combination of scenic routes, amenities within walking distance, and a friendly atmosphere makes this town a pleasant place for walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Spanish

The primary demographic group, consisting of native Spanish speakers and individuals born in Spain.

Latin American

Includes individuals from Latin American countries, particularly from Argentina, Colombia, and Venezuela.

European Union Nationals

Citizens from EU countries, such as Italy, France, and Germany, who reside in Benicarló.

North African

Includes immigrants from North African countries, primarily Morocco.

Others

A small percentage of the population consists of residents from various other countries around the world.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a widely popular sport in Benicarló, with local clubs and a strong community engagement in both amateur and youth leagues.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Benicarló, with various local teams and competitions fostering interest in the sport.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity in the area due to the scenic routes along the coastline and surrounding countryside, attracting both recreational and competitive cyclists.

Beach Volleyball

Given its coastal location, beach volleyball is popular, especially during the summer months when locals and tourists alike enjoy the sandy beaches.

Tennis

Tennis is practiced in local clubs, with facilities available for both casual play and organized tournaments.

Running

Running is a common recreational activity, with many residents participating in local races and community running events throughout the year.

Traffic

The traffic in this coastal town, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant local culture, is generally manageable, especially outside of the peak summer tourist season. During the busy months, particularly July and August, the influx of tourists can lead to increased congestion, especially in popular areas near the beaches and restaurants. The town features a network of narrow streets, typical of many Mediterranean towns, which can make driving challenging at times. Parking can also be a concern, with limited spaces in the most frequented areas. Residents and visitors often rely on walking or cycling to navigate the town conveniently, as many amenities are within walking distance. Public transportation options, such as buses, are available for those looking to travel to nearby cities or attractions. Overall, while traffic can become dense during peak times, the town's charm and walkability make it easy for visitors to explore without relying solely on vehicles.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Benicarló.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While many traditional dishes in Benicarló are centered around seafood, several restaurants and cafes in the area now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Places like Restaurante L'Antic Molí and Bar El Cantonet are known for their diverse and innovative plant-based dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten sensitivities will be pleased to find that many establishments in Benicarló are equipped to accommodate their dietary needs. Bar El Cantonet, for instance, has a range of gluten-free offerings, from tapas to desserts.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this coastal town is integrated within Spain's national health system, which is known for providing access to universal healthcare for all residents. In Benicarló, residents benefit from a range of medical services that include primary care, specialized care, and hospital services. Primary healthcare is primarily provided through local health centers, where residents can access general practitioners, pediatricians, and nursing services. These facilities focus on preventive care, routine check-ups, vaccinations, and managing chronic conditions. For more advanced medical needs, patients are typically referred to hospitals in nearby larger cities, such as Vinaròs or Castellón de la Plana, which offer specialized medical services, emergency care, and various medical specialties. Pharmacies are also an integral part of the healthcare system, providing prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and health advice. Many pharmacies offer extended hours to ensure accessibility for the community. The healthcare system in the region is characterized by a strong emphasis on public health initiatives, preventive measures, and easy access to medical services, reflecting Spain's commitment to universal health coverage. Additionally, with the town being a popular tourist destination, healthcare facilities are equipped to handle both the local population and seasonal visitors in need of medical attention.

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