Things To Do
in Castalla

Castalla is a charming town located in the province of Alicante, Spain, surrounded by picturesque mountains and rich in history. Its medieval castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and serves as a reminder of the town's historical significance. The town is characterized by narrow streets, traditional architecture, and a vibrant local culture that thrives in its plazas.

Castalla is also known for its annual festivals, which reflect the region's traditions and customs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Castalla
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Castle of Castalla, where you can explore its ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic town center, visiting the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows and enjoying lunch at a local tapas bar.

evening
:

Relax at a café in the main plaza, savoring a traditional Spanish dessert while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike the nearby Sierra de la Mariola Natural Park, taking in the beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan workshop to learn about traditional crafts and enjoy a lunch of regional specialties.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar to enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel Night$60
🚍Bus Ticket$1.50
🍦Ice Cream$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Public transport may be infrequent or limited.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Castalla

Visit one of these nice places.

Castle of Castalla

An iconic landmark offering breathtaking views and a perfect backdrop for photos.

Plaza de España

The main square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.

Sierra de la Mariola

Stunning natural landscapes provide countless opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Castalla

Castalla offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Spanish flavors and local ingredients.

Castalla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz con Costra

A traditional rice dish baked with a crust, often featuring meats and spices.

Must-Try!

Tortilla Española

A classic Spanish omelet made with eggs and potatoes, a staple in local cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Castalla

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and artisan products.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Castalla is Mediterranean, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures average around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more common in autumn and spring, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common, and close friends often greet with a kiss on both cheeks.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and avoid speaking with your mouth full.

Siesta Hours

Many shops close in the afternoon for a siesta; plan your shopping accordingly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Castalla is generally a safe town for tourists. However, standard precautions should be observed, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Castalla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if you are satisfied with the service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a lovely time to explore outdoor attractions.

Summer

Expect hot weather, perfect for beach trips nearby, but remember to stay hydrated.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a picturesque setting for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; perfect for cultural visits and enjoying local gastronomy.

Nightlife Guide

Castalla at Night

Castalla offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of bars and small clubs. Locals often gather in the main plazas to socialize, and many establishments feature live music on weekends. Traditional tapas bars are popular spots to start the evening, followed by a late-night visit to a club for dancing.

Hiking in Castalla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero de la Mariola

A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and diverse wildlife.

Ruta del Agua

A moderate hike that follows a river, perfect for enjoying nature and picnicking along the way.

Airports

How to reach Castalla by plane.

Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC)

Located about 30 km from Castalla, this airport offers connections to major cities in Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Castalla is a walkable town with narrow, winding streets that are easy to navigate on foot. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it convenient for visitors to explore without needing a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Predominantly Spanish-speaking, with deep-rooted traditions and a strong sense of community.

Tourists

Visitors from all over the world come to Castalla, especially during the summer months, enriching the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

With ample scenic routes, cycling is a favored pastime among both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Castalla is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include local buses, but many visitors prefer to explore on foot due to the town's compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Castalla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes.

Gluten-Free

Celiac-friendly options are available, but it’s best to inquire at specific establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Castalla is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing services. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide