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When you think of Valencia, the city probably comes to mind first. But if you look further, you will quickly discover how diverse this region is. There are so many other beautiful places to be found – often much less touristy, and sometimes even a bit undiscovered. In this blog, we will introduce you to one of those places: Cullera.
A life by the sea in Cullera
Cullera is a coastal town on the Costa de Valencia, approximately 40 kilometres south of Valencia city. Cullera has a population of around 25,000 and is lively all year round. This means you don’t have to worry about deserted winters, something you do have to take into account in some Spanish seaside resorts. The atmosphere is typically Spanish: friendly, lively and relaxed. Ideal for those who love the real Spain.
With more than two kilometres of promenade and wide sandy beaches, it is the perfect place for those who enjoy the sea. What’s more, the town is located on the river Júcar, which provides a unique landscape and fun activities such as boat trips. In summer, everything comes together here: sun, sea, sangria and atmosphere. In winter, it is a little quieter, but you will always find life along the coast, in the centre or around Cullera Castle.
Location and accessibility
Cullera is located 40 kilometres south of Valencia city and is easily accessible from there by car in 30 minutes or by direct train in 40 minutes. It is also only 45 minutes from Valencia airport. Alicante is a 1.5-hour drive away, and even Denia – on the northern edge of the Costa Blanca – is only a 45-minute drive away. So you could say that Cullera is located exactly between Valencia city and the Costa Blanca North. Hello, perfect location!
What is there to do in Cullera?
Walk to Cullera Castle, visit the local market, or take a boat trip on the river. Cullera is certainly not a seaside resort where going to the beach is the only option – although it is, of course, a nice bonus that this is also possible.
Here is an overview of some things to do in Cullera:
- Visit Castillo de Cullera and Santuario de la Virgen del Castillo (located next to each other)
A beautiful walking route, if desired you can opt for a challenging climb, but you can also go there by car or by train. Bonus: from here you have a beautiful view of the city and the sea. - Take a boat trip on the Júcar river
During this trip, you will sail to the ‘Azud de la Marquesa’ and then back towards the fish market and the marina. - Visit the Rice Museum (Museo del Arroz)
Cullera is located near Albufera, Valencia’s rice-growing region and therefore important for Valencian paella. Here you will not only learn about the history and rice culture in Valencia, but also enjoy the view over the rice fields. - Shopping and coffee at the Mercado Municipal
Covered market hall for daily shopping or to stroll around in search of local products. It is also a place where you can enjoy coffee, breakfast or a light lunch at one of the cafés. - Cool off at the Aquopolis water park
A welcome attraction in the Spanish summer! In addition to cooling off in the sea, you can also choose this water park with various slides and swimming pools in Cullera. Beautifully situated among the hills of Cullera. - Walking in the botanical garden
For plant lovers, but also for a quiet walk among the greenery, this garden full of tropical and native plants is worth a visit. - Visit to Cueva – Museo del Pirata Dragut
A historic cave converted into a themed museum dedicated to the Turkish pirate Dragut, who attacked and plundered the city in 1550. Nice to combine with a visit to the lighthouse. - Walking along the Faro de Cullera
This lighthouse has been in existence since 1858 and is still in use. The lighthouse itself is not open to the public, but the surrounding area is freely accessible, with walking trails along the rocky coast and various beaches.
And then, of course, there are all the beaches, the long boulevard and the historic centre of Cullera where you can enjoy yourself. Not to mention that there is also a train station with a direct connection to Gandia and Valencia city. All this makes Cullera a very suitable place to live or stay for a longer period of time.
Food and drink in Cullera
This is Spain, so let’s talk about the most important part: food and drink! You will want for nothing in Cullera, from traditional paella to seafood, but also other cuisines such as Italian, it’s all here.
Below, we have listed some of the best restaurants and cafés in Cullera for you – all of them loved by locals and visitors alike.
Tapas, lunch, dinner
- Terra
Modern cuisine with fresh, local ingredients, in the centre of Cullera. The atmosphere is understated and stylish. Excellent wine list! - La Turquesita & Turquesa Beach
For tapas, burgers and cocktails, on the beach. Popular with locals and tourists alike, both during the day and in the evening. - La Piccola Trattoria
Pizza and pasta with a sea view! Cosy Italian restaurant on the boulevard of Cullera. - El Rincón del Faro
As the name suggests, this restaurant is located near the “faro”, the lighthouse of Cullera. It is a seafood restaurant with a view of the coast. - La Perla Negra
Cosy beach bar with a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for lunch or a drink after the beach. - Bariloche Beach
Simple beach bar with a large terrace. Mediterranean cuisine and generous portions! - Bar Pescadores
Seafood restaurant in the centre, next to the river. Simple, but fresh and good prices. - Casa Salvador
Just outside the centre, but an established name in the region and therefore a must. Authentic paellas and rice dishes, with a view of the nature of L’Albufera.
Breakfast and sweet treats
- La Crème El Mercat
A popular coffee spot near the covered market. Croissants, tostadas and café con leche among the locals. - Velvet Cake Shop & Coffee
Cake! From red velvet to carrot cake, everything is homemade. - Heladería Philippe
Very special homemade ice cream, natural ingredients. - Heladería Los Jijonencos Florazar
Scoop ice cream with a wide choice of flavours, with terrace.
In short, Cullera is a place with culture, history, attractions and, of course, delicious food and drink. Add to that the sun, sea, sandy beaches and easy accessibility, and you have the ideal Spanish seaside resort.
Looking for a (second) home in Cullera?
An ideal seaside resort, but not yet as well known as Valencia city or the Costa Blanca, so you need to be quick. Are you interested in houses for sale in Cullera or new-build properties in Cullera, or do you have other questions about this or another region? Contact us and we will be happy to help you!
