What to see in Cullera

Cullera is a small but charming coastal town located just 50 km from Valencia. The population is approximately 24,000. However, during the warmer months, the number of residents and visitors to the city increases dramatically and can even reach 200,000!  
All thanks to its picturesque landscapes, rich history and diverse cultural traditions.

What to see in Cullera, Spain

The city offers its visitors many interesting places, including Cullera Castle, the historic centre, Dragut Cave and, of course, the beaches.

Cullera Castle

Kulera Castle was built on top of a mountain in the 9th-10th centuries for strategic purposes. Initially, it controlled important communication routes and borders. 
Its history is long and interesting in a historical context. From 1239, it was under Christian rule. In the 16th century, it served as a defence against Barbary pirates, and in the 19th century, it became an important site during the War of Independence. Now, this place plays an important role in the cultural life of the city. It houses the Municipal Museum of History and Archaeology, and in the summer, various theatre performances and shows are held here.

Sanctuary of Virgen del Castillo - Santuario de la Virgen del Castillo

The Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary del Castillo, built in the 19th century, is located at the entrance to the castle of Cullera. It is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, known as ‘Mare de Deu del Castell’. The main façade is decorated with a bell tower with a glazed tile dome. The interior includes three naves separated by columns and a central nave with cylindrical vaults.
The image of the Virgin Mary can be seen in the presbytery or during the Baixà de la Mare de Déu festival, when it is brought down to the Church of St. John to celebrate with the locals.

Historical centre 

The historic centre of Cullera is the Pou district, a labyrinth of narrow streets and small squares located at the foot of Cullera Castle and Cami del Calvari.
This place, which has retained the atmosphere of the past, has a vibrant Mediterranean charm, where, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can enjoy a leisurely and very interesting walk. Here you can deliberately lose yourself among the numerous brightly coloured houses, admire the interesting decorations on the balconies and streets, read the inscriptions and ponder their meaning, and much more. And what excellent dishes you can taste here! Valencia cuisine is renowned for its diversity and rich flavours! 
By the way, if you're here on Thursday, check out the market, which is a 10-minute walk from the centre. It's small, but it's an additional local attraction. This region is known for its street markets, where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables directly from farmers, not to mention the special atmosphere that is unique to them.  

Church of The St. Johns - Parròquia dels Sants Joans

In the centre of the old town, in the Patio de la Iglesia square, stands the 13th-century Parish Church of St. John. It was the only place of worship in the town until the 20th century. Originally Gothic, the church acquired neoclassical features such as Corinthian pilasters and semicircular arches. The patron saints venerated here are St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, who gave the church its name.

Botanical Garden

If you are travelling by car (you can rent it here) and have some free time, you can visit the botanical garden, which offers an introduction to tropical plants. The Cullera Botanical Garden is a private area covering approximately 22,000 m² with 2,500 plant species, including 160 species of palm trees and 60 species of cycads and encephalartos. Admission is charged, but inexpensive at €4. There is parking, which is also good.  
Visitors can follow well-marked routes, starting with the local plant area, where they can enjoy dense vegetation and ponds. Next is a section with cactuses, followed by an area with encephalartos and cycads, where their differences can be seen.
The garden has an open area with a lake where various events are held. There is also an area with tropical fruit trees such as avocado, mango and papaya. 
The 19th-century manor house in the garden hosts exhibitions combining culture and nature. Inside, you can see an impressive ethnological collection and relax. 

Dragut Cave Museum - Cueva-Museo del Pirata Dragut

Cueva-Museo del Pirata Dragut is an amazing place where you can learn about the world of pirates and corsairs. Here you will immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the 16th century, when Cullera was attacked by the Turkish pirate Dragut.
The museum is located in the cave where the events of that time took place. You will see a diorama of life before the attack, exhibits of maps, coins, flags and models of corsair galleys. Special attention is paid to the light and sound show inside the cave.
There is an admission fee to visit the museum, but again, it is inexpensive - €5 for adults and €3 for children. The museum is open all year round, with extended hours in spring. We highly recommend booking a guided tour to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. There is also a small café and souvenir shop on the museum grounds. The cave itself is surrounded by picturesque cliffs and coves and offers visitors stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Aquópolis Water Park

On hot summer days, it's great to spend the day with your family at the water park. It's small, but it has everything you could want.
For thrill seekers, there is the ‘black hole’ — an exciting water attraction with unexpected twists and turns that are loved by many. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the ‘wave pool,’ ‘Amazon River,’ and ‘volcano jacuzzi’ are ideal. 
Aquópolis Cullera also offers other essential amenities: restaurants, shops, and sun lounger rentals for relaxing after an active day. Various types of tickets are available for purchase, including the Speedy Pass, which reduces waiting times. 

Beaches 

There are beautiful beaches here, let's take a look at the best ones:

Los Olivos Beach

Playa de Los Olivos: One of the best and quietest beaches in the Valencia region, thanks to its sheltered location between Faro (lighthouse) and Raco. It has gentle waves, making it ideal for a relaxing holiday. There are restaurants nearby with an excellent selection of dishes to suit all tastes and budgets.

San Antonio Beach

Playa de San Antonio: The longest beach in Cullera, connected to Raco Beach. Very popular in summer due to its proximity to residential areas. Offers a wide range of activities, including beach games, water sports (catamaran and kayak rental, diving, paddle surfing). The atmosphere here is quite lively on summer evenings.

El Dosel Beach

Playa El Dosel: Known among surfers for its stronger waves, especially in the afternoon. In the morning, families with children also come here to relax. On the right side of the beach, there is a rocky area that is very suitable for diving and snorkelling.

El Faro Beach

Playa El Faro: A small, quiet beach near the Cullera lighthouse. It is known for its crystal clear water and abundance of shells on the sand. The Rompe Olas breakwater is nearby. The El Faro and Benavent restaurants are located in the surrounding area.