Located on the Costa Azahar, Vinaros is a laid-back fishing port between Castellón de la Plana and Tarragona. This Mediterranean fishing town combines beachside relaxation with great shopping opportunities. Living in Vinaros means enjoying fresh seafood every day, hikes in nature reserves and relaxing afternoons on the beach.
Is Vinaros a good place to live?
Located on the picturesque Costa Azahar, this Mediterranean town provides a perfect blend of coastal and urban living. With a history deeply rooted in fishing, Vinaros was once a prominent shipyard and a leader in canning. The wine trade also plays a significant role in Vinaros' history. Today, the active port still plays a crucial role in selling fresh fish to locals and visitors.
The town his home to a historic central market that supplies fresh and local produce, including fishmongers, groceries, and bakeries. Weekly farmers’ markets also fill the town with fresh Mediterranean ingredients.
Vinaros: what to do
Thanks to the pleasant climate, most residents in Vinaros enjoy a largely outdoor lifestyle. The town is renowned for its fantastic annual carnival, an eleven-day celebration that fills the streets with costumes and music. The King Prawn festival is another highlight, where over 300 kg of the famous Vinaros prawns are shared amid live music and festivities. You’ll also find plenty of good quality, authentic Spanish restaurants, one of which has been awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand rating.
Beyond its cultural attractions, Vinaros boasts plenty of natural beauty. Residents can enjoy exploring the scenic surroundings by hiking or cycling along nature trails in protected areas like Serra del Puig. The rugged coastline, coves and wetlands of the Sòl de Riu nature reserve are a popular destination for outdoor activities, and La Foradada Cove is a favourite for snorkelling.
Living in Vinaros: pros and cons
Like all coastal towns, Vinaros offers a mix of advantages and disadvantages, making it important to carefully weigh these factors when considering relocation.
Some of the perks of living here include:
- Cultural activities: the town is home to one of the best carnivals in Spain, alongside various cultural festivals.
- Natural beauty: with 26 coves and beaches, residents enjoy easy access to natural wonders and outdoor activities.
- Accessibility: well-connected via train, bus, and proximity to Castellon–Costa Azahar Airport.
However, there are drawbacks:
- Limited nightlife: the nightlife scene in Vinaros is relatively quiet, which might not appeal to those looking for a place that is lively all year round.
- Tourist influx: the festivals and beautiful beaches attract seasonal tourists, potentially affecting local tranquility during peak seasons.
Cost of living and property for sale in Vinaros
Living in Vinaros provides a comfortable lifestyle with reasonably priced amenities. A typical meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs on average €50, with plenty of options for eating out. A cappuccino costs roughly €2, and a glass of beer, or caña, shouldn’t be much more than €2.50.
On the housing front, Vinaros offers a range of options in various neighbourhoods. You'll find flats in Vinaros's cobblestoned historic centre - ideal for those who appreciate having culture right at their doorstep. If you're looking for a house for sale with land in Vinaros, you're better off looking in areas like Vistabella further inland. Emerging neighborhoods like Boverals are gaining attention for their modern infrastructure, which is ideal for those seeking a new home with all the amenities.
Property prices in Vinaros averaged €1,565 per m2 in March 2025. Long-term renting in Vinaros was typically €7.2 per m2 each month, which comes out to roughly €576 per month for an 80 m2 apartment, although this can vary greatly.
Vinaros vs. Peniscola
When comparing Vinaros to the nearby town of Peniscola, you’ll find two distinct living experiences. Vinaros boasts a more urban feel and a bustling shopping scene. Living in Peniscola, on the other hand, means life in a town with a smaller population that is known for its historic architecture and iconic castle. Both offer beautiful beaches, but Peniscola is more oriented towards tourism and receives a greater number of visitors in the summer. Your choice will depend on whether you prefer a lively urban environment or a quieter, more picturesque setting.
Housing prices in Peniscola are slightly more expensive, averaging €1,878 m2 in March 2025. Benicarlo, situated between Vinaros and Peniscola, is another option for relocation. Property for sale in Benicarlo is the most affordable of the three, at only €1,344 m2 on average.
Living in Vinaros for foreigners
Vinaros, while predominantly Spanish, welcomes a growing number of European and international residents. For English speakers, the availability of language schools and proximity to British international schools makes integration smoother. You’ll also find English-speaking professionals, such as lawyers and architects. The town's welcoming community and authentic character offer a great living experience for foreigners eager to immerse themselves in real Spanish culture.