Peñíscola Castle - a beach with trees and buildings by the water
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Peñíscola Castle

4.6
·72k reviews·Peñíscola, Spain

A majestic Templar fortress on a Mediterranean promontory, famed for its history, stunning views, and Game of Thrones filming locations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Peñíscola Castle - a beach with trees and buildings by the water

Peñíscola Castle

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic Templar fortress on a Mediterranean promontory, famed for its history, stunning views, and Game of Thrones filming locations.

4.6
(72k reviews)

"Rich in history and full of charm, walking through Peñíscola Castle feels surreal for any visitor."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone streets and castle steps demand comfortable footwear. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Sun Protection is Key :sun_with_face:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Much of the castle and old town is exposed to the sun.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Peñíscola Castle

Peñíscola Castle

Promontory overlooking the Mediterranean

A majestic Templar fortress with centuries of history, offering stunning sea views and Game of Thrones filming locations.

Old Town Streets

Old Town Streets

Within the castle walls

Wander through charming, narrow cobblestone alleys, discovering hidden squares and picturesque white-washed houses.

Mediterranean Views

Mediterranean Views

Castle ramparts and viewpoints

Breathtaking vistas of the azure sea, the coastline, and the vibrant town below. Perfect for photography.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting Peñíscola Castle during off-peak hours. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, allowing for a more immersive historical experience. Consider visiting outside of peak summer months for a more relaxed exploration.

Comfortable Exploration

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating cobblestone streets and castle ramparts. The castle grounds can be uneven, and the climb up is significant. Sunscreen and water are essential, especially during warmer months, as much of the exploration is outdoors.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures, sunset views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#castellon #spain🇪🇸 #peñiscola #valencia #fyp #traveltok #parati #spaintravel #Summer #beachvibes @Deli Prints Shop
@deak.delia
77.2K likes • 2.3M views

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone streets and castle steps demand comfortable footwear. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Sun Protection is Key :sun_with_face:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Much of the castle and old town is exposed to the sun.

El pueblo más bonito de España 👇🏼 En marzo de 2023, National Geographic, eligió Peñíscola como el pueblo más bonito de España, y no es para menos 🏰 Calles empedradas, fachadas blancas y balcones floridos lo convierten en un destino de ensueño. Qué ver en Peñíscola 👇🏼 📍Casco histórico - piérdete en sus calles más pintorescas: San Roque, Don Jaime Sanz y Faraones, donde está la Casa de las Conchas. ...
@viajeros_curiosones
41.8K likes • 1.4M views
🎥 Castillo y casco antiguo de Peñiscola, Spain 🇪🇸🏰 . Peñíscola Castle & Old Town – Short History Peñíscola Castle was built by the Knights Templar (1294–1307) on a former Moorish site. It became famous as the seat of Antipope Benedict XIII (Papa Luna) during the 15th century. Later, Philip II strengthened it for defense. The old town, enclosed by medieval walls, has Iberian, Roman, Moorish, and ...
explore.castles
593 likes • 13.7K views

Game of Thrones Fan? :tv:

Explore filming locations like Meereen! Imagine Daenerys ruling from the castle. Instagram

Book Tickets Online :ticket:

While tickets can be bought at the door, booking online might save time, especially during peak season.

Peñíscola, Castellón, Spain 🇪🇸 "The castle, perched on a large ridge overlooking the sea, offers a glimpse of its past at a time when knights and battlemented fortresses occupied the lands of El Maestrazgo. Pope Benedict XIII, known as 'Papa Luna', chose this as a place of seclusion and to launch the fight for the unity of the Catholic Church. The fortress stands on the highest point of the penin...
paulolyb
403 likes • 6.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone streets and castle steps demand comfortable footwear. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Sun Protection is Key :sun_with_face:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Much of the castle and old town is exposed to the sun.

Game of Thrones Fan? :tv:

Explore filming locations like Meereen! Imagine Daenerys ruling from the castle. Instagram

Book Tickets Online :ticket:

While tickets can be bought at the door, booking online might save time, especially during peak season.

Explore Beyond the Castle :world_map:

Don't miss the charming old town streets and the beautiful beaches nearby. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(72k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Peñíscola Castle is widely praised for its rich history, stunning Mediterranean views, and well-preserved medieval architecture. Visitors are captivated by its role in Game of Thrones and the charm of the surrounding old town. While generally a positive experience, some note the challenging terrain for those with mobility issues and the potential for crowds during peak season.

"Peñíscola Castle is an incredible place to visit—rich in history and full of charm. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll love knowing that parts of the series were filmed here, and walking through the same locations feels surreal.

The castle itself is beautiful, well-preserved, and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding town. It’s a perfect blend of history and scenery.

The area around the castle is just as enjoyable, with lots of small shops to pick up souvenirs and plenty of restaurants with stunning views, making it a great spot to enjoy lunch or dinner after exploring.

The beach is also fantastic—clean, lively, and just steps away from the old town. Altogether, Peñíscola offers a perfect mix of culture, food, and relaxation."

iwona cebo

"Views for days. You can enjoy both the castle and the garden for a moderate price of 5 euro / adult. Lots to visit and explore. Perfect gateway for a cloudy day so you can enjoy the views without breaking a sweat.
l"

Alex Tanasa

"Beautiful castle as seen in The Game of Thrones (GOT) Season 6. Well maintained with plenty of beautiful views of the city and beaches. Patking downtown is available. Nice walk up to the castle."

David Geaney

What People Like

Incredible history and architecture
Breathtaking sea views
Game of Thrones filming location

What People Dislike

Not mobility friendly
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Peñíscola Castle is about a 2.5-hour drive from Barcelona. You can also take a train to Castellón de la Plana and then a bus to Peñíscola. TikTok

Yes, parking is available downtown, though it can be challenging during peak season. Consider arriving early or using public transport if possible. Reddit

Yes, you can take a bus from Castellón de la Plana, which is accessible by train from major Spanish cities. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore the old town and castle. For longer distances, consider cycling routes like the one from Benicarló to Peñíscola. Reddit

Unfortunately, the castle and old town are not very wheelchair or mobility friendly due to cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets typically cost around 5 euros per adult and grant access to the castle and gardens. Prices may vary. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. However, buying online in advance might save you time during busy periods. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times before your visit.

Currently, tickets usually cover the castle and its gardens. It's advisable to confirm if any package deals are available.

Guided tours may be available, especially during peak season. Inquire at the ticket office or check the castle's official website for details.

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The castle ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the town. Don't miss the Plaza Santa María for iconic shots. Instagram+1

Yes, a cloudy day can be perfect for exploring the castle without the harsh sun, allowing for comfortable photography and enjoying the views. Reddit

Absolutely! Look for locations like the Artillery Park and Calle Mayor, which were used to depict Meereen. Instagram+1

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, provides beautiful lighting for dramatic shots of the castle and coastline. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and protected areas. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Numerous restaurants surround the castle and in the old town, offering local cuisine and stunning sea views. Reddit

Seafood is a specialty. Try paella, fresh fish, and local tapas. Reddit

Look for smaller cafes or tapas bars away from the main tourist path for more affordable meals. Reddit

Yes, many restaurants in the old town and along the promenade offer fantastic views of the castle and the Mediterranean. Reddit

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes and can often accommodate dietary requests if asked.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Peñíscola Castle offers an exciting adventure for families. Kids will love imagining themselves as knights or princesses exploring the ancient fortress. The open spaces within the castle grounds allow for some freedom to roam, though supervision is essential due to the historical nature of the site. TikTok

While the cobblestone streets can be challenging with strollers, the main castle area is manageable. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to keep little ones comfortable. The nearby beaches, like Playa Norte, are perfect for a post-castle play session. Instagram

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Peñíscola's charm makes it an ideal destination for couples. Wander hand-in-hand through the narrow, flower-lined streets of the old town, discovering hidden corners and enjoying breathtaking sunset views from the castle ramparts. Instagram+1

Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants with sea views, savoring local cuisine. The magical atmosphere, especially in the evening, creates a perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. Reddit

🎬 Game of Thrones Fans

For fans of Game of Thrones, Peñíscola Castle is a pilgrimage site. This iconic fortress served as the formidable Castle of Meereen in Season 6. You can walk the same streets where Tyrion and Varys plotted, and stand in awe of the views Daenerys Targaryen commanded. Instagram+1

Key filming locations include the Plaza Santa María, Calle Mayor, and the Artillery Park. Visiting these spots offers a unique chance to relive memorable scenes and feel immersed in the world of Westeros. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Templar Fortress with Papal Secrets

Peñíscola Castle, also known as Castillo del Papa Luna, is a formidable Templar fortress completed in 1307. Its strategic location on a rocky promontory overlooking the Mediterranean made it a crucial defensive stronghold. The castle's history is deeply intertwined with Antipope Benedict XIII, known as 'Papa Luna,' who used it as his papal seat during the 15th century, making it a significant site in religious and political history. Instagram+3

The castle's architecture reflects its military origins, with robust walls and battlements designed for defense. Visitors can explore its various chambers, courtyards, and ramparts, imagining the lives of knights and popes who once resided here. The Templar construction is evident in its solid stonework and imposing structure, a testament to medieval engineering. Instagram+1

Beyond its military and papal significance, Peñíscola Castle has gained modern fame as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones. Its dramatic appearance served as the backdrop for the city of Meereen, adding a layer of fantasy to its already rich historical narrative. Walking through these iconic spots offers a unique experience for fans of the show. InstagramReddit+1

Wandering the Enchanting Old Town

Surrounding the imposing castle is the charming old town of Peñíscola, a labyrinth of narrow, winding cobblestone streets. These alleys are lined with whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere. Getting lost in these streets is part of the experience, with each turn revealing a new delightful vista or a hidden square. TikTokInstagram+1

The old town is a pedestrian's paradise, perfect for leisurely strolls. You'll find small artisan shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, as well as numerous cafes and restaurants offering traditional Spanish cuisine. The proximity to the castle means that stunning sea views are never far away, even when you're deep within the town's embrace. Reddit

This historic quarter is not just visually appealing; it's a living piece of history. The architecture speaks of centuries past, and the ambiance transports visitors back in time. It's a place where you can truly soak in the local culture and enjoy the simple pleasures of Mediterranean life. TikTokInstagram

Coastal Beauty and Beaches

Peñíscola boasts beautiful beaches that complement its historical attractions. Playa Norte, the main beach, is a long stretch of fine sand located right next to the old town, offering easy access and plenty of amenities. It's a lively spot perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the Mediterranean breeze. Instagram+1

For those seeking a quieter experience, Playa Sur offers a more secluded atmosphere. Both beaches provide stunning views of the castle perched on its promontory, making a day at the beach a truly scenic affair. The clear waters are inviting, and the coastline is ideal for leisurely walks. Instagram+1

The combination of historical grandeur and coastal charm makes Peñíscola a well-rounded destination. Whether you're exploring ancient fortifications or relaxing by the sea, the natural beauty of the Mediterranean setting enhances every aspect of your visit. Instagram+1

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