Peñíscola Castle Papa Luna
A Templar fortress perched on a rocky promontory, once home to Papa Luna, offering breathtaking sea views and charming old town streets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Peñíscola Castle Papa Luna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Templar fortress perched on a rocky promontory, once home to Papa Luna, offering breathtaking sea views and charming old town streets.
"The castle walls and towers offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Valencian coast, an unforgettable visual experience."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill walking! :athletic_shoe: Be prepared for a bit of a climb to reach the castle.
Credit Card Friendly
You can buy tickets with a credit card. :credit_card: Easy payment for castle and garden access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Papa Luna Castle
Dominating the promontory
A Templar fortress with a rich history, once home to Antipope Benedict XIII. Offers breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Old Town Charm
Winding streets around the castle
Explore narrow, whitewashed streets adorned with flowers, a picturesque labyrinth leading to the castle.
Panoramic Sea Vistas
Castle ramparts and lookout points
Spectacular, unobstructed views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Valencian coast from the castle walls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Tickets and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill walking! :athletic_shoe: Be prepared for a bit of a climb to reach the castle.
Credit Card Friendly
You can buy tickets with a credit card. :credit_card: Easy payment for castle and garden access.
Explore the Old Town
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets. :camerawithflash: Perfect for photos and discovering hidden corners.
Free Lookout Point
There's a free lookout area offering great views. :round_pushpin: Enjoy the scenery without an entry fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill walking! :athletic_shoe: Be prepared for a bit of a climb to reach the castle.
Credit Card Friendly
You can buy tickets with a credit card. :credit_card: Easy payment for castle and garden access.
Explore the Old Town
Get lost in the charming, narrow streets. :camerawithflash: Perfect for photos and discovering hidden corners.
Free Lookout Point
There's a free lookout area offering great views. :round_pushpin: Enjoy the scenery without an entry fee.
Templar History
Learn about the Knights Templar and Papa Luna. :scroll: Adds depth to your castle visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Peñíscola Castle is widely praised for its impressive preservation and stunning Mediterranean views, offering a glimpse into Templar history and the era of Papa Luna. However, some visitors found the internal exhibits to be disappointing due to the presence of replicas. The climb and the town's commercialization were also noted as potential drawbacks by a few.
"It's definitely a beautiful place. Impressively well-conserved.
To be honest, the different expositions throughout the castle were a bit of a letdown. Nothing was original, the entire place was filled with bad replicas."
Chris H
"Interesting castle built in the 13th century by the Knights Templar, Peñíscola Castle became the summer residence of Pope Benedict XIII, known as Pope Luna. This pontiff lived in the castle during his exile in the 15th century and left an indelible mark on the city's history. The castle walls and towers offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Valencian coast, an unforgettable visual experience. A fortress that was the residence of Pope Luna in the 15th century, steeped in the history of the Knights Templar."
Enjoy life
"Can buy the tickets with a credit card. It includes the castle and the garden which is below the castle. Lots of stairs and going up the hill. Lots of market stalls and resturants newr the castle.
There is a free lookout area as well.."
Marina U
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Peñíscola Castle is located on a promontory overlooking the sea. If you're driving, there are parking areas near the old town. From there, it's a walk up to the castle. Public transport options might involve buses to Peñíscola town, followed by a walk.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the old town of Peñíscola. Be prepared for a walk uphill to reach the castle itself.
The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the sea, so while you can walk from the beaches, expect an uphill climb. Comfortable shoes are a must!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance to the castle. Many visitors report being able to use credit cards for payment.
A standard ticket usually grants access to the castle and the gardens located below it.
Information on discounts for specific groups like students or seniors is best checked at the ticket office or official website upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Peñíscola tourism website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
The old town itself is a public area to wander through freely. Tickets are specifically for entry into the Peñíscola Castle.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the castle's historical structure, including ramparts and courtyards. Some visitors note that the exhibits feature replicas, but the architecture and views are the main draw.
Yes, expect a significant number of stairs and inclines as you explore the castle and its grounds. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended.
The castle ramparts offer stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the town. Look for vantage points overlooking the old town and the coastline. 
Due to its historical nature and location on a promontory, the castle has many stairs and uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
Antipope Benedict XIII, known as Papa Luna, resided in the castle during his exile in the 15th century, making it a significant historical site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around the castle and the old town is filled with market stalls and restaurants offering local cuisine.
You can expect fresh Mediterranean seafood, traditional Spanish dishes, and local specialties. Many restaurants offer sea views.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography, with fewer crowds. The golden hour can create stunning shots of the castle and sea.
The castle ramparts, the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, and the views looking back at the castle from the beach are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light, and explore the narrow, winding streets of the old town for charming architectural details. 🏰 History Buffs
+2 While some exhibits may be replicas, the sheer historical weight of the site, combined with its well-preserved architecture, offers a compelling journey into the past. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Papa Luna
After fleeing Avignon, he established his papal court in Peñíscola, transforming the Templar fortress into his residence and a center of power. +1 His presence left an indelible mark on the town's history and identity, making the castle a pilgrimage site for those interested in papal history and medieval intrigue. Visitors can learn about his story through exhibits within the castle, though some reviews mention these are replicas.
Templar Origins and Architectural Significance
+1 The castle's robust architecture, characterized by its thick walls and strategic placement on a rocky promontory, speaks to its defensive purpose. +1 Its imposing structure juts out into the Mediterranean, creating a dramatic silhouette against the sea. Over the centuries, the castle underwent further modifications, including strengthening by Philip II for defense.
The original isthmus that connected the promontory to the mainland has since been eroded by storms, leaving the castle isolated on its rocky outcrop, enhancing its dramatic appearance. Exploring the castle allows visitors to appreciate this medieval military engineering and its enduring presence overlooking the coastline. Exploring the Old Town and Its Atmosphere
Wandering through these picturesque alleys, adorned with vibrant flowers and traditional architecture, feels like stepping back in time. The old town is also home to numerous market stalls and restaurants, offering a taste of local life and cuisine.
It's a perfect complement to a visit to the castle, offering a more intimate glimpse into the life of this historic coastal settlement. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit