Peniscola
Peniscola rises above the Mediterranean like a fortress from a legend. It’s not just a destination for sun and beaches — it’s also one of the most charming and photogenic towns in Spain.
Must-See Sights in Peñíscola
Without a doubt, Peñíscola's main tourist attraction is its impressive medieval castle and beautiful old town.
To visit the old town, we recommend entering through the Portal de Sant Pere, the gate in the wall that leads directly to the fishing port. From there, walking along the coast, you can enjoy the heart of the city from a balcony with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
In the first part of your walk through the old town, you’ll come across a spot known as “el bufador" (the blowhole). This natural curiosity is a gap in the rocks where, on stormy days, surprising and thunderous sounds can be heard.
Following the historic walls, you'll come across the perfect Mediterranean postcard scene. The narrow whitewashed houses stand out with their bright blue doors, while colorful flowers brighten up the streets.
Continuing your tour along the narrow cobbled streets, you'll come across a peculiar façade covered in seashells that always catches visitors' attention. This is the Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells), a must-see that reflects the town’s maritime spirit.
Next, you'll arrive in front of the Papa Luna Castle, the city's most important monument and its very heart and soul. Reigning from above, this well-preserved Templar fortress lets you step back in time and explore Peñíscola’s rich history.
During your visit to the Peñíscola Castle, you'll discover the throne room, the courtyard, and the dungeons, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the coastline from the upper terraces.
Once you’ve toured the castle, the same ticket will give you access to the artillery park and the castle gardens. They are two surprisingly pleasant spaces that offer the best views of the castle and the coast.
After exploring so many places, there's nothing better than resting on the beach. The most popular option is usually Playa del Norte, with 5 kilometers of fine sand and all kinds of services. The combination of its crystal-clear waters and an endless promenade with views of the castle in the background is spectacular.
If you prefer a smaller, more family-friendly beach, you can choose Playa Sur. It is located right next to the fishing port.
Among its many attractions, Peñíscola is also a film set. Fans of Game of Thrones will be thrilled, as it allows you to walk around some of the locations that appear in the sixth season. It was also the main location for the 1961 blockbuster “El Cid.”
No trip would be complete without enjoying the local cuisine. In Peñíscola, you'll have the opportunity to try its delicious fresh fish and seafood, as well as the excellent local rice dishes.
