Peñíscola – The Castle by the Sea in Spain

Peniscola Mar 27, 2025

Peñíscola, known as the “Gibraltar of Valencia”, is a stunning coastal town on Spain’s Costa del Azahar. Famous for its medieval castle, beautiful beaches, and charming old town, Peñíscola is a perfect mix of history, culture, and seaside relaxation. It’s also known as a filming location for Game of Thrones!

🏖️ Top Things to See & Do in Peñíscola

1️⃣ Peñíscola Castle (Castillo del Papa Luna) 🏰

A magnificent 13th-century castle sitting on a rocky peninsula.
Built by the Knights Templar and later home to Pope Benedict XIII (Papa Luna).
Offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and surrounding coastline.

2️⃣ Explore the Old Town 🏡

Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, lined with whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies.
Discover hidden courtyards, charming shops, and seafood restaurants.
Enjoy the picturesque sunset views over the sea.

3️⃣ Relax on Playa Norte & Playa Sur 🏖️

Playa Norte: The main beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters.
Playa Sur: Smaller and quieter, great for relaxing away from the crowds.
Both beaches offer water sports, sunbeds, and beach bars.

4️⃣ Serra d’Irta Natural Park 🌿

A stunning coastal nature reserve with hiking and biking trails.
Offers hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking sea views.
Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

5️⃣ Game of Thrones Filming Locations 🎬

Peñíscola was featured in Game of Thrones (Season 6) as Meereen.
Visit the castle walls, old town alleys, and city gates where key scenes were filmed.

6️⃣ Boat Trip Around the Castle ⛵

Take a boat tour for unique views of the fortress from the sea.
Sunset cruises offer magical golden-hour scenery.

🍽️ What to Eat in Peñíscola

Arroz a Banda – A delicious seafood rice dish, typical of Valencia 🍚🐟
Suquet de Peix – A traditional fish stew with potatoes and saffron 🍲
Langostinos de Vinaròs – Famous local prawns, incredibly fresh 🍤
Caragols Punxents – A local specialty of small spicy snails 🐌🌶️
Coca de llanda – A sweet sponge cake, perfect with coffee 🍰

🚗 How to Get to Peñíscola

✈️ By Air: The nearest airport is Castellón Airport (40 min), Valencia (1.5 hrs), or Barcelona (2 hrs).
🚆 By Train: The nearest station is Benicarló-Peñíscola, just 7 km away.
🚘 By Car: 1.5 hrs from Valencia, 2 hrs from Barcelona, 45 min from Castellón.
🚌 By Bus: Direct buses from Barcelona, Valencia, and Castellón.

💡 Tips for Visiting Peñíscola

✅ Best time to visit? Spring & summer (April–September) for the best weather ☀️
✅ Visit the castle early – Mornings are less crowded and cooler 🏰
✅ Take a sunset walk along the beach – The views are stunning 🌅
✅ Try a boat trip – The castle looks incredible from the water ⛵
✅ Wear comfortable shoes – The old town streets are steep and cobbled 👟