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!

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🏖️ 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.

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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.

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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.

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🍽️ 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 VinaròsFamous local prawns, incredibly fresh 🍤
  • Caragols Punxents – A local specialty of small spicy snails 🐌🌶️
  • Coca de llanda – A sweet sponge cake, perfect with coffee 🍰

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🚗 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.

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💡 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 👟

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