15 Best Castles To Visit In Spain

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Spain is a country known for its stunning architecture, beautiful landscapes and medieval castles. These castles, which were often built by powerful rulers of the past, are now scattered throughout Spain and are admired by all who visit. If you’re looking for the best castle experience in Spain, then look no further than this list of the most beautiful castles in Spain.

1. Alhambra, Granada

Alhambra Castle in Granada is an iconic symbol of Moorish influence in Spain. Located on a hill overlooking the bustling city of Granada, it was originally built as a fort for its important strategic position. Construction began in 889 AD and continued to be added to by subsequent rulers over the centuries until it became the complex masterpiece we know today.

The entire complex of Alhambra consists of three main areas including the Alcazaba, Generalife Gardens and Palace Complex. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Spain's most visited monuments due to its incredible beauty and history. Inside these walls lies wonderous architecture with detailed ornamentation, intricate tile work, captivating courtyards, gardens filled with exotic flowers and trees, gorgeous fountains and stunning views that make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Granada.

Contact:

Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain

Phone: +34 958 02 79 71

2. Castle of Loarre, Huesca

The Castle of Loarre in Huesca, Spain, is a stunning example of Romanesque-style architecture that dates back to the 10th century. Built by King Sancho III of Pamplona, it was once the political center and residence for many of the most influential families in Aragon. Today, visitors can marvel at the castle's immense walls and towers, as well as its beautiful gardens and courtyards.

A visit to this ancient landmark should include exploring every corner of the castle grounds. Visitors can climb up one of the castle's four main towers - all with breathtaking views - or take a stroll through its surrounding woods and gardens. They can also explore some fantastic religious sculptures located inside by renowned artists such as Maestro Ricó de Burgos. The Loarre Castle is a museum and also gives access to various historical documents and archives that have been preserved since medieval times.

Contact:

Address: A-1206, 22809 Loarre, Huesca, Spain

Phone: +34 974 34 21 61

3. Coca Castle, Segovia

Coca Castle is a stunning Gothic-style structure that sits atop a hill in Segovia, Spain. It has an impressive history, dating back to the 15th century when it was first built by the Catholic Monarchs Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon. With its thick walls, four corner towers, and two larger fortified towers on either side, this castle feels like something out of a fairytale. Although there have been modifications over time, it still stands as one of the most iconic Spanish castles from the medieval age in Spain.

The inside of Coca Castle is equally awe-inspiring with its grand courtyards and stunning spiral staircases. Visitors can take a guided tour through each room or explore the castle’s expansive grounds at their own pace.

Contact:

Address: Av. Constitución, 40480 Coca, Segovia, Spain

Phone: +34 617 57 35 54

4. Lorca Castle, Murcia

Lorca Castle in Murcia is a magnificent piece of history that offers visitors a window into the past. Built on top of an old Moorish fortress, it was constructed during the 10th century and has been restored over time to its current state. The castle stands tall over the city of Lorca and is quite impressive to behold from afar. On closer inspection, there are many different parts to explore; ranging from plazas and entrance gates to terraces and towers.

Guests can choose between two routes for their tour of this iconic landmark: one taking them through the interior of the castle with its old palatial rooms and passageways, or another leading them up onto the walls where views out across Lorca can be enjoyed from all sides.

Contact:

Address: Castillo de, 30800 Lorca, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 95 96 46

5. Castle of La Mota, Valladolid

The Castle of La Mota in Valladolid, Spain, is a stunning and well preserved medieval fortress that should be on your bucket list. Built on the edge of a cliff overlooking the city below, it stands majestically over its surroundings. The La Mota castle was constructed in 1454 under the rule of King John II and served as a primary defense against attack by enemies. Within its walls lies an expansive labyrinth of corridors and rooms that have been preserved to this day.

Visitors can explore the grounds and enter many of these chambers to experience life as it was within the castle walls centuries ago. There are guided tours of the castle available which offer insight into its history, including stories about famous battles that took place here such as during the War for Castilian Succession in 1468-1469. The castle also boasts several large squares with beautiful gardens and fountains, adding to its charm.

Contact:

Address: Av. Castillo, s/n, 47400 Medina del Campo, Valladolid, Spain

Phone: +34 983 81 27 24

6. Peñafiel Castle, Valladolid

Penafiel Castle in Valladolid is an historic monument of Spain and a popular tourist attraction. Built in the 11th century, this famous castle stands as an awe-inspiring reminder of the city’s storied past. It was once owned by Don Juan de Penafiel, who fought alongside King Charles V during the Reconquista. Penafiel Castle has several features that draw tourists from around the world.

Its towering walls are made up of five distinct towers connected by a fortified gatehouse and ceremonial hall. Inside, vacationers can explore winding passages, ancient artifacts, and a museum dedicated to Spanish history. This magnificent fortress also boasts two garden courtyards with ornate fountains and sculptures for those who enjoy observing nature's beauty.

Contact:

Address: C. Subida al Castillo, s/n, 47300, Valladolid, Spain

Phone: +34 983 88 11 99

7. Palacio Real de Olite, Navarre

The Palacio Real de Olite in Navarre, Spain is a stunning architectural wonder from the Middle Ages that is one of the best preserved castles that survived to this day. Sitting atop a rocky outcropping near the town of Olite, it commands attention with its grand turrets and towers. Built in the late 14th century during the reign of Charles III, the Royal Palace of Olite was designed to reflect the grandeur and splendor of royalty at that time. The castle-like structure features an impressive central tower surrounded by four smaller ones, as well as an interior patio and chapel.

Within its walls lies a wealth of history dating back over 600 years ago when it served as one of the kingdom of Navarre its most important political centers.

Contact:

Address: Pl. Carlos III El Noble, 4, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain

Phone: +34 691 02 16 67

8. Alcázar of Segovia

The Alcazar of Segovia is an iconic symbol of Spanish culture and one of the most amazing castles in Spain. The castle was originally built during the reign of Alfonso VIII in the 12th century and served as a fortification to protect the city from Muslim invaders. It has since been used for a variety of purposes, including as a prison, palace, court residence and even as a military academy. Today it serves as one of Spain's most popular tourist attractions due to its impressive architecture and long history.

The castle itself is located at the highest point in the city giving it an excellent vantage point for both defense and sightseeing. Its three-tiered structure features two towers on each side with different levels linked together by walls and gates. The main entrance consists of two arches with two drawbridges that were designed to be lowered in case of attack.

Contact:

Address: Pl. Reina Victoria Eugenia, s/n, 40003 Segovia, Spain

Phone: +34 921 46 07 59

9. Castillo de Belmonte, Cuenca

Castillo de Belmonte is located in Cuenca, Spain and it's an impressive structure with a long history. The castle was built in the 15th century and it has gone through several restorations since then. It’s most notable feature is its four towers - two of them are circular while the other two are rectangular - that make up its unique silhouette. Inside the fortress there’s also a chapel with a Gothic style and beautiful murals, which were added during the significant restoration of 1560.

The castle itself can be visited for free but entrance to its interior costs 1 euro per person. Castillo de Belmonte offers daily tours where city trippers can learn about its history, architecture and art from knowledgeable guides who bring this site alive to those who visit.

Contact:

Address: Calle Eugenia de Montijo, s/n, 16640 Belmonte, Cuenca, Spain

10. Bellver Castle, Majorca

Bellver Castle, located in Majorca, is a sight to behold. Its striking Gothic-style architecture has been standing since its construction began in 1309 and the castle can be seen from miles away due to the top of a hill it is perched upon. It was built by King James II of Majorca as his royal residence and was originally surrounded by a moat. The circular shape of Bellver Castle is very rare among European castles, making it an especially unique structure.

The castle grounds offer stunning views of Palma Bay and the city below with its stone walls still intact after over 700 years of existence. Visitors have access to three towers that can be climbed for even better views once inside the castle walls themselves!

Contact:

Address: Carrer Camilo José Cela, s/n, 07014 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain

Phone: +34 971 73 50 65

11. Miravet Castle, Tarragona

Miravet Castle is a remarkable place located in the Catalan region of Spain, specifically in Tarragona. The castle was built by the Moors during the 12th century and has been well-preserved over time. It stands on a small hill overlooking the river Ebro, providing stunning views for tourists to enjoy. Within its walls lies an old residential quarter full of winding alleys and staircases that feature Medieval architecture.

The site also includes several majestic towers, one of which is known as ‘the tower of lioness’ due to its peculiar shape resembling a lioness sleeping at the top of it. Visitors can climb up these towers to enjoy spectacular panoramic vistas from atop them. The main tower is also home to a chapel dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene and containing some impressive stained glass windows depicting scenes from her life story.

Contact:

Address: Camí del Castell, s/n, 43747 Miravet, Tarragona, Spain

Phone: +34 977 40 73 68

12. Castillo de Burgalimar, Jaen

The Castillo de Burgalimar stands tall in the city of Jaen, located in the Spanish province of Andalusia. This citadel is a prime example of early 17th century military architecture and has been standing since 1619. It was built by order of King Felipe III in response to an attempted attack on the city by Moorish pirates. The fortress consists of four walls that wrap around a central tower, accessed through two drawbridges over a dry moat. Inside there are numerous gardens and courtyards adorned with statues and other decorations.

The castle has seen many changes over its lifetime, from being used as a prison during the Spanish Civil War to being restored in recent years as part of an effort to preserve its historical significance. Today it is open to travelers who can explore its winding passageways and take in views from its parapets.

Contact:

Address: Cerro del Cueto Plaza de Santa María, 1, Calle Sta. María, 1, 23711 Baños de la Encina, Jaén, Spain

Phone: +34 626 81 84 46

13. Alcazaba of Málaga

As one of the best castles in the country, the Alcazaba of Málaga is an ancient Moorish fortress and palace in the Spanish city of Málaga. Located atop a hill overlooking the city, it offers breathtaking views in all directions. Built during the 11th century by the Hammudid dynasty, this historic monument has been carefully preserved over the centuries, despite its age.

The walls that make up this structure are made from red sandstone and feature impressive towers at various points along them. Inside these walls one can find beautiful gardens, courtyards and architecture that bring to life a sense of history for those who visit. The main court has a fountain surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy and appreciate their surroundings.

Contact:

Address: C/ Alcazabilla, 2, 29012 Málaga, Spain

Phone: +34 630 93 29 87

14. Peñíscola Castle, Valencia

Peniscola Castle in Valencia, is a beautiful and inspiring historical site. Built in the 16th century on the site of an old Roman fortification, the castle stands as a testament to Spain's long and rich history. The castle was built by Dona Maria de Luna and is considered one of the most iconic pieces of architecture from that era. Its walls are constructed with white stone blocks, crowned with three towers which rise above it into the sky. Peniscola Castle has been meticulously preserved since its construction and still stands today as a symbol of Spanish resilience through history.

The castle’s grounds offer guests spectacular views across Valencia’s cityscape and surrounding countryside. Inside its walls are stunning cloisters filled with lush vegetation, while its battlements offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean sea beyond them.

Contact:

Address: C. Castillo, s/n, 12598 Peniscola, Castellón, Spain

Phone: +34 964 48 00 21

15. Castillo de Vélez-Blanco, Almería

The Castillo de Velez-Blanco castle sits in the town of Velez-Blanco near Almeria. This stunning castle was first built in the 15th century by Don Beltran Macías de Requena and has been continually renovated since then. It is a fortification that stands high on a hilltop, with four towers and a large central yard surrounded by an imposing wall. The castle features two gates; one on the east side, which opens to the main square of Velez Blanco, and another facing south overlooking La Rambla Valley.

Inside the walls, visitors can explore various patios and terraces that offer breathtaking views of lush vegetation and rolling hills. There are also several rooms open to public view including an ironworks area where cannons were forged during medieval times.

Contact:

Address: C. Castillo, s/n, 04830 Vélez-Blanco, Almería, Spain

Phone: +34 607 41 50 55