Today, we’re talking about how to get to Peñíscola, one of those cities that impresses you as soon as you set foot in it. And not only because of its Templar castle, but because its entire old town seems to float on a small peninsula that, on stormy days, almost becomes an island.
It is located between Valencia and Barcelona and has been recognized as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain in 2023 for its cobbled streets, its breathtaking views from the top of the wall, and its coastal atmosphere. In addition, history, good weather, quiet coves, beaches, and one of the most valued old towns in the Mediterranean come together here.
Okay, let’s get down to how to get to Peñíscola.
How to get there from Barcelona
The distance from Barcelona is about 220 kilometers and… how can you get to Peñíscola by car? The journey takes about two and a half hours. Just take the AP-7 towards Valencia, exit at exit 43, continue along the N-340 and then take the CV-141 to enter the city directly.
If you prefer the train, you can leave from the Barcelona-Sants station and arrive at Benicarló-Peñíscola in about two hours—depending on the number of stops—. And from here take a taxi or a local bus. Here is all the information on urban transport.
And be careful, there are also direct buses: the HIFE company connects Barcelona (Estación Nord) with Peñíscola in about three hours.
How to get there from Madrid
Perhaps how to get to Peñíscola from Madrid is the most frequently asked question, but don’t worry because it’s easy and you have several options depending on how you like to travel. By car, the journey is long but very bearable—about 500 kilometers, five or five and a half hours—.
The most direct route is to take the A-3 towards Valencia and then connect with the AP-7 to exit 43. From there, you just have to follow the N-340 and take the exit to Peñíscola.
You can also get there by train. Renfe connects Madrid with the Benicarló-Peñíscola station—the journey is about three and a half hours—.
From the station, which is only 7 kilometers from Peñíscola, there are taxis and local buses that can take you to the city center.
Another option is the bus: the Avanza company offers direct routes from the South Station of Madrid to Peñíscola, with a duration of between six and seven hours.
How to get there from Valencia
Peñíscola is very close to Valencia, about 150 kilometers depending on where you leave from, and the journey by car will take you approximately one hour and three quarters.
The most common route is to take the AP-7 towards Barcelona and exit at exit 43. From there, all that remains is to repeat the same itinerary that we told you before: continue along the N-340 and enter the city via the CV-141.
And if you are looking for how to get to Peñíscola by train, you can do it from the València Nord station. In an hour and a half, or two at most, you will be in Benicarló-Peñíscola. From there, a taxi or a local bus will drop you off in the center in a matter of minutes.
Another option is the direct bus. The HIFE company connects the Valencia Bus Station with Peñíscola several times a day. The trip lasts about two hours and leaves you in the heart of the city, so it is a practical and comfortable option if you do not want to depend on the car.
Are you coming by plane?
If you are coming from further away or prefer to fly, you have several options for airports near Peñíscola. The closest is the Castellón-Costa Azahar Airport (CDT), just 50 km from the town.
And from here, the most practical way to get to Peñíscola is by car—about 40-45 minutes by road—or by taking a shuttle bus to Castellón de la Plana and then another to Peñíscola.
You can also fly to the Valencia Airport (VLC), Reus Airport (REU), Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) or Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) and combine the journey with train, bus or a rental car.
What to Do in Peñíscola
You have arrived in Peñíscola, now what? You should get lost in its historic center, climb the Papa Luna Castle, stop at a terrace when you go down to have a drink, and take a look at curious places such as the Bufador, a crack through which the sea throws jets of water if there is waves.
The beaches are also a good plan: Playa Norte is the largest and most family-friendly, and Playa Sur is quieter, ideal if the wind is not blowing.
And if you come with the whole family, take note: in addition to the Peñíscola Castle, you can also get on the tourist train that runs through the city in a fun way; visit the Casa de las Conchas, a house decorated completely with seashells; and spend a morning in the Jardín del Papagayo, an animal sanctuary where you can see parrots, kangaroos and many other species up close.
Eating well will not be a problem either. In the bars and restaurants of Peñíscola there are paellas, fresh fish, tapas and everything you can imagine to take to your mouth.
If you are looking for a more adventurous plan, you can do some of the best hiking trails in the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, explore the best coves of Peñíscola and practice sports such as snorkeling or kayaking.
Now that you know how to get to Peñíscola and what to see... are you coming?
You can see that getting to Peñíscola is very easy and, once here, you will not be able to resist its historical heritage, its beautiful beaches, its nature and the activities for all types of tastes and audiences.
It doesn’t matter if you come with family, friends or as a couple: there are always plans to do in Peñíscola.
And after knowing how to get to Peñíscola and verifying that you will not lack plans, you only have one thing left: decide where you are going to sleep. Our apartments, comfortable, well located and with everything you need to enjoy the city, are ready to welcome you and make your stay an unforgettable vacation. Are you booking yours now with Orange Costa?
