Think Peñíscola is just a summer destination? Think again. In winter, the town doesn’t slow down at all. Sure, it gets cooler—in January, averages hover around a high of 15°C and a low of 6°C—the sea temperature is about 13°C, and it rains more, especially in autumn and winter. But none of these weather quirks change the fact that there are plenty of sunny days and so much to see in the area.
What to see in Peñíscola during the winter
The first thing you have to see is the Castle of Papa Luna, or Peñíscola Castle, whichever you prefer. In winter, it’s open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM and is the perfect place to learn about the history of this Templar fortress where Pope Luna lived. You can explore its rooms and courtyards and soak in the incredible views from the top. If you’re a fan of TV shows, numerous scenes from “Game of Thrones” were filmed here, as well as movies like “El Cid” or “Calabuch.” Best of all, you can enjoy all of this without the typical summer queues.
When you’re done, walk down through the streets of Peñíscola’s old town and check out the walls and the bufador. There’s no shortage of things to see in Peñíscola!
Another great plan is to head to Playa Norte and stroll along the shore with the castle in the background.
Things to do and activities in Peñíscola in winter
To start with, we have to tell you about Christmas.
During the Christmas season, the town is filled with lights, and there is usually a Christmas and medieval market at the end of the year. There’s also the arrival of the Three Kings, who, following tradition here, arrive by boat. Events like these, family plans, shows, and much more are what you’ll find in Peñíscola at Christmas.
And after Christmas comes San Antonio Abad, celebrated in mid-January. It’s an event where animals are blessed, bonfires are lit, and there are tastings of local products.
And it doesn’t stop there! In February, it’s time for Carnival, a celebration full of parades and costumes.
If you’d rather leave the city center behind and head straight into the arms of nature, the Sierra de Irta Natural Park is perfect for hiking or cycling with temperatures that are much more manageable than in summer. And if you catch a rainy day, you have indoor plans like the Magic Museum, the Museu de la Mar, or another great idea: spending the day at one of the spas in Peñíscola.
Where to eat in Peñíscola during the winter season
In winter, you crave different foods, and Peñíscola knows it. Here, when the temperature drops, brothy rice dishes, suquet de peix (fish stew), and all i pebre—a traditional stew with garlic, paprika, and potato—take center stage. And take note: fresh fish from the market is still on the menus and daily specials, so you don’t have to miss out.
If you’re looking for a place that does these dishes well, Casa Jaime is a classic. It’s a family-run restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and their menu features stews and rice dishes like the Calabuch, which is exactly what you want when it gets chilly.
The great thing about coming to Peñíscola in winter is that you can eat at your own pace, without waiting too long for a table and being able to stay as long as you like. However, in the low season, some places close for a few days or reduce their hours, so the best thing to do if you have one of the best restaurants in Peñíscola in mind is to call and book a table before heading over.
Advantages of visiting Peñíscola in the low season
Let’s start with the most obvious one: the peace and quiet. In winter, the castle, the old town, the Peñíscola promenade, and generally any viewpoint you want to visit will be less crowded than at other times of the year. If you decide to come to Peñíscola in winter, you’ll be able to stop and take photos more calmly and spend as much time as you like at each spot.
Then there’s your wallet. Outside the summer season, accommodation is usually cheaper, so with the same budget, you can stay for more nights or choose something a bit nicer.
Parking also changes. In August, finding a spot near the old town is an odyssey; in winter, however, it’s much simpler.
And there are advantages that aren’t as easily noticed. We’re talking about the light, as winter sunsets are some of the most photogenic of the year, and the change the town undergoes, looking more authentic than at any other time.
Are all these reasons enough to visit Peñíscola in winter?
As you can see, Peñíscola in winter has nothing to envy summer for. It’s true that it gets cool, that you need to bring a coat, and that some days will call for indoor plans, but the Peñíscola climate is mild and offers many sunny days to give you a break in your schedule.
In exchange for giving up a swim in the best coves in Peñíscola—though you can still try if you’re brave—you’ll take home the memory of a living town that lacks for nothing and that locals enjoy even in winter, when there aren’t as many tourists.
Alright. I’m sure you’re more than convinced by now, and all you’re missing is a place to stay at a good price that also offers the possibility of staying longer in winter. Well, just take a look here at the apartments, houses, and villas we have at Orange Costa and book your perfect winter getaway. We can say it now, because we’re sure it will be exactly that.
