Peñíscola offers a special combination of natural and historical heritage that is hard to find elsewhere. Its medieval relics, such as the Portal Fosc, or its secluded beaches and coves, are the best example of this. Without a doubt, a visit to this town can be the starting point for your best vacation. To prove it to you, in this article we will explain what to see in Peñíscola.
1. Pope Luna’s Castle
If you could only see one thing in the city, we assure you it absolutely has to be Pope Luna’s Castle. And no, it’s not hyperbole, nor do we gain anything by recommending it to you. This fortress, built in the late 13th century by the Knights Templar —and later expanded by Pope Benedict XIII, the famous Pope Luna— is one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval castles and the absolute symbol of the city.
It’s known by this name, and not simply as Peñíscola Castle, because Pope Luna lived his final years here, years marked by his deposition. He did not yield and continued to claim from these walls that he was the legitimate Pope of Rome.
2. The Old Town
The castle is the star, but Peñíscola’s old town —the walled historic center— with its streets, houses, stone arches, and numerous flower pots adorning it, is incredibly picturesque.
The medieval layout remains practically intact, so strolling through here is a must-see in Peñíscola whether you like it or not, as it holds much of its history and major attractions like the Peñíscola Lighthouse or the Artillery Park. And although most houses have been rebuilt on the foundations or ruins of original Muslim and medieval dwellings, they perfectly preserve the essence.
3. The Medieval Walls
From the walk along the adarve —the patrol path atop the walls— the views of the Mediterranean and Peñíscola’s beaches are absolutely spectacular. Circling the entire city will take about 30 to 45 minutes, but it’s one of the routes you must take and witness during your visit to Peñíscola. No excuses.
4. Santa María Gate and Portal Fosc
And of course, the walled city has two entrances you should know about. One is the Santa María Gate, which is the main entrance from land and the point where everything arriving in Peñíscola entered and exited; and the Portal Fosc, which is very close by and also served as an access route to the town.
Both are among the attractions to see in Peñíscola, built in the 16th century, and they shouldn’t be missing from your photo reel. How will you pose?
5. The Church of Santa María
Within the walled enclosure, next to the castle, is the Church of Santa María de Peñíscola. It was built in the 18th century on a Gothic church, which in turn occupied the site of an ancient Islamic mosque. Curious, to say the least!
Pope Luna used to say mass here, but the most impressive thing is neither that nor its exterior. The best is inside. Although it is sober, it has many details such as a dome with very well-preserved frescoes, tiled altarpieces, a monument to fishermen, and also several tapestries.
6. El Bufador
If you haven’t heard of it, get ready because you’ll want to find the optimal time of day to see the famous Bufador, another iconic sight in Peñíscola. It’s a natural crack in a rock through which the sea enters —with great force— and shoots a jet of water and foam upwards, especially on days with easterly winds.
7. North Beach and South Beach
When you contemplate the panoramic views of the town, you’ll realize that its most recognizable feature is its rock, upon which numerous houses are built. This divides the coast of Peñíscola into two, from which the North and South Beaches extend.
Each possesses admirable beauty, but they are radically opposite despite being timidly separated. North Beach is the largest, 5 kilometers long, the most visited, and offers multiple leisure services and water activities. South Beach, on the other hand, is only 300 meters long and very quiet; one of the best things to see in Peñíscola if you’re looking for relaxation.
8. The Columbretes Islands Marine Reserve
The Columbretes Islands are a volcanic archipelago located about 30 nautical miles off the coast of Castellón and one of the most important marine reserves in the Mediterranean. Boat excursions depart from Peñíscola to visit them; some allow diving in their crystal-clear waters, while others are just scenic tours around the archipelago. Either way, you have to go and see them. They have exceptional marine biodiversity!
9. The Sierra de Irta Natural Park
A few kilometers south of Peñíscola begins the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, one of the last stretches of unspoiled coastline on the Spanish Mediterranean.
It boasts 7,743 terrestrial hectares and 2,448 marine hectares with no urbanizations, only an occasional road and a network of trails that wind through cliffs, coves, medieval ruins, and ancient settlements. Taking a route here, admiring the landscape, and discovering the vast amount of flora and fauna that inhabit the park is also one of the classic things to see in Peñíscola.
10. Watchtowers
In the surroundings of Peñíscola and along the coast, several medieval watchtowers are preserved, which were part of the coastal defense system. It was perfectly structured to warn of the arrival of Barbary pirates. The Badum Tower is one of the most accessible and best-preserved in the area and, therefore, one of the things to see in Peñíscola that you cannot overlook.
Free Tour in Peñíscola
We recommend taking a free tour in Peñíscola to get to know its interior to discover the origins of the city and its evolution over time. Strolling through its narrow streets will transport you to the time of the Templars. We are convinced that you will be surprised by its stories, anecdotes and curiosities. Without a doubt, a different option to get to know the city in a pleasant and unhurried way. In addition, you will visit places that were part of the history of Game of Thrones.
Come and see Peñíscola
Having reached this point, we hope to have helped you with what to see in Peñíscola. This town will be the ideal place to organize a vacation that you will never forget, especially if you plan it in company. Would you like to enjoy the charms of this town? At Orange Costa, we have multiple accommodation options. Visit our website!
