Spain You Must See: 10 Legendary Castles
Spain is a country where sunshine meets stone walls, where sea breezes carry echoes of battles, and where medieval fortresses tell the secrets of kings and conquerors. Exploring Spain's castles is more than checking off Spain attractions - it's a chance to immerse yourself in authentic experiences Spain, to touch the stones that shaped empires, and to compare Spanish regions not just in terms of landscapes, but lifestyles.
For digital nomads, expats, or anyone thinking about moving to Spain, these fortresses are more than sightseeing stops: they're anchors of identity, offering a Spain lifestyle comparison that helps you understand why certain provinces are considered the best places to live in Spain. And for families planning Spain family travel or travelers searching for hidden gems, these castles bring both wonder and stories alive.
1. Alcázar of Segovia (Castilla y León)
Perched dramatically at the meeting of two rivers, the Alcázar of Segovia rises like something out of a storybook. With its fairytale turrets and soaring towers, it's no wonder this was the castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty. It's a highlight in any Spain route planner, just an hour from Madrid - making it one of the best regions in Spain for holidays or even weekend escapes.
Interesting Facts:
- It has been a royal palace, fortress, prison, and military academy - a true timeline of Spain tourism in stone.
- Its architecture blends Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
- The Torre de Juan II rewards the brave climber with panoramic views.
Address: Plaza Reina Victoria Eugenia, s/n, 40003 Segovia
Phone: +34 921 210 515
Website: alcazardesegovia.com
Hours: Nov-Mar: 10:00-18:00 | Apr-Oct: 10:00-20:00
2. Alcázar of Toledo (Castilla-La Mancha)
Toledo is often called the "city of three cultures," and the Alcázar that crowns its skyline is a living witness to that blend of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritage. It's a must for any Spain itinerary planner, especially if you love Spanish culture & food - Toledo is famous for marzipan and hearty stews.
Interesting Facts:
- Built over Roman foundations, adapted by Moors, expanded by Christian kings.
- Nearly destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and later rebuilt.
- Today, it houses a military museum and the regional library.
Address: Alcázar de Toledo, 45001 Toledo
Website: alcazardetoledo.es
Hours: Tue-Sun: 11:00-17:00 (Closed Mondays)
3. Castle of Loarre (Aragón)
This 11th-century Romanesque masterpiece is considered one of the best-preserved in Europe. Rising above the plains of Aragón, it's surrounded by wild landscapes - an authentic hidden gem in Spain where time seems to pause.
Interesting Facts:
- Hollywood loved it: Kingdom of Heaven was filmed here.
- Its walls protected Christian troops during the Reconquista.
- Standing here, you can feel how geography shaped military power.
Address: 22809 Loarre, Huesca, Aragón
Phone: +34 974 342 161
Website: castillodeloarre.es
Hours: Summer: 10:00-19:00 | Winter: shorter hours
4. Almodóvar del Río Castle (Andalusia)
This dramatic fortress towers over the Guadalquivir River near Córdoba. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as Highgarden, but even without dragons, it's breathtaking.
Interesting Facts:
- Built by Moors in the 8th century; expanded by Christian kings in the 14th.
- Once hosted King Peter I of Castile.
- Legends whisper of hidden treasures still buried within.
Address: Calle del Castillo, 14720 Almodóvar del Río, Córdoba
Phone: +34 957 634 055
Website: castillodealmodovar.com
5. Peñíscola Castle (Valencia Region)
On a rocky promontory above the Mediterranean, Peñíscola Castle is the perfect blend of fortress and seaside holiday. It's one of those Spain attractions where history and beach life collide.
Interesting Facts:
- Built by Knights Templar in the 13th century.
- Later became home to Antipope Benedict XIII (Papa Luna).
- The surrounding old town with whitewashed houses feels like a Greek island.
Address: Calle del Castillo, s/n, 12598 Peñíscola, Castellón
Phone: +34 964 480 021
Hours: Daily 10:00-14:00 & 16:00-20:00 (varies with season)
6. Belmonte Castle (Castilla-La Mancha)
This Gothic-Mudéjar gem is one of the most atmospheric castles in Spain. Well restored and full of life, it's perfect for family travel and lovers of medieval legends.
Interesting Facts:
- Built in the 15th century by Don Juan Pacheco.
- Features a Trebuchet Park where siege weapons come to life.
- Hosts medieval reenactments and even fencing tournaments.
Address: Calle Eugenia de Montijo, s/n, 16640 Belmonte, Cuenca
Website: castillodebelmonte.com
7. Cardona Castle (Catalonia)
A fortress, a church, and even a luxury Parador hotel - Cardona Castle is both history and hospitality. It's where expats in Spain can literally sleep inside history.
Interesting Facts:
- Built in the 9th century to guard salt mines, once called "white gold."
- Includes the Romanesque Church of Sant Vicenç and Tower Minyona.
- Overlooks Montaña de Sal, a natural wonder of the region.
Address: 08261 Cardona, Barcelona, Catalonia
Phone: +34 93 868 41 69
Website: cardonaturisme.cat
8. Alcázar of Jerez de la Frontera (Andalusia)
This Alcázar combines fortifications with palatial gardens - Andalusian beauty in every corner.
Interesting Facts:
- Moorish baths and patios mix with Christian towers.
- The Octagonal Tower and Camera Obscura offer unique views of Jerez.
- Close to bodegas where you can taste sherry - authentic Spanish culture & food.
Address: Calle Alameda Vieja, s/n, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz
Phone: +34 956 149 955
9. Manzanares el Real Castle (Madrid Region)
Just 50 km from Madrid, this castle is a noble residence surrounded by mountains and lakes - a perfect escape from the city.
Interesting Facts:
- Built in the 15th century by the Mendoza family.
- Combines military architecture with Renaissance elegance.
- Gardens and walls are perfect for photography and family strolls.
Address: Manzanares el Real, Madrid
Hours: Tue-Fri: 10:00-17:30 | Weekends: 10:00-18:00
10. Xàtiva Castle (Valencia Region)
Two fortresses in one, perched high above the town of Xàtiva, with views stretching to the Mediterranean. This is Spain tourism with drama and depth.
Interesting Facts:
- Roman origins, later Moorish, then Christian.
- Associated with the powerful Borgia family.
- Site of fierce battles, especially during the War of Succession.
Address: Subida al Castillo, s/n, 46800 Xàtiva, Valencia
Phone: +34 962 283 787
Website: xativaturismo.com
Hours: Tue-Sun: 10:00-20:00 (Closed Mondays)
Final Word
These castles are not just tourist stops - they're doorways into the Spanish soul. For anyone moving to Spain, studying in Spain, or retiring in Spain, they provide a deeper Spain lifestyle comparison than any brochure. For travelers, they are the best regions in Spain for holidays, rich with hidden gems and authentic experiences.
Use this as your smart travel in Spain guide, and whether you're planning via an AI travel planner Spain app or sketching routes by hand, let these castles anchor your Spain itinerary planner. You'll return home not just with photos, but with stories that feel like legends.