Check out this list of my favorite dreamy Spanish castles and get ready to channel your inner royalty! It includes some of the most iconic Spanish castles, along with a few personal favorites that are often overlooked by international travelers.

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Top Castles to Visit in Spain

What is the most famous Castle in Spain?

The Alhambra in Granada is one of the most iconic Spanish landmarks and can be considered the most famous castle in Spain, as well as one of the most unique places in southern Spain. Originally built as a fortress in the 13th century by the Nasrid dynasty, the Alhambra is a symbol of Islamic architecture on the Iberian Peninsula and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is often referred to as one of the wonders of the modern world. Due to its international fame, it is also one of the hardest castles to visit in Spain without a prior booking, as the daily number of visitors is limited.

Why does Spain have so many castles?

Besides its far-reaching history of royals, the Iberian Peninsula has been home to multiple civilizations, including the Romans and the Moors. As a result, many Spanish castles bear traces from different epochs, having been rebuilt and modified over the centuries. Castles were always essential for defense, and Spain was made up of separate kingdoms, each constantly facing the threat of war. Spain became a unified country after the famous union of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, who were also the same monarchs who supported Columbus. Since this historic event, castles in Spain began evolving into unique residences for royalty and nobility.

What is the most beautiful castle in Spain?

While Granada’s Alhambra is often called the most beautiful Spanish castle, its architecture is of Moorish origin. I often feel that people searching for castles in Europe are largely looking for places from knight storybooks. So, I would recommend four Spanish castles known for their fairytale appeal: Javier Castle in Navarra, Peracense Castle in Aragon, Alcázar of Segovia, and Belmonte Castle in Cuenca. Additionally, any of the former or current residences of the Spanish royals are known for their unique interiors, although these are more palaces than the old-style medieval castles.

Complete map of the 50+ best castles in Spain

Best Spanish castles to stay in

Spain is home to several stunning castles and fortresses that offer a unique and luxurious experience for those looking to stay in a historic setting, such as the Parador de Cardona, Parador de Alarcón, Posada Real Castillo del Buen Amor, Cap Rocat, Castillo de Grisel, Parador de Hondarribia, Parador de Jaén, Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera, and Parador de Olite. I also recommend double-checking the origins of the place before booking, as many accommodations suggested online as castles are, in fact, former monasteries that resemble castles.

What is so special about castles in Spain?

Spain is world-famous for its historical sites and medieval towns. However, Spanish castles play a leading role in the uniqueness of European historical heritage, as they not only have a rich past but also often involve captivating stories or mysterious local legends. Additionally, many of these castles make us feel like we’re traveling back to the Middle Ages. So, visiting castles is rarely boring, even for those who aren’t history enthusiasts.

Get inspired to explore castles in Spain

If you want to get in the mood before visiting Spain’s castles and learn more about the birth of the Kingdom of Spain, you should check out the Spanish TV series Isabel (2012) and Carlos, Rey Emperador (2015), or head to my list of Spanish documentaries. Below, you’ll find some of my favorite Spanish castles, but for more locations, you can also check out this Google Map I created for my readers, featuring over 50 top castles in Spain.

The most beautiful castles to visit in Spain

1. The castle of Belmonte / Castile La-Mancha

During my trip to the Spanish province of Cuenca, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to explore one of the most famous places in Central Spain – the Castle of Belmonte. Originally built in the second half of the 15th century for Don Juan Pacheco, also known as the Marquis of Villena, one of the wealthiest nobles of the time, the construction of the castle remained unfinished due to his death. Later, between the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle was abandoned. In the 19th century, however, Elena Guzmán, one of the heirs of the House of Villena, decided to restore the castle. She modernized the interiors while preserving the original exteriors. I’ve always wanted to visit Belmonte Castle during the Spanish Medieval Fairs but haven’t had the chance yet. To plan your visit, you can check the castle’s schedule here.

2. Castle of Loarre / Aragon

One of the top landmarks in the Spanish region of Huesca is the stunning Castle of Loarre, set against the majestic mountain range of the Pyrenees. Built in the 11th century and declared a Spanish National Cultural Heritage Site in 1906, the Castle of Loarre is considered one of the finest examples of civil and military architecture in all of Europe. Historians believe it was constructed on the ruins of the local Roman city of Calagurris Fibularia, based on the discovery of ancient Roman and Iberian coins in the area. The decision to build the castle was linked to the Catholic-Muslim conflict between the Spanish and the Arabs. The castle has survived several epochs in remarkably good condition, mainly because the Spanish gradually expanded their territories to the south, rendering its defensive role unnecessary. While there isn’t much left inside, I recently revisited it during a road trip across the Aragón region, as the structure itself is absolutely spectacular. To plan your visit, you can check out the schedules here.

3. The Royal Palace of Olite / Navarre

The Royal Palace of Olite, or Palacio Real, is one of the most luxurious medieval castles in Spain. Located near Pamplona, it is considered one of the top landmarks of the Navarra region. Navarra is one of the most unique places in Spain, as it was once an independent kingdom for centuries, nestled between the much larger kingdoms of France and Spain, which I find incredible. The Olite Castle was the home of the Court of Navarre until its union with the Kingdom of Castile in 1512. Even today, the interiors feel unique. While there may not be much furniture or decoration inside, the walls seem to whisper of the wealth this place once held. Everything in Olite – from the towers and gardens to the window ornaments – exudes sophistication and reflects the significance of Navarra in European royal history.So, I highly recommend including it in any Navarra road trip itinerary. You can check out more details at the official website.

4. The Butron Castle / The Basque Country

Butrón Castle in Northern Spain is one of the most fairy-tale-like castles of the Iberian Peninsula. Honestly, it’s the exact image I would have in mind when searching for castles in Europe. I was slightly disappointed to find out that it’s a private property, so no tourist visits are allowed. However, you can’t deny the magical allure of this place – it’s truly the most picture-perfect Spanish castle. I even read somewhere that Kate Middleton was once rumored to have considered Butrón Castle as a dream venue for her wedding. So, even if you only get to admire it from the outside, a stop at Butrón Castle is a must on any Basque Country road trip.

5. The Castle of Pope Luna / Valencian Community

Peñíscola is one of Spain’s most impressive seaside castles, perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. It is a popular stop on any road trip between Barcelona and Valencia, and it can also be easily visited on a day trip from Valencia. The Castle of Peñíscola has gained international attention as one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones in Spain. Rising 67 meters above the sea, the castle was once the residence of Pope Benedict XIII (Papa Luna). It was built in the 13th century on the site of an earlier Arabic fortress. You can read more about visiting the castle in this post. Here’s the official website of Peñíscola for schedules and prices.

6. Alcazar of Segovia / Castile-Leon

The Alcázar of Segovia is one of Spain’s top landmarks and one of the most famous castles for international travelers. It is said to have inspired Cinderella’s Castle, the eternal symbol of Disney. Unlike many other Spanish castles that primarily served as fortresses, the Alcázar de Segovia was a royal residence and has never been defeated. The first written records of the Alcázar date back to the early 12th century. It was one of the favorite residences of the Crown of Castile during the Middle Ages, before the Spanish royal court moved to Madrid. The Alcázar of Segovia is also home to the oldest active military academy in the world. This castle is popular day trip from Madrid, it can also be included in any Madrid road trip itinerary. You can check out more details for a visit here.

7. The Alataya Castle / Valencian Community

One of the top hidden gems of the Velencian Community is Alataya Castle, also known as Villena Castle. Built at the end of the 12th century by the Almohad Caliphate, the castle was originally constructed to protect the local Muslim population from external threats. In 1240, the castle was captured by the Spanish during the Christian Reconquista. By the 15th century, it came under the control of the powerful Villena family. The castle’s interior walls and the first two floors of its tower are among the oldest structures in Spain’s medieval castles. Villena Castle is also famous for its connection to the Treasure of Villena, a remarkable collection of gold and silver artifacts discovered in the area in 1963. The treasure, believed to be from the Iberian period, includes jewelry, coins, and other precious items, shedding light on the ancient history of the region. The castle is a fascinating stop on any road trip through Alicante, especially along the route between Valencia and Alicante. You can check out more details on the official website here.

8. The Real Alcazar of Seville / Andalusia

Whether you plan to spend one day or a whole weekend in Seville, you can’t miss its most iconic landmark – the Alcázar of Seville. While the most famous Moorish castle in the south of Spain is the Alhambra in Granada, I personally enjoyed the Real Alcázar of Seville even more. This dreamy location will definitely make you feel the magic flowing through your veins. The Real Alcázar of Seville is still the official residence of the Spanish royal family in Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and, of course, one of the most beautiful Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain. The complex was developed from the 11th to the 16th century before reaching its current form. Art lovers will be in awe of the Mudejar architecture (which I first saw in Teruel and have admired ever since). The lively geometry of the decorations and the Alcázar’s divine gardens will transport you straight into the pages of One Thousand and One Nights. So, it is often called one of the top fairytale locations in Spain. To plan a visit, you can check schedules and prices here.

9. The Alcazaba of Almeria / Andalusia

The Alcazaba is the largest of the citadels built by the Moors in Spain and one of the top attractions in the Almería region, as well as one of the top gems of Southern Spain. Its massive walls are visible from almost every part of the city. I first discovered this incredible site while planning a road trip across the Spanish Wild West. The entrance is free, and once you pass through the main gates, make sure to head all the way up to the San Cristobal Statue for the best panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It’s no surprise that the Alcazaba of Almería was also used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

10. The Peracense Castle / Aragon

Peracense Castle is one of the lesser-known Spanish castles for the international visitors, and it’s easily one of my personal favorites. I discovered this hidden gem during a recent weekend in Albarracín, one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. It’s hard to believe this place is rarely mentioned in lists of castles in Spain, as the entire structure is awe-inspiring. Built in the 13th century on the foundations of a former Muslim fortress, Peracense Castle has served various roles throughout Spanish history, including as a feudal castle, a prison, and a key stronghold during the Carlist wars. Its most stunning feature is how it seamlessly blends with the red-colored landscape. For the best views, head to San Ginés Hill nearby. You can check out the full video from The Castle of Peracense on my IG Reels and Tiktok.

11. The Castle of Xavier / Navarra

Another one of my favorite castles in Spain is Xavier Castle, a lesser-known spot among international travelers. Located 52 km from the city of Pamplona, the Castle of Xavier is one of the top attractions in the Navarra region. It serves as a powerful reminder of the region’s rich history. The Castle of Xavier was originally built in the 10th century as a watchtower but evolved over time into a fully fortified castle owned by the Azpilicueta family in the 14th century. Today, visitors can explore a variety of medieval objects and artworks inside its elegant interiors. One of the castle’s most unique features is the Capilla del Santo Cristo, a chapel adorned with Danse Macabre paintings, also known as the Dance of Death. This artistic genre, popular in the late Middle Ages across Europe, served as a reminder of the fragility of life. While common in medieval Europe, very few examples remain in Spain, making this chapel a rare and fascinating site.

12. The Alhambra of Granada / Andalusia

The Alhambra of Granada is one of Spain’s most famous castles and a must-see on any Spain bucket list. Built primarily in the 13th and 14th centuries by the Nasrid dynasty, it served as a royal palace and fortress for the Muslim rulers of Andalusia. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alhambra stands out for its unique fusion of Islamic and Christian elements, making it a key stop for first-timers on any Southern Spain road trip. However, its immense popularity is also a drawback – you need to book tickets well in advance, and with large crowds of visitors, it can sometimes be difficult to fully enjoy the magical experience of the castle.

Map of the Most Unique Castles in Spain

On the map below, you can explore the locations of my favorite Spanish castles mentioned in this post. If you’re looking for a more extensive list, check out this Google Map I created for my readers, featuring over 50 top castles in Spain.

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For more Spain travel tips check out my Pinterest board Spain Travel Collection and Flipboard Travel to Spain.

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