As you travel through Spain, you’ll find yourself wondering: how many castles are in Spain? The answer is close to 2,500 – each one a silent witness to centuries of kingdoms, empires, and cultural evolution. From old castles built dramatically on cliffs to famous castles in Spain overlooking bustling cities, these amazing buildings are more than just stone walls. They tell stories of love, power, war, and art making them some of the most iconic castles in Spain to visit.
In this Spain travel guide to historical castles, we explore must-see castles in Spain for tourists, each revealing a chapter of the country’s layered past.
Castilla y León: Where Fairytales Come Alive
Segovia Castle looks like something from a fairytale. It even inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Its pointed turrets and clifftop silhouette explain why Alcázar de Segovia inspired Disney castles. Inside, you’ll find regal halls where Queen Isabella was crowned, making it a highlight among the best castles to visit in Spain.
Nearby, Coca Castle Spain, known for its intricate Mudejar brickwork, blends Islamic artistry with medieval strength. Visit Coca Castle Segovia to witness this architectural fusion. The Castle of Coca Spain stands out for its geometric towers and imposing moat—a must for lovers of historic sites in Spain.
In Valladolid, Peñafiel Castle stretches like a stone ship across the horizon. Now home to the Provincial Wine Museum, it’s perfect for day trips to castles from Madrid combining history and wine tasting.
Andalusia: The Grandeur of Islamic Art
The Alhambra in Granada is often called a work of art made of stone. Visiting Alhambra Granada Spain is an immersion in delicate Islamic carvings, lush courtyards, and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Is the Alhambra Palace worth visiting? Absolutely. It remains among the famous medieval castles to visit in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage site that shaped castle architecture in Spain.
Nearby in Malaga, the Alcazaba Spain towers over a Roman theater. Alcazaba Malaga Spain is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses, showcasing howshowing how history changed the buildings during the Reconquista. Further east, Almería’s Alcazaba commands views of the Mediterranean and desert landscapes.
Eastern Coast: Where Stone Meets Sea
In Valencia’s province, Peñíscola Castle rises dramatically above the Mediterranean. Known as the Game of Thrones castle Spain Peñíscola (Meereen in Season 6),its stone stairs, ancient rooms, and great views from the walls top the list of castles in Spain with panoramic views. What to see in Peñíscola Castle Spain? Don’t miss its chapel, terraces, and sweeping seaside vistas.
Further inland, Morella Castle crowns a medieval walled town. This Morella Castle Valencia region fortress has seen Iberians, Romans, Moors, and Christians pass through its gates, offering deep historical resonance.
Balearic Islands: Circular Wonders
The Bellver Castle in Palma, Mallorca, is one of the few circular castles in Europe. Bellver Castle view Palma de Mallorca mixes elegant Gothic style with Roman design, and its round towers are perfect for families. No wonder it’s among the best castles in Spain with guided tours for kids and adults alike.
Navarra and León: The Path of Kings
Olite Castle Spain, jewel of the old Navarre Kingdom, was famed for golden ceilings and lush gardens. Its towers evoke medieval grandeur, making it one of the best castles to see in Spain.
In Ponferrada, the Templar Castle stands as a monument to chivalry. What makes Ponferrada Castle unique among Spanish castles? Its mix of Romanesque and Gothic style, and connection to the Camino de Santiago, make it special.
The Gateway to Andalusia: Burgalimar Castle
In Jaén, Burgalimar Castle is among Spain’s oldest Muslim fortresses. Built in the 10th century, it changed hands during the Reconquista, blending Andalusian arches with Gothic Christian towers.
Off the Beaten Path: Puebla de Sanabria Castle
If you seek hidden gems, Sanabria Castle Zamora visit guide should be on your list. This fortress overlooks the Tera River, offering insights into how history shaped Spain’s castle architecture over centuries of cultural fusion. You can also explore more lesser-known places to visit in Spain if you're looking to go beyond the typical tourist trails. 
Aragón’s Medieval Jewels
Valderrobres Castle, with its Gothic courtyards and charming stone bridge, transports visitors into the Middle Ages. Huesca’s Castillo de Loarre, the oldest Romanesque castle in Spain, is built into a rocky hill, standing strong for centuries.
Plan Your Unforgettable Spanish Castle Adventure Today!
The best time to visit Spanish castles is during spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller, so you can really enjoy their beauty and history. Among the countless fortresses, the Alhambra, Segovia, and Ponferrada castles stand out for their immersive guided tours that tell interesting stories about what happened inside the castle walls.
If you’re travelling with family, Bellver Castle, Segovia’s Alcázar, and Coca Castle offer engaging experiences for both children and adults, combining history with fairytale intrigue. And if you’re looking to plan a full itinerary, check out this helpful guide to the best places to visit in Spain for more of the country’s highlights beyond its legendary castles.
Compared to castles across Europe, Spain’s medieval fortresses are unique for their striking blend of Moorish elegance and Christian Gothic power – seen in everything from horseshoe arches and intricate tiles to imposing towers and defensive ramparts.
Ultimately, these castles are far more than historical structures; they are guardians of Spain’s spirit. Each fortress, from the castle in Barcelona Spain to the Alcázar Segovia Spain and beyond, whispers tales of romance, conquest, faith, and forgotten dreams. Whether you want peaceful views, great photos, or amazing stories, visiting these castles will make your trip to Spain unforgettable.
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