Matt
Do you want to explore castles in Valencia but need help planning your journey? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Valencia is undoubtedly the place to be if you’re looking to visit an out-of-this-world castle.
The region boasts some of the best castles in Spain. However, the sheer multitude of fortresses can overwhelm any tourist trying to plan their trip itinerary. Don’t worry, though, because we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
In this article, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of our the three best Valencian castles. Keep reading to discover why these sites are so spectacular and what exactly you can expect when visiting them.
Valencia Travel Information
Valencia is a picturesque coastal region of Eastern Spain that’s been a center of power and culture throughout history. Tourists will find countless things to do in Valencia, including exploring some of its world-class castles.
Visiting any of these awe-inspiring sites will provide you with an unforgettable vacation experience. However, planning your itinerary can be tricky.
Due to the region’s varied landscape of mountains, coastline, and farmlands, the Valencia castle location can vary from castle to castle. Don’t stress, though, because we’ve got you covered.
Below is all the information you need to know (plus some useful tourist tips) about three of Valencia’s most magnificent castles. Using this guide, you can plan your travels more effectively and ensure you have the most fulfilling trip possible.
Quick Tip: When visiting any of the castles, make sure you wear comfortable and sturdy shoes. You’ll be walking quite a lot and don’t want sore feet to ruin your experience.
Xativa Castle
When visiting Xativa, you’ll immediately notice the impressive sight of the town’s castle. This mountain-top structure, arguably the best castle Valencia has to offer, provides breathtaking views that are perfect for some holiday snapshots.
The castle’s battle-scarred walls tell the tale of its original purpose as a defensive fortification. This important historical role makes the Xativa fortress one of the most famous castles in Spain.
Xativa Castle’s opening times are between Tuesday and Sunday each week from 10:00 to 20:00. Tickets cost between €4 and €6 ($4.38 to $6.58) and also provide entrance to the nearby Archeological and Fine Arts Museums. Admission is free for children under eight, so this castle is great for families with kids.
After exploring this unique site, you can relax at the on-site cafe and enjoy a tasty snack. For a particularly memorable experience, you can even set up a picnic in the picturesque gardens surrounding the building.
If you’re keen to admire the natural beauty of Xativa’s surroundings, why not consider walking to the castle? This option is best suited for active individuals as it involves a steep 40-minute hike from the city center. Alternatively, you can also catch a taxi to the castle from the nearby Avenida Ausiàs March train station.
Quick Tip: If you’re on a budget, plan your visit for a Sunday or holiday. On these days, you can book a €1 ($1.1) return trip on a shuttle bus from Plaza Españoleto.
Sagunto Castle
Sagunto Castle is the not-so-hidden gem of the town of Sagunto. This massive hilltop fortress is over half a mile (almost 1 kilometer) long and has seven sections. Each section highlights some of the castle’s different occupants throughout history, including the Romans, Iberians, Visigoths, and Christians.
When visiting, take your time to explore Sagunto’s ruins and appreciate the enchanting view of the town below.
For anyone interested in Roman history, we recommend checking out the Plaza de Armas section to view the remains of an ancient Roman forum. Below the castle, you’ll also find a recently restored theater from the time of the renowned Roman emperor, Augustus.
Admission to Sagunto Castle is free, making this site an excellent option for travelers on a budget. To save on transport, you can also travel to the entrance on foot. This uphill walk takes about 20 minutes from the city center. While it’s one of the shorter castle walks, keep in mind that it’s still quite physically demanding.
Sagunto Castle is open every day of the week except for Mondays. From April to September, opening hours are between 10:00 and 18:00. Closing times are extended until 20:00 between October and March and reduced to 14:00 on Sundays and holidays.
Quick Tip: You can enhance your visit by downloading the Tour Sagunto App. This app provides helpful audio guides and interesting information about popular sites in Sagunto (including the castle).
Santa Bárbara Castle
Santa Barbara Castle is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to the Alicante province of Valencia. With its position atop Mount Benacantil, this fortress offers picture-perfect views of the entire province.
This castle is also particularly visitor-friendly. Guests can enjoy the variety of attractions and entertainment on offer, including unique local food, exhibitions, and performances. Santa Barbara offers guests a unique and fully immersive experience of a castle in Spain.
Santa Barbara Castle is open every day of the week, excluding December 24th, 25th and 31st and January 1st and 6th. Opening time is always 10:00, but closing times vary throughout the year. For exact times, you can check the Santa Barbara castle website.
Entrance is free, but depending on how you get to the castle, you may need to pay a small fee. A popular option is taking the lift from Postiguet Beach to the top of the hill.
The lift costs around €3 ($3.29) per person and is far less taxing than walking. It’s also very convenient for those traveling with children or pensioners—especially considering admission is free for anyone under five or over 65.
Valencia Castles | Final Thoughts
If you’re traveling to Valencia, then a visit to any of its magical castles should definitely be on your itinerary. These must-see sites will both enchant you and provide a unique glimpse into the region’s history.
If these Valencian fortresses have piqued your interest, why not check out some other castles in Madrid, Spain’s stunning capital city?
