Alcázar of Segovia
The Alcázar of Segovia sits high on a rocky outcrop, right where two rivers meet. It’s the kind of place you’d expect to find in a fairytale. Those sharp, soaring turrets? People say they inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. The place started as a fortress, then turned into a royal palace, a prison, and even a military academy over the centuries. Step inside and you’ll find the Throne Room and Hall of Kings, both showing off detailed Mudejar ceilings and heraldic designs. Walk outside, and the views—Segovia spread out before you, with its iconic Roman aqueduct—are just stunning.
Castillo de Belmonte (Cuenca)
In Cuenca province, Belmonte Castle stands out as one of Spain’s best-preserved fortresses. It dates back to the 15th century and was built by Don Juan Pacheco. The star-shaped design, with walls that still look tough today, makes a real impression. Inside, they’ve restored the rooms with care. You can wander through furnished chambers, armories, and along the ramparts. But what makes Belmonte really special? It hosts medieval reenactments and international combat tournaments, so you get to watch history play out right in front of you.
Castillo de Loarre (Huesca)
Tucked into the foothills of the Pyrenees, Castillo de Loarre is one of Europe’s top Romanesque castles. Built in the 11th century to defend against Muslim forces, its towers and chapel have survived the ages surprisingly well. From up here, the plains of Aragon stretch out in every direction. Back in the day, this fortress guarded the edge of Christendom. It’s no wonder filmmakers picked it for movies like Kingdom of Heaven—walking through its ancient walls really does feel like time travel.
Castillo de Peñafiel (Valladolid)
Castillo de Peñafiel looks like a giant stone ship, stretching along a narrow ridge in the Ribera del Duero—one of Spain’s most famous wine regions. Built in the 10th century and expanded later, it’s both strategic and striking. These days, the castle houses the Provincial Wine Museum, mixing centuries of history with local wine culture. Climb the battlements for sweeping views, and then, if you’re smart, go taste some of the region’s best wines nearby.
Alcázar of Seville
The Alcázar of Seville isn’t just a castle—it’s a showcase of Moorish and Christian artistry. It began as a Moorish fortress, became a royal palace after the Reconquista, and still welcomes the Spanish monarchy today. The courtyards, the intricate tilework, the lush gardens—they’re all pure magic, and a masterpiece of Islamic-influenced architecture. Fans of Game of Thrones will spot it instantly as the Water Gardens of Dorne, which only adds to its legendary status.
Castillo de Coca (Segovia)
Castillo de Coca doesn’t look like your typical stone fortress. Built in the 15th century by the Archbishop of Seville, this castle stands out for its Mudejar brickwork—tall towers, a deep moat, and elaborate battlements included. Unlike many other castles, Coca never suffered total destruction, so you get to see a lot of its original features. Inside, vaulted chambers and echoing galleries take you straight back to the days when noble families ruled the land.
Castillo de Almodóvar del Río (Córdoba)
High above the Guadalquivir River, Almodóvar del Río has roots stretching all the way back to Roman times. The Moors later made it a fortress, and in the 20th century, it got a big restoration. It still looks every bit the medieval stronghold, with thick walls and dramatic towers. The views of the Andalusian countryside are breathtaking, but pop culture fans know it for another reason—it played Highgarden in Game of Thrones. Visiting here is like straddling the line between history and fantasy.
Castillo de Ponferrada (León)
If you like a bit of mystery, Castillo de Ponferrada delivers. Built in the 12th century, it was once a Templar stronghold and sits right on the Camino de Santiago—pilgrims once stopped here for protection. There’s a moat, towers, sprawling courtyards, and even a library focused on Templar history. A trip to Ponferrada isn’t just about the architecture; it’s a deep dive into the legends of one of the world’s most enigmatic knightly orders.
Castillo de Manzanares el Real (Madrid)
Just outside Madrid, in the Sierra de Guadarrama, you’ll find one of Spain’s best-preserved castles. Built from granite in the 15th century, Manzanares el Real comes with crenellated towers, Gothic galleries, and a Renaissance courtyard. Once the stronghold of the Mendoza family, it’s now a museum dedicated to medieval life and chivalry. So if you’re in Madrid and craving a taste of the Middle Ages, you don’t have to go far—this castle makes the perfect day trip.
Castillo de Olite (Navarra)
In Navarra, Castillo de Olite stands as a masterpiece of medieval grandeur. Once the residence of the Kings of Navarre, it was described in its time as one of the most luxurious castles in Europe.
