Castell de Dénia sits on a crag above the old town, a few blocks from the port and the sea. The fortress was built on the foundations of a Roman settlement and shaped by Moorish builders, with Renaissance and 18th-century work added later. The climb rewards you with views over the town, the harbour and the Mediterranean. Explore the walls, towers and small museum, then rest at the café near the top. Much of the castle can be walked for free.
From Roman foundations to a Moorish fortress
The castle stands on the foundations of a fortress from the Roman city of Diannium. The Moors built the castle on that base, and it is mainly built in the Almohad style.
The site has been inhabited since Roman times. Later builders added Renaissance and 18th-century work, so the castle shows several periods of construction. Today it is the symbol of the city.
Inside the castle
The castle has three towers and an archaeological museum that is open to the public. A small museum covers the history of Dénia, and the gatehouse tower holds a display of arms and armour.
The grounds include walls, lookouts and pathways that are fun to explore. Allow extra time if you want to see all of them. Under the hill, a pedestrian tunnel links the two sides of the historic centre, and it is free to walk through.
Getting up and around
There are two ways up. The cobbled path is steep, while the tarmac route is more sweeping and less steep. Both lead to the top of the castle.
At the top, a café sits in the shade of pine trees, and there are toilets and a bar. Entry is a small fee, with seniors paying less. Advance tickets are recommended.
The entrance, seating and parking are listed as wheelchair accessible. Parking includes free street parking and both free and paid car parks.
Around the castle
The castle's back side is close to Placa de la Constitució, where you find outdoor marble flooring, flowering trees, the town hall and the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.
The streets around the castle are lined with restaurants, small shops and traditional houses, so a walk down from the top can continue into the town.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Entry is a small fee, 3 euros for general admission and 2 euros for seniors. Check the city's website for current prices.
Is the climb to the castle hard?
The cobbled path is steep and uneven. The tarmac route is longer but gentler, so it is the better choice if you are unfit or elderly.
Is the castle wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, seating and parking are listed as wheelchair accessible.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Getting tickets in advance is recommended.