Castillo de San Fernando
A 19th-century fortress offering breathtaking, alternative views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Castillo de San Fernando
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 19th-century fortress offering breathtaking, alternative views of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea.
"It's a fabulous spot for quiet viewing, a picnic, lying in the sun, etc. and the Park Tossal is peaceful as well."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path up is steep; good footwear is essential for exploring the castle grounds.
🤔 Check Opening Hours
Hours can be confusing. Be prepared for potential closures or 24/7 access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Perimeter walls
Capture stunning, alternative vistas of Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. A photographer's dream!
Historic Fortifications
Castle grounds
Explore the remnants of this 19th-century military fortress, built during the Peninsular War.
Park Tossal Connection
Adjacent to the castle
Discover the peaceful Park Tossal, offering a tranquil escape with mountain views away from the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path up is steep; good footwear is essential for exploring the castle grounds.
🤔 Check Opening Hours
Hours can be confusing. Be prepared for potential closures or 24/7 access.
📸 Great for Photos
Capture unique angles of Alicante and the nearby Santa Barbara Castle.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal with a view in the castle grounds or nearby Park Tossal.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path up is steep; good footwear is essential for exploring the castle grounds.
🤔 Check Opening Hours
Hours can be confusing. Be prepared for potential closures or 24/7 access.
📸 Great for Photos
Capture unique angles of Alicante and the nearby Santa Barbara Castle.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal with a view in the castle grounds or nearby Park Tossal.
🚶♀️ Less Crowded Alternative
Escape the main tourist crowds and enjoy a quieter castle experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Castillo de San Fernando for its stunning panoramic views of Alicante and its quieter, less crowded atmosphere compared to the main castle. It's seen as a great spot for photography and a peaceful place to enjoy the scenery. However, some reviewers note issues with maintenance, confusing opening hours, and the steepness of the path.
"It is a nice little castle to see the alternative view of Alicante, I liked the views, but there was lots of rubbish and people in tents, mattresses thrown beside the castle and it doesn't really look that well maintained.
Open hours is a bit confusing as on here it says that it closes at 8 o'clock. On the site it says it closes at 10 o'clock, but people also say it is open 24/7 so I am not sure about this. There are some activities that happen here which is most likely why there is a time here and on the website.
I still had a nice time and got to look at some nice views.
It is a very steep way up to the castle, and the main entrance doesn't have stairs, it's just a slope. It can be difficult for people to find the way in, but I found it no problem.
It's not as popular and there definitely was very little to no people when I came. (17/08/25)
There is a nearby park with I assume is connected to the castle, but I couldn't see a way down to it.
There is a little tunnel that gets you over to the other side of the castle and the tunnel has lots of graffiti in it. (I didn't take a photo of it)
Entry is free and there is no gift shop. There was a reception room right Infront of the main gates, but I'm assuming it was closed or isn't used at all.
Still nevertheless was a fun walk to it and got nice views out of it! First time at this castle and I do like it."
Natalis Kaszewski
"Everybody knows Castillo de Santa Barbara is the grand, impressive, must-see castle in town! Only go to this castle if you enjoy walking for the sake of exercise and views. This small castle is definitely underwhelming compared to other castles, and still I thoroughly appreciated the time spent there under the Spanish sun! Plus it’s really cool to see Santa Barbara from a distance! I captured an amazing advanced selfie photoshoot there. It’s a fabulous spot for quiet viewing, a picnic, lying in the sun, etc. and the Park Tossal is peaceful as well as the mountain views facing away from the sea. If the WC and overall cleanliness had been in better conditions, I would’ve awarded 5 stars."
Shola
"Absolutely wonderful views from the top. A fairly long path to the top but worth every step. Makes way some impressive photos from the perimeter wall. Really helped me get my bearings in Alicante!"
Artsiya Artsiya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The castle is located on Monte Tossal. While there's no direct public transport to the very top, you can take a bus or walk from the city center. Be prepared for a steep climb, as the path is a slope rather than stairs. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
The main entrance is a slope, which can be easier than stairs. However, the overall terrain is steep, and some areas might be challenging. It's advisable to check accessibility on-site or with local tourist information.
Limited parking might be available near the base of Monte Tossal, but the final ascent is best done on foot. It's generally recommended to park in the city center and walk or take a bus.
Castillo de San Fernando is a less popular, 19th-century fortress offering different city views, while Castillo de Santa Barbara is the larger, more prominent medieval castle on Monte Benacantil. San Fernando is often described as a quieter alternative. +1
Yes, you can walk from the city center, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point. The walk offers increasing views as you ascend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can be confusing and inconsistent. Some sources suggest it closes at 8 PM, others at 10 PM, and some visitors report it being open 24/7. It's best to check locally or be prepared for flexibility.
Entry to Castillo de San Fernando is generally free. There is no gift shop, and the focus is on exploring the historical site and enjoying the views.
No, advance booking is not required as entry is typically free. However, if there are special events, it's advisable to check for any ticketing requirements.
Some visitors have reported the castle being open 24/7, suggesting it might be accessible at night. However, official hours can vary, so it's best to confirm locally if you plan a late visit.
If you find the castle unexpectedly closed despite signs indicating it should be open, there might be specific reasons (e.g., weather). Enjoy the surrounding Park Tossal or explore other parts of Alicante.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The perimeter walls offer excellent vantage points for capturing panoramic views of Alicante, the port, and the Mediterranean Sea. You can also get great shots of Castillo de Santa Barbara from a distance.
Yes, sunset is a popular time to visit for photography, as the golden hour light bathes the city and the castle in a warm glow.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions at the castle site before flying.
The highest points along the outer walls provide the most expansive and unobstructed views. Experiment with different angles to capture the city's layout.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the city or the distant Santa Barbara Castle.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the panoramic views of Alicante, exploring the historical military fortifications, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. There's also a tunnel with graffiti and access to the adjacent Park Tossal.
Some visitors have noted that the castle could be better maintained, with mentions of rubbish and graffiti in certain areas. However, the historical structure and views are still appreciated.
Information on restroom availability is mixed. Some reviews mention a WC, but its condition or availability might be inconsistent. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit.
There is a tunnel that leads to the other side of the castle, which is known for its graffiti. It's an interesting, albeit sometimes gritty, feature of the site.
No, there is no gift shop at Castillo de San Fernando. The experience is focused on the historical site and its views.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Parks
Park Tossal is a park adjacent to Castillo de San Fernando, offering a peaceful green space with mountain views. It's a great place to relax after exploring the castle.
The path leading up to the castle is a significant walk. While not extensive hiking trails, the grounds offer opportunities for exploration.
You'll find urban landscapes of Alicante, coastal views of the Mediterranean, and the natural setting of Monte Tossal. The park offers a more natural, mountainous backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting Park Tossal which is adjacent to the castle, as it offers a more relaxed environment for younger children to play. While the castle itself might not have specific child-focused attractions, the historical aspect and the 'lookout' feel can spark imagination. Be mindful of the steep paths and ensure children are supervised.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, consider walking from the city center instead of taking a taxi. Pack your own picnic lunch and drinks to enjoy on-site, as there are no food vendors or gift shops. This makes it a perfect, cost-effective excursion for a sunny afternoon.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to make the most of the sweeping views. You can also capture interesting shots of the castle's military architecture and the graffiti in the tunnel. The comparative views of Castillo de Santa Barbara are also a photographic highlight.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Castles: San Fernando vs. Santa Barbara
In contrast, the Castillo de San Fernando is a lesser-known, 19th-century military fortification built on Monte Tossal during the Peninsular War. While it never saw active combat, it provides a different perspective of Alicante, often described as more tranquil and less crowded. Visitors appreciate its panoramic views, which include a unique vantage point of the larger Santa Barbara Castle.
+2For travelers seeking a quieter exploration and a different angle on Alicante's history, Castillo de San Fernando is a worthwhile visit. It's ideal for those who enjoy walking for exercise and appreciating expansive cityscapes without the throngs of tourists.
Navigating the Ascent: Getting to Castillo de San Fernando
It's crucial to wear comfortable footwear as the path is a steep slope. This makes it more accessible than a sheer climb, but still requires a good level of fitness. Some visitors have noted that the main entrance is a slope, which is a positive for accessibility, but the overall terrain can be challenging.
For those who prefer a less strenuous approach, consider exploring the surrounding Park Tossal, which is connected to the castle. This offers a more relaxed way to enjoy the natural setting and the views without the direct climb to the fortress itself.
Capturing the Essence: Photography at Castillo de San Fernando
Many visitors recommend visiting during the late afternoon or sunset for the best photographic opportunities. The golden hour light casts a warm glow over the landscape, creating dramatic and beautiful shots. You can also capture striking images of the more famous Castillo de Santa Barbara from a distance, offering a comparative perspective.
While the castle itself is a historical structure, the primary photographic appeal lies in the expansive vistas. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the sweeping panoramas. Be mindful of the castle's condition; while the views are stunning, some areas might show signs of wear and tear, which can add a gritty charm to your photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit