Royal Palace of Olite travel guide

The Royal Palace of Olite, a magnificent medieval castle in Olite/Erriberri, Spain, was once the seat of the Kingdom of Navarre. Its construction began in the 13th century under the reign of King García Ramírez. However, the castle truly flourished in the 15th century when King Charles III, known as 'The Noble', transformed it into a grand palace. He added fantastical turrets, lush gardens, and exotic animals, making it one of the most luxurious courts in Europe.

The palace was partially destroyed in the 1808 invasion by Napoleon's troops. The fire they set left the palace in ruins for nearly two centuries. Restoration began in the 20th century, revealing the palace's original Gothic interior and intricate stone carvings. Today, the Royal Palace of Olite stands as a testament to the grandeur of medieval Spain, attracting thousands of visitors each year with its rich history and stunning architecture.

The Royal Palace of Olite, with its intricate architectural structure, offers a labyrinth-like experience, a unique aspect rarely found in other Spanish castles. The palace is notable for its lush Hanging Gardens, set high on the castle walls, perfect amalgamation of nature and architecture. The Ice Well, an old ice cellar, is another highlight, showcasing the medieval techniques of food preservation. The palace's numerous balconies, towers, and courtyards each provide a different and stunning view of the surrounding town and countryside, giving the palace a sense of grandeur and majesty. The 'Tower of Homage', the highest tower of the palace, offers a panoramic vista of the entire region. The palace also has a gothic gallery and a chapel, each with its own unique design and history. Its fairytale-like appearance with turreted walls and hidden corners make it unique and often compared to the castles featured in fairy tales.

The iconic Royal Palace of Olite, situated at Pl. Carlos III El Noble, 4, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain, stands as a must-visit landmark in Olite/Erriberri. Its location within the vibrant Olite/Erriberri offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of Spain.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Olite/Erriberri, as a village, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Royal Palace of Olite shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this village.

Getting to Royal Palace of Olite is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Olite/Erriberri, Spain.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, which is approximately 68.4 miles (110.1 km) from the village center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Royal Palace of Olite.

If you're already in Olite/Erriberri, the journey to Royal Palace of Olite is an adventure in itself. Located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from central Olite/Erriberri, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Royal Palace of Olite is situated at Pl. Carlos III El Noble, 4, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in Spain. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Royal Palace of Olite.

The best time to explore Royal Palace of Olite is during the spring months of April and May, or in the fall during September and October. During these times, the weather in Olite/Erriberri, Spain is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for meandering through the Palace's intricate rooms and strolling the scenic grounds. Moreover, these periods tend to see fewer tourists, making your visit more peaceful and enjoyable. Summer can also be a good time to visit, particularly during the Medieval Festival in August, where the town of Olite steps back in time with medieval music, traditional cuisine, and theatrical performances. However, summer does draw larger crowds and can be hot, so be sure to plan your day accordingly, perhaps venturing into the Palace in the cooler morning or late afternoon hours. No matter when you choose to visit, the Royal Palace of Olite offers a compelling blend of history and beauty that is sure to enchant.

As Royal Palace of Olite is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Royal Palace of Olite in Spain.

When preparing for your visit to Royal Palace of Olite, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Royal Palace of Olite in this section, with options for all travel types—carefully selected from the biggest selection of hotels and places to stay in Olite/Erriberri.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Royal Palace of Olite. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

Santa María la Real, Olite is located in PZ, Pl. Carlos III El Noble, 1, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip. You can visit it at Pl. Del Fosal, 3, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain.

Located at NA-8602, 81, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain giving you ample opportunities to enjoy the site.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Olite/Erriberri below to discover even more incredible places to visit.