Xàtiva (Játiva) Travel Guide – Things to Do, Castle & Visitor Tips 🏰

Welcome to our Xàtiva (Játiva) Travel Guide, your complete guide to visiting one of the most historic and beautiful towns in the Province of Valencia, Spain.

Xàtiva, also known as Játiva, is located about 117 km from Benidorm and is the capital of the La Costera region. It is famous for its dramatic hilltop castle, rich history, lively squares, and strong links to the powerful Borgia family.

This Xàtiva Travel Guide will help you discover the best things to do, top attractions, local festivals, and practical travel tips to make the most of your visit.

Xàtiva is also known for having some of the highest temperatures in the region. For cooler days, visit the Pou Clar waterfalls in Ontinyent, just 27 km away.

If you are planning a trip to inland Valencia, Xàtiva is a destination you should not miss

Find information on other places to visit in this section of the website.

Why Visit Xàtiva?

Xàtiva offers a perfect mix of history, culture, nature, and local life. Visitors come here to enjoy:

• 🏰 One of the best castles in Valencia

• 🖼️ Excellent museums and art collections

• 🏛️ Historic churches and palaces

• 🌿 Beautiful countryside nearby

• 🍽️ Traditional Valencian food

• 🎉 Colourful festivals all year

Whether you are visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, this Játiva Travel Guide shows why Xàtiva is one of the region’s hidden gems.

A Brief History of Xàtiva

Xàtiva has more than 2,000 years of history.

• First settled by Iberian people

• Became a Roman trade centre on the Via Augusta

• Later ruled by Islamic and Christian leaders

• Important religious centre in medieval times

• Burned in 1707 by King Felipe V

• Renamed San Felipe as punishment

• Home to Europe’s first paper factory in the 11th century

Today, the town proudly preserves this rich past in its buildings, museums, and traditions.

📍 Top Things to Do in Xàtiva

1. Xàtiva Castle – The Main Attraction 🏰

Xàtiva Castle is the highlight of this Xàtiva Travel Guide and the town’s most famous landmark. It stands high above the old town and offers stunning views across the countryside.

With more than 30 towers and four fortified gates, it is one of the most impressive castles in eastern Spain.

History and Architecture

The castle was built over many centuries and includes:

• Roman foundations

• Islamic walls and towers

• Gothic and Christian sections

Most of what you see today comes from the medieval period. The castle is protected as a Cultural Heritage Site.

Ancient city walls run down from the fortress and once protected the town.

Hannibal and Local Legends

According to tradition, the Carthaginian general Hannibal Barca used this site during his campaign against Rome in 219 BC. His wife, Princess Himilce, is said to have lived here.

You can still see:

• The Balcony of Princess Himilce

• Hannibal’s Gate

Visiting Xàtiva Castle

When you visit, you can:

• Walk along ancient walls

• Explore towers and courtyards

• Visit old prisons and chapels

• Enjoy panoramic views

👉 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. The paths are steep and uneven.

Opening Times

• April–October: Tue–Sun, 10:00–19:00

• October–March: Tue–Sun, 10:00–18:00

• Closed Mondays (except holidays)

A visit to Xàtiva is not complete without spending time at its castle.

2. Collegiate Church of La Seu

One of the most important religious buildings in Xàtiva.

• Built between 1596 and 1916

• Renaissance style with Baroque entrance

• Burial place of Borgia family members

• 60 m bell tower with city views

Opening Times

• Mon–Fri: 10:30–13:00

• Sun & holidays: 11:30–13:00

• Entrance: €1

3. Collegiate Museum

Located inside the church complex, this museum displays religious art, Gothic metalwork, and historic objects.

A good stop for visitors interested in local history.

4. Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes)

Housed in the historic Casa de la Enseñanza, this museum is one of the best cultural attractions in Xàtiva.

Highlights include:

• Upside-down portrait of Felipe V

• Works by Goya and Ribera

• Paintings from the Prado Museum

A must-visit for art lovers.

Location: Plaza Arquebisbe Mayoral
Opening Times:

• Mon–Sat: 10:00–14:00 & 16:00–19:00

• Sun & holidays: 10:00–14:00

5. L’Almodí Museum

Located in a former 16th-century wheat market.

Here you can see:

• Archaeological finds

• Roman and Islamic remains

• Arab bath structures

• Medieval objects

Opening Times:

• Mon–Sat: 10:00–14:00 & 16:00–19:00

• Sun & holidays: 10:00–14:00

6. Hospital Reial

Founded in 1244 by King Jaume I, this building shows fine Gothic and Renaissance design.

Today, it also works as a visitor centre.

Location: Plaza Calixto III
Opening Times:

• Tue–Sat: 11:00–14:00 & 16:00–18:00

• Sun & holidays: 11:00–14:00

7. Plaça de la Trinitat

The heart of old Xàtiva.

• Gothic Font de la Trinitat fountain

• Weekly Friday market

• Cafés and restaurants

• Lively evening atmosphere

Perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

8. Marquis of Alarcó Palace

Located in Plaça de la Trinitat. This 18th-century building is the city’s most important civil monument.

9. Historic Fountains

As you explore the town, look out for:

• Baroque fountains

• Gothic fountains

• Neoclassical designs

They add charm to the streets and squares.

10. Jardín del Beso (Garden of the Kiss)

A peaceful garden near the old walls.

• Romantic setting

• Benches and fountains

• Shaded walkways

Ideal for a quiet break.

🎉 Festivals and Events in Xàtiva

Xàtiva celebrates many traditional Spanish festivals:

• Fallas (March) – Fire sculptures and fireworks

• Holy Week (Easter) – Religious processions

• Corpus Christi (June)

• August Fair (15–20 August) – Music, food, and events

• Christmas – Large nativity scene

These festivals offer visitors a real taste of local culture.

🕳️ Cova Negra – Nature and Prehistory

Just outside Xàtiva is Cova Negra Natural Park.

• Prehistoric cave site

• Over 30,000 years old

• Walking trails

• River scenery

This is a great trip for nature lovers and families.

🚗🚆 Getting to Xàtiva from Benidorm

By Car

• Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

• 117 km via AP-7 and CV-60

By Bus

• Journey: Around 5 hours

• Operated by ALSA

• About 6 services per week (check schedules)

By Tram and Train

1. Tram: Benidorm → Alicante Luceros

2. Walk to Alicante-Terminal (6 min)

3. Train: Alicante → Xàtiva

• Total journey: Approx. 3.5 hours

• Cost: €15–€20

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Plan Your Visit with This Xàtiva Travel Guide

We hope this Xàtiva (Játiva) Travel Guide helps you plan a memorable visit. Whether you come for the castle, history, food, or festivals, Xàtiva has something for everyone.

Have you visited Xàtiva? What did you see and enjoy? Let us know in the comments below.