In a stunning victory that defies conventional theme park expectations, a Spanish attraction has been crowned Europe's Leading Theme Park for 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards. The winner, Puy du Fou España in Toledo, offers a radically different experience, swapping rollercoasters and thrill rides for epic, large-scale historical spectacles.
A Theme Park Without the Rides
Opened in 2021 and based on the concept of its French namesake, Puy du Fou España is a hidden gem located roughly an hour's drive south of Madrid. It has remained largely under the radar for British holidaymakers, who traditionally flock to Spain's coastal resorts. The park's core offering is a series of immersive, daytime shows that plunge visitors into key moments of Spanish history.
Highlights include 'A Pluma y Espada' (With Pen and Sword), a swashbuckling performance celebrating the life of a playwright often dubbed the Spanish Shakespeare. Another standout is 'Cetrería de Reyes' (Falconry of Kings), which recreates a historic falconry competition with breathtaking aerial displays from birds of prey.
Stepping Back in Time in Toledo
The immersion extends beyond the shows into meticulously recreated historical villages. Visitors can explore La Puebla Real, a medieval settlement where artisans demonstrate traditional crafts, or wander through Villanueva del Corral, a faithful replica of a 16th-century farming village. For refreshment, El Arrabal offers a tavern experience true to its period.
The park's crowning glory is the 70-minute night show, 'El Sueño de Toledo' (The Dream of Toledo). This breathtaking performance uses a cast of 200 actors, alongside historic sets, pyrotechnics, and special effects to narrate the sweeping history of Spain, with a particular focus on Toledo itself.
Exploring the Historic City Itself
A visit to the park is perfectly complemented by exploring the ancient city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as the 'City of Three Cultures' for its centuries of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim coexistence, Toledo's history stretches back to Roman times.
Key sites include the magnificent Toledo Cathedral (Catedral Primada), one of Spain's largest Gothic structures, and the imposing Alcázar of Toledo, a former fortress now housing a military museum. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, renowned for its 15th-century Gothic architecture, is also a major draw. The labyrinthine old town, or Casco Histórico, is packed with charming cafes, independent shops, and historic squares.
For those planning a visit, ticket prices for Puy du Fou España start from approximately €30 (around £26) for an adult one-day ticket if booked online in advance. Child tickets (ages 3-13) begin at about €24. It is advisable to book ahead, as on-the-day prices can rise to around €38-€39.
