Cuenca, with its steep gorges, ancient bridges, and iconic houses perched precariously on cliffs, is a city that truly comes alive after sunset. Unlike many other destinations, Cuenca offers an enchanting blend of historical sights and spectacular natural scenery that are best experienced under the cover of night. We especially love the guided night tours that reveal the city in a new light—illuminated and less crowded—giving visitors a more intimate feel of its medieval charm. Whether it’s wandering past the illuminated Cathedral or learning about its past from a knowledgeable guide, these evening experiences turn sightseeing into a captivating story.
For those wanting to combine history with natural beauty, the Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo is a standout. Visiting during daylight offers different perspectives, but seeing these sites at sunset or under a starlit sky makes the experience even more magical. If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find these tours offer something unique—whether you’re after a quick overview or a deeper exploration.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we look at three excellent tours in Cuenca, each offering a different way to explore the city and its surroundings after dark or in natural settings. From the guided night tour in Cuenca (more info here), which takes you through the city’s main sights illuminated at night, to the Night Walking Tour of Medieval Cuenca (more info here), perfect for a quick overview of key landmarks, and the Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo (more info here), which combines natural wonders with panoramic viewpoints. Each offers a unique way to see Cuenca and its surroundings.
1. Guided Night Tour
For around $9.88 per person, the guided night tour in Cuenca is a fantastic way to see the city’s main sights in a relaxed, atmospheric setting. This 2-hour tour is highly rated with a perfect 5-star review from 176 travelers. It begins at sunset, guiding you past Plaza Mayor, the Church of San Pedro, and Cuenca Castle ruins—all beautifully lit after dark. The detailed commentary covers Cuenca’s history and culture, enriching your experience beyond just sightseeing.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on alternative perspectives of Cuenca’s landmarks. You’ll pass the D. Sebastián de Covarrubias Palace and learn about its history, while the illuminated Cathedral and City Hall facades create a stunning backdrop. The tour also covers the stone bridge’s story and the iron bridge of 1903, giving a glimpse into Cuenca’s architectural evolution. The highlight is the 600-year-old symbol of the city, lit up and seemingly defying the abyss of the gorge beneath.
This tour is perfect for visitors wanting a rundown and an opportunity to enjoy Cuenca’s medieval atmosphere without daytime crowds. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy storytelling and want to orient themselves for future explorations.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, engaging way to see Cuenca’s illuminated landmarks and learn about its past in just a couple of hours.
2. Night Walking Tour of Medieval Cuenca
At just under $7, this Night Walking Tour of Medieval Cuenca offers a quick, focused introduction to the city’s top sights in about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Rated 5 out of 5 from 64 reviews, it’s an ideal option if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience. Starting at the Larga street, the tour takes you past the Hanging Houses, Arco de Bezudo, and Cuenca Cathedral, before ending near the San Pablo Bridge and the famous Hanging Houses.
The tour’s main appeal is its unobstructed views at night, allowing you to appreciate the architecture and layout without daytime crowds. The guide’s commentary is lively, offering insights into Cuenca’s history and the stories behind its most iconic structures. This tour is particularly good for first-time visitors who want a quick orientation of the city’s layout and key landmarks, setting the stage for further exploration on your own.
While it doesn’t include entry tickets, it’s a great starting point for understanding Cuenca’s medieval charm and architectural evolution. Plus, walking through the city after dark adds a sense of mystery and romance.
Bottom Line: A short, cost-effective tour that provides a clear overview of Cuenca’s most photogenic spots and historical highlights.
3. Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo
For about $46.44, this 4-hour small-group tour takes you out of the city to explore two stunning natural attractions. The Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City) in the Serraníade Cuenca Natural Park is a surreal landscape of rock formations resembling animals, castles, and mythical figures. Rated 5 stars from 47 reviews, it’s an experience that appeals to lovers of geology and outdoor scenery. The tour includes round-trip transportation, making it hassle-free to reach this remote site.
After exploring the Enchanted City for around 2 hours and 30 minutes, the tour continues to the Ventano del Diablo, a spectacular viewpoint over the Júcar River gorge. You’ll enjoy free time to take photos and soak in the breathtaking vistas, with the chance to see griffon vultures soaring overhead. The small-group size (maximum eight people) ensures a personalized experience, and the comfortable, air-conditioned transport makes the journey pleasant.
Guests consistently praise the expert guidance and the opportunity to visit two highly photogenic sites most travelers miss. It’s perfect for travelers wanting adventure, natural beauty, and a break from city sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those eager to see lesser-known natural wonders just outside Cuenca.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If you want a budget-friendly introduction to Cuenca after dark, the Night Walking Tour or the Guided Night Tour (more info here) are great options, especially for first-timers. The guided night tour offers a deeper dive into the city’s history and architecture, ideal for history buffs or those wanting a more comprehensive experience.
If natural scenery and outdoor activities appeal to you more, the Excursion to Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo (more info here) is the way to go. It’s perfect for travelers with extra time who want to combine geological marvels with panoramic views.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Check the weather forecast, as these outdoor and evening tours are best enjoyed under clear skies.
Final Thoughts
Cuenca offers a diverse set of evening and outdoor adventures that cater to different interests and schedules. For a relaxed, immersive experience, the guided night tour provides a thorough look at the city’s illuminated landmarks. If you’re pressed for time, the Night Walking Tour efficiently covers the essentials. Meanwhile, nature lovers and explorers will find the Enchanted City and Ventano del Diablo excursions particularly satisfying.
No matter which tour you pick, each promises a memorable way to see Cuenca’s architecture, history, and natural beauty—so book early, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to fall in love with this spectacular Spanish city after hours.