Peniscola is a charming seaside town that offers more than just sun and sand. Its winding streets, historic fortress, and stunning sea views make it a perfect setting for engaging tours. What we particularly like are the guided walks that reveal local secrets and the castle experiences that bring the old town to life. For example, the Castle & Walled City Guided Tour with its skip-the-line access to Peñíscola Castle allows visitors to combine sightseeing with a deep dive into history, all with a knowledgeable local guide. The nighttime tours and boat trips also add a special touch, offering different perspectives of this seaside town.
In this list, we cover a variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether you want a comprehensive historical walk, an evening exploration of secrets, a scenic boat ride, or a day trip from Valencia. Each offers a unique way to experience Peniscola beyond simply wandering the streets, making them worth considering for your visit.
Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the seven best tours in Peniscola, tailored to help you decide what fits your style and schedule best. From guided walks and castle visits to boat excursions and full-day trips, there’s something for every traveler.
1. Peñiscola: Castle & Walled City Spanish Guided Tour
At number one on our list, this guided tour offers a deep dive into Peniscola’s most iconic sights. Combining a walk through the walled old town with skip-the-line access to the Peñíscola Castle and Artillery Park, it’s a great choice for travelers who want a structured experience with local insights. The tour lasts about 2 hours, with the guide sharing stories about the fortress’s history and architecture, and helping you capture panoramic photos from the fortress deck.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 97 reviews, this tour stands out for its expert guide Esther, who impresses visitors with her knowledge and storytelling skills. Even in inclement weather, the group was able to explore the castle and artillery gardens thanks to her careful planning. The included entry tickets mean you skip long lines, saving valuable sightseeing time. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for history lovers, architecture fans, or those simply wanting a rundown with ease.
Bottom line: If you want a well-organized, informative tour that hits the highlights and gives you access to the castle without waiting, this one is hard to beat.
2. Peñíscola: Secrets of Peñíscola Night Tour
For those who love the atmosphere of a town after sunset, this Night Tour is a perfect way to see Peniscola’s mysteries and medieval charm. Lasting 1.5 hours, the tour explores the city’s bastions, hidden corners, and secret spots that reveal themselves when the crowds have gone home.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 12 reviews, this experience features a lively guide who transports you back to Medieval Times through stories and anecdotes. You’ll stroll through the Bastions and discover hidden gems along the sea, all while enjoying the cooler evening air. The tour also highlights local flavors, like Pope Luna Tisane, adding a cultural taste to the experience.
What makes it stand out is the evening ambiance, perfect for romantic evenings or travelers who want a different perspective of Peniscola. It’s suited for those with a curiosity for secret spots and an interest in medieval legends.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for night owls and history enthusiasts, this tour turns the town into a living storybook after dark.
3. Peñíscola English Tour G.Thrones & Castle Tickets
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan or simply love filming locations, this tour combines the allure of the walled town with visits to the famous filming sites. It lasts around 2 hours and includes a guided walk through the historic streets, plus a skip-the-line entry to the Castle, which served as Pope Luna’s fortress and a backdrop for the series.
Rated 4 out of 5 from 5 reviews, this tour is unique for those interested in TV and film locations, with stops at iconic spots used in “Game of Thrones.” The itinerary also features local food tasting and sweeping scenic views, making it a well-rounded experience. The guide provides insights into the history behind the filming locations and the castle’s significance, enriching the visit.
The tour is best suited for fans of the series, history lovers, or anyone wanting a more immersive experience in Peniscola’s architecture and scenery. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, although some may find the pace slightly rushed.
Bottom line: For around $28, this tour offers a rare look behind the scenes, blending history and series fandom into one package.
4. Day Tour to Peñíscola from Valencia
This full-day excursion is perfect if you’re already based in Valencia and want an easy, organized way to explore Peniscola. The 8.5-hour trip includes a guided walk through the town, a self-guided castle visit, and plenty of free time to browse or relax.
Rated for its convenience, this tour covers highlights like Pope Luna Castle, the white houses with blue doors, and offers stunning sea views. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a structured schedule with transport included, allowing them to relax and focus on enjoying the sights.
The guide shares insights into the history and culture of the town, making the experience educational as well as scenic. The large group format is economical but can feel a bit less personal. The included lunch break also offers a chance to sample local cuisine.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a hassle-free day trip with a balance of guided sightseeing and free time, especially if based in Valencia.
5. From Valencia: Peñíscola & Vilafamés Day Trip
For a full-day cultural experience, this trip pairs the seaside fortress with the medieval hilltop village of Vilafamés. Over 8 hours, you’ll explore two towns that are as different as they are fascinating, with guides providing context on each site.
Rated on the basis of reviews, this tour is ideal for those interested in both history and art. Vilafamés’ castle and art museum offer a different vibe from Peniscola’s coastal charm, giving a broader perspective of the Valencian region. The tour includes scenic bus rides and free time for lunch or wandering.
It’s particularly suited for those with an interest in medieval architecture and artistic towns. The shared transport and guide help make it accessible, but the long day requires some walking and patience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want to see both seaside and mountain villages in one day without the hassle of planning logistics.
6. Magic World Oropesa: Peñíscola Excursion
If you’re looking for a more adventure-focused experience, the Magic World Oropesa excursion combines guided tours with boat rides to explore Peniscola from the water. In just four hours, you’ll visit the medieval city, sail around the coast, and enjoy some natural scenery.
Rated without a specific score, this tour is popular for its combination of land and sea, perfect for families or those who prefer active outings. The boat ride offers a different perspective on the castle and rocky outcrop, and the guide shares local stories during the trip. It includes pick-up and drop-off at various hotels, making logistics easier.
What makes this tour appealing is the sailing experience and the chance to leave your footprint in the city by boat. However, participants should be prepared for possible weather-related cancellations and bring essentials like sunscreen and camera.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a half-day adventure combining history and sea views with a touch of boating fun.
7. Sailing tour to Peñíscola Castle
Finally, for a relaxing and scenic experience, the Sailing Tour offers three hours at sea viewing Peñíscola’s famous rock and fortress from the water. This trip combines historical anecdotes with time to enjoy the sea breeze, making it perfect for travelers who want a smooth, less busy outing.
Rated without a specific score, the tour features drinks, a sailing baptism if you’re interested, and insights into the imaginary world of Pope Luna. The boat allows you to appreciate the dramatic silhouette of the castle against the sea, with photos from a different angle.
Suitable for families, couples, or anyone looking for a laid-back experience, this tour emphasizes relaxation over active exploration. The optional involvement in sailing activities makes it interactive without requiring prior experience.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a calm, scenic cruise with a dose of history and the chance to enjoy the sea.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Peniscola, think about your interests, schedule, and mobility. If you’re passionate about history and architecture, the Castle & Walled City Guided Tour or Game of Thrones locations will satisfy your curiosity. For evening ambiance and hidden secrets, the Night Tour offers a magical experience.
Travelers on a day trip from Valencia might prefer the full-day excursion, which simplifies logistics. If you want sea adventures, options like the Magic World Oropesa or the sailing tour provide scenic boat rides and relaxed cruising.
Consider your budget and stamina as well. Tours with skip-the-line tickets, small groups, or inclusive extras tend to be better value. Book early in peak season, especially for popular options like the guided castle tour, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
The variety of tours in Peniscola ensures there’s something for all—from history and film buffs to sea lovers and night explorers. If you enjoy detailed stories and skip-the-line convenience, the Castle & Walled City Guided Tour is a top pick. For a more adventure-filled day, the boat excursions like the Magic World Oropesa or sailing trips offer a relaxed way to see the coast.
Travelers short on time or seeking a comprehensive experience should consider the day trips from Valencia, especially the full-day tour. Whichever you choose, booking in advance is wise during the busy months. With its stunning coast, storied fortress, and lively streets, Peniscola offers memorable tours that bring the town’s character vividly to life.
