day tours valencia

Find the day trips from Valencia that were made for you

Nov 1, 2021 • 7 min read

If you visit Buñol, Spain, out of season, the 13th-century Castle Buñol is one of the town's must-sees © Jeroen Boer / Shutterstock

As one of the best-connected cities in Spain  with a wealth of historical, gastronomic, natural sights and activities nearby, Valencia is the ideal base from which to take a day trip and explore the wider Valencia region . 

While there are plenty of things to do in the city , you can have an epic day visiting verdant vineyards, Moorish cities, relaxing coastlines and picturesque villages that are just under two hours away. You can even get the train to Madrid with plenty of time to spare for sightseeing in the capital.

Taking a day trip from Valencia is also a good way to get to know this diverse Spanish autonomous region. It’s one of the best places in Spain for food and drink, and some of the country’s best restaurants are along the coastline. With both mountainous natural parks and flatter coastal wetlands and nature reserves, the region is well suited to active travelers, nature enthusiasts as well as families.

Here are seven day trip ideas from Valencia for all kinds of travelers.

Famed for its tomato-throwing festival La Tomatina , the small town of Buñol is an easy and pleasant day trip from Valencia. Although the town’s population nearly triples during the one-day tomato event in August, there is a range of less messy but no less fun cultural events the rest of the year, from concerts throughout May and June, to the Buñol Fair in August, which culminates in a battle between the two resident music societies. 

If you’re here out of season, head for the 13th-century castle or ornate gardens before wandering the cobbled streets to dine at Las Bairetas ­– known for its classic Valencian rice dishes cooked in the wood-fired oven.

How to get to Buñol

Less than 40km (25 miles) from Valencia, Buñol can be reached in under 90 minutes. Catch the C3 (Utiel) train from the beautiful art nouveau Estació del Nord or make the 40-minute trip on the A-3 motorway if traveling by car.

Thanks to the brilliant AVE high-speed train network, you can whiz to the Spanish capital Madrid from Valencia in less than two hours. Go for the galleries and museums, and stay for the exuberant nightlife. The famous golden art triangle of El Prado , Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza  museums will keep you busy all day with their permanent collections of works by Velásquez, Picasso and more. Watch for the visiting exhibitions and book museums and galleries in advance to secure entry.

Looking for a touch of old-world Madrid? Snag a table for afternoon tea at the fully restored Palm Court in the extensively renovated Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid . The hotel has hosted everyone from Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner to Princess Grace of Monaco and visiting dignitaries. 

How to get to Madrid

The AVE train is by far the quickest and easiest way to travel between Valencia and Madrid taking one hour 40 minutes. It departs from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station almost every hour and arrives at Madrid Puerta de Atocha. If you’d prefer to drive, take the A-3 motorway and you’ll arrive in Madrid in about three and a half hours.

It offers swaths of sand, mountain views and a pretty old town, but Dénia on Spain’s eastern coast is the place to visit for food. The city has been on must-visit lists for gourmets since 2015, the year the city was named Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy. Chef Quique Dacosta is one of the contributing factors, thanks to his three-Michelin-star restaurant on Carrer Rascassa. Book well in advance for the stand-out seasonal menus with wine pairings. 

If you fancy something slightly more casual, try El Baret de Miquel Ruiz , a quirky restaurant serving up local produce – think red prawns and fresh vegetables – helmed by Miquel Ruiz, who gave up his Michelin-star restaurant in favor of this more relaxed venue. Try Calle Loreto for traditional tapas bar-hopping and look out for the biannual “ruta de tapas,” where restaurants, cafes and bars offer a tapa and drink for a few euros.

How to get to Dénia

Buses leave Estación de Autobuses de Valencia for Almeria via Dénia regularly and take about 90 minutes. You can easily drive between the two cities in about 75 minutes.

Utiel-Requena

Although true oenophiles know that the Utiel-Requena region has been producing wines for more than 2000 years, it’s only within the last few decades that these fantastic wines and interesting grape varieties have been making headlines on the international stage. 

The area has some 40,000 hectares (98,842 acres) of vineyards growing a variety of grapes – most notably the native Bobal grape. Although the wine-growing area gets its name from the two main towns, the wine route here takes in more than 10 other villages. Plan your visit using the Ruta del Vino website and stop by places like  Bodega Sierra Norte  or Viña Memorias to taste the best the region has to offer.

How to to Utiel-Requena

The C3 train can take you from Valencia Nord station to Siete Aguas, El Rebollar, Requena, San Antonio de Requena and Utiel in under two hours. Alternatively, a dedicated driver can weave through the vineyards in around an hour via the A-3 motorway.

It might have gained a bit of a bad rep for its high-rise hotels and tacky tourist strip , but there’s much more to Benidorm than the gaudy tourist trail. Explore the old town, perched between the more lively Levante beach and the quieter residential Poniente side. 

Idle down the whitewashed steps from the hilltop site of the city’s former castle to the Balcón del Mediterráneo for views over the adjacent coastline and across the water to the L'illa de Benidorm nature reserve. Then stroll back through the narrow streets and grab a tapa and vino at one of the many traditional tascas. 

The Parc de L´Aigüera is also worth a wander; the neoclassical park stretches up through the town and is home to two amphitheatres that often house concerts. Families should head to Terra Mítica , a theme park on the resort’s outskirts, for a day of thrilling rollercoasters and vertiginous water rides.

How to get to Benidorm

Buses depart regularly for Benidorm from the Estación de Autobuses de Valencia. Look for those heading to Cartagena, which take about 1 hour 45 minutes. If you rent a car, head down the AP-7 – you can even stop in Dénia en route – where the journey will take around 90 minutes.

Teruel is the day trip for architecture aficionados and history lovers – and all other lovers. The city is the preeminent place to experience Mudéjar architecture, a style of Moorish building and decoration that appears throughout the city, from the 14th-century Mudéjar tower to the 12th-century Catedral de Santa María de Mediavilla . 

Fans of the works of Tirso de Molina, the Spanish Baroque dramatist, will enjoy learning more about the lovers of Teruel who inspired one of his greatest works. Don’t miss the imposing Los Arcos Aqueduct, a viaduct and aqueduct in one. 

How to get to Teruel

Getting from Valencia to Teruel in Aragón takes about 90 minutes by car via the A-23. Trains and buses are also available, but journey times can stretch to a little over two and a half hours.

The Mediterranean Sea

It would be remiss not to make the most of the Mediterranean when you’re this close, and thankfully there are plenty of options for boat trips from Valencia. The portside has several catamaran companies that offer options like morning cruises with a swim in the sea, sunset cruises with dinner and full-day adventures on the water. 

Private yacht hire is another option if you want a more personalized tour of the coastline. If you prefer freshwater to seawater, take a short drive to El Palmar and try an Albufera boat trip. You’ll sail out onto the famous Albufera lake, visiting rice paddies and traditional fishers’ houses, and tasting local cuisine on the way.

How to get to the Mediterranean Sea

Catamaran cruises and boat hire trips start from Valencia’s main marina in the Poblats Marítims district. From Valencia to El Palmar takes about 25 minutes by car or about 35 minutes on the number 24 bus from Porta de la Mar to El Palmar. Check with boat tour operators in advance, as some will also provide transfers from Valencia.

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12 Day Trips from Valencia

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

There are so many wonderful day trips from Valencia that you don’t want to miss out on when you visit the region.

If you are only visiting Valencia for a few days, there are enough things to do in Valencia city center to keep you busy. But if you are staying for a week or more (or moving to Valencia!), then you’ll want to know more about the rest of this stunning region.

Getting to the Valencia Day Trips

If you are visiting Valencia and you want to rent a car while you’re here, this is probably the best option for getting to some of the more remote day trips from Valencia. I always use Discover Cars to check prices and book rental cars in Spain.

If you are new to driving in Spain, check out our tips for driving in Spain so you know exactly what to expect.

If you don’t want the expense of renting a car, you can get to almost all of the Valencia day trips by train or bus.

I highly recommend getting yourself an Abono ticket. You can simply purchase this ticket from any Renfe machine inside the Valencia Nord Train Station. The ticket costs €10 and allows you unlimited travel on the Cercanias trains. These are the suburban trains that will take you from downtown Valencia to most of the day trip locations.

Download the Renfe Cercanias App ( Android here and Apple here ) so that you can check train times and see exactly where you can go with your Abono ticket.

Map of the Best Day Trips from Valencia

Day Trips from Valencia

Enjoy these Valencia day trips on your next trip to the region. Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list of all of the places to explore within the Autonomous Region of Valencia, but these are the easiest to get to by public transportation, via a tour, or to drive to in a doable day trip.

The city of Gandia is located 43 miles (70km) from downtown Valencia. If you are planning to travel by car, you can reach Gandia in just under an hour. If you are traveling on the Cercanias train, take the C1 from Valencia Nord Station and you’ll be there in about an hour and 10 minutes.

There are several reasons to visit Gandia . You can split your day into two parts, exploring the historical town and then hanging out at the beach (or vice versa).

A few things not to miss in downtown Gandia are the town hall and surrounding plaza , the archeology museum , and my personal favorite, the Ducal Palace . Be sure to grab an audioguide for the palace which is included in your ticket price.

To get to the beach from downtown Gandia, head back to the train station and you will see a large bus stop right in front of the station. There is a sign at the bus stop that says “Bus Playa.” Simply hop on the bus there and in about 15-20 minutes you’ll be at the beach.

You can catch it just across the street from where you get dropped off to take it back to the city. It runs roughly every 20 minutes.

The Ducal Palace was a highlight of my trip to Gandia.

2. Port Saplaya

The closest day trip from Valencia is the neighborhood of Port Saplaya. Technically not in the city of Valencia, Port Saplaya is part of the municipality of Alboraya. However, you can still easily reach this neighborhood to explore and spend the day floating in the calm waters of the beach here.

Port Saplaya has been nicknamed the Little Venice of Valencia. It is home to colorful houses that are surrounded by water. There aren’t any canals here, but the port is quite large and you can walk from one side to the other, weaving your way past these colorful buildings and peeking in at people’s yachts.

If you want to get to know more about the area while you’re here, you can take a boat tour which will show you all of the hidden spots around the port. The tour also includes a trip out into the bay where you can look back over the beautiful beaches of Valencia. Book that tour here .

To get to Port Saplaya from Valencia, you can grab a bus from this bus stop . Take either the L112a or L112b.

These are not local city buses, so if you have a Valencia bus pass or the EMTicket app, you won’t be able to use those on these buses. Have cash on hand to pay the driver once you get on. It costs about €3 per person each way and takes about 30 minutes.

Be sure to pack your beach gear and some towels. Once you explore the colorful port, there is a very calm and much quieter beach right in the town. If you get thirsty or want something sweet, stop into Horchatería Toni .

Beautiful Port Saplaya and its colorful buildings.

3. Xátiva

Xátiva is one of my favorite day trips from Valencia. It is located 38 miles (62km) from Valencia and is actually quicker to reach by train than it is by car. It will take you about an hour to drive here, but hop on the C2 Cercanias train from Valencia Nord and you’ll be there in about 40 minutes.

There is so much history in this town, there’s even an app you can download to help you explore it. Download it for Apple here and Android here .

The main attraction that makes Xátiva one of the best Valencia day trips is the Xátiva Castle. There are remains on this hill that date back to Roman times. Now you can explore the two different castles and the walls that surround it.

It’s a beautiful walk from the downtown area to the castle which takes about 30 minutes. There is also parking at the top, so if you are driving you can skip the walk.

A few other things not to miss in Xátiva include the Basilica of Xátiva , the Plaça del Mercat , and the stunning central patio inside the Antic Hospital Reial .

If you would prefer to visit Xátiva with a tour guide, you can take this tour which will pick you up at your hotel in Valencia and bring you back to the city. It also includes a stop at another nearby historical town called Anna. Book that tour here .

Xátiva Castle is a magical place to explore. Give yourself at least an hour to wander around, more if it’s a hot summer day.

4. Castellón de la Plana

There are three provinces within the Autonomous Community of Valencia; Valencia, Alicante, and Castellon.

Castellón de la Plana is the capital of the province of Castellon and is a hub of activity that is well worth visiting as a day trip from Valencia.

It’s located 45 miles (73km) from Valencia and takes about an hour to reach by car. If you want to take the train here from Valencia, hop on the C6 Cercanias and you’ll be here in about an hour and 15 minutes.

There’s a lot to see in this beautiful city, so be sure to start early and give yourself enough time to explore. Especially because a lot of the best museums and sites are only open in the morning.

The best spots not to miss include the Catedral de Santa Maria de Castelló, the Central Market, Castellón City Hall, and El Fadrí, the 15th-century bell tower that sits in the middle of all of these buildings.

You also can’t come to the Castellón region and not visit at least one of the beaches. The beaches here have been rated the best beaches in the Valencian Community and I have to agree. The beach located in the city of Castellón de la Plana is absolutely stunning. Mountains as a backdrop, soft sand for miles, and calm waters for swimming.

You can easily get to the beach by taking the tram from downtown to the end of the line at the port. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the end of the tram line or buses run along the length of the beach road to take you to different parts of the beach.

One of the old gates inside the Sagunto Castle.

Sagunto is the perfect day trip from Valencia if you love history. Sagunto is packed with Roman ruins that will wow even the most seasoned traveler. While I started learning about Roman history in Spain up in Zaragoza, the lessons were deepened here in Sagunto.

Hop on the C6 Cercanias train from Valencia Nord and you’ll be in Sagunto in about 35 minutes. These trains don’t run at frequent intervals, so definitely check the Cercanias app for the best times to get to and from Valencia.

Start your tour of Sagunto at the Via del Pòrtic Museum . Like and good small Spanish town, the opening hours are subject to change without notice, but as of my 2023 visit, there are two tours of the site per day; 12:30 and 5:00pm.

On Sundays and holidays, only the 12:30 tour takes place. This tour will take you through the Via del Pòrtic Museum as well as the Domus dels Peixos Museum which you can only visit with a tour.

After you learn all about Roman daily life from the tour, you can then move on to the other incredible sites around the city. The other two not-to-miss sites are the Roman Theater and the Sagunto Castle. Both are free to explore and open until dusk.

If you get hungry while you’re here, you may be surprised to learn that Sagunto is home to a Michelin Star restaurant and the only female-run restaurant in Valencia to hold this accolade. Find out more about Arrels Restaurant here .

The view back over the coast from Cullera Castle.

Cullera is one of my absolute favorite beaches in the Valencia region and is an incredibly easy place to visit as a day trip from Valencia.

You can take the C1 Cercanias train and be in Cullera in about 35 minutes. Then there are frequent buses that will carry you directly from the train station to the beach in an additional 10 or so minutes.

However, if you’re up for the walk, I recommend strolling from the station, through the town and up to Cullera Castle before you hit the beach.

You can visit the central market and the Church of Saint John. From the plaza in front of the market you will spot the zig-zagging path that you can follow all the way up to the top.

Take note of the different pillars along the path. Each one represents one of the 12 stations of the cross. At the top you can pay a small fee to visit the inside of the castle where there are some historical relics as well as an informational video. You can take in the views for free. It’s one of the most breathtaking views of the coastline that you can get anywhere in this area.

The beach in Cullera is a bustling place with plenty of restaurants and bars around. There are beach clubs where you can rent chairs and umbrellas or you can simply find an empty patch of sand and spread your blanket out to relax.

Stop into Ferevin to sample wine from all over the Utiel-Requena region from small growers.

Requena is one of the best day trips from Valencia if you love wine. This small town isn’t particularly close to Valencia, but it’s worth the hour and a half train ride to sit outside and drink local wine in the sunshine.

The wine region is known as the Utiel-Requena wine region. The most dominant grape to grow here is the bobal grape which you will be able to sample at most of the wineries in the region. However, you’ll also taste some fantastic white wines as well as plenty of great cava.

I recommend starting your trip to Requena with a visit to the Cuevas de la Villa.

These are an underground network of caves that have been here for centuries. For a small fee, you can a great audioguide available in English or Spanish. You will then walk through the different rooms of the cave learning about what each was used for over the course of history and eventually understand why this region became such a popular place for making delicious wine.

Once you come out of the caves, you will be right across the plaza from my favorite winery in this region, Murviedro . You can sample several of their wines in their tasting room or you can take a tour of the winery and learn all about their winemaking process.

You can also purchase bottles here and they are significantly cheaper than at the local supermarkets or other wine shops.

Then you absolutely must stop into Ferevin Wine Shop . This is a collective of many of the vineyards and wine producers here in Utiel-Requena.

If you want to sample wine from around the region from the small vineyards in the area, this is the best place to do it. Each tasting glass comes with a small meat and cheese platter to enjoy your wine with. They have seating inside and outside and you can purchase bottles of wine from tons of different wineries in the region.

8. Buñol

Buñol may be better known for the famous Spanish festiva l, La Tomatina. It takes place here every year near the end of August and thousands of pounds of nearly-rotton tomatoes are thrown around in one of the world’s biggest food fights.

But there is a lot more to see in this stunning town. Hikers do not want to miss Buñol when considering day trips from Valencia.

To get to Buñol, take the C3 Cercanias train which takes about an hour from Valencia Nord.

Like many of the best day trips from Valencia, Buñol has a castle that’s worth checking out. Once you explore some of the downtown, you’ll want to get to the main event, the different hiking trails and waterfalls that there are to explore around Buñol.

There are a few different trails which you can see on AllTrails . But if you only have time to visit Buñol once, you’ll want to take the waterfall trail . Pack a bathing suit and a lightweight quick-dry towel so you can cool off after a hike up here.

The walk from Sueca into the rice fields is a beautiful way to explore some of the Albufera without the tourists.

9. Albufera Natural Park

If you have spent any time in Valencia before, you’ll no doubt have seen tons of paella restaurants in Valencia. That’s because Valencia is the birthplace of paella.

It is also the region where most of the rice that is used to make paella is grown. Wandering the rice fields of the Albufera Natural Park you will get a glimpse at the sprawling fields of rice.

My favorite place ot view all of the rice fields is in the town of Sueca. You can take the C1 Cercanias train from Valencia Nord and be in Sueca in half an hour. From the train station, follow the bike path out to Ermita dels Sants de la Pedra . This is one of the highest points in the area. Although not very high at all, it is so flat around it that you get an incredible view over the rice fields.

The other main draw to the Albufera Natural Park is the Albufera Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Spain. If you want to explore this, I highly recommend taking a tour to the area . This way you can sit back and enjoy the views while someone else organizes the boat ride on the lake. Book that tour here .

If you speak Spanish, then by all means, hop on buses 24 or 25 from the downtown area and go all the way to the inside of the park. From here you can walk to the different boat launch locations around the lake and head out on a tourist ride.

Montanejos is a stunning place to explore and get out into nature.

10. Montanejos Thermal Springs

Montanejos Thermal Springs are located in the town of Montanejos in the province of Castellon. It’s about 55 miles (90km) from Valencia and is best reached either by car or by tour. It’s nearly impossible to reach by public transport as a day trip from Valencia.

The whole town of Montanejos is worth exploring if you have a car and the time to spend the day here. You can walk along the river to see the source of the springs as well as tons of other trails packed with natural beauty.

However, if you want to visit the springs and enjoy some of the natural beauty with a tour, this is a really fun and relaxing day trip from Valencia. This is one of the most affordable tour options which includes a hike in the area as well as a dip in the thermal springs.

If you want to spend most of the day swimming and enjoying the springs then this is the best tour option for you .

11. Caves of San Jose

The Caves of San Jose are one of the most naturally stunning day trips from Valencia. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes over a kilometer of accessible tunnel. First, you explore 800 meters of cave by boat and then an additional 250 meters on foot.

It is home to the longest navigable underground river in Europe and cave paintings that are incredibly well preserved. Your entry ticket includes the boat ride and the visit takes about 40 minutes.

You can easily drive here from Valencia but I recommend going with a tour guide. This tour is a great option that includes round-trip transportation from Valencia and a bilingual guide. Book that tour here .

The beautiful sunsets in Alicante.

12. Alicante

This is really only a day trip if you have a car or you wake up  reaaally early. Without a car, you can reach Alicante by bus or by train in about two hours.

Alicante is located just over 100 miles or 160km from Valencia, which makes it a long day if you plan to visit as a day trip from Valencia, but I still think it’s worth at least exploring some of the region of Alicante.

If you have a bit more time, I recommend spending the night because there are so many things to do in Alicante . The castle here is one of my favorites in the region and the central market is packed with fantastic food vendors. It also has a beach right in the downtown area and a stunning boardwalk that is perfect at sunset.

14 Easy Day Trips From Valencia (+ How to Get There)

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The region of Valencia has a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. These easy day trips from Valencia are just perfect for when you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Spain’s third-largest city.

Valencia is a wonderful destination on its own. But there are many beautiful places that can be visited on a day trip from Valencia as well.

Once you’ve gasped in amazement at the modern architecture, sipped wine in all the charming squares, and shopped your way around Valencia’s city center you might be ready to explore the surrounding countryside.

I’ve divided this article into two sections — best day trips from Valencia by train or bus and best day trips from Valencia by car . So even if you aren’t eager to drive while on holiday, you have plenty of other options.

So, what are the best day trips from Valencia? Whether you are in Valencia for a few days or longer, this guide will give you an idea of the best things to see around Valencia on a half-day or full-day trip.

Also read: 25 Things To Do in Valencia Besides Eating Paella

Best day trips from Valencia by train or bus

These day trips can be done by public transport (train, bus, and even metro or bike). These destinations are easily accessible and to be honest, some of them don’t even have to take up the whole day unless you want them to. That’s why some of these Valencia day trips by train or bus are so great because you can do them in the morning or afternoon and use the rest of the day to visit Valencia.

1. El Saler

Valencia has miles upon miles of urban beaches. Yet some of the best beaches in Valencia are situated outside the city, with El Saler beach to the south being a favorite among people living in Valencia .

El Saler is one of the nicest places to visit around Valencia if you like an uncrowded seaside. Its fine sand beach has a dramatic look due to the rolling sand dunes and endemic plants that grow on them. What’s more, the beach ends in an impressive pine forest.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some quality time in nature, there are plenty of roads and paths you can follow both on foot and by bike. This is a nice day trip from Valencia by bus and I highly recommend it.

If you’re into golf and are looking for things to do outside Valencia, Parador de El Saler is a posh hotel and spa, home to one of the best golf courses in Europe. Along the beach, you’ll also find a few restaurants specializing in seafood and rice dishes. While they are nothing fancy, they surely are convenient.

How to get there: El Saler can be reached on a bus tour from Valencia. Bus 25 leaves from Valencia city center (Calle Cerdán de Tallada) towards El Saler. In summer, the bus goes all the way to El Saler beach. In the off-season, you have to get off at Pinars – El Saler and walk along the pine tree-lined path until you reach the beach (about 10 minutes).

Alternatively, you can rent a bike and follow the bike lane from El Saler Commercial Center near the City of Arts and Sciences all the way to El Saler beach (around 9km one way) where you’ll find plenty of bike docks. You can also take your bike on the bus.

2. Albufera Natural Park

As the third-largest city in Spain and home to the futuristic-looking City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia can feel quite modern. Therefore, it’s hard to imagine that a wild place like Albufera exists in such close proximity.

The Albufera Natural Park and the surrounding villages feel almost trapped in time. Life has a different pace here and has been going on almost undisturbed for centuries.

Albufera is the place that gave Spain its most famous dish — the paella. This makes the tiny village of El Palmar a pilgrimage spot for paella lovers and one of the most memorable day trips from Valencia.

This traditional fishing village with just 800 inhabitants is nothing to write home about. But it has a dozen restaurants, all specializing in the world’s most popular rice dish .

If you can’t make it to Albufera, I also wrote an article about where to eat the best paella in Valencia .

If you visit Albufera between June and September, budget some time for a stroll through the lush green rice fields nearby. They are spectacular!

Another popular thing to do here is to take a boat ride around the lake, which is home to hundreds of bird species. The best time to spot them is spring and autumn. The lake looks breathtaking at sunset when it offers some extraordinary photo opportunities.

How to get there: Bus 25 leaves from Valencia city center direction El Palmar (via El Saler). You can get off at Embarcadero de Albufera (for boat rides and sunset shots) or El Palmar (for boat rides, rice fields, and paella). You can also take your bike on the bus and ride through the rice fields at leisure. Alternatively, you can book a jeep and boat tour in the company of a local guide (includes hotel pick-up).

3. Tavernes Blanques

Tavernes Blanques is another tiny village, this time just up north from Valencia. An unremarkable place per se, it hides quite a secret — the Lladró Boutique-Museum.

This is the world’s only Lladró factory. If you’re even remotely interested in luxury handmade porcelain, this place is so worth it!

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to wander around the huge showroom and admire hundreds of figurines and home accessories. Some of them date as far back as the 1960s and are no longer in production. Others are limited edition, like the Queen of the Nile, sold for well over €100,000.

But perhaps the most interesting part of the visit is the workshops where they do demonstrations in various languages. If you’ve never seen how porcelain figurines are made, you’ll surely have a blast.

Besides this, they also have a small but valuable private painting collection upstairs. And an outlet shop where you can buy heavily discounted Lladró figures.

The Lladró Boutique-Museum is free to visit, but you have to call or book via their website in advance.

How to get there: Take bus 16 from the City Hall square to Tavernes Blanques then walk in a straight line to the Lladró Boutique-Museum.

4. Alboraya

Chufa (aka tigernuts) is a grass-like-looking plant that produces an edible tuber from which horchata , a sweet plant-based beverage, is made. Visiting the lush green chufa fields of Alboraya in summer is yet another fun day trip from Valencia.

Hot tip: If you want to learn more about the Spanish eating customs and unique local cuisine, see these 10 mouth-watering foods you must try in Valencia (horchata included).

Neighboring Tavernes Blanques, it’s surprising how easily accessible the chufa fields of Alboraya are from Valencia by bike or metro. The best thing to do here is to either walk or bike at leisure through the huerta (a fertile land where all kinds of vegetables are planted).

The fields are dotted with barracas and alquerias , typical farmhouses usually painted in white (an interesting contrast with the greenery around). You’ll also spot the vast network of irrigation channels dating all the way back to the times when the Moors ruled these lands almost a millennia ago.

I recommend you to wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. If you want to rest in the shadow and sip a glass of horchata with views of the chufa fields, stop at Horchateria Vida right in the middle of the huerta . They have lots of indoor and outdoor seating, a small farm animal area, a playground for kids, and a parking lot.

Another interesting stop is Espai Sequer Lo Blanch, a cultural and gastronomic space in the middle of the huerta , with food trucks, workshops, and a farmers’ market.

While this half-day trip can be done independently, you also have the option of going on a bike tour with a local guide.

How to get there: Take metro line 3 or 9 to Alboraya-Palmaret or Alboraya-Peris Aragó then walk to Paseo de Aragón (8 minutes). Or, you can rent a bike for the day and follow the bike lanes from Valencia to Alboraya. You can also take your bike on the metro (weekends only). If you visit the Lladró Museum, you can walk toward the chufa fields from there.

Sagunto is one of the best day trips from Valencia if you want to combine history with a relaxing afternoon at the beach.

First off, there’s the ancient fortification perched on top of the hill. You’ll spot it from the train already. But walking along the ruined walls will give you a different and interesting perspective of the sea in the distance.

Then there’s the Roman theater built way back in the 1st century. It can be found at the foot of the hill and it’s still in use today, almost two thousand years later. Every summer, a month-long festival is held here.

The harbor and the beach are a bit further away. Many consider this playa to be a better alternative to the crowded urban beaches of Valencia. The walk along the shores is also nice, plus there are plenty of restaurants.

How to get there: Take the train from North Station to Sagunto. The shortest journey time is 20 minutes. If you want to go to the beach, you can either take bus 115 (AVSA) from Valencia bus station directly to Puerto de Sagunto or take the local bus from the Sagunto train station to the beach.

Xàtiva is a town steeped in history and a great one day trip from Valencia. During Roman times, it used to be a famous linen manufacturer strategically situated on Via Augusta. Fast forward a few centuries later, the first paper mill in Europe was built in Xàtiva in 1056, as the Arabs introduced papermaking to Europe from China.

Xàtiva is also the birthplace of Callixtus III and Alexander VI (the infamous Papa Borgia, one of the most controversial popes during the Renaissance).

Xàtiva’s main attraction is its castle. Perched on a double-peaked hill, you can easily spend a few hours walking along the wall, wandering around the patios, and photographing all the fountains, endemic vegetation, and flowering plants growing on ruins.

The views from the castle are breathtaking. Plus the restaurant offers an affordable menu that includes local specialties like arroz al horno (oven-baked rice with pork and potatoes) and Arabic sweets.

In the town center, you can follow the Water Route — Xàtiva is known as the city of a thousand fountains. You can also visit some museums and buildings related to the Borja family.

How to get there: Xàtiva is one of the best day trips from Valencia by train. It’s situated 66km south and can be reached in 35 minutes.

Gandia has miles upon miles of coastline and crystal-clear waters. While it sounds perfect for a beach holiday, Gandia also has a long history and strong links to the Borja family.

The main attraction in Gandia is the Ducal Palace, a must-visit due to its Crown Hall and Golden Gallery, a succession of five fabulous rooms in Baroque style.

This magnificent palace built in the early 1300s first belonged to the Royal Dukes of Gandia before it became home to the wealthy Borja family. It was the birthplace of San Francisco de Borja and it’s well worth visiting on a day trip from Valencia.

You’ll find many restaurants serving rice dishes in Gandia, but trust me when I say, you should also try the fideuà . This is a seafood noodle dish prepared in the same wide pan as the paella and is believed to have originated in Gandia.

How to get there: Gandia is one of the best train trips from Valencia. It is situated 72km to the south and can be reached in just under an hour. You can take cercanias train C-1 from Valencia Estacion del Norte to either Gandia (the city center) or Gandia Platja (the beach). The historical center of Gandia and the beaches of Gandia are some 5 km apart. A bus connects the two. The bus ride takes some 20 minutes.

Utiel-Requena is the largest wine region near Valencia. The tradition of winemaking here dates back all the way to Roman times. So a day trip to Requena should almost inevitably be organized around wine.

Now, Requena also has a past not related to wine. During medieval times it used to be an important silk producer and some of the most imposing historical buildings in the center are from that period.

After a quick stroll around, I recommend you make a beeline for the Caves of the Villa (the old town hall caves). This series of caves were used to store wine, oil, and grains. Some were used as ossuaries. As you walk through the caves, you’ll see huge clay jars where food used to be preserved. During hot summers and cold winters, the caves also served as a shelter.

Last but not least, make time to visit a winery. If you are there in late summer or autumn, just before harvest, you should also visit the nearby vineyards. Maybe even taste some Bobal red grapes which are native to this region.

While you can visit Requena independently, I found it way more entertaining and learned a lot more about the long tradition of winemaking in the region when I visited with a local guide.

How to get there: Requena is situated 72km inland. It can be reached by high-speed train (AVE) in 22 minutes or regional train (cheaper) in 1h 40min. Regular bus services between Valencia and Requena also exist. The journey time is approx 1 hour.

Teruel is a charming, yet little-known city in the Aragon region. It’s famous for its Mudejar architecture which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Teruel is surrounded by legends, such as the one of the Lovers. As the story goes, a girl from a wealthy family and a man of little means fell in love. When the girl’s father didn’t agree to their union, the guy traveled far in search of wealth.

This was all the way back in the 13th century. As you can imagine, something went wrong and he missed the deadline. Their love story ended up similar to that of Romeo and Juliette. Nowadays, you can visit their mausoleum inside a 16th-century Mudejar church.

In my opinion, Teruel is one of the best cities to visit in Spain . Since Teruel is pretty small and compact, it can be visited on a day trip from Valencia. But if you don’t want to rush your visit, Teruel is also one of the best weekend trips from Valencia so spending the night is a great idea.

Teruel is also known for its pottery and jamón serrano  (cured ham), which is believed to be among the best in Spain.

How to get there: Teruel is 140km northwest of Valencia. It can be reached by train in 2h 30min and it’s one of the most interesting excursions from Valencia.

10. Peñiscola

Peñiscola is a Game of Thrones filming location (it starred as Meereen in season 6). But even before that, Peñiscola was a popular tourist destination due to its stunning Templar castle perched high on a rock overlooking the sea.

This town is located on Costa del Azahar (aka the Cherry Blossom Coast). Besides charming streets, it also has miles of sandy beaches just perfect for sunbathing or a relaxing walk.

Peñiscola looks postcard-perfect from afar. But the winding cobbled streets inside the castle walls are full of charm as well. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the streets of the old town are hilly and uneven.

The main attraction is the Castle of Papa Luna, where Pedro Martínez Luna lived during his very long exile while the legitimacy of his title was being disputed.

Besides the castle, also look for Casa de las Conchas, a house with a facade completely covered in shells. And hear El Bufador, a curious sound made by the waves when hitting a rocky cavity.

How to get there: During the summer months, take the direct train from North Station to Benicarló-Peñíscola (7km from the center of Peñíscola). The shortest journey time is 1h 10min. From Benicarló-Peñíscola there’s a bus service once an hour. If you visit during the low season, take the train to Vinaròs. From there, there’s a bus service to Peñíscola every half an hour.

Fun day trips from Valencia by car

The above are the best day trips from Valencia by bus or train. But as any local will tell you, a car is the best way to discover the region.

If you’d like to visit other places close to Valencia and move around with ease, renting a car is the next best thing, especially since organized day tours from Valencia are rare.

As Valencia’s popularity grows, I expect that to change as there are plenty of other pretty places near Valencia to visit. But for now, here are 3 fun road trips from Valencia worth renting a car for.

11. Alcossebre

If you are looking for uncrowded beaches, stunning pine forests, and pretty coves near Valencia, head to Alcossebre up north. Alcossebre is close to Peñiscola and you can batch the two into one trip.

While both Alcossebre and Peñiscola are great day trips from Valencia on their own, if you want to see them both and also enjoy the beaches, it’s best to make this a two day trip and spend the night in a hotel. I really enjoyed Hotel Romana in Alcossebre, plus it’s cheaper than staying in Peñiscola.

Alcosebre also has a pretty marina and an impressive camping called Tropicana. This camping is super clean and surrounded by lush green vegetation. It’s great for motorhomes but they also have wooden bungalows that you can rent and it’s basically right on the beach.

12. Sant Josep Caves, Vall de Uxó

These caves host the longest navigable underground river in Europe (more than 3 km long!). The caves are situated less than 50 km from Valencia. Apart from taking a quiet boat ride through the caves (the tour lasts approx 45 minutes), you can also go hiking in the nearby Sierra de Espadán mountain range.

13. Rull Cave, Vall de Ebo

This is another cave I really loved visiting. It boasts an absolutely spectacular underground landscape with a wealth of stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. The cave is situated approx 100 km south of Valencia and was named after the hunter who discovered it back in 1919. The Rull Cave can only be visited by guided tour (approx 45 minutes).

14. Guadalest

Guadalest is a scenic little town , some 130 km south of Valencia. While it’s best known for its castle, Guadalest also offers some pretty amazing views, good value restaurants, and great shopping opportunities.

Personally, I believe this is one of the top day trips from Valencia due to its several unique and surprising museums, like:

• The Micro-Gigantic Museum (a mind-blowing collection of tiny artworks).
• The Salt and Pepper Museum (a collection of more than 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from all around the world).
• The Antonio Marco Doll House Museum (beautifully decorated dollhouses with intricate details and a 12-ton nativity scene).
• The Historical Vehicles Museum (100+ motorcycles and microcars in perfect condition).

Wanna know more about Valencia’s past and present? Read these fun facts about Valencia . And don’t forget to check out my article about the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in Valencia — it might come in handy when booking your accommodation.

Planning to visit other parts of Spain as well? I also wrote a guide on how to spend 3 days in Madrid . And another on the best things to do in Barcelona in 3 days .

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Exploring underground caves by kayak, soaking in hot springs and seeing Roman ruins – these are the best day trips from Valencia!

Valencia doesn’t get enough love in my opinion. Too often I see people prioritise the bigger Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. They flock to the Spanish islands, or cultural capitals like Seville, and miss out on this gem on the east coast.

Well they’re missing out, because Valencia is on of my favourite cities in Spain. The architecture is incredible, there’s loads to see and do, and it’s home to the paella too. I really can’t recommend visiting this city enough.

If you’re spending a long weekend or week in the city, there are some fantastic day trips from Valencia that I’d suggest too. It’s really easy getting out the city and exploring more of the Spanish countryside.

In this article we’ll be going from underground caves to beach towns, to ancient walled cities complete with castles. There really is something for everyone here. Also, wait until you see the oasis at Montanejos – it’s so stunning.

I really hope this helps plan your trip to Valencia and this part of Spain . Don’t forget to bookmark this page so you can keep adding things to your Spanish bucket list!

Heading to the capital instead? Check out my favourite day trips from Madrid . Also, here some of my favourite Spanish adventures for you to do!

Best Day Trips from Valencia

Best known for the looming mediaeval castle that towers above it, Xátiva is a small city at the foot of a mountain. 

With ancient winding streets, it’s rich in history has been immortalised at a number of local museums and galleries. It’s also the birthplace of one of the Borgia popes , who remain infamous for corruption, scandal and nepotism (the more you know!).

The castle is of course the main attraction and can be reached on foot in about 30 minutes. It’s a beautiful walk, but try to go early in the morning before it gets too hot, or it’s a killer. You can get to Xátiva by car in an hour, or by train within 40 minutes. For me, this place is a must when looking for places to visit near Valencia.

Montanejos 

Montanejos is one of the most popular Valencia day trips, and for good reason: the thermal springs. These are what Montanejos is most famous for, and I can confirm that they live up to the hype.

The surroundings to the thermal springs are pretty spectacular too, and that’s part of the charm. You’ve got rugged cliffs and picturesque green hills, both of which make Montanejos a great spot for hiking, as well as the river running through it. 

Montanejos is difficult to get to by public transport, so I’d recommend driving – it’ll take you an hour and a half from Valencia. If you can’t, all is not lost: book this thermal springs and waterfall day trip , or join a guided hiking tour if walks are more your jam.

Albufera Natural Park 

Fun fact: most of the rice for paella, the dish Valencia is famous for, is sourced from the Albufera Natural Park . This beautiful stretch of land is probably best known for the expansive lake – it’s actually the largest in Spain. I’d highly recommend visiting for the tranquil boat ride alone.

To reach Albufera, it’s a mere 20 minute drive. However, this is also one of the most popular Valencia tours so it’s easy to arrange a day trip .

You’ll find Chulilla nestled into the mountains, on the edge of Chera-Sot de Chera Natural Park. And if its location gives you high hopes, you’re in luck: it’s one of the prettiest towns in the region.

Chulilla is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts as there’s loads to do. You’ve got the Túria River Canyon , Hanging Bridges, and the famous Blue Pool (Charco Azul). 

Home to lots of limestone surfaces, it’s also one of the best places for rock climbing in Spain. There are hundreds of routes for all abilities, but if you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, you’re spoiled for choice in terms of hiking routes too. 

There’s no public transport to Chulilla, but it’s only an hour away by car. If that’s not an option, you can book a guided day trip where all the transport is taken care for you.

We’re all in agreement that walled cities are objectively cool, right? Well, that’s what you’ll find in Morella. 

This is a gorgeous little place packed full of history. There’s tons to see that’ll leave you feeling as though you’ve been plunged back in time: the Santa Luciá Aqueduct, Porta de Sant Miquel, or my particular favourite, the Morella la Vella cave paintings (now a UNESCO World Heritage site).

Oh, did I forget to mention the castle? Yeah, you can’t miss it. It towers over the city from the top of a hill. Like several of the day trips from Valencia I’ve mentioned, Morella is best reached by car, which will take you two hours, or through a guided tour if you haven’t got a car.

Speaking of cool cities, I can’t not mention Peñíscola. This is a coastal town, known nowadays as the setting of Meereen in Game of Thrones .

Here you’ll find the beautiful beaches of Pebret and Norte, as well as a historic, ancient old town within the city limits. One of my favourite things about it is the views. Look out towards the coast and sea, or the lavender and olive trees of Artillery Park. 

While you can reach Peñíscola through a combination of bus and train, it’s easiest to drive or take a day trip. This particular tour visits both Morella and Peñíscola in one day, so it’s a great shout if you’re pressed for time.

Caves of San José

Another of my favourite Valencia tours is the Caves of San José . This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it comprises a series of beautiful caves. Most of them hang over the longest navigable river in Europe, so most of your exploration will be via kayak, save for 250 metres on foot.

The caves are a 40 minute drive from Valencia, or you can book a day trip . I can’t recommend this tour enough. I think it’s one of the best tours near Valencia, so definitely add this one to your itinerary.

One of the places I’d recommend most highly if you’re a history buff is Sagunto. It’s got everything you could possibly want. Tons of museums, a castle, plus it’s packed with Roman ruins and a Roman theatre.

Sagunto is super easy to get to – hop on the train and you’ll be there in 35 minutes. This is one of the quickest day trips from Valencia by train, so if you’re short on time then this one is for you.

Utiel-Requena

Spanish wine doesn’t stop at Rioja. Utiel-Requena is a wine region near Valencia home to tons of vineyards, plus the two towns Utiel and Requena (hence the name).

I’d recommend visiting Requena in particular. Not only can you visit the local wineries but you can also explore the Villa de Requena caves . Requena can be reached by train from Valencia, but you can also book a guided tour if you’d like to go wine tasting. Personally, I’d recommend the tour – then you can leave the car at the hotel and enjoy yourself drinking your way through all the Spanish vineyards.

Albarracín 

Albarracín is one of the further out day trips from Valencia – it’s a two hour drive. But if you have the time and energy I’d highly recommend it. 

Albarracín is well known as one of Spain’s prettiest villages. It’s packed out with old architecture and is genuinely pretty enough for a postcard (or in this day and age, a pinned post on Instagram). It’s surrounded by sweeping valleys and nature and has loads of hikes to check out too. 

There are no public transport links to Albarracín, so it’s one if you’ve hired a car.

If you’ve heard of Buñol before I’m betting it’s because of its famous festival, La Tomatina , which is essentially the world’s biggest food fight. It attracts people from all over the world, so if you’re visiting Valencia in August, you may as well go and experience it.

If not, though, there’s lots you can get up to. Buñol is home to a castle and some of the best hikes in the area, including a fair few waterfall trails .

You can reach Buñol in an hour by train. Again, I really liked this place – it’s definitely got a lot more going for it than just La Tomatina.

No matter what country I find myself in, I always love a coastal town. Cullera is a small city which certainly delivers, and it’s only a 35 minute train ride away from Valencia.

As well as hosting some of the best beaches in eastern Spain, in Cullera you’ll also find attractions such as its castle, a botanical garden, and some cool museums.

Alicante is another Valencia day trip that’ll require you to go the distance, but it’s definitely worth it (especially if you want to tick off another major Spanish city). In an ideal world, you’d actually need a few days as there’s so much to do, but you can squeeze in the highlights in a few hours.

What to focus on depends on your interest. For history and architecture, check out Santa Bárbara castle , the basilica, the cathedral and Alicante’s range of museums. For delicacies, head to Central Market. For views or a more relaxed vibe, it’ll have to be the beach, parks, and gardens.

Alicante is a fair distance away, but there are lots of options to get there. Catch a bus or get the train in around 2 hours, or make the drive by car in just under two hours.

And that’s about it from me! Have you visited any of these yet? Or is there a tour or day trip that you think I’ve missed? Either way, give me a shout in the comments.

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About the Author

Georgie Cunningham is a freelance content writer and strategist based in Bristol. When she’s not writing (or thinking about) content, she’s writing fiction, travelling, or chasing after her crazy cocker spaniel, Cosmo.

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20+ Best Day Trips from Valencia in 2024 (By a Local!)

If you’re looking for a quick escape from Valencia, you’re in luck. There are plenty of picturesque towns, stunning beaches, and historical sites within easy reach of the city. 

So whether you’re interested in exploring ancient castles, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in delicious regional cuisine, there’s a day trip from Valencia that will suit your interests. 

And given I’m lucky enough to live in this beautiful city within easy reach of all these places, I can definitely confirm that these are worth doing!

Keep reading to find out some of the best ones I’ve discovered.

Planning a trip to Valencia last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Valencia last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Top tours in Valencia

• City Highlights Guided Bike Tour (great way to see the city)
• Palosanto Flamenco Show (incredible night out)
• Old Town Tour, Wine and Tapas in an 11th Century Monument (all the highlights at once)
• Catamaran Cruise at Sunset (experience the Mediterranean – with cava)
• Oceanogràfic – Valencia Aquarium (biggest one in Europe!)

🛏️ Top hotels in Valencia

• Only YOU Hotel Valencia (5-star luxury)
• Vincci Palace (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Hostal Antigua Morellana (great budget option in a superb location)

🚌 Want to see everything with minimal effort while you’re in Valencia? Check out the 24- or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket !

Table of Contents

Best day trips from Valencia

1. albufera.

In need of a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Valencia? Albufera, a mere 10 kilometers from the city, is your perfect day trip oasis. Home to Spain’s largest lake, this idyllic spot is beloved by tourists and locals alike for its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Embark on a boat tour to fully experience Albufera’s beauty, gliding through the serene lake and witnessing the surrounding rice fields and the area’s fascinating flora and fauna (including hoards of flamingos which migrate here from Africa each year!) 

If you’re feeling a bit more active, you can even rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the many trails. Either way, be sure to visit the picturesque village of El Palmar to savor its traditional charm and mouth watering local cuisine – this is the home of paella, after all!

For birdwatchers, Albufera is a haven, with the chance to spot herons, storks, and flamingos, especially during spring and autumn migrations. In fact, you can see a photo I took of the flamingos at Albufera below, just to show you how close you’re able to get to them!

Overall, Albufera is an unmissable destination and is easily one of the reasons why Valencia is worth visiting , with its captivating natural splendor and vibrant cultural legacy.

Craving a day trip filled with history, culture…and, of course, wine? Requena, just 68 kilometers from Valencia, is your go-to spot. 

This medieval town boasts a rich history, having served as a strategic enclave during the Middle Ages, and is home to the unique Bobal grape cultivated in the Utiel-Requena wine region.

Embark on a private wine tour to learn about the history and production of this special wine, visit a winery, and taste various Bobal wines as you immerse yourself in the art of winemaking. You can then wander through Requena’s old quarter, with its beautiful architecture reflecting the style of Hispano-Muslim towns, and explore the town’s ancient walls, castle, and striking Gothic church of El Salvador.

Requena offers a charming blend of history, culture, and wine, providing an easy day trip from Valencia and a delightful opportunity to experience a different side of the region. So pack a picnic and set off for Requena to enjoy a day of exploration and relaxation.

Ready for a journey into the past? Xàtiva, a mere 60 kilometers from Valencia, is your ideal destination.

Steeped in history, this town boasts a magnificent castle perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. While it’s outside of the city itself, this example of Roman, Moorish and Medieval history all in the one place is easily one of the things that Valencia is known for .

Start your adventure by visiting the Castle of Xàtiva, divided into two sections: the Castle of Menor and the Castle of Mayor. Wander through its courtyards and halls while soaking in the rich history of this impressive fortress. Don’t forget to snap some photos from the top, capturing the stunning vistas!

Strolling through Xàtiva’s old town is like taking a step back in time. Admire the elegant fountains, lovely plazas, and well-preserved architecture. Be sure to visit the Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria, a beautiful example of Gothic and Baroque styles.

For art aficionados, Xàtiva is home to the birthplace of the famous Borgia family. Visit the Museu de l’Almodí, where you’ll find an impressive collection of art, including works by famed painter José Ribera, a Xàtiva native.

Xàtiva is a charming blend of history, culture, and stunning views. It’s an easy day trip from Valencia that will transport you back in time and leave you with lasting memories.

Craving a mix of ancient history and stunning coastline? Sagunto, just 25 kilometers north of Valencia, is your perfect day trip. This town, steeped in over 2,000 years of history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Spain’s past.

Begin your exploration at the ancient Roman theater, which dates back to the 1st century. Expertly restored, this venue still hosts performances today. 

From there, climb up to the impressive Sagunto Castle, a fortress with both Iberian and Roman origins, offering panoramic views of the town and sea.

Don’t miss the chance to wander through the old Jewish Quarter, a maze of narrow streets that transports you back in time. Be sure to visit the Sagunto History Museum, where you can learn about the town’s rich past through archaeological finds and exhibits.

After your historical tour, unwind at the nearby beach of Puerto de Sagunto. Relax on the golden sands or take a dip in the clear, blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Sagunto offers a captivating blend of ancient history and coastal relaxation. It’s an unforgettable day trip from Valencia that will captivate your senses and enrich your understanding of Spain’s diverse past.

5. Peñíscola

Searching for a picturesque coastal getaway? Peñíscola, about 140 kilometers north of Valencia, is a dream come true. 

With its stunning beaches, winding cobblestone streets, and iconic castle, this charming town promises a memorable day trip.

Your first stop should be the famous Peñíscola Castle, perched high above the town on a rocky crag. This 13th-century fortress was once home to Pope Benedict XIII, and its beautifully preserved walls and towers offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, admiring the whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. Browse the local shops for unique souvenirs (my article on what to buy in Valencia should give you some good inspiration!) and savor delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants.

But don’t forget to hit the beach! The pristine Playa Norte stretches for miles, inviting you to lounge on the soft sands or take a refreshing swim in the azure waters. Alternatively, for a more secluded experience, head to the smaller, idyllic Playa Sur.

Peñíscola is the perfect blend of history, charm, and seaside relaxation. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a magical day trip from Valencia.

Looking for a quaint, artistic escape? Altea, about 130 kilometers south of Valencia, is a delightful haven of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning sea views. This picturesque town, nestled between the sea and the mountains, offers an enchanting day trip experience.

Begin by exploring Altea’s old town, known as El Fornet. Meander through the labyrinth of cobbled streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the beautiful blue-domed church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Be sure to pause and enjoy the panoramic views of the Mediterranean from the church plaza.

Altea is renowned for its thriving arts scene, so take some time to visit the many galleries and studios scattered throughout the town. You might even discover your new favorite artist!

When you’re ready for some relaxation, head to Altea’s tranquil beaches. The main beach, Playa de la Roda, is a lovely spot to unwind, swim, or sunbathe. For a more secluded experience, explore the charming coves that dot the coastline.

Altea is an enchanting town that captivates visitors with its artistic charm and mesmerizing sea views. It’s an idyllic day trip from Valencia that promises to leave you inspired and rejuvenated.

7. El Saler

In need of a nature retreat close to Valencia? El Saler, just 12 kilometers away, is your perfect destination. Nestled between the Albufera Natural Park and the Mediterranean Sea, El Saler offers a tranquil day trip experience with pristine beaches and lush surroundings.

Begin by exploring the natural beauty of Albufera Natural Park, home to a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to traverse the scenic trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, especially during migration seasons.

After immersing yourself in nature, head to El Saler’s stunning beach. This beautiful stretch of golden sand is backed by sand dunes and pine forests, creating a serene atmosphere. Unwind on the shore, take a refreshing swim, or even try your hand at windsurfing.

El Saler is a charming haven where nature and relaxation harmoniously coexist. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that offers an escape from the city and a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

Ready for a journey to a medieval gem nestled in the mountains? Morella, approximately 175 kilometers northwest of Valencia, is a captivating town that will transport you back in time. 

With its imposing castle, ancient walls, and narrow streets, Morella promises an unforgettable day trip experience.

Start your adventure at the impressive Morella Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the town. Explore the castle’s chambers and towers, and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top.

From there, take a stroll through the charming streets of Morella, admiring the well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the Basilica of Santa Maria la Mayor. If you’re interested, be sure to visit the town’s museums, such as the Temps de Dinosaures and the Convent of San Francisco, which showcase Morella’s rich history and prehistoric past.

When hunger strikes, indulge in Morella’s local cuisine, including its famous truffles and unique pastries, such as the “flaó.”

Morella is a magical destination that combines history, culture, and stunning scenery. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you enchanted and eager to return.

What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?

Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?

Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

9. Montanejos

Craving a rejuvenating retreat surrounded by mountains and crystal-clear waters? Montanejos, about 90 kilometers from Valencia, is a paradise waiting to be discovered. This charming village is renowned for its thermal springs and offers a day trip experience that combines natural beauty with relaxation.

Begin your visit by exploring the Fuente de los Baños, Montanejos’ famous thermal springs. These naturally warm waters, said to have healing properties, are perfect for a soothing soak. Unwind as you take in the picturesque surroundings and let the stress of daily life melt away.

For adventure seekers, Montanejos offers an array of outdoor activities. Hiking trails, rock climbing, and canyoning are just a few of the exciting options available in the area. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, take a stroll along the Mijares River or relax at the scenic Arenós Reservoir.

Montanejos is a hidden gem that combines relaxation, nature, and adventure. It’s a rejuvenating day trip from Valencia that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a renewed sense of well-being.

10. Chulilla

Yearning for a day trip that offers breathtaking landscapes and a touch of adventure? Chulilla, around 60 kilometers from Valencia, is your perfect match. This picturesque village, nestled in the mountains, is known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and exciting outdoor activities.

Begin your Chulilla adventure with a visit to the iconic hanging bridges, which span the Turia River. These suspension bridges, set against a backdrop of towering cliffs, offer an exhilarating walk with spectacular views.

For hiking enthusiasts, Chulilla boasts a variety of trails, such as the Charco Azul route, which takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers the chance to swim in a crystal-clear pool. Don’t miss the breathtaking sight of Chulilla Castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the village.

Chulilla is also a rock climber’s paradise, with numerous climbing routes that cater to all skill levels. After a day of adventure, unwind in the village’s charming streets, lined with traditional houses and cozy cafes.

Chulilla is a captivating destination that promises adventure, natural beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that will leave you with a sense of awe and a desire to explore even more.

In search of a sun-soaked coastal retreat with a touch of history? Calpe, approximately 125 kilometers south of Valencia, is a dream destination. 

This vibrant town boasts beautiful beaches, fascinating archaeological sites, and an iconic natural landmark, offering an unforgettable day trip experience.

Begin by exploring the stunning beaches of Calpe. Arenal-Bol Beach and Levante Beach are two of the most popular, featuring soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the shore, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or partake in water sports like kayaking or windsurfing.

For a dose of history, visit the Roman ruins of the Baños de la Reina, a fascinating archaeological site featuring ancient baths and fish farms. Don’t miss the chance to explore Calpe’s old town, with its narrow streets, colorful murals, and the beautiful Church of La Virgen de las Nieves.

One of Calpe’s most iconic landmarks is the Peñón de Ifach, a massive limestone rock that juts out into the sea. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and surrounding coastline, or enjoy the scenery from the nearby ecological walk.

Calpe is an irresistible blend of sun, sea, and history. It’s a delightful day trip from Valencia that offers something for everyone, from beach lovers to history buffs.

Eager to experience a lively beach town with a rich cultural heritage? Gandia, just 70 kilometers south of Valencia, is the perfect destination. This bustling town offers golden beaches, a fascinating old quarter, and a grand ducal palace, ensuring a memorable day trip for all.

Start your Gandia adventure at the beautiful Playa de Gandia, a wide stretch of golden sand with ample amenities and clear, blue waters. Relax on the shore, swim in the Mediterranean, or stroll along the promenade lined with shops and restaurants.

Once you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, venture into Gandia’s historic old quarter, known as the Ducal Palace of the Borgias. Explore the palace’s elegant courtyards, intricate frescoes, and impressive architecture, and learn about its connection to the infamous Borgia family.

Now’s a good chance to wander the charming streets of Gandia’s old town, admiring the Gothic-style Collegiate Church of Santa María and the picturesque Plaza Mayor. You could even check out the Archaeological Museum, which showcases Gandia’s rich history through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.

Gandia is an enticing mix of beachside fun and cultural exploration. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that offers a diverse range of experiences, catering to both relaxation seekers and history enthusiasts.

13. Tavernes Blanques

Craving a peaceful escape just a stone’s throw from Valencia? Tavernes Blanques, only 6 kilometers away, is a delightful destination for a tranquil day trip. 

This small town is known for its verdant parks, local pottery, and warm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely visit.

Start your Tavernes Blanques excursion by wandering its charming streets, admiring the local architecture and getting a feel for the town’s laid-back vibe. Be sure to visit the town’s traditional pottery workshops, where you can observe artisans at work and even purchase unique, handmade souvenirs.

One of Tavernes Blanques’ highlights is its abundance of green spaces. Take a leisurely stroll through the lovely Parc de la Torre, a serene oasis featuring a historic tower and well-tended gardens. Or, visit the nearby Parc de l’Alqueria del Moro, where you’ll find a stunning palace surrounded by lush vegetation.

Tavernes Blanques is a charming hideaway that offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a delightful day trip from Valencia that will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected with local traditions.

Ready for an unforgettable journey to a town steeped in history and architectural splendor? Teruel, about 140 kilometers west of Valencia, is a true hidden gem. 

With its stunning Mudejar architecture, ancient churches, and romantic legends, Teruel offers a day trip experience that transports you to another time.

Begin your Teruel adventure by admiring the town’s Mudejar architecture, a unique blend of Islamic and Christian styles that has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Don’t miss the striking towers of El Salvador, San Martín, and San Pedro, which are prime examples of this captivating art form.

Explore Teruel’s ancient churches, such as the Cathedral of Santa María, with its beautifully preserved frescoes, and the Church of San Pedro, which houses the famous Lovers of Teruel Mausoleum. Discover the tragic story of these star-crossed lovers, who are often compared to Romeo and Juliet.

Venture into Teruel’s historic old quarter, where you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and the impressive Alcazaba, a fortified palace with panoramic views of the town.

Teruel is a captivating destination that offers a remarkable blend of history, art, and romance. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you with a deep appreciation for Spain’s rich cultural heritage and a desire to explore even more hidden gems.

15. Albarracín

Longing for a day trip to a fairy tale village nestled amidst stunning landscapes? Albarracín, around 190 kilometers west of Valencia, is the perfect destination. This enchanting town, with its narrow winding streets, ancient walls, and colorful houses, offers a day trip experience that feels like stepping into a storybook.

Get started on your Albarracín journey by exploring its well-preserved old town, where you’ll find charming cobbled streets lined with picturesque houses adorned with wooden balconies. Wander through the Plaza Mayor, the heart of the town, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains.

Make your way to the impressive Albarracín Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the town. Discover the castle’s rich history as you explore its ruins, and marvel at the panoramic vistas from the ramparts. Don’t miss the ancient walls of Albarracín, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past defenses.

Surrounding Albarracín is the captivating landscape of the Albarracín Mountains, a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Embark on a hike or rock-climbing adventure to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Albarracín is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of history, charm, and natural wonders. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you enchanted and yearning for more.

16. Alicante

Seeking a bustling coastal city filled with history, culture, and beautiful beaches? Alicante, approximately 170 kilometers south of Valencia, is an ideal destination for a diverse day trip experience. This vibrant city offers a mix of stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment options, ensuring a memorable visit.

You can start your Alicante adventure on the gorgeous beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet or Playa de San Juan. Bask in the Mediterranean sun, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in water sports like paddleboarding or sailing.

Once you’ve soaked up the sun, head to the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle, an ancient fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil. Explore the castle’s history, marvel at its architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Wander through Alicante’s charming old town, El Barrio, where you’ll find narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively plazas filled with cafes and restaurants. Visit the city’s museums, such as the Archaeological Museum of Alicante, to delve into the region’s rich history and culture.

Alicante is an enticing destination that offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and beachside fun. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that caters to a wide range of interests, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

17. Torrevieja

Dreaming of a coastal getaway with natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere? Torrevieja, about 220 kilometers south of Valencia, is the ideal destination for a soothing day trip. This charming town is known for its beautiful beaches, serene salt lagoons, and vibrant harbor, offering a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Begin your Torrevieja visit by exploring the town’s stunning beaches, such as Playa del Cura and Playa de Los Locos. Relax on the golden sands, take a refreshing swim in the clear waters, or stroll along the picturesque promenade.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby salt lagoons of Las Salinas, which are famous for their vibrant pink and green hues. Take a leisurely walk around these natural wonders and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including flamingos and other bird species.

Head to the bustling marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely meal at a waterfront restaurant, join a boat tour, or indulge in water sports like jet skiing or snorkeling. As the sun sets, experience Torrevieja’s lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs to suit all tastes.

Torrevieja is a captivating coastal town that offers a soothing blend of natural beauty and lively entertainment. It’s a rejuvenating day trip from Valencia that promises a truly memorable experience.

18. Benidorm

In search of a day trip packed with excitement, beautiful beaches, and endless entertainment options? Benidorm, approximately 140 kilometers south of Valencia, is the ultimate destination. This bustling resort town offers a lively atmosphere, golden beaches, and a wealth of activities, ensuring a thrilling day trip experience.

Begin your Benidorm adventure on the town’s famous beaches, Levante and Poniente. Bask in the sun on the golden sands, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or partake in water sports like parasailing or scuba diving.

For a change of pace, explore Benidorm’s charming old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and lively plazas filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Balcony of the Mediterranean, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the town and the sparkling sea.

Benidorm is also a haven for theme parks and attractions, such as Terra Mítica, Aqualandia, and Mundomar. These parks offer thrilling rides, water slides, and wildlife encounters, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Benidorm is an exhilarating destination that offers a vibrant mix of beachside relaxation and thrilling attractions. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that caters to a wide range of interests and guarantees an unforgettable experience for all.

19. Les Fonts de l’Algar

Looking for a day trip immersed in stunning natural beauty and refreshing waterfalls? Les Fonts de l’Algar, about 150 kilometers south of Valencia, is the perfect destination. This enchanting spot is known for its crystal-clear springs, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation, offering a day trip experience that rejuvenates the senses.

Start your day by following the walking trail that winds through this natural paradise. Marvel at the gushing waterfalls, verdant landscapes, and pristine pools as you explore the area.

Take a refreshing dip in one of the many natural swimming pools, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Arboretum, where you can learn about the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

Les Fonts de l’Algar is a blissful escape that offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a revitalizing day trip from Valencia that promises to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired by nature’s beauty.

Craving a day trip to a picturesque town with stunning landscapes and fascinating history? Cuenca, approximately 210 kilometers northwest of Valencia, is an enchanting destination. 

This medieval town, perched on a steep cliffside, offers a blend of historic architecture, dramatic landscapes, and captivating art, ensuring a memorable day trip experience.

Begin your visit by exploring the town’s famous Casas Colgadas or Hanging Houses, which are precariously perched on the edge of a cliff. Wander through Cuenca’s narrow streets, admiring the beautiful cathedral, charming plazas, and medieval architecture.

Discover Cuenca’s art scene at the Fundación Antonio Pérez, which showcases contemporary art, or the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español, featuring a collection of abstract works by renowned Spanish artists.

Venture into the stunning landscapes surrounding Cuenca, such as the Enchanted City or the Hoces del Río Duratón Natural Park, where you can hike, canoe, or simply marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Cuenca is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to explore even more of Spain’s hidden gems.

21. Castellon

Seeking a day trip that combines beachside relaxation, historic landmarks, and cultural exploration? Castellon, about 100 kilometers north of Valencia, is an ideal destination. This charming coastal city offers beautiful beaches, a captivating old town, and a wealth of cultural attractions, promising a diverse day trip experience.

Head straight to the city’s gorgeous beaches after you arrive, such as Playa del Pinar or Playa del Gurugú. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, or take part in water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding.

Venture into Castellon’s historic old town, where you’ll find the impressive Santa María Cathedral, the medieval El Fadrí bell tower, and picturesque squares lined with shops and cafes. Explore the city’s museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases a collection of Valencian art and ceramics.

For a taste of nature, visit the nearby Desierto de las Palmas Natural Park, where you can hike, bike, or simply enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Castellon is a delightful coastal city that offers a mix of beachside relaxation, historic charm, and cultural exploration. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that caters to a wide range of interests and guarantees an unforgettable experience for all.

What are the best day trips from Valencia by public transport?

For those who prefer to leave the car behind and explore Valencia’s surroundings using public transport, there are plenty of fantastic day trips within easy reach. Here are some of the best options to consider:

• Xàtiva: Hop on a train from Valencia’s Estació del Nord and arrive in Xàtiva in just under an hour. Discover the impressive Xàtiva Castle, explore the charming streets of the old town, and visit the birthplace of the famous Borgia family.
• Sagunto: A quick train ride of around 30 minutes from Valencia takes you to Sagunto, where you can marvel at the ancient Roman theater, stroll through the charming old town, and explore the impressive Sagunto Castle.
• Gandia: Reachable by train in just over an hour, Gandia offers a beautiful beach and a captivating historic center, where you can visit the Ducal Palace and the Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria.
• Castellon: With a train journey of around an hour, Castellon invites you to explore its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and the nearby Desierto de las Palmas Natural Park.

What day trips in Valencia are good for avoiding crowds?

If you’re seeking a more serene experience away from the tourist hotspots, consider these day trips to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Valencian region:

• Albufera Natural Park: While popular, Albufera offers plenty of opportunities to find your own quiet spot among the walking trails, rice fields, and serene lake. Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to enjoy even more peace and quiet.
• Chulilla: This picturesque village, nestled in a dramatic gorge, offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Discover the stunning Turia River canyon, hike the local trails, and explore the charming village streets.
• Les Fonts de l’Algar: Although it can get busy in the summer months, visiting Les Fonts de l’Algar early in the day or during the off-season will allow you to experience the waterfalls and natural swimming pools in relative tranquility.
• Montanejos: Head to Montanejos to relax in the thermal springs, hike in the surrounding mountains, and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Arrive early and explore the lesser-known trails to avoid the crowds.

By choosing off-peak times and lesser-known destinations, you’ll be able to enjoy a more tranquil and authentic experience while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Valencia.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Top 25 Valencia Sights and Day Trips

What to Do and Where to Go Nearby

First the bad news. Valencia, Spain's third biggest city, doesn't have that iconic, must-see reason to visit . There's no Sagrada Familia or Prado museum here, or anywhere near the number of sights Madrid and Barcelona have.

But Valencia is still a fine place to visit. It is under two hours from Alicante and Madrid (though the latter is on an expensive high-speed train ) and three hours from Barcelona . If it fits into your schedule, you'll find a city that doesn't feel as big as it actually is (the suburbs sprawl out much further than a tourist will ever see), with fine cuisine at good prices and a number of excellent museums. 

• Compare Prices on Hotels in Valencia on TripAdvisor

 Jamie Ditaranto / TripSavvy

1. Explore the Old Town Explore the city center, starting with the two main squares (Plaza Ayuntamiento and Plaza Victoria).

2. Cathedral Valencia's cathedral is said to be home to the Holy Grail. 

3. City of Arts and Sciences This mega cultural center, designed by Calatrava, is host to a dolphin show, an IMAX movie theater, a science museum, and much more. 

4. Port & Beach Valencia's revamped port area has played home to the America Cup in recent years and now hosts a Formula One Grand Prix every year. The beach is good as far as city beaches go, though there are better ones in the region.

5. Mercado Central Valencia's market is more spacious than the more famous Boqueria market in Barcelona, less touristy and not so expensive.  

6. La Lonja The old silk exchange looks like something out of Lord of the Rings.

7. Bullring Valencia's bullring is a modern design, but that doesn't mean it doesn't get some good fighters occasionally, especially during the Fallas festival .

TripSavvy trusts its readers to make their own decisions on the ethics of bullfighting as an attraction.

8. Turia River The river Turia passed through the city until a 1957 flood forced the council to redirect it around the city. The former riverbed is now a park that snakes through the city. There's also a fun Gulliver (from Gulliver's Travels) children's climbing frame.

9. Bioparc  Valencia's self-proclaimed "new generation zoo" is walking distance from the city center. 

After a while, all cities can blur into one and another. If you want to stretch your legs a little and get out of metropolis, take one of these day trips from Valencia.

10. Cuenca A beautiful city on the way to Madrid , now accessible from Valencia by high-speed rail, famous for its 'hanging houses', dwellings that hang off the edge of a cliff.

11. Segorbe A water park, cathedral, and aqueduct await visitors to Segorbe.

12. Castellon The largest city between Valencia and Barcelona.

13. El Palmar The rice fields where paella's key ingredient was first grown. There are some good paella restaurants in the area.

14. Cueva de las Calaveras Ancient caves with all the stalagmites and stalactites you'd expect of ancient caves. 

15. Requeña Valencia's wine-producing town.

16. Xativa Historic town with a scenic castle built on a hilltop.

Jamie Ditaranto / TripSavvy

Valencia is at the heart of Spain's reputation for great Mediterranean cuisine, with plenty of great food for you to try. But the two you mustn't leave the city without sampling are:

17. Paella   Spain's most famous dish comes from Valencia! More on  paella in Valencia .

18. Horchata Valencia's milky (though there's no actual milk in it) drink, made from tiger nuts, whatever they are. (No, they're not that .) More on ​Horchata in Valencia.

Valencia's museums don't hit the international headlines, but there are several tjhat are worth visiting.

19. MuVIM museu valencia illustracio i de la modernitat This museum has such a strange name that it is invariably referred to by its acronym. Excellent street photography that probably "challenges our relationship to the modern world" or something like that, if you bother to read artists' pretentious blurbs. 

20. Toy Soldier Museum Truly a lovely museum! Toy soldiers re-enact famous eras from history—from prehistoric man to Franco's motorcade. Children will love running around choosing their favorite scene and it's a great way to spark a child's interest in history.

21. Valencia's Modern Art Institute Pop art, sculpture, photography and art installations are the focus of Valencia's modern art museum.

22. Museo de Bellas Artes Valencia's fine art museum, next to the royal gardens.

23. Prehistoric and Ethnology Museums Two interesting museums, housed in the same building, next door to the modern art institute.

Things to Do in Valencia: Festivals

Valencia has two wonderful festivals.

24. Tomatina Tomato Fight   The world's most famous food fight . 

25. Fallas Valencia's festival of bonfires and loud bangs mixes hedonistic fun, glorious pyrotechnics and a religious element for grandma. 

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The 10 Best Day Trips from Valencia, Spain

The 20 Best Things to Do in Spain

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One Week in Spain: The Ultimate Itinerary

15 Best Under-the-Radar Places to Visit in Spain

Top 12 Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

The Best Day Trips from San Sebastian and Bilbao

The 12 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

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11 Best Day Trips From Valencia & How To Get There

Valencia is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do . But if you’re looking for a change of pace, here are some great day trips from Valencia. From ancient Roman cities to picturesque villages and scenic natural parks, there’s a lot to explore within just two hours of the city.

I’ve visited all these places in the past year, some more than once, and I had an absolute blast every single time. I truly believe that these day trips are some of the best options for those looking to explore the surrounding areas of Valencia. They are easy to reach by car or public transport, combining convenience and flexibility and I highly recommend them to anyone visiting or living in Valencia .

In This Article

Top full-day and half-day tours from Valencia

1. albufera natural park.

    What to do in Albufera:

    How to get from Valencia to Albufera:

2. Port Saplaya

    What to do in Port Saplaya:

    How to get from Valencia to Port Saplaya:

    What to do in Xàtiva:

    How to get from Valencia to Xàtiva:

4. Alicante

    What to do in Alicante:

    How to get from Valencia to Alicante:

5. Castellón de la Plana

    What to do in Castellón:

    How to get from Valencia to Castellón:

    What to do in Sagunto:

    How to get from Valencia to Sagunto:

7. Peñiscola

    What to do in Peñiscola:

    How to get from Valencia to Peñiscola:

    What to do in Gandía:

    How to get from Valencia to Gandía:

    What to do in Cullera:

    How to get from Valencia to Cullera:

    What to do in Sueca:

    How to get from Valencia to Sueca:

    What to do in Ibiza:

    How to get from Valencia to Ibiza:

All day trips from Valencia I recommend in this article can be visited on public transport (train or bus). However, there are a few amazing locations around Valencia that can only be reached by car. If you don’t have a car or don’t want to rent one, joining an organised tour is a great option. Here are three not-to-be-missed tours.

Distance from Valencia: 10 km Travel time: 30 minutes

Albufera Natural Park is the largest freshwater lake in Spain and one of the most important wetlands in Europe. It is situated a mere 10 km south of Valencia and it is known for its stunning landscape, sand dunes, and pine forests.

This dream-like natural wonder is home to some 300 bird species and the birthplace of paella . The park occupies an area of some ​​24 km² and is surrounded by 220 km² of rice fields.

What to do in Albufera:

• Eat paella in one of the restaurants situated in the village of El Palmar
• Take a boat ride, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and learn about this diverse ecosystem
• Do some birdwatching – March is the perfect month to witness the arrival of migratory birds, including the pink flamingo
• Watch a magical sunset – this is one of the best places to watch a sunset in Valencia
• Bike through the rice fields – July is when the rice fields are at their lushest
• Explore Albufera in an open-topped Jeep – it allows you to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time and with minimum effort
• Take a deep breath in the El Saler pine forest
• Relax on the beach – Playa del Saler and Playa de la Dehesa are two of the best beaches in Valencia
• Play golf – Parador de El Saler is considered one of the best golf courses in the world

How to get from Valencia to Albufera:

Albufera Natural Park is one of the easiest day trips from Valencia. Driving to El Palmar takes about half an hour. You can also take bus #24 or #25 from Puerta del Mar in the center or from the City of Arts and Sciences and get off either at Embarcadero de Albufera or El Palmar. Or you can also join a half day tour that includes transportation, a guide and a boat tour on the lake.

Distance from Valencia: 8 km Travel time: 30 minutes

Port Saplaya is another easy day trip from Valencia. This exotic beachfront resort was built in the 1970s and has been nicknamed “Little Venice” due to its colorful facades.

If you visit during the winter, half a day is probably all the time you need to visit this pretty urbanization. During the summer months, however, this is a popular beach destination, so you might want to pack your beach gear and spend a few hours lounging on Port Saplaya’s 1 km long stretch of sand.

What to do in Port Saplaya:

• Explore Port Saplaya’s nooks and crannies and discover its hidden squares
• Walk along the marina to admire all the cute little boats, colorful houses and bougainvillea dotted facades
• Have a glass of horchata (one of the most popular drinks in Valencia ) at Horchateria Toni
• Relax on the beach. Port Saplaya is one of the best beaches in Valencia due to its proximity to the city
• Stroll along the promenade
• Eat delicious tapas in one of the restaurants. Many of them offer an inexpensive lunch meal deal (menú del día)
• Discover Port Saplaya on a bike tour from Valencia
• Enjoy a coffee with a view in one of the squares
• Sail to Port Saplaya from Valencia on a catamaran

How to get from Valencia to Port Saplaya:

Getting to Port Saplaya by car is super easy – the V-21 runs right alongside it. However, there are other options, such as taking the metro to Alboraya and a bus or taxi from there. Or taking bus L112A from Valencia’s La Saïdia or Pla del Real districts directly to Port Saplaya (this bus runs with a frequency of 1 or 2 hours depending on the day of the week).

Distance from Valencia: 60 km Travel time: 1 hour

Xàtiva is a historic city some 60 km south of Valencia. During Roman times, it was known for its linen fabrics, and in the 12th century, during the Al-Andalus era, it was one of the first paper manufacturing centers in Europe. From the mid-13th century to the end of the 16th century Xàtiva was one of the most important towns in the kingdom, rivaling Valencia itself.

After the Reconquista, Xàtiva was home to the House of Borgia and the birthplace of Pope Callixtus III and Pope Alexander VI as well as painter José Ribera. During the War of Spanish Succession, the city was besieged and burned to the ground at the hands of Philip V of Spain.

What to do in Xàtiva:

• Visit Xàtiva Castle – this twin fortification was strategically located along Via Augusta. Half of it dates back to the Iberian era, while the other half was built by the Romans. Both were altered by the Arabs
• L’Almodí Museum – where the portrait of Philip V of Spain hangs upside down in protest for burning the city over three centuries ago
• Drink La Socarrada – a local beer flavored with honey and rosemary, considered one of the best flavors in the world. Socarrada means “scorched” and is a reference to the town being destroyed by Philip V of Spain
• Eat arnadí – a delicious local pastry made with sweet potato or pumpkin and almonds
• Try arroz al horno – an oven-baked rice dish made with black pudding and bacon
• See the largest nativity scene in Spain – from December through the first week of January
• Visit the Colegiata Santa María Church and the Royal Hospital
• Follow the route of the fountains – Xàtiva is nicknamed the Town of a Thousand Fountains, a legacy from its Al-Andalus era

How to get from Valencia to Xàtiva:

You can get to Xàtiva either by car or train. In both cases, the journey lasts about 1 hour. If you’re going by train, take cercanías train line C2 from Estación del Norte in the city center.

Distance from Valencia: 170 km Travel time: 2 hours

Alicante is a coastal city roughly half the size of Valencia. It is situated on Costa Blanca to the south and has a reputation for being the city with the most sunny hours per year in Europe.

Throughout its thousands of years-long history, Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, and Arabs all left their mark on the city. After the Reconquista, Alicante saw struggles for power between the Kingdoms of Castile and Aragon, Barbary pirates attacks, great devastation during the War of Spanish Succession, and was the last city to be occupied by General Franco’s troops during the Spanish Civil War.

Nowadays, Alicante is a prosperous and modern city that attracts tourists and expats in droves. It’s one of the most complete day trips from Valencia, combining history, food, fine sand beaches, and amazing weather.

What to do in Alicante:

• Visit the Santa Barbara Castle for a dose of history and spectacular panoramic views. I highly recommend joining one of the free guided tours. Also, save your energy and time by taking the elevator to the castle – it only costs a couple of euros and it’s carved into the mountainside!
• Discover Barrio de Santa Cruz in the Old Town – it has narrow little streets and picturesque whitewashed houses decorated with potted plants
• Join a guided tour – it will save you so much time and aimless stair climbing in search of the best photo spots
• Visit the City Hall. This gorgeous building is not only beautiful on the outside but also has several ornate rooms that can be visited for free
• Explore the Alicante coastline on a catamaran cruise
• Stroll along the Explanada de España – it resembles the famous La Rambla in Barcelona!
• Admire all the fancy yachts docked in the marina
• Lounge on the beach
• Hop aboard a glass bottom boat and discover the nearby Tabarca Island, the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community
• Try arroz a banda , a local seafood rice dish somewhat similar to paella. Join a food tour to discover more local flavors
• Take a short side trip to the photogenic Canelobre Caves and be wowed by the cathedral-like interior

How to get from Valencia to Alicante:

Take the train from either the Estación del Norte or Joaquin Sorolla train station – both centrally located – and get off at Alicante Terminal – also located in the city center. I recommend the MD (media distancia), Intercity or Euromed trains over the Regional Express ones as they are more comfortable, modern and slightly faster. Driving from Valencia to Alicante is another good option.

Also read: Valencia or Alicante: Which City Should You Visit Next?

Distance from Valencia: 75 km Travel time: 40 to 90 minutes

Castellón de la Plana is a largely overlooked city some 75 km north of Valencia. The city is the capital of the Spanish province with the same. Castellón was founded in 1251 when people received permission from King Jaime I of Aragon to relocate to a level ground soon after the Reconquista.

Castellón continues to be a relatively small city, with some 170,000 inhabitants. Not only that, but you can cross it on foot in merely half an hour. The main city is situated some 5 km from the sea but has a separate maritime district, called El Grao de Castellón, with lots of restaurants and miles-long beaches.

What to do in Castellón:

• Visit Plaza Mayor, the Co-Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the El Fadrí bell tower
• Eat your way through Mercado Central
• Attend Fiesta de la Magdalena – varying dates but usually falls in March and lasts 9 days. It’s the main festivity in Castellón, commemorating the relocation of the city from the Hill of Mary Magdalene
• Have lunch or tapas at Como Antes Glam Food Bar – very good lunch special and tapas with a more sophisticated presentation than what is typically offered
• Relax with a delicious cup of specialty coffee at Ofelia – a mind-blowing concept store selling stylish home decor and furniture
• Lounge on the beach – Castellón has 10 km of fine sand beaches with gorgeous mountain views
• See Plaza de l’Hort dels Corders and its unusual fountain by local artist Juan García Ripollés
• Admire the Post office building and other Modernista buildings around the city
• Visit the Fine Arts Museum – it’s huge and well-curated!

How to get from Valencia to Castellón:

Driving from Valencia to Castellón takes approximately 1 hour. You can also reach Castellón by train from either Estación del Norte or from Valencia – Cabanyal train station. The train journey takes 40 to 90 minutes, depending on whether you opt for a fast Intercity train or a slower cercanías train.

Distance from Valencia: 30 km Travel time: 30 minutes

Sagunto is a city some 30 km north of Valencia and its origins go back to the Bronze Age. In 219 BC, the Iberian city was taken over by Hannibal’s troops after an eight-month siege, which was the trigger for the Second Punic War between Rome and Carthage. A few years later, Sagunto (then Saguntum) became a Roman settlement.

These days, Sagunto is divided in two – the Old Town and the harbor area. The two are 5 km apart, with 2/3 of the city’s population actually living in the latest. In 2022, Volkswagen announced the opening of its new mega factory of batteries in Sagunto, drawing a lot of attention to the city.

What to do in Sagunto:

• Visit the Sagunto Castle – a massive fortress over two thousand years old. Bring good shoes
• Visit the Roman Theater – it has a capacity for some 8,000 people and was recently subject to a controversial renovation project. It now hosts a theater festival from July to September every year
• Casa dels Berenguer – a Gothic Palace converted into a modern tourist office where you can see costumes worn by actors during the theater festival
• Discover the Jewish Quarter
• See Vía del Pórtico – a 60 meters long Roman road in the basement of a modern residential building
• See Domus dels Peixos – the remains of several Roman houses built in the 2nd century AD complete with original murals and tiles
• Visit the harbor, walk on the beach, and see remnants of Sagunto’s industrial past

How to get from Valencia to Sagunto:

Visiting Sagunto on a day trip from Valencia is a no-brainer. You can either drive or take cercanías train line C6 from Estación del Norte. Either way, you’ll be in Sagunto in approximately 30 minutes.

Distance from Valencia: 145 km Travel time: 1h 30min to 2 hours

This town of fewer than 8,000 inhabitants is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. It is situated almost on the edge of the Valencian Community, some 145 km north of Valencia, but it’s so pretty, it’s really worth the effort.

With more than 2500 years of history, Peñiscola is a Mediterranean dream with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and a Templar castle perched on a rock overlooking the sea.

This walled town is surrounded almost entirely by water and starred in the highly acclaimed Game of Thrones series. At the foot of the hill, the miles-long sandy beach is just perfect for taking a swim, sunbathing, or enjoying a picnic with a view.

What to do in Peñiscola:

• Visit the Castle of Papa Luna – an idyllic place with amazing views where Benedict XIII, also known as Papa Luna or the Antipope spend his long exile
• Stroll along the streets of the charismatic Old Town and browse all the fun souvenir shops. Bring good shoes
• Spot Casa de las Conchas – a house with a facade covered in shells
• Spend some time at the beach
• Listen to El Bufador – a curious howl, the result of the waves hitting against a huge hole in the rock under the houses
• Visit Parque de la Artillería – an old military fort at the foot of the castle, now a perfectly manicured garden
• Eat empanadillas de calabaza (pumpkin-stuffed pastries)
• Try suquet de pescado , a tasty fish stew

How to get from Valencia to Peñiscola:

Driving to Peñiscola takes some 90 minutes and is the easiest way to visit. If you have no other remedy but to use public transport , you can take cercanías train line C6 to Benicarló or Vinaròs (both a bit over 2 hours from Valencia), then take the local bus to Peñiscola.

Distance from Valencia: 70 km Travel time: 1 hour

Gandía is a small coastal city 70 km south of Valencia. With a population of approximately 75,000 inhabitants, Gandía is a popular summer destination among Spaniards and a great day trip from Valencia year round.

Just like Castellón, Gandía is also divided in two – the historical Old Town located some 4 km inland, and El Grau de Gandía, along the coast. The first has the charm of a typical Spanish town and is home to the impressive Ducal Palace. The second is more modern, with lots of restaurants and hotels, beautiful sandy beaches, and a bustling promenade.

Gandía’s history is tightly linked to that of the Borgia family and traces of their rule can still be found throughout the city and especially the Ducal Palace, a magnificent historical landmark that showcases the grandeur and architectural splendor of the Borgia family’s reign.

What to do in Gandía:

• Visit the 14th century Ducal Palace, one of the best examples of Valencian Gothic and the birthplace of Saint Francis Borja. The lavishly decorated interiors will leave you speechless
• Take a photo with the funnily looking statue of El tío de la Porra , a fictional character who invites people to celebrate the festivities in Gandía
• See the fish auction (from Monday to Friday, from 4:15 pm to 6:00 pm inside La Lonja, in the maritime district of El Grau de Gandía)
• Visit the impressive Sant Jeroni de Cotalba Monastery some 8 km outside the city. It dated back to 1388!
• Eat fideuà, a seafood noodle dish similar to paella that was born in Gandía
• Relax on the beach. While Playa Norte offers a wide range of amenities, the untamed beauty of Playa de l’Ahuir lies in its stunning sand dunes

How to get from Valencia to Gandía:

You can get to Gandía by either car or train. Renfe cercanías line C1 operates regular train services from Estación del Norte. The travel time is approximately 1 hour. Most trains will leave you in the center of Gandía, from where you’ll have to take a local bus to the beach. During the summer months, some trains from Valencia will go directly to Platja i Grau de Gandia.

Distance from Valencia: 46 km Travel time: 35 minutes

Cullera is a small coastal town that developed between the Júcar River, Albufera Natural Park, and the sea. It is divided into the old district to the south and the newer, touristic district along the coast.

One peculiarity of Cullera is that it was built around a central mountain, called Montaña de Los Zorros (the Fox Mountain). The mountain has an elevation of 233 meters and the name comes from the foxes that used to roam its slopes.

Due to its strategic position and great visibility, Montaña de Los Zorros has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic. These days, however, most people see Cullera as a popular holiday resort with perfect sand beaches and enclosed urbanizations with sea views, rather than a town steeped in history.

What to do in Cullera:

• Visit the Cullera Castle, a 10th-century fortress dating back to the Moorish rule in Spain. The castle was expanded by King James I after the Reconquista and in the 19th century, the beautiful Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Castle was added. From the castle, you can enjoy fantastic panoramic views of Cullera and the Mediterranean
• Stroll along the colorful streets of Barrio del Pou in the old town – it’s probably the most Instagrammable part o Cullera. Think whitewashed houses, facades covered in tiles, and balconies decorated with flowers
• Relax on the beach
• Stop at one of the many beachside restaurants to enjoy a local rice or seafood dish
• Check out the Dragut Cave, an homage to the barber pirate Dragut – especially fun to visit with kids
• See the Cullera Lighthouse – often considered to be one of the most beautiful in Spain
• Cool down at Aquopolis water park
• Visit the Rice Museum and enjoy unparalleled views over the rice fields

How to get from Valencia to Cullera:

Cullera is one of the easiest day trips from Valencia by train. Simply take Renfe cercanías line C1 from the beautiful North Station and you’ll be in Cullera in as little as 35 minutes. From the train station, take the bus to the beach – otherwise, it’s a very long walk. Of course, you can also get to Cullera by car.

Distance from Valencia: 38 km Travel time: 30 minutes

Sueca is a sleepy little town nestled amidst the picturesque Albufera rice fields. While you won’t find it on virtually any other list of one day trips from Valencia, it can be a nice way to spend a few hours, especially in summer when I also recommend you go for a stroll through the nearby rice fields.

Sueca’s origins date back to Medieval times when it first emerged as a Moorish village. During the early 16th century, after the Moors were expelled from Spain, the village was resettled with Christians hailing from Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, likely giving rise to its current name (Sweden is referred to as “Suecia” in Spanish).

Fast forward a few centuries, Sueca features beautiful Modernista architecture, which gained it a spot on the Art Nouveau European Route. A large part of the town’s economy relies on the cultivation of rice and they host the Sueca International Valencian Paella Competition each September.

What to do in Sueca:

• Follow the Modernista Route – it features 13 buildings spread all over town. Highlights include Asilo de Ancianos, el Ateneo Sueco del Socorro, el Casino de la Agricultura, Ayuntamiento de Sueca, and several houses
• Visit the Town Hall and the Pasqual Fos and Joan Fuster Memorial House
• Enjoy a coffee break inside the Ateneo or the Casino and admire their stunning Modernista interiors
• Visit the Chocolates Comes Museum and shop – this small artisanal chocolate factory still uses traditional methods, such as a stone grinder, to make their chocolate. They organize both guided tours and chocolate tastings
• Go for a walk through the nearby rice fields – they are part of the beautiful Albufera Natural Park
• Bike to Muntanyeta dels Sants – this lone mountain among the rice fields has a small whitewashed hermitage on top. It’s also home to a colony of treat-begging cats. The best time to visit is at sunset. Walking there from Sueca is also an option but it takes over one hour each way

How to get from Valencia to Sueca:

Sueca is yet another easy day trip from Valencia by train. The cercanías line C1 takes you to Sueca in just half an hour. If you want to bike through the rice fields you can rent a bike in Valencia and take it on the train with you. Driving is also an option.

Distance from Valencia: 210 km Travel time: 45 min to 6 hours

Ibiza is a small island with a reputation as the biggest party destination in the Mediterranean. While famous for its lively nightlife, crystal clear waters, and yoga retreats, Ibiza also has a rich history and surprisingly diverse culture. From its UNESCO-listed Old Town to its vibrant street art scene, Ibiza is a remarkable destination worth visiting at least once.

What not many people realize though is just how close Ibiza actually is to mainland Spain and Valencia in particular. While you could spend a whole week in Ibiza, visiting it on a day trip from Valencia is also an option.

What to do in Ibiza:

• Discover Ibiza’s picture-perfect coves and beaches on a beach-hopping cruise
• Explore the Old Town of Ibiza also known as Dalt Vila. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
• Go off the beaten path on a Jeep safari adventure
• Try bullit de peix (fish stew), sobrasada (cured pork sausage with paprika), and flaó (local cheesecake)
• Explore reefs and secret caves on a snorkeling trip
• Visit a colorful hippy market. There’s one for every day of the week
• Watch the sunset from Café del Mar and witness the sky exploding into a kaleidoscope of colors as you sip a cocktail on chill-out rhythms. Or join a sunset cruise
• Go clubbing. Many high-tech superclubs host superstar DJs, including Hï Ibiza, Ushuaïa, and Amnesia (summer only)
• Visit a stunning cave that used to be a hideout for smugglers

How to get from Valencia to Ibiza:

There are two ways to travel from Valencia to Ibiza – by plane and by ferry. The flight takes around 45 minutes, while the ferry takes around 5 hours. Both operate daily. To visit Ibiza in a day, take the night ferry from Valencia. You’ll arrive there just in time for the sunrise and you can rent a car to explore the island. In the evening, catch a late-night flight back to Valencia. You can also return by ferry, with the added bonus that you can bring your own car on board.

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Home » Europe » Spain » The best Day Trips from Valencia – 14 great destinations

The best Day Trips from Valencia – 14 great destinations

Valencia is not only one of the largest but also one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. With its fantastic mix of historic old town, modern, even futuristic backdrop, gorgeous beaches – and don’t even get me started on the delicious food – Valencia attracts thousands of visitors to its heart every year. But not only the city itself is worth a visit. I definitely recommend you to also take at least one Valencia day trip.

So here we show you the best day trips from Valencia in the region. Whether it’s a picturesque small town, a paradise beach, extraordinary architecture, and culture, or peaceful nature – you will definitely find the perfect destination for you as well.

In the article, you will find 14 beautiful places near Valencia with info on how to get there and their distance from Valencia. So let’s jump right into it.

What to find out in this post

• 1 The best Day Trips from Valencia – An Overview
• 2 The 14 best Valencia Day Trips
• 5 El Palmar & L’Albufera Nature Park
• 7 Castillo de Guadalest
• 10 Valencia’s Beaches
• 12 Peñiscola
• 16.1 About the AuthorVicki

The best Day Trips from Valencia – An Overview

VALENCIA INFOBOX

Where to stay in Valencia: Hotel Venecia Centro  (a popular 2-star hotel in the center) or Art&Flats B&B (a centrally located budget option with great value for money).

The most popular activities & tours in Valencia

Walking Tour to Valencia’s main sights

Oceanogràfic – Skip the line

Lonja de la seda – Tour

Valencia Hop on Hop Off Bus

Valencia Tourist Card ; Transport, museums, monuments, and many sights free of charge .

Getting there: Make sure to check for the best flight deals on Flight comparisons  like Skyscanner

Transport: You can get around by  metro ,  bus, or   Valenbisi

Want to rent a car?  You can find great deals  on RentalCars .

Valencia Must-Have:   Practical Spanish Travel Dictionary  and  Valencia-Guide

The 14 best Valencia Day Trips

How to get to Xàtiva: Train (C2) or car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 60 km/40 mi

Xàtiva is a small medieval town with an impressive castle towering over the town’s rooftops. With its location less than an hour from Valencia, Xàtiva is considered one of the most popular day trips from Valencia.

The historic small town has a long history. After its foundation by the Iberian people, the Romans, and the Moors also settled here.

The magnificent castle, which is more than a thousand years old, is considered the city’s main attraction. Many visitors combine the way up to the castle with a hike. But you can also reach it by car.

Nevertheless, the rest of the city is definitely worth seeing as well. The small town has a lot to offer, with many historical sites and remnants of various eras.

Extra tip: If you have the time, I encourage you to spend the night at Mont-Sant . The former monastery is a sight in itself and offers its visitors a beautiful monastery garden, where you can not only refresh yourself with a small dip in the pool but also enjoy the incredible view of the Castell of Xàtiva and the surrounding nature.

How to get to Sagunto: Train (C3) or car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 30 km/20 mi

Sagunt (Spanish name: Sagunto ) is another medieval town near Valencia. With a distance of only about 30 minutes by car, the small town is considered an excellent excursion destination from Valencia.

Like Xàtiva, the main attraction is the small town’s imposing castle. While the castle of Xàtiva enchants its visitors with its well-preserved walls, the castle of Sagunto is especially popular for its immense size and fantastic views. This is because the castle ruins extend over a distance of about one kilometer (0.6 mi).

As you explore the enormous complex, be sure to appreciate the magnificent view as well. While overlooking the Mediterranean Sea on one side, you can gaze over the rooftops of the city to the former Teatro Romanum on the other.

The Roman Theater from the 1st century AD is considered a great example of Roman architecture in the region and once held up to 6,000 visitors.

El Palmar & L’Albufera Nature Park

How to get to El Palmar: car or public bus

Distance from Valencia: ca. 20 km/ca. 13 mi

Although this day trip is theoretically two separate destinations, it is recommendable to visit the two neighboring destinations together.

El Palmar is a small town located right next to l’Albufera Natural Park. While the town center itself consists of what feels like only one street, it’s worth visiting for the great restaurants. This is because El Palmar is famous throughout the entire region for its exceptional paella.

With so many restaurants in a small space specializing in Valencian rice, the competition is fierce, making the quality of each restaurant even better. It’s especially worth visiting at lunchtime when some restaurants offer high-quality paella menus for just under 15 euros per person.

Extra tip: In Spain, but especially in Valencia, it is not common to eat paella for dinner. For this reason, usually only one or two paella restaurants, if any, open at dinner time.

After you have enjoyed this delicious dish in Palmar, you can continue to l’Albufera Nature Park. Here, you can join a boat trip in the evening, taking you to the big lake. One of the most beautiful sunsets you have ever seen is waiting for you.

How to get t o Altea: car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 130 km/ 80 mi

If you’re looking for a picturesque white, old town near the sea, Altea is probably the right stop for you.

This idyllic coastal town is perfect for those who want to discover a relaxed small town with a Mediterranean charm.

Stroll through Altea’s narrow winding streets and discover fresh local produce at the town’s market. Grab a seat at one of the many cafes and enjoy a cool drink or a full-bodied Spanish coffee .

Even though Altea is relatively small, you can easily stay for some hours. You’re guaranteed to discover a new fantastic photo opportunity at every turn.

Castillo de Guadalest

How to get to Castillo de Guadalest: car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 140 km/ ca. 85 mi

If you are looking for a mixture of a picturesque little old town, historical buildings, and breathtaking views, Castillo de Guadalest is definitely a must-see.

The very entrance to the old town looks like a gateway to another world. Stroll through the idyllic streets of the small town until you reach the viewpoint.

From here, a spectacular view of the reservoir a little further down awaits you. The picture is genuinely unspoiled with its turquoise waters in a lush green setting.

The Castillo itself has a history dating back to its construction at the time of the Moors. Over the centuries, influential personalities and their families have inhabited it, and it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times by earthquakes or fire.

This remarkable place was recommended to us during our last Valencian trip by a good friend who grew up in the Alicante region. Castillo de Guadalest immediately became one of our favorite destinations in the Valencian region.

How to get to Alicante: Train (Intercity), Bus (Alsa), or car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 170 km/ ca. 105 mi

Alicante is the nearest major city, less than a two-hour train ride from Valencia. With its proximity to the capital of the Valencian Community, visitors like to combine the two Spanish cities.

Alicante’s downtown in the Barrio de Santa Cruz is particularly popular. With its colorfully decorated buildings and narrow streets, Alicante immediately captivates its visitors.

Especially in the afternoon, Alicante’s bars and cafes for the so-called “ Tardeo alicantino ” and other local favorites in Alicante are always well visited.

Additionally, a visit to Santa Barbara Castle is a real highlight for any visitor. The climb is well worth it for its incredible views all the way across the city’s famous harbor.

How to get to Benidorm: Train or Bus (Alsa)

Distance from Valencia: ca. 140 km/ 85 mi

I have to be honest with you, Benidorm is definitely not my kind of holiday destination. However, we also made a curious little detour here on our last trip to Valencia.

One popular attraction in town is the Balcón del Mediterráneo. I have to admit, from here, you have a breathtaking view of the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, which really stand out, especially on sunny days.

Otherwise, the city is mainly known as a seaside and tourist party place and therefore especially popular with young people. So if you want to relax on the beach and then dance the night away, Benidorm is probably the perfect place for you.

Valencia’s Beaches

How to get to the beaches: Depending on the beach

Distance from Valencia: Depending on the beach

You may have already heard – maybe this is even the main reason for your trip to the Valencian Community – Valencia is home to some amazing beaches.

In addition to the city beaches, the entire coastal region around Valencia offers gorgeous options.

After all, it’s not for nothing that the Costa Blanca (meaning “the White Coast”) is one of the most popular stretches of Spain’s Mediterranean coastline. Locals and visitors alike fall in love with the beaches around Valencia every year.

Among the region’s most beautiful (and popular) beaches are Playa Terranova, Playa Recó de la Mar, Playa de Pinedo, and Playa de la Garrofera.

How to get to Calpe: car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 125 km/ 80 mi

Calp (Spanish name: Calpe) is another fantastic day trip destination from Valencia that offers just the suitable activity for any visitor.

Whether it’s an extended hike, a beach excursion on the Costa Blanca, a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with a Mediterranean flair, or the search for the perfect Instagram photo.

Probably the most famous sight of the small town is the Peñón de Ifach. In addition to fantastic hiking opportunities, the local mountain offers a simply unforgettable view of Calp and the picturesque Costa Blanca.

Just follow the almost 5 km/ 3mi long circular trail, which rewards you with this incredible view at the top.

How to get to Peñiscola: car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 150 km/ 95 mi

Peñiscola is a little further from Valencia than many other destinations on this list (about halfway between Valencia and Barcelona), but it’s always worth a visit.

Similar to the small coastal town of Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava , Peñiscola (also called Peníscola) combines a wonderful stretch of beach with a picturesque old town and an impressive castle.

A visit to the Castillo is a must, because from no other place in the town can you get such a fantastic view over the city, the sea, and the neighboring beach.

But there is also a lot to discover inside the castle. In addition to information boards, you can also find out about the various points of interest inside via a free app.

Afterward, it’s also worth taking a walk through the peaceful old town.

Extra tip: It’s worth getting there early because Peñiscola is also a popular day trip from Barcelona .

How to get to Gandia: Train (C1) or car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 70 km/ 45 mi

If you fancy a little city break with historic buildings mixed with beaches and mountains, Gandia is the ideal place. Located on the Costa del Azahar, the city offers its residents and visitors a wonderful stretch of beach.

A mountain belt lies directly around the city, inviting you to take long walks and almost making you forget that you are only a few meters away from the city.

Once Gandia was an important cultural and commercial center. And this is still reflected in the cityscape today. Discover the remains of the ancient city wall, the old university, or the Plaça Major in the historic center of the city.

Extra tip: Whoever visits Gandia should not miss the city’s excellent cuisine. It is said that the “ noodle paella ” fideuá was invented here.

How to get to Requena: Train (C3) or car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 70 km/ ca. 45 mi

If you are looking for a small medieval town with a bit fewer tourists, Requena is an excellent choice. The picturesque little town enchants its guests with small narrow streets and buildings with Arabic influences. These date back to the time of the Moors, who once settled here.

While strolling through the streets of the old town, you can admire picturesque houses with antique decorations and old coats of arms. In addition, there are two impressive churches from the 14th century in the center of Requena.

But also the ancient homage tower and the various wine cellars of the small town contribute to a pleasant day trip. A visit is especially recommended in late summer during Requena’s annual wine festival .

How to get to Teruel: Train, Bus, or car

Distance from Valencia: ca. 145 km/ 90 mi

Even though Teruel is one of the farthest destinations from Valencia on our list, the small town should not be left out. The idyllic small town in Aragon belongs to the most beautiful small towns in Spain.

Today, Teruel is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also bears the unofficial title of “Capital of Mudejar Architecture.” And so you can find plenty of fantastic examples of Mudejar architecture in the historic city center, such as the dome and roof of the city’s imposing cathedral or the towers of various churches.

In addition to gastronomic delights such as Teruel ham, popular in the region, a visit to the city is also worthwhile for families with children. Because in the Dinopark Dinópolis, you can go back in time. Discover the region at the time of the dinosaurs between realistic replicas.

Les Fonts de l’Algar

How to get to Fonts de l’Algar: car

Those who are drawn to nature certainly visit Fonts de l’Algar. After all, the waterfalls are considered one of the most beautiful natural sites in the country. And despite their tourist interest, this protected wetland near Benidorm has preserved its natural beauty very well.

This excursion is especially worthwhile for hiking enthusiasts. But don’t worry, the circular route is pretty relaxed and stretches for just under 1.5 km/1 mi. During the pleasant short hike, you walk along the small river Algar and can enjoy the vivid nature surrounding it.

If that’s not enough, there are more natural hiking opportunities in the region afterward.

Important information: There is a small entrance fee to the nature park. Currently, this amounts to 4 €.

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About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

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11 amazing day trips from valencia you need to go on [2024].

Whether you’re a tourist visiting the city or a local looking for somewhere new to visit, you’ll love these 11 amazing day trips from Valencia.

While you can easily spend a week exploring the vibrant city of Valencia, a day trip is a perfect way to break up your holiday.

Plus, it gives you the opportunity to discover hidden gems off the beaten track.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of my favourite day trips from Valencia.

From quaint coastal towns to Spain’s lively capital, there’s something for everyone.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s get exploring!

1. Alicante

Situated within the Valencian Community, Alicante is a bustling coastal city filled with restaurants, lively bars and scenic beaches.

Popular with British tourists, Alicante is a charming city that comes to life in the summer.

Due to its status as a British holiday destination, you’ll find a lot of people here who speak English, making it easy to navigate the city on your trip.

Despite its popularity with tourists, Alicante still feels quaint and authentically Spanish.

Upon arriving in the city, you can take a stroll through the city’s historic streets or take in the views of the harbour.

If you’re lucky enough to arrive on a market day, you can browse through the eclectic mix of stalls.

When you’re ready to eat, you can choose from traditional Spanish eateries or modern, international restaurants.

In Alicante, you’ll find bustling restaurants, cafes and bars around every corner.

This attractive city is best-known for its palm-tree-lined promenade and beautiful beaches, making it a great addition to your Valencia itinerary .

While it’s typically thought of as a summer holiday destination, Alicante is blessed with warm, sunny weather all year round so it’s still one of the best day trips from Valencia, regardless of if you visit in July or January.

How to get to Alicante

Alicante is easily accessible via train, bus or rideshare.

The most common way to travel there is to catch a train from Valencia’s central station, the Estacio del Nord, to the Alicante Terminal Station.

Trains take around 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it one of the slightly longer day trips from Valencia but Alicante is well worth the travel time.

2. Torrevieja

Some people choose to visit Alicante and Torrevieja in the same day.

However, this under-the-radar town boasts plenty of attractions to keep you busy all day long.

Torrevieja has stunning beaches and a lively town centre, but its main attraction is the natural park on the outskirts of the town.

This beautiful park is home to two famous salt lakes, one green and one bright pink!

Although you can’t swim in the lakes, they’re the perfect place to take pictures.

And if you visit the lakes from March to May, you’re likely to catch sight of the 2,000 flamingos that settle in the lakes during their breeding season.

Once you’ve had your fill of the salt lakes, you can head back to the town.

Here you can sample the beaches, natural swimming pools, maritime museum and more.

One thing to make sure you include in your trip to Torrevieja is the Torre del Moro viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the city.

How to get to Torrevieja

Although not quite as easy to reach as Alicante, you can travel to Torrevieja by car or by public transport.

Renting a car or using a car share is a good option for this journey, which will take around two hours.

Renting a car will also make it easy for you to reach the salt lakes.

Alternatively, you could get a train to Alicante and a bus to Torrevieja.

This allows you to see both places on the same day!

With a picturesque historic quarter and an impressive medieval castle, Xàtiva is one of the most popular day trips from Valencia for travellers looking to explore beyond the city.

If it sounds familiar, it’s because Valencia’s central metro station shares its name with this enchanting town.

Famed as the birthplace of Spanish artist José Ribera, there’s lots to explore in this intriguing town.

For just €2, you can visit the castle and take in the fantastic views of Xàtiva and the sea.

Once you’ve explored the castle, make your way to the town centre.

Here you can get lost in winding streets and discover the historic Arab quarter.

A walking tour is a great way to learn more about the history of Xàtiva and the breath-taking architecture of the town.

You’ll also find a range of traditional restaurants here, where you can indulge in authentic baked rice dishes.

How to get to Xàtiva

To sample the delights of Xàtiva, you can get a train or bus from central Valencia.

With a journey time of under an hour and tickets costing as little as €7, Xàtiva is one of the best day trips from Valencia for those wanting to see a little more of the Valencian Community.

If you’re in the mood to explore medieval ruins and city walls, Cuenca is one of the best day trips from Valencia for you.

With its dramatic cliffs, cobbled streets and brightly coloured buildings, the walled city of Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This unmissable city is located high up in the mountains, and it provides visitors with a unique and memorable experience.

Also known as the ‘city of the hanging houses’, Cuenca’s most popular attraction is the casas colgadas .

This row of buildings hangs over the edge of a cliff, almost appearing to float.

In recent years, the city has also become known as a hub of modern art.

One of the famous hanging houses has even been transformed into an art gallery.

The fusion of old buildings and cobbled streets with new galleries and abstract art makes this city a complex and intriguing place, that’s sure to captivate tourists.

How to get to Cuenca

Travelling to Cuenca involves a journey inland towards Madrid and away from the Valencian coast.

You can easily visit Cuenca in a day, with train journeys taking less than an hour and departing five times a day.

A visit to Spain’s cosmopolitan capital is the perfect addition to a stay in Valencia.

I mean, it’s one of the best places to visit in Spain for good reason, after all!

Unlike the bustling streets of Barcelona, Madrid exudes laid-back charm.

The city is energetic and inviting, without being overwhelming.

To make the most of Madrid in one day, make sure to arrive early!

There’s so much to explore in this vibrant city, from the impressive shops of the Gran Vía to the unexpected greenery of Retiro Park.

There’s also an array of museums, art galleries, quirky bars and outstanding restaurants to check out too.

If you visit Madrid on a Sunday, make sure to walk through the El Rastro market in Plaza Cascorro.

Here you’ll find over 1,000 stalls filled with unique treasures.

No Madrid itinerary is complete without a visit to the bohemian Malasaña district.

This popular neighbourhood is teeming with bespoke shops and trendy café-bars.

While there are plenty of lively spots to choose from, you won’t regret a trip to the special Restaurante Ojalá .

The first floor is a tropical oasis but head down to the basement and you’ll find a secret indoor beach.

Relax with your feet in the sand while you enjoy a glass of Sangria or two!

How to get to Madrid

Thanks to the RENFE, Spain’s high-speed trains, you can arrive in Madrid from Valencia in under two hours.

For a more affordable option, you can try BlaBlaCar, a carshare service popular with young Spaniards and Erasmus students looking to travel the country.

6. La Albufera

If you’re a lover of nature, you won’t want to miss a trip to La Albufera , a natural park and ecological preserve just 10km from Valencia city centre.

There are rice fields, forests and a lagoon to explore. It’s hard to believe this natural paradise is located right outside the city.

Head on one of the boat trips which give you a closer look at the water birds and plants.

For an unforgettable experience, visit the natural park in the early evening and watch the sunset over the lake.

La Albufera is also famous as the birthplace of paella. Visitors can experience a delicious, authentic meal at one of the local restaurants.

Take in the natural beauty of La Albufera and experience a side of Valencia that many tourists don’t get to see.

How to get to La Albufera

There are several bus routes that travel from the centre of Valencia to La Albufera, with tickets costing as little as €2.

The journey takes less than an hour, or you can drive there in 20 minutes.

7. Castellon de la Plana

The quaint city of Castellon is just up the coast from Valencia, but it remains relatively unexplored by tourists.

With an array of beaches, an attractive harbour and a marina, this picturesque city is one of the best day trips from Valencia.

Wandering around the streets, you’ll notice the sculptures arranged throughout the city.

There are more than 200 in total, turning the city into an open-air museum!

When you’re ready for a bite to eat, head to the marina, El Grao de Castellon.

Here you’ll find bars, restaurants, cafes and even a casino.

The city boasts the impressive Ribalta Park, easily reached on foot from the centre of the city.

If you’re in the mood to explore, you could also visit the Columbretes Islands, located just outside of the city.

These volcanic islands are perfect for those with an adventurous spirit, as you can swim, snorkel and dive in the sea surrounding them. To reach this natural reserve, boat tours depart from the city.

How to get to Castellon de la Plana

For less than €10, you can get a bus or train that takes you from Valencia to Castellon de la Plana.

This journey takes between an hour to an hour and a half.

The Roman city of Sagunto is brimming with culture and history, dating back almost three millennia.

You can start your journey here by walking around the city walls, taking in the views of the town and the sea.

After this, you can visit Sagunto Castle, an ancient building with lots of stories to tell.

This city is perfect for fans of architecture, and as you walk around the town square, you’ll notice a range of buildings and ruins from different centuries. I

f you want to delve deeper into the history of the town, head to the Sagunto Museum.

Or, if you’d like to relax, the beachfront is lined with cafes, bars and restaurants with stunning views of the sea.

How to get to Sagunto

Sagunto is very easily accessible from Valencia, with the choice of a bus or train costing less than €10.

Whichever mode of transport you choose, you can be in Sagunto city centre in just over half an hour, making it perfect for a quick visit.

9. Peñíscola

This pretty coastal town is popular with the locals of Valencia, who often swap the buzz of the city for the laid-back Peñíscola in the summer.

It’s one of the best day trips from Valencia for fans of stunning beaches, medieval castles and delicious food.

Much-loved by locals, Peñíscola is quickly becoming a tourist hotspot too.

The picture-perfect town was even used as a filming location for Game of Thrones!

Walking through the town’s cobbled streets, you’ll be treated to a wide range of restaurants, cafes and shops in an idyllic setting.

How to get to Peñíscola

You can reach Peñíscola by car in an hour and a half from Valencia.

If you don’t have access to a car, you can travel to Peñíscola via train, with a journey time of around two and a half hours.

The slightly longer travel time is definitely worth it to see this beautiful slice of the Spanish countryside.

10. Chulilla

One for the adventure seekers, Chulilla is a small village nestled in the Spanish mountains, popular with rock climbers.

Easily accessible from Valencia, this beautiful village features a limestone gorge, impressive mountains and views that will take your breath away.

This climbing spot is the perfect addition to a cooler winter break in Valencia, as the scorching Spanish sun can make climbing a little challenging.

The routes range in difficulty but all feature spectacular views of the mountains and gorge.

How to get to Chulilla

Chulilla is situated an hour and a half away from Valencia and you can reach this scenic village by train or bus.

If you’re planning on hiring a car, you can drive from Valencia to Chulilla in 45 minutes.

11. Tabarca

Situated just off the coast of Alicante, this enchanting marine reserve is the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community.

A visit to Tabarca will reward you with incredible views of the Mediterranean and crystal-clear waters, perfect for scuba diving.

This island is a natural paradise, with an abundance of interesting plants, animals and marine life.

Tabarca provides visitors with a relaxing interlude from the bustling streets of Valencia, and the chance to explore a charming and untouched Spanish island.

How to get to Tabarca

The best way to reach Tabarca is to catch a train to Alicante.

Then all you need to do is hop on a ferry for a quick 50-minute boat ride to the island.

With excellent transport links and a prime location on the southeast coast, Valencia is the perfect base for exploring Spain.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic beach retreat or an adventurous day out, there are so many memorable day trips from Valencia.

So which of these day trips from Valencia do you want to go on most?

Please let me know in the comments below!

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Valencia

Day trips from valencia.

• Valencia to Requena
• Valencia to Montanejos
• Valencia to Sagunto
• Valencia to Peniscola
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Tour in the natural hot springs of Montanejos and the jet.

2. Full Day Tour to Peñíscola from Valencia

3. Experience the Natural Paradise of Montanejos from Valencia

4. Adventures day: Thermal Springs and Waterfalls

5. Tasting, tasting, tasting!

6. Singular Valencia Wine Tour Utiel Requena Wineries

7. Walking Tour of the Hanging Bridges of Canyon de Turia and Chulilla Village

8. Tapas in the vineyards

9. From Valencia: Day Tour in Peniscola, Game of Thrones

10. Theatre Tour Sagunto Castle Roman Wine of Valencia

11. Valencia Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide

12. Requena Half-Day Private Vineyards & Premium Wine Tastings Tour

13. One day private trip to Mountain Villages from Valencia

14. Hiking Tour of the Roman Aqueduct of Peña Cortada and Ruta de Agua

15. A day tour in Montanejos hot springs.

16. Private Wine Tour with Wine Tasting and Full Lunch

17. Valencia Day Tour from Benidorm

18. Valencian Caves with Boat Ride and Sagunto Private Day Trip

19. Shared Hike Tour in Valencia

20. Two wineries tour with wine tasting

21. Valencia Complete Full Private Day with Hotel Pick up

22. Montenejos Thermal Springs and Hike

23. Albufera: Lake, Paella and Birdwatching

24. Boat trip Valencia

25. Private Full-Day Tour to Alicante from Valencia with Hotel Pick Up

26. Full-day Hiking at Ruta the Aqua across Pena Cortada

27. Historic Bocairent, Covetes del Moros Caves and Pou Clar Pools

28. Guided 4x4 Adventure Tour in Valencia

29. Full Day Tour Bocairent and Islamic labyrinth from Valencia

30. Valencia Jewish Heritage and Roman History Private Tour to Sagunto

What travellers are saying.

15 BEST Day Trips From Valencia You’ll LOVE For 2024

Accommodations / culture and history / destinations / local landmarks / unesco world heritage site, november, 2023, table of contents, interested in the 15 best day trips from valencia for 2024, want to know more about day trips from valencia keep reading for my top 15 choices for day trips from valencia in 2024.

In this guide, I have provided detailed location information, the distance from Valencia, the best ways to get there, and how long it will take. As an avid and experienced Spain traveler since childhood, I have discovered some of the BEST cities in Spain, especially along the eastern coast, and have done additional research to find some of the best one-day excursions to help plan your Valencia trip!

Valencia’s strategic geographical position makes it an ideal hub for exploring so much of Spain, ideal for easy day trips. Surprisingly, Valencia is often overshadowed by the glitz of Barcelona or the charm of Madrid. Sometimes overlooked, Valencia offers so much, from its beaches to its fabulous Science Center, amazing old town with Roman ruins, and of course cuisine – home to arguably Spain’s best Paella.

Short on Time? Scroll Through the 15 Best Day Trips From Valencia

Most of the Best Day Trips are about an hour or less away so you can spend half a day if you prefer and return to enjoy more of Valencia. There are a couple that are two hours away, so you might consider spending the night or skip it and stick to the short travel day trips instead. 

This list is organized from closest to furthest day trips:

You might find that hopping on a guided day tour is the most efficient option, so we’ll provide some suggestions for those too. If you have a car, most of these are easy to explore on your own schedule, even combining two for a full-day-trip from Valencia.

1. El Saler (16 minutes)

El Saler, a tranquil beach near Valencia, is perfect for day trips from Valencia. It’s favored by locals for its unspoiled sands, rolling dunes, and unique flora, leading to a picturesque pine forest. Ideal for nature lovers and a peaceful retreat, El Saler offers scenic paths for walking and biking. Its proximity and easy accessibility make it one of the best day trips for those seeking a serene escape.

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers)

Best way to get from Valencia to El Saler:

• By Car: Renting a car provides the most flexibility. Take the CV-500 road south from Valencia, which will lead you directly to El Saler. Having a car allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
• By Bus: Bus 25 departs from Valencia city center (Calle Cerdán de Tallada) and travels directly to El Saler. During the summer months, the bus route goes all the way to El Saler Beach. In the off-season, the bus stops at Pinars – El Saler, which is a leisurely 10-minute walk along a picturesque pine tree-lined path to reach the beach.
• By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services: Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber or local type companies are available in Valencia. While more expensive than public transportation, they offer a convenient door-to-door service.
• By Bicycle: Valencia is a bike-friendly city, and you can rent a bicycle to reach El Saler. There are dedicated bike paths that lead out of the city, providing a scenic and eco-friendly way to reach your destination.
• Organized Tours: Consider joining an organized tour that includes transportation to El Saler. Tour companies often offer day trips to popular destinations, providing a hassle-free way to explore the area.

2. Port Saplaya and Alboraya: A Charming Duo (20 Minutes)

Port Saplaya and Alboraya are two absolutely lovely towns located just north of Valencia, Spain. Port Saplaya is a coastal town known for its picturesque canals and colorful houses, while Alboraya is a nearby town famous for its horchata, a cold drink made with tiger nuts.

Alboraya is The Home of Horchata

Where I live in San Diego, near the Mexican border, Horchata is made with rice — so this was a refreshing and quite different tasting experience! Alboraya is known for its delicious horchata, a refreshing and nutritious drink made from tiger nuts (actually a tuber not a nut). Horchata is so popular in Valencia that it is consumed just as much as paella.

The cultivation of tiger nuts in Alboraya dates back to the Arab conquest of Spain in the 8th century. At first, tiger nuts were grown for family consumption, but they eventually became a popular commercial crop.

Visitors to Alboraya can visit the Horchata Museum to learn more about the history and production of horchata. They can also sample horchata and other traditional Spanish drinks and snacks at one of the many cafes in town.

Here are some of the other wonderful things you can do in Port Saplaya and Alboraya:

• Visit the canals of Port Saplaya. Rent a boat and explore the canals at your own pace, or you can take a guided tour.
• Visit the Museu de l’Horchata in Alboraya.  This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of horchata, a popular drink in Spain and beyond.
• Sample horchata at one of the many cafes in Alboraya.  There are a number of cafes in Alboraya where you can sample horchata and other traditional Spanish drinks and snacks.
• Visit the Castillo de Alboraya. This castle is located on a hilltop overlooking Alboraya and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Distance from Valencia: 12 Miles (19 Kilometers)

Best ways to get from Valencia to Port Saplaya and Alboraya

• By car: The drive from Valencia to Port Saplaya or Alboraya takes about 20 minutes. Take the V-21 motorway north towards Sagunto and exit at junction 4.
• By bus: There is a regular bus service from Valencia to Port Saplaya and Alboraya. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes. The bus stop is located at the corner of Calle Colón and Calle Xàtiva. Bus schedule to Port Saplaya and Bus schedule to Alboraya.
• By taxi: A taxi ride from Valencia to Port Saplaya or Alboraya takes about 20 minutes and costs around €25.
• By bike: You can rent a bike from a number of shops in Valencia and cycle to Port Saplaya or Alboraya. The bike ride takes about 45 minutes

3. Tavernes Blanques (Lladró Factory) – (21 minutes)

Tavernes Blanques, a quaint town on the outskirts of Valencia, is a captivating destination celebrated for its unique blend of history, culture, and artistry. This charming town is home to the renowned Lladró factory , a prestigious Spanish brand renowned worldwide for its exquisite porcelain figurines and sculptures. Visitors to Tavernes Blanques have the rare opportunity to witness the intricate art of porcelain crafting up close, observing skilled artisans at work and gaining insight into the meticulous process behind each delicate piece.

There is a lovely hotel in Valencia where we stayed called Palacio Vallier with incredible Lladro displays and a stunning butterfly chandelier. But you can go and just enjoy an Agua de València and admire the pieces.

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers)

Best ways to get there: (we took a taxi)

• Renting a Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace. Since this is so close, you can combine it with another half-day excursion.
• By Train/Bus: The Spanish national railway service, Renfe offers train services from Valencia to nearby towns. Additionally, regional bus services like ALSA operate routes connecting Valencia to smaller towns in the region.
• Tour: This is by far the easiest and most informative way to enjoy the museum. Best tour of the Lladró factory-museum (from Valencia) with a fabulous Paella lunch!
• By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber may provide a more convenient option for traveling directly to Tavernes Blanques from Valencia. Ask your hotel to arrange one.

4. Cullera (25 minutes)

The city of Cullera is renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. If beachy day trips are your way to chill, then Cullera should be on the list! With 11 beaches to choose from, there is something for everyone, from families seeking shallow waters and calm seas to adventure seekers craving water sports and diving.

Playa San Antonio , Cullera’s main beach, is a long and sandy stretch of coastline with a wide promenade and ample facilities for all visitors. Its shallow waters and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular destination for families with young children.

Playa Raco , another popular beach in Cullera, is known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of amenities, including windsurf rentals and beachfront bars and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports here, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking.

Other popular beaches in Cullera include:

• Playa Marenyet:  a secluded beach with soft sand and crystal-clear waters
• Playa El Dosel:  a family-friendly beach with a variety of amenities, including a playground and a chiringuito (beach bar)
• Playa Faro:  a picturesque beach with stunning views of the Cullera Lighthouse
• Playa Brosquil:  a popular beach for windsurfing and kitesurfing

Not interested in Cullera’s beaches?

• Cullera Castle:  This imposing 10th-century castle is perched atop a hill overlooking the town and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and learn about its fascinating history.
• Old Town:  Cullera’s old town is a charming maze of narrow streets and traditional Valencian houses. Visitors can wander around the old town, browse the shops and cafes, and soak up the atmosphere.
• Dragut Cave Museum:  This museum is housed in a cave that was once used by the Ottoman pirate and admiral Turgut Reis, also known as Dragut. The museum tells the story of Dragut’s life and his role in the Barbary pirates’ attacks on the Mediterranean coast.

Distance from Valencia to Cullera: 25 miles (40 kilometers)

How to get to Cullera from Valencia:

• By car:   Renting a car provides the most flexibility. Drive from Valencia to Cullera via the V-31 motorway south towards Elche, exiting at junction 17. Follow the signs for Cullera. The drive takes about 30 minutes.
• By bus:  Take a regular bus service from Valencia to Cullera. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes. The bus stop is located at the corner of Calle Colón and Calle Xàtiva.
• By train: Take a train service from Valencia to Cullera. The train ride takes about 30 minutes. The train station is located at Calle Játiva 29.
• You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .

5. Albufera Natural Park (30 minutes) – a MUST do day-trip from Valencia!

Only a short drive south of Valencia lies Albufera Natural Park, a breathtaking oasis that beckons nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. This mesmerizing park encompasses a vast freshwater lagoon surrounded by lush wetlands, teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Albufera is a paradise for ecotourism, offering visitors the chance to embark on peaceful boat rides across the lagoon, observing native and migratory birds in their natural habitats. From the majestic flamingos to the elusive bitterns, the park is home to over 340 bird species, making it one of the most important birdwatching destinations in Europe.

Beyond its natural allure, Albufera is also a cultural treasure trove, deeply intertwined with Valencia’s history. Nestled amidst scenic rice paddies and charming villages, the park provides a unique blend of natural beauty and rustic charm. Visitors can learn about the region’s rich heritage at the Albufera Museum , while sampling local delicacies at the traditional restaurants lining the picturesque waterfront.

As the sun sets, casting vibrant hues across the water, Albufera Natural Park transforms into a captivating spectacle. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape into nature or a culturally enriching experience, Albufera is a must-visit destination for your next trip to Valencia.

Tips for Visitors

• The best time to visit Albufera Natural Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the birdlife is abundant.
• Be sure to book your boat tour in advance, especially during the summer months.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if you’re visiting during the summer.
• Be respectful of the wildlife and avoid littering.

Best ways to get from Valencia to Albufera:

• By car: If you prefer flexibility and want to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. The drive from Valencia to Albufera Natural Park takes about 20 minutes. Take the V-31 motorway south towards Elche and exit at junction 14. Follow the signs for Albufera Natural Park.
• By bus: There is a regular bus service from Valencia to Albufera Natural Park. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes. The bus stop is located at the corner of Calle Colón and Calle Xàtiva.
• By taxi: A taxi ride from Valencia to Albufera Natural Park takes about 20 minutes and costs around €25.
• By boat: There is a boat tour that departs from the Marina Real Juan Carlos I in Valencia and takes visitors to Albufera Natural Park. The boat tour takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.   

6. Sagunto: A Historical Town on the Valencian Coast (30 minutes)

The Romans were everywhere and this town is no exception. I always think of them as ROAMans…

Sagunto offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, spanning an awe-inspiring 2,500 years. This coastal town, steeped in heritage, reveals a captivating past through its Roman relics, such as the commanding Sagunto Castle atop a rugged hill and the remarkably preserved Roman theater. But Sagunto isn’t just a living history lesson; it’s a vibrant, modern town where the Mediterranean sun bathes streets lined with lively cafes and enticing tapas bars. With street musicians’ melodies in the air and the savory scent of paella floating around, Sagunto offers an unforgettable sensory experience that stays with you long after you’ve left its enchanting embrace.

There are several tour options from Valencia.

Highlights:

• Sagunto Castle:  This impressive castle complex offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sagunto’s military history.
• Roman Theatre:  Sagunto’s well-preserved Roman theater, dating back to the 1st century AD, is one of the best in Spain.
• Horno Alto No. 2:  This former blast furnace, now a museum, tells the story of Sagunto’s iron and steel industry.
• Archeological Museum of Sagunto:  This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Sagunto’s history, including mosaics, pottery, and ceramics.

Distance from Valencia to Sagunto: 30 miles (48 kilometers)

How to get to Sagunto from Valencia:

• By car:  If you prefer flexibility and want to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. Drive from Valencia to Sagunto via the V-21 motorway north towards Sagunto, exiting at junction 15. Follow the signs for Sagunto. The drive takes about 30 minutes.
• By bus: Take a regular bus service from Valencia to Sagunto. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes. The bus stop is at the corner of Calle Colón and Calle Xàtiva.
• By train: Take a train service from Valencia to Sagunto. The train ride takes about 30 minutes. The train station is located at Calle Játiva 29. You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .

7. Carcaixent (42 Minutes)

This enchanting town is located less than an hour away from Valencia. Carcaixent offers a delightful escape in the heart of the Region of Valencia, with a pleasant climate year-round. Situated in the eastern part of Spain, Carcaixent is not just a city; it’s a vibrant municipality known as ‘ The heart of the Ribera Alta .’ This town has successfully preserved its cultural heritage for generations.

Carcaixent’s true essence lies in its people – warm, generous, and deeply connected to their farming roots. Carcaixent is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a delectable array of local cuisines that highlight the flavors of the region.

During your visit, immerse yourself in the town’s history by exploring its well-preserved architecture, and don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the unique orange-based delicacies, a culinary experience that reflects Carcaixent’s pride as the birthplace of this globally cherished citrus fruit.

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 38 miles (61 kilometers)

Best ways to get to Carcaixent from Valencia:

• By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
• By Bus: Several bus services operate between Valencia and Carcaixent, providing a convenient and budget-friendly travel option.
• By Train: Choose a train journey to nearby stations, followed by a short bus or taxi ride. You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .

8. Gandia (45 minutes)

Gandia is a beautiful coastal city in the Valencian region of Spain. You could easily do the gateway towns and spend a whole day there exploring the gorgeous beaches. Plus it’s quite close! Enjoys these other towns along the Costa Azahar, such as:

• Peñíscola:  A picturesque town with a stunning medieval castle and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and learn about its fascinating history, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
• Benicàssim:  A popular destination for music lovers, Benicàssim is home to the annual FIB festival. Visitors can also enjoy the town’s beautiful beaches, charming old town, and variety of restaurants and bars.
• Castellón de la Plana:  The capital of the Castellón province, Castellón de la Plana is known for its modernist architecture and lively cultural scene. Visitors can admire the city’s modernist buildings, visit its museums and galleries, or enjoy a performance at the Teatro Principal.

Gandia’s main beach has a busy beachfront promenade lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, buy souvenirs, or simply relax and take in the views.

Best ways to get to Gandia from Valencia:

• By car:   Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Drive from Valencia to Gandia via the V-31 motorway south towards Elche, exiting at junction 20. Follow the signs for Gandia. The drive takes about 45 minutes.
• By bus: Take a regular bus service from Valencia to Gandia. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The bus stop is at the corner of Calle Colón and Calle Xàtiva.
• By train: Take a train service from Valencia to Gandia. The train ride takes about 1 hour. The train station is located at Calle Játiva 29.

9. Xàtiva (55 minutes)

We really loved our day in Xàtiva! Perched majestically on the mountainside overlooking the scenic city of Xativa, the castle stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural brilliance. Its unique narrow saddle shape invites visitors to enter at the lowest point, offering a stunning view of the minor castle winding up one side and the major castle sprawling over the other.

This exceptional design gives you a breathtaking 360° view and creates the perfect backdrop for Instagrammable photographs. And, it’s just an hour’s train ride from Valencia Nord station.

The castle’s roots trace back to ancient times, with remnants from the Iberian era and Roman occupation. It witnessed the strategies of Hannibal, the might of the Moorish Almoravid dynasty, and the influence of the powerful Borgia family, known for their colorful escapades.

The castle, once a seat of political intrigue and later a prison, now stands restored to its former glory.

Visitors can explore the castle’s various areas with the aid of free audioguides available on the Xativa Tourism website, enhancing their experience. Alongside the castle, Xàtiva offers more cultural sights, including La Collegiata Cathedral, adorned with statues of the Borgia popes, and Casa de L’Ensenyament, a fine arts museum displaying masterpieces by Ribera and Goya. While exploring, visitors can indulge in traditional Valencian cuisine at La Talaia del Castell , a terrace restaurant within the castle premises, or unwind in Plaça del Mercat , a historic square with charming architecture.

Don’t get caught there during siesta time!!! Few establishments operate during these hours. This is true of most small towns, and even large cities like Barcelona and Madrid!

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 42 miles (68 kilometers)

Best ways to get from Valencia to Xàtiva

• By Train: Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, operates regular train services between Valencia and Alicante. Buy tickets through Trainline or Omio . The central train station in Valencia is known as Estació Nord. You’ll find it at the core of Valencia’s historic district, it serves as the primary gateway for trains traveling to and from the city. There are usually 12 trains per day that run between Valencia and Xátiva, about 47 minutes in all.
• Car: If you prefer flexibility and want to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. By car, it takes  45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.
• Bus: ALSA, the Spanish bus company, also operates bus services between Valencia and Xativa. The journey duration and schedule may vary, so it’s advisable to check the ALSA website or visit the Valencia bus station for the most up-to-date information on bus routes and timings.
• Rideshare (BlaBla Car) or Taxi: Rideshare services like Uber and local taxis are available in Valencia and can offer a convenient door-to-door option for traveling to Xativa. Do negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before the journey. Your hotel can help you out with this.

10. Chulilla Castle and Chulilla Suspension Bridge (1 hour)

Exploring Chulilla is a must , as it stands out as one of the most scenic villages in the Valencia Region. And, I highly recommend this hike, just 45 minutes from Valencia for one of your day trip options. We didn’t expect to be awestruck while traversing the Don Quijote Route and exploring the Lagunas de Ruidera National Park – it seemed almost surreal amidst the surrounding scenery.

Valencia boasts a ton of surprises. Among these treasures is the Chulilla Hanging Bridges Trail, or La ruta de los puentes colgantes de Chulilla in Spanish, which stands out as an enchanting oasis of greenery waiting to be explored in this captivating region. Perched at an altitude of 1,056 feet (322 meters) in the scenic Els Serrans region, this ancient village has witnessed the passage of time since its inception, revealing a tapestry woven with Bronze Age, Iberian, Roman, and Moorish influences.

Chulilla’s allure is further enhanced by its well-preserved castle , designated a Conservation Area in 1981. This historical monument, once utilized as a prison, adds a captivating layer to the village’s narrative.

Do you like mountains and hiking? You may also want to read about the Gorge du Verdon in France.

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers)

Best ways to get to Chulilla from Valencia:

There are no public transportation options for this. The best way is by renting a car or doing a tour , the latter is the best.

• Renting a Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace. It’s just under an hour away.
• Guided tour: The best way to get there if you don’t want to rent a car. Book this amazing semi-full day tour with an experienced guide.

11. Utiel Requena Wine Region (1 hour)

Valencia’s wine region is an exceptional choice for a one-day adventure. The wine region is known for its rolling hills, majestic mountains, and distinctive vineyards. Its Mediterranean climate, ideal for growing Valencia’s famous oranges, also nurtures unique grape varieties. This creates wines that stand apart from the well-known Rioja and Tempranillo.

The Utiel-Requena area, just an hour’s drive from Valencia, is a highlight of this region. It’s celebrated for its extensive vineyards, spanning 35,000 hectares. Requena, in particular, is distinguished for being authorized to produce Cava, a rarity outside of Catalonia.

My journey through global vineyards brought me to Bodega Chozas Carrascal in Utiel-Requena. This prestigious Vino de Pago estate exemplifies the region’s rich wine culture.

➡️ You can read more about the region’s specific varieties from Wine Enthusiast here

➡️ If you enjoy reading about wine tours and regions, read 13 Best Wineries in Stellenbosch

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 48 miles (77 kilometers)

Other Ways to Get There:

• By Train and Taxi: Opt for a scenic train journey to Utiel followed by a short taxi ride to reach the heart of Utiel-Requena’s wine country, where you can savor the delights of renowned vineyards like Bodega Chozas Carrascal. You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .

12. Bocairente (1 hour 15 minutes)

Bocairente is a charming town in the Valencian mountains, steeped in history and culture. Renowned for its cave houses and Moorish architecture, Bocairente offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s rich past.

• Cave houses:  Bocairente is home to over 800 cave houses , dating back over a thousand years. These unique dwellings offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the town’s early inhabitants.
• Moorish architecture:  Bocairente’s Moorish heritage is evident in its many well-preserved monuments, including the Covetes dels Moros (Moorish Caves), the Castillo de Bocairente (Bocairente Castle), and the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción (Church of Our Lady of the Assumption).
• Museums and art galleries: Bocairente is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Museu Arqueològic de Bocairent (Bocairente Archaeological Museum), the Museu Etnològic de Bocairent (Bocairente Ethnological Museum), and the Museu de l’Alfareria de Bocairent (Bocairente Pottery Museum).

Distance: 60 miles (97 kilometers)

How to get there:

• By car: Renting  a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Drive from Valencia to Bocairente via the V-21 motorway north towards Sagunto,  exiting at junction 4.  Follow the signs for Bocairente.  The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Take a tour: There are a  few tour options you can do for a full day from Valencia. It’s a very scenic drive. This is by far the easiest and most informative way to enjoy this
• By bus:  Take a regular bus service from Valencia to Bocairente.  The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.  The bus stop is located at the corner of Calle Colón and Calle Xàtiva.
• By train:  Take a train service from Valencia to Bocairente.  The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The train station is located at Calle Játiva 29.  You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .

13. Montanejos Hot Springs (1 hour 15 minutes)

Montanejos is not merely a destination; it’s an experience that [seriously!] rejuvenates the body and soul. The minerals infused in these warm waters, including magnesium, calcium, and iron, are believed to promote overall well-being, making it a haven for those seeking natural healing. While the temperature may not match that of a hot tub, the gentle warmth of the springs offers a therapeutic embrace, soothing tired muscles and revitalizing the senses.

Deep in the rugged terrain of mountains and gorges lies Montanejos, a hidden sanctuary renowned for its hot springs and scenic beauty. The region’s natural wonders are epitomized by the Fuente de los Baños, where crystalline waters bubble up from the earth at a constant temperature of 77°F (25°C) throughout the year. This is not just a geographical marvel; it’s a testament to centuries of history and healing traditions which the the Romans also recognized.

Immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of the Salto de la Novia, also known as Bridal Veil Waterfall in Navajas, where legends of love and adventure echo through the surrounding cliffs. Despite the melancholic tale that lends the waterfall its name, it has become a cherished local swimming spot, inviting travelers to slide over rocks and capture moments beneath its cascading waters.

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 56 miles (90 kilometers)

Best Ways to Get to Montanejos from Valencia:

• By Bus: Several bus services operate between Valencia and Montanejos, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers.
• By Train: Opt for a train journey to nearby stations, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to reach Montanejos and its rejuvenating hot springs. You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .

14. Teruel (1.5 hours)

Teruel is a captivating city and perfect for travelers looking for a day of exploration and cultural richness. Situated just a few hours away from Valencia, Teruel stands as a testament to Spain’s rich heritage and offers a perfect day-trip experience for those craving a taste of the past. Renowned for its Mudéjar architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Teruel boasts a remarkable collection of well-preserved buildings, including the stunning Teruel Cathedral and the iconic Torre del Salvador .

Beyond its architectural marvels, Teruel enchants visitors with its warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere that makes it an exceptional destination for a (long) day visit from Valencia. You may want to consider an overnighter to enjoy this excursion. The Teruel Tourism Bureau has a fantastic PDF map you can look at before the trip.

Per the city’s website ~ Teruel is the world capital of Mudejar architecture and birthplace of dinosaurs!

Distance from Valencia: The distance from Valencia to Teruel is approximately 141 miles (227 kilometers)

Best way to get from Valencia to Teruel: Seasonally, there are also full-day tours from Valencia.

• By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore Teruel and its surrounding areas at your own pace. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via the A-23 highway.
• By Train: Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, operates direct trains from Valencia to Teruel. You can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio . The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and trains offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel between the cities. Make sure to check the train schedules and book tickets in advance to secure the best prices.
• By Bus: While it takes longer than the train or car, buses can be a viable option if you’re looking to save money. Several bus companies operate services between Valencia and Teruel. Buses are a budget-friendly option, and the journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the route and stops.
• By BlaBlaCar or Carpooling: BlaBlaCar is a carpooling service where you can share a ride with someone driving from Valencia to Teruel. It can be a cost-effective and sociable way to travel, especially if you’re open to meeting new people.

15. Alicante (2 hours)

Alicante is a bit further away but easily accessible by train and car. Nestled along the Costa Blanca, this sun-kissed gem is a captivating coastal destination that seamlessly melds history, culture, and beachfront beauty.

The city’s historic heart is dominated by the imposing Santa Bárbara Castle , perched atop a rocky outcrop, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Alicante’s beaches, including the popular Playa del Postiguet , invite sun-seekers and water enthusiasts for leisurely days basking in the sun or engaging in thrilling water sports. The city’s charming Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful houses, is a treasure trove of tapas bars, local markets, and vibrant nightlife.

Alicante also offers a rich cultural scene, evident in its numerous museums and art galleries, celebrating the region’s heritage. We loved strolling along the Explanada de España, with its palm-lined promenade, often with street performers, bustling cafes, and a gorgeous view of the marina. For nature lovers, the nearby Mount Benacantil Nature Reserve offers hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna.

Distance from Valencia: Approximately 109 miles (176 kilometers)

Best ways to get from Valencia to Alicante: (we took the train, it’s easy and fun)

• By Train: Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, operates regular train services between Valencia and Alicante. Buy tickets through Trainline or Omio . The central train station in Valencia is known as Estació Nord. You’ll find it at the core of Valencia’s historic district, it serves as the primary gateway for trains traveling to and from the city.
• By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to explore the region at their own pace. The journey from Valencia to Alicante via the AP-7 highway is straightforward and offers a comfortable drive.
• By Tour: This is one of the best ways to visit Alicante, you’ll get a full-day tour and none of the worry about driving while you learn more about this amazing destination.
• By Bus: Several bus companies, such as ALSA, provide reliable and affordable bus services connecting Valencia and Alicante. Buses offer a budget-friendly option and a chance to enjoy the picturesque countryside during the journey
• Shared Ride (like BlaBla Car) or Taxi: Sharing a ride or taking a taxi is a convenient door-to-door option, particularly if you’re traveling with luggage or in a group. This choice offers personalized transportation and saves time.

Where To Stay In Valencia

The old town “ Ciutat Vella” of Valencia is small and very walkable. Parking can be a bit of a challenge as it is across Europe’s popular, older cities. And often hotels charge quite a bit. A suggestion would be to stay as close to the old town as possible, then everything is within walking distance. Rent a car as needed. My favorite hotel Palacio Vallier is also actually a fabulous place to enjoy Agua de Valencia (drink), and explore the incredible interiors including custom Lladros.

How I rate hotels: For hotel criteria, I insist on clean and close. I also always look at value and go through reviews when I haven’t stayed at the hotel myself. My suggestions for budget accommodations are either 2-3-stars or under $100, and sometimes include hostels. For mid-range in Europe, it’s 4-star and high-end, it’s 5-star or something so unique to set it apart such as location or proximity to a particular attraction, and both mid-range and luxury must have a restaurant and a bar, but most of that is pretty common for European hotels.

📍 Budget Option: Hotel RH Sorolla Centro . This hotel is a 9.7 as far as great location, and under $100 in the offseason. Super clean and convenient. They also offer bike and car rentals.

📍 Mid-Range Option: The Valentia Corretgería . Exclusive boutique hotel in the heart of Valencia, a historic and emblematic building completely renovated with elegant and exclusive interior design. Located next to the Valencia Cathedral and its Miguelete, the hotel is in the most contemporary and lively part of the city. This gorgeous 4-star hotel also offers an airport shuttle.

📍 Luxury Option: MYR Palacio Vallier. This is by far one of the loveliest hotels we’ve ever stayed at with the absolute best location! A 19th-century mansion located in the most beautiful part of Valencia’s old town, with a unique atmosphere thanks to the remains of a Roman perfumery dating back to the third century discovered during refurbishment. Go here for a cocktail even if you don’t stay, and admire the artwork.

Valencia FAQs 

Even though Valencia is the 3rd largest city, it is often overlooked, which actually makes it an ideal spot to use as a hub. It’s more reasonable than the big cities and it’s home to paella along with many other unique attractions.  The only downside to Valencia is the heat, so try if you can to avoid the midsummer. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Valencia, to help you plan your trip:

How many days do you need for Valencia?

If you just plan on seeing Valencia and not doing any of the day trips, then three days are enough. If you do take advantage of using Valencia as a hub, you can easily spend one to two weeks in Valencia with day trips. And, both Mallorca and Ibiza are a short flight from Valencia, so not technically a day trip but an excellent add-on. Read more about our Mallorca trip here .

Where can you travel from Valencia? 

You can easily travel anywhere in Europe from Valencia. They have excellent railway and bus systems and a fabulous international airport. When we go to Spain, we usually rely on the train — It’s quite straightforward. Valencia has a comprehensive local public transport network operated by Empresa Municipal de Transportes de València (EMT Valencia) for city transit.

For intercity travel, there are long-distance bus services operated by major companies such as Alsa and Avanza, which have extensive networks covering all of Peninsular Spain and even some international routes. The city also has taxi services that are easily available for more direct and private transportation. Moreover, Spain’s high-speed trains, operated by Renfe, can connect Valencia to other major cities in Spain and beyond efficiently. The cost of public transport is quite affordable, with local bus fares generally under $2.00 USD, making it economical to travel to other areas from Valencia.

Flying from Valencia to other locations is also very easy. Valencia Airport (Manises) is approximately 5 miles west of the city center and provides frequent bus services, metro lines, and taxis for easy access to the city. The airport connects to many domestic and international destinations, allowing for simple onward travel from Valencia. With its close proximity to the city and a variety of flight options, Valencia Airport is a convenient starting point for reaching other places and an ideal hub for your Day Trips.

➡️  Learn more about where Valencia is by visiting this comprehensive guide .

What is the best month to visit Valencia? 

The best month to visit Valencia is October, followed by May. Both spring and fall shoulder seasons have fewer tourists overall, and the temperatures are more manageable . Note that in winter, many places close up until the ‘season’ begins again, so be sure to check out your activities before you go. Learn more about Valencia’s holidays and seasons here. Summer can be extremely hot and is often more crowded.

Is Valencia worth a trip?

ABSOLUTELY Valencia is worth a trip! Valencia is one of Spain’s most wonderful cities and the number of fabulous day trips from Valencia make it an ideal location to explore more of this stunning coastal region. 

My Final Thoughts

Embarking on Valencia’s best day trips is an enriching journey that unveils the hidden treasures of Spain’s eastern coast. As an avid traveler and travel agent, my month-long stay in Spain was not only a visit but a deep exploration of Valencia and its surroundings.

From the serene El Saler Beach to the historic Sagunto and the picturesque vineyards of Utiel-Requena, each destination offers a distinct experience, making Valencia an ideal hub for diverse adventures. These trips vary from relaxing half-day excursions to immersive full-day explorations, catering to different interests, whether it’s soaking in the coastal beauty, delving into cultural heritage, or savoring local culinary delights.

Despite being overshadowed by Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia shines with its own unique charm, featuring walkable streets, prominent landmarks, and authentic Spanish flavors, especially its renowned paella. Utilizing Valencia as a base, one can effortlessly discover the captivating landscapes and rich cultural mosaic of Spain’s eastern regions.

This guide offers more than just a list of places; it’s a portal to experiencing the vibrant and varied facets of Spanish life through the lens of Valencia, a city that continually invites exploration and return visits. I can hardly wait to go back!!

Some travel resources while planning your day trips

• For regular day tours and activities , I recommend Viator and Get Your Guide. As a travel agent, I also have connections to more unique tours and activities, so drop me an email and we can discuss your specific needs, including special events and group tour information.
• For hotels , I do my preliminary research on Google and recommend Booking.com for DIY’s and as a travel agent, I have access to thousands of inventory options in every country often with additional perks provided to professionals. I’m also a Virtuoso agent , so if you’re looking for ultra-luxe travel, please reach out to me directly.
• For train transportation, you can buy tickets through Trainline or Omio .
• And for basic clothes, and gadgets like cables and converters, Amazon is my go-to. They’re also pretty good with clothing options.
• Rental Cars – I use RentalCars , but always check the ratings for each company.
• Insurance – I love Squaremouth because it gives buyers so many options and their helpline is great. Within SM, I try to use Allianz.

Another sidenote about Valencia…

According to Forbes 2023 list, Valencia is ranked #3 in best places for ExPats to live.

You might also enjoy this Port de Soller in Mallorca blog post:

A Perfect Picnic in Port de Sóller

10 Essential Travel Tips

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22 Best Day Trips From Valencia And How To Get There

Valencia is a city with a rich cultural heritage and countless  interesting activities travelers can indulge in . But once you’ve explored enough of the city, you might be interested in discovering a few interesting ideas for day trips from Valencia. In this post, we’ll cover some of the most interesting day trip ideas you can take from Valencia, show you how to get there, and give you some good reasons why taking these trips would be a good idea. 

But first things first…

Useful Info For Visiting Valencia  

When taking day trips from Valencia, renting a car is probably a good idea. When renting cars abroad, my favorite choice is always AutoEurope. You can  use this link  to get up to 30% on car rentals in Valencia.

Are you thinking of visiting some famous tourist attractions? Check out these  popular tours in Valencia  and get 15% off on all bookings.

If you’re looking for a cheap flight to Valencia, you use this  special offer by Qatar Airways  and get up to 15% off on your flight.

To save on your accommodation in Valencia, this  Booking.com voucher  gets you up to 15% off on all properties in town.

If you’re planning to explore the south of Spain after your trip, make sure to check out this  Southern Spain itinerary  and this  Southern Spain road trip guide .

Last but not least, don’t forget about travel insurance. For some great deals for your trip to Valencia, check out  SafetyWing . They might be slightly more expensive than other travel insurance providers but their plans have you covered no matter what. If you intend to buy travel insurance, I warmly recommend them. Trust me, saving on travel insurance is just not worth it because if god forbid, you actually need your travel insurance, those cheap plans you find online will not cover most of the unwanted circumstances.

Now that we covered some basics about traveling in Spain, let’s cover some of the best day trips from Valencia.

Peñiscola

Visiting this picturesque GoT destination should definitely be on your list of potential day trips from Valencia. If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll probably remember that Peniscola was used for shooting the scenes that took place in Meeren in season 6. The town is located on the coast of Azahar, also known as the Cherry Blossom Coat, and is famous for its sandy beaches, charming medieval cobbled streets, and the beautiful Castle of Papa Luna that sits on top of a hill and towers over the city.

Getting to Peniscola:  You can take a direct train to Pensicola from North Station to Benicarlo-Peniscola. The journey will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This station is located around 7 kilometers from the center of Peniscola and from there, you can get a bus service that takes you to the center every hour.

Looking for a place to stay? Use this link to get discounts on all hotels in Peniscola .

Castellon De La Plana

Castellon de la Plana is a beautiful underrated city located around 70 kilometers from Valencia lying on the road to Barcelona . It’s not very commonly mentioned when it comes to  exploring the eastern coast of Spain  which is why the city doesn’t get a lot of tourists but most of the people who visit are pleasantly surprised. I suppose it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that Castellon de la Plana is one of the  most underrated cities in Spain .

The city is home to a 13th-century Gothic cathedral (The Concatedral de Santa Maria), an 18th-century city hall, a 15th-century bell tower, a Hemp exchange market that’s been around since the 17th century, and one of the most interesting Museums of Modern Art in this part of Spain.  

Getting to Castellon de la Plana

Most Renfe trains from Valencia travel to Castellon de la Plana and you can get there in 40-45 minutes. Alternatively, you can also get to Castellon with Alsa’s buses but note that the journey, in this case, will last around 90 minutes. 

Looking for a place to stay? Use this link to get discounts on all hotels in Castellon .

Teruel is one of the best-kept secrets of the Aragon region. The town is the birthplace of Mudejar architecture which combines decorative Islamic motifs and patterns and Christian styles of architecture. Teruel is one of our favorite  hidden gems in Spain , mainly because of the sheer amount of significant historic buildings, such as the 14th century Tower of El Salvador, the Cathedral of Santa María de Teruel, the church of San Pedro, the Tower of San Martin, the 15th-century fortification of Castillo de Alambes, and the Palace of the Marquis of Tosos, just to name a few. 

Getting to Teruel:  Teruel is a bit further from Valencia than the other cities; it’s located 140 kilometers northwest of Valencia. You can get to Teruel by train in roughly two and a half hours but the journey is very scenic which is another great reason to visit. 

Looking for a place to stay? Use this link to get discounts on all hotels in Teruel .

Albarracín

Albarracin is a small town of 1,075 people with fascinating natural landscapes and rich history. The town is surrounded by stony hills, red sandstone boulders, and cliffs that make Albarracin a great destination for rock climbers and boulderers. However, that’s not the only reason to visit. This small town was founded in the 11th century and has been continuously inhabited for more than 1,000 years, making it one of the  oldest cities in Europe .

Some of its most famous landmarks include the medieval city walls that have protected the town for centuries, the Albarracin Cathedral, the cliff-hanging Convent of Discalced Carmelites, and of course the beautiful forests surrounding the town.

Getting to Albarracin:  Albarracin is located around 180 kilometers away from Valencia but because it lies off the beaten track, there’s no bus or train that connects the town directly to Valencia. You’d have to either take a bus or train to Cella or Teruel and continue to Albarracin by taxi. Or if that’s too much of a hustle, you can just rent a car and drive by yourself.

Looking for a place to stay? Use this offer to get discounts on all hotels in Albarracin .

Montanejos is one of the most popular day trips from Valencia and there’s a good reason for that. Sat in the province of Castellon, Montanejos is famous for its hot springs formed by the fast-flowing mountain streams surrounding the area. The pools are crystal-clear and have a year-round temperature of 25°c which means visiting Montanejos is always a good idea, regardless of the season.

In addition to the springs, Montanejos is also known for its beautiful lush forests, hiking trails, and scenic canyons. So, if you’re looking for a nice getaway destination where you can reconnect with nature, Montanejos should definitely be on your list.  

Getting to Montanejos:  If you’re planning to visit Montanejos, don’t count on relying on public transport . My personal recommendation is to rent a car and drive there on your own but you can also join an organized day tour to Montanejos from Valencia.

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our guide to visiting the Valencia Cathedral , which is supposedly home to the Holy Grail

Hanging Houses Of Cuenca

Lying on the high-speed train line from Madrid to Valencia, Cuenca is a small town built on top of a huge cliff face famous for its iconic “hanging houses” that overlooks the beautiful Hecar River gorge. Some other places worth visiting in Cuenca include the beautiful gothic cathedral, the Science Museum, the picturesque Saint Paul Bridge, and a handful of modern art galleries.  

Getting to Cuenca:  The easiest way to get to Cuenca is to catch a train from Valencia. The trains run a few times per day and take around an hour to get to Cuenca. 

If you’re looking for some great tours of Cuenca, we recommend this tour that covers the city’s highlights .

Looking for a place to stay? Use this offer to get discounts on all hotels in Cuenca .

Segorbe is a beautiful medieval village that’s home to an ancient aqueduct, a Moorish Castle, a Medieval executioner tower, Medieval walls dating back to the 13th century, and a beautiful Roman Catholic church from the 17th century. This should give you more than enough reasons to visit Segorbe, especially if you’re a history buff. And if that’s not enough, you should also know that Segorbe is home to one of the best water parks in the Valencia region.

Getting to Segorbe:  The easiest way to get from Valencia to Segorbe is with Renfe’s trains. The journey shouldn’t take more than one hour.

Looking for a place to stay? Use this offer to get discounts on all hotels in Segorbe .

Sant Josep Caves

The caves of Sant Josep are home to Europe’s longest navigable underground river and this alone should be a reason enough to consider adding the caves to your list of potential day trips from Valencia. The caves are more than 3 kilometers long and are situated around 50 kilometers from Valencia. The best way to explore the caves is by taking a boat tour through the caves but while you’re around, you can also go hiking in the Sierra de Espadan range which is surrounding the caves.

Getting to Sant Josep Caves:  The caves are located around 50 kilometers away from Valencia and can be reached via the 320 bus route by AVSA. The journey takes around one hour. However,  renting a car  might be a more convenient option because the drive is very picturesque and if you’re driving your own vehicle, you’ll have the flexibility of stopping and enjoying nature along the way.

Speaking of the best day tris from Valencia, we just have to mention Sagunto; a beautiful coastal town with a rich history. One of the most striking landmarks of Sagunto is probably its ancient fortification perched on top of the hill from where you can get an amazing view of the coast and sea. As you’re walking the remains of the walls, you’ll also see the ancient Roman theater, and a little bit further, you’ll spot Sagunto’s picturesque harbor and its sandy beaches.

Getting to Sagunto:  The easiest way to get to Sagunto is by taking the train from Valencia’s North Station (the journey takes about 20 minutes) or taking bus #115 from the central bus station to Puerto de Sagunto. 

Looking for a place to stay? Use this offer to get discounts on all hotels in Sagunto .

Tavernes Blanques

Tavernes Blanques is a small, average-looking village located north of Valencia and mainly, there’s one reason why we have added this village to our list of the best day trips from Valencia. That reason is the Lladro Boutique Museum which is the world’s only Lladro factory. If you have an interest in luxurious handmade porcelain, you will absolutely love this place. During your visit, you can wander the museum’s showroom and see some of the hundreds of home accessories and figurines, many of which are no longer in production and cost as much as €100,000.

Getting to Tavernes Blanques:  The easiest way to reach is via bus. Take line 16 from the Valencia City Hall square and you’ll be there in 15-20 minutes. The entrance to the museum is free but you should call to announce your visit or book your visit via the  museum’s website  before you go.

Located right next to Tavernes Blanques, Alboraya is a town famous for its chufa fields. In case you’re not familiar, chufa is a plant that looks like grass but produces an edible tuber which is the main ingredient for the sweet beverage horchata. If you’re visiting the Valencia region of Spain, trying horchata is one of the things that should be at the top of your  Spain bucket list . In addition to making the best horchata in Spain, a few other things you should check out while visiting Alboraya include the town’s beautiful beaches, its unique, charming farmhouses , and some ancient buildings, such as la Casa Señorial del Conde de Zanoguera, el Teatro L’Agricola, and the Puente del Moro.

How to get to Alboraya:  The easiest way to get to Alboraya from Valencia is by taking the metro. The two lines that will take you there are 3 (that takes you to Alboraya-Palmaret) or 9 (that takes you to Alboraya-Peris Arago). Alternatively, you can also rent a bike for the day and cycle your way to Alboraya (it’s only 7 kilometers away from the city center). 

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of things you can only find in Spain .

Xativa is another beautiful historic down that you should consider visiting on a day trip from Valencia. The city’s history dates back to Roman times when the city was founded as a linen manufacturer due to its strategic location on Via Augusta. A few hundred years later, Xativa became home to the first paper mill in Europe (in 1056). The city is also known for being the birthplace of Papa Borgia, one of the most controversial popes in history.

As far as attractions go, Xativa is famous for its castle that lies on a double-peaked hill and offers some of the most amazing views of the city, for the 15th century Collegiate Basilica, and for its water route (Xativa is also known as the city of a thousand fountains).

Getting to Xativa:  You can get to Xativa by one of Renfe’s trains that run several times per day but you can also take a bus from Valencia’s North Station.  

If you’re looking for a nice and affordable tour of Xativa, you’ll probably enjoy this Xativa private tour (we sure did) and if you’re looking for a place to stay, our booking affiliate link will get you up to 15% off on all properties in town.

True, Valencia has a lot of beaches within its geographical limits, but trust me, the coast of El Saler is worth taking a day trip from Valencia. Located south of the city the beach of El Saler is a local favorite and a place where locals head to when beaches in the city get too crowded. If you like pristine and unfrequented beaches or just want to get out of Valencia’s hustle and bustle for a while, you should definitely consider visiting El Saler.

How to get to El Saler:  The best way to reach is by taking a bus from Valencia. You can hop on the 25 line from Calle Cerdan de Tallada (in Valencia’s city center).

Albufera Natural Park

Albufera is a pristine park that feels almost like trapped in time and will surely make you wonder how can such a peaceful place exist just 10 kilometers away from a metropolitan city like Valencia. The park consists of woods , rice paddy fields, a lake, and a small fishing village with the same name that gave birth to arguably the world’s most popular rice dish (paella).

Getting to Albufera:  You can get to Albufera with the (bus) line 25 (the same one that goes to El Saler), you can take a  jeep and boat tour , or you can ride to the park from Valencia by bicycle via the bike lane parallel to the V-15 road.

The region of Utiel-Requena is the largest wine region located near Valencia. This part of Spain has a long history of winemaking that dates back to Roman times and if you enjoy a glass of wine here and there, you should definitely consider visiting some of the wineries in Utiel-Requena. In addition to vineyards and wineries, you can also visit the old town hall caves, The Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda, a museum that used to be a silk manufacturing school, la Torre del Homenaje (Homage Tower) built by the Moors, and of course, perhaps Requena’s most iconic landmark- its historical city center.

Getting to Requena:  Requena is located roughly 70 kilometers away from Valencia and can be reached by AVE’s high-speed trains in around 20 minutes or by a regional train in 1 hour. There’s also a regular bus service between Valencia and Requena and the bus journey takes around 1 hour. Alternatively, you can also take a  Requena wine tour with a traditional lunch  (everything together costs around 90 euros).

Cullera is a charming beach town located just 40 kilometers away from Valencia, perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back experience. While there, you can explore the Cullera Castle, a 13th-century Moorish fortress that towers over the city and the sea, the pristine Sanctuary of the Virgen del Castillo, Torre del marenyet- the city’s oldest watchtower, and the legendary Abric Lambert cave paintings. 

Getting to Cullera:  The best way to get from Valencia to Cullera is by train. You need to hop on the C1 line and you’ll be in Cullera in 30-35 minutes.

Looking for a place to stay? Use this offer to get discounts on all hotels in Cullera .

At a glance, Gandia looks like an average Mediterranean beach town but if it was only that, we wouldn’t add it to this list of the best day trips from Valencia. Sure, Gandia has a lot of beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the landscape but it’s also home to a number of historic sites as well. The list includes the 15th-century Palace Ducal de los Borja, the 15th-century Convent of Santa Clara of Gandia, and the amazing Archaeological Museum. The city is also a part of two of Valencia’s most touristy routes- the Route of the Monasteries of Valencia and the Route of the Valencian classics.

Getting to Gandia:  The best way to get to Gandia from Valencia is by taking a bus. Alsa has buses that travel back and forth a few times per day. The journey shouldn’t last more than an hour. Alternatively, you can also take this cruise from Valencia to Gandia (it’s an awesome experience).

Looking for a place to stay? Use our booking.com affiliate link to get discounts on all hotels in Gandia.

Xabia & Denia

Speaking of cool day trips from Valencia, we just have to mention Xabia and Denia. We mention them together because they’re only 10 kilometers from each other, both are small coastal towns, and many people combine them in a single day trip. In addition to peaceful beaches, Xabia also has a beautiful historic old town, while Denia is famous for its lovely hiking trails like the Montgo Massif and for being named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2015.

Getting There:  You can get to Denia from Valencia by ALSA (the national bus company) buses. The journey lasts around two hours and from Denia, you can easily get to Xabia by catamaran or a local bus.

If you plan to visit any of these two towns, I warmly recommend trying this catamaran sunset trip (it costs only 20 euros but the experience is amazing).

Rull Cave is another spectacular underground cave with a myriad of stalagmites, stalactites, and mineral formations of very different origins and shapes. The cave can be found roughly 100 kilometers away from Valencia. It was discovered in 1919 by José Vicente Mengual, known as Tío Rull, hence the name of the cave. Rull Cave was open for visitors in the 1960s and there are plenty of guided tours you can take if you want to explore the cave.

Getting to Rull Cave:  The cave is only open for visitors who come with authorized tour guides and most of them provide transportation to the cave, so getting there shouldn’t be a concern.  

Alicante is the second-largest city in the Valencia province and one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal cities. It’s one of the most touristy cities in Spain (especially for solo travelers in Spain ) during the summer but yet somehow it managed to keep its authentic vibe throughout the years. That’s why Alicante might not be the best choice for a day trip from Valencia, simply because there are a lot more things worth seeing and one day just isn’t enough. 

Some of Alicante’s most iconic landmarks include the Castle of Santa Bárbara which sits atop a hill overlooking the city, the Archaeological Museum of Alicante which takes visitors on a journey through 100,000 years of history, Explanada de España, one of the most picturesque walking streets in Spain, the 14th-century Basilica de Santa Maria, Playa del Postiguet- one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, and the scenic Cave of Las Huertas, just to name a few. 

Getting to Alicante:  Since Alicante is the second-largest city in the province and is only 160 kilometers away from Valencia, it’s easily accessible via train, bus, or even ride-sharing. 

If you’re visiting Alicante and looking for a great tour, we suggest the Secrets of Alicante and if you’re looking for a place to stay, use our booking.com affiliate link to get discounts on all hotels in Alicante.

Torrevieja is another beautiful coastal town located near Alicante that somehow still manages to remain under most tourists’ radars. The town’s most attractive features are its beautiful beaches but that’s not all Torrevieja has to offer. You can also visit the beautiful natural park on the town’s outskirts that’s home to two picturesque lakes, one of which is bright green and the other pink in color. And if even that’s not enough, you can also visit the historic town center, the maritime museum, and admire the views from the Torre del Moro viewpoint.

Getting to Torrevieja:  Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct bus or train service from Valencia to Torrevieja but you can go from Valencia to Alicante and get a bus to Torrevieja from there. 

Looking for a place to stay? Use our booking.com affiliate link to get discounts on all hotels in Torrevieja.

Lastly, we round up this list of the best day trips from Valencia with Tabarca, an islet located in the Mediterranean Sea known for its crystal-clear waters and marine reserve. A trip to Tabarca will reward you with some of the most beautiful views of the Mediterranean and one of the best scuba diving opportunities in Spain.

Getting to Tabarca:  The best way to get to Tabarca si to go to Alicante by train and hop on a ferry that will take you to the islet in around 45 minutes. You can prebook your ferry ticket here for only 15 euros.

Did you like our list of the best day trips from Valencia? Did you ever take any of these trips? Which one was your favorite? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! 

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33 Top Reasons to Visit Valencia: Why See the Spanish City

• Post author: Naddya
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: February 8, 2023

If you’re wondering whether to put the Mediterranean city on your itinerary, let us tell you this:

Valencia is worth visiting for its incredible historical, cultural, and culinary surprises. Architecture buffs will love the mind-bending City of Arts and Sciences ; nature lovers – the gorgeous Turia Park ; food aficionados – the traditional cuisine; and culture vultures – the diverse museums.

On top of that, Valencia is cheaper than Barcelona.

In this article, you’ll find the top 33 reasons to visit Valencia, Spain . By the end of the article, you’ll understand why people go to the third-largest Spanish city.

Buckle up and let’s discover!

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Visit Valencia for the Incredible Foods and Drinks

The coastal town is the birthplace of some of the most famous traditional dishes in the country. Get a napkin now, because the following section enlists the foods and drinks that make Valencia worth visiting.

• Paella . Spain’s most popular meal originates from Valencia. The classic paella features fried chicken, rabbit, tomatoes, beans, and rice. Our favorite version is paella de mariscos , which epitomizes seafood. If you’d like to taste the original, head to Albufera Natural Park. The birthplace of paella is the small village of El Palmar, about 16 mi (25.5 km) from Valencia. We recommend joining this excursion .
• Fideuà . This pasta dish hails from the small Valencian town Gandía. Fideuà is very similar to paella, but instead of rice, it combines noodles and seafood. The rice noodles in the fideuà soak up the broth and tomato-pepper sauce while cooking, which brings out the rich seafood flavors. Enjoy it with a generous splash of lemon.
• All-i-pebre . The fiery stew all-i-pebre is only for the most adventurous travelers. It brings together eel, potatoes, almonds, garlic, and chili peppers to redefine the term scrumptiousness. If you love spicy food, order this amazing combo. Our best advice is to get lots of bread and beer on the table, too – to be able to put out the fire in your mouth.
• Cocas . If you like pizza, you’ll love cocas ! You can eat these diverse flatbreads with a variety of toppings, either sweet or salty. The options include vegan, vegetarian, fish, meat, and every other imaginable combination. Valencianos love cocas a lot and prefer them over pizza. They might even try to convince you their dish is tastier than the Italian one. We’ll leave it to you to decide which one’s your favorite.
• Turrón . The mouthwatering sweet seduction from Valencia is a nougat confection made of sugar, honey, and egg whites. It’s toasted with almonds or other nuts, and its purpose is to send your taste buds into culinary heaven.  Turrón  comes in a huge variety of flavors and textures, so make sure to try as many as you can. It makes a perfect souvenir to bring home, too.
• Bunyols . Usually associated with the colorful Las Fallas festival in March, these sweet, deep-fried donuts will give you plenty of energy to enjoy the parade to the fullest. The yeast dough is often flavored with anise and pumpkin. For the ultimate foodgasm, dip your buñuelos (or  bunyols ) into a cup of thick hot chocolate.
• Horchata . Popular not only in Valencia but everywhere in Spain,  horchata  is a beverage that looks like a milkshake. However, the refreshing drink is made of tiger nuts (“chufas” in Spanish). You can enjoy it hot or cold, and add a ton of different flavors to it. Naddya’s favorite is the lemon horchata. The beverage is so popular there’s even a museum dedicated to it. Visiting Alquería El Machistre is one of the most  peculiar things to do in Valencia .
• Agua Valenciana . Invented in 1959 in Cafe Madrid de Valencia, this staple cocktail hasn’t lost its popularity since. Valencian Water, as the name translates, has nothing to do with water, though. The cocktail brings together gin, vodka, and orange juice, which join forces with cava, the Spanish sparkling wine, for a powerful punch.
• Oranges . The sweet citrus fruits farmed in the Valencian region are famous for their extraordinary flavor and sweetness. They’re harvested at their optimum ripeness, which means there’s no better place to order a glass of  zumo de naranja  (freshly squeezed orange juice) than the cafés of Valencia. If you want to stock up on vitamin C, visiting Valencia and devouring locally-produced oranges is a must.

Go to Valencia for the Jaw-dropping Attractions

Valencia is worth visiting for its diverse landmarks . Medieval structures, eclectic museums, vibrant marketplaces, and lush parks all await you in the gorgeous Spanish city. Let’s explore them below.

• City of Arts and Sciences . The slick, surprising curves of the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias have earned the landmark a spot among the so-called 12 Treasures of Spain. It’s also among the things Valencia is most famous for . The mind-boggling complex consists of several attractions, such as:
• Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe  – an interactive science museum.
• L’Oceanogràfic  – the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe.
• L’Hemisfèric  – an IMAX cinema, laserium, and planetarium.
• Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia  – an opera house and a performing arts center.
• L’Umbracle  – a sculpture garden and a trail featuring indigenous plants.
• L’Àgora  – a covered plaza, which hosts music concerts and sporting events.
• Valencia’s Old Town . Ciutat Vella (the Old Town) offers a walk through history . It consists of five neighborhoods and is perfect for soaking up the city’s lively vibe. The most notable spots in Valencia’s historic center include the bustling Plaza de la Reina , the Gothic Valencia Cathedral , the Modernist Central Market , and the medieval Torres de Quart . You should also explore the intricate collections at the National Ceramics Museum and the fascinating history of the Silk Exchange .
• Turia Gardens . If you decide to take a break from sightseeing, head to the gorgeous Túria Park . The extraordinary recreational area spans the city. In the 1960s, the authorities diverted the Turia River as it was often flooding Valencia. They then turned the dried riverbed into one of the best green spaces in Europe. The park invites for a picnic, exercising, strolling, or relaxing in the shade. Several historic bridges, charming ponds, and quirky sculptures make it even more exciting to visit.
• Valencia Cathedral . The 13 th -century Valencia Cathedral embodies Gothic-style architectural elements. The temple dominates the skyline of the Old Town. The stunning church is dedicated to Saint Mary and contains several priceless 15 th -century paintings. Hidden in one of the chapels, it holds a chalice that locals insist is the Holy Grail itself.
• Estacio del Nord . When  traveling from Barcelona to Valencia , your train will arrive at Estacio del Nord . Valencia’s central railway station is not only a major transportation hub but also a magnificent example of the Valencian Art Nouveau style. The building was inaugurated in 1852. The lavishly decorated façade will capture your eyes, but the interior is equally stunning. It features mind-blowing decorations including intricate tiles, mosaics, and stained-glass windows.
• Central Market . Another magnificent Valencian Art Nouveau structure is Mercado Central. The marketplace from the beginning of the 20 th century pays respect to its older neighbors by incorporating architectural elements from their styles. You can see Gothic and Baroque influences in the domes at the crossings of the wrought-iron roof. The stunning covered market is also one of the largest in Europe. Stroll between the countless colorful stalls, where you’ll find fresh fish, fruits, and veggies.
• Silk Exchange . La Lonja de la Seda integrates the late Valencian Gothic style. In the 17 th and 18 th centuries, silk and textile trading was a viral part of the Valencian economy. The Silk Exchange is where most of the business occurred. The complex consists of three structures. The most important one is The Contract Hall. As the name suggests, merchants worked out the details of their deals inside. Two large twisted columns hold the roof over the intricate space. Don’t skip the other structures and learn their peculiar history as well.
• Jardí Botànic . The Botanical Garden is one of the green lungs of the city. It’s part of the University of Valencia. The historic garden opened its doors in 1802 and remains a center for study, education, and public use. Inside, you’ll discover several ecosystems. Endemic and endangered Mediterranean species coexist with rare exotic succulents and gigantic palm trees from around the world.
• Playa de Malvarrosa . You can’t go to Valencia and not visit its beaches. Malvarrosa Beach is not only the city’s most famous stretch of sand. It’s also its longest. Here, you can entertain yourself with beach volleyball, outdoor fitness equipment, and kids’ playgrounds. Don’t miss sampling local delicacies and cool refreshments at Playa del Malvarrosa’s funky restaurants.
• Las Arenas Beach . Another very popular sand stretch in the Spanish city is Playa del Cabanyal , also known as Playa de las Arenas . Unfortunately, it’s also the busiest, especially in summer. If you don’t mind the crowds, finding it is easy. Las Arenas is the first beach north of the massive Port of Valencia.
• Playa de la Patacona . Also known as Alboraya , you’ll find this fantastic sandy beach next to Playa de Malvarrosa. The azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the unique vibe of the beach, and its clean bright sand make this a wonderful spot to relax. When you grow tired of sunbathing and swimming, take a stroll under the canopy of tall palm trees that dot Playa de la Patacona ’s boardwalk.

Go to Valencia for the Astonishing Museums

Spain’s third-largest city boasts a ton of stunning exhibitions. In the following section, you’ll discover the museums and galleries Valencia is worth visiting for. Let’s dive into the world of science and art!

• Science Museum . Part of the mind-boggling City of Arts and Sciences complex, Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe is worth checking out even if science is not your thing. It’s housed in a building shaped like a whale skeleton. Inside the interactive museum, you can admire anything from explosions to groundbreaking technologies. Check out Foucault’s Pendulum to see the proof of Earth’s motion in action. Visit the museum’s website to catch some of the fun events it organizes.
• Museu de Belles Arts de València . With its nearly 2,000 pieces, The Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia is a true hidden gem for culture vultures. The art on display dates from medieval times to the modern age, and includes works mainly from Valencian and Spanish artists. Don’t miss the highlights of the exposition: the self-portrait of Diego Velázquez, the “Altarpiece of Arts” by Gonzalo Pérez, Goya’s “Playing Children”, and El Greco’s “St. John the Baptist”.
• Museo Nacional de Cerámica y Artes Suntuarias González Martí . The exhibition contains ceramics, pottery, and decorative arts covering periods from ancient Roman to contemporary times. Glassware, metalwork, textiles, costumes, and furniture have also made it into the collection of the National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts . One of the highlights is the world’s largest Valencian ceramics exhibit. The items date back to the 16 th century. The palace, which houses the museum, reflects 18 th -century Valencian Baroque architecture and is worth exploring for its design.
• Museo del Arroz . As we’ve established in the foods and drinks section, rice plays a huge role in Spanish cuisine. So, when you visit Valencia, don’t skip this unusual museum near the port. At Museo Del Arroz , you’ll explore the history of farming and the mechanics of processing the staple food. You’ll also discover more about rice cultivation and the central role it plays in the cuisine of Valencia.
• Museo Taurino . Despite its controversy, bullfighting is a huge topic in Spain. If you want to explore the history of this dangerous yet traditional activity, head to Museo Taurino . Its exhibition shows you tools from the 18 th , 19 th , and 20 th centuries, and showcases the history and features of this Spanish practice. The museum is adjacent to Plaza del Toro, a bullfighting arena that’s still functioning today.
• L’Iber . Valencia boasts many unconventional museums, but L’Iber Museo de Los Soldaditos de Plomo  might be the most unusual of them.  L’Iber hosts the world’s biggest collection of historical miniatures. Inside its exhibition rooms, you can see nearly 100,000 pieces. The miniatures tell the history of Valencia and Spain, from the prehistoric and ancient eras until today. Note that the museum is open only on weekends.
• L’Almoina . Almoina Archaeological Museum brings together a huge collection of archaeological pieces from the history of Valencia and the region. You’ll discover artifacts from the city’s foundation by the Romans in the 2 nd century BC till the Middle Ages. L’Almoina is next to the Valencia Cathedral and covers 27,000 sq. ft. (2,500 sq. m). Ruins from several periods of the city’s development will transport you back in time.
• L’Oceanogràfic . The gigantic Oceanographic is another place in the City of Arts and Sciences complex that you should pay a visit to while in Valencia. It’s the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe, housing 45,000 animals from 500 species. The attraction features several sections, each representing a different marine ecosystem. You can see Mediterranean, tropical, temperate, and polar creatures in the oceanarium’s waters. Don’t miss observing the dolphin show, the beluga family, and the penguins. Check out the submarine restaurant, too.

Travel to Valencia for the Peculiar Festivals

Following Spain’s tradition in organizing bizarre fests, the birthplace of paella adds a specific layer to the country’s quirkiness. In this section, you’ll discover the festivals worth seeing in Valencia.

• Las Fallas . Taking part in this wild festival is among the craziest reasons to visit Valencia. Las Fallas celebrates the beginning of spring and the fest reaches its peak on March 15 and 16. That’s when the “falleros” have just one night to build the gigantic Ninot Fallas. The fallas are massive figures from wood and paper-mâché that reach up to 49 ft. (15 m). They parade on the streets of Valencia in front of spectators and judges. The jury then chooses the best figure, and the rest gets burned.
• Carnaval . If you travel to the Spanish city in February, don’t skip the chance to take part in the carnival festivities. Even though the local carnaval is not as extravagant as the ones in Cádiz and Tenerife, it’s still one of the reasons people visit Valencia. The celebrations include funky street parades, extravagant costumes, and lively music.
• Fiesta de San Vicente Ferrer . Visiting Valencia in April? You can join the festival in honor of San Vicente Ferrer. Locals have been celebrating the patron saint of the community of Valencia since the Middle Ages. The most important day of the Fiesta de San Vicente Ferrer is April 5, when a grand procession overtakes the streets of Valencia. The participants dress in traditional Valencian costumes and carry candles, making the sight a visual feast.
• Feria de Valencia . This fall festival reveals the distinctive culture and vibe of Valencia. An array of events featuring performing arts, film, opera, theater, and concerts entertain the crowds. The culmination of Feria de Valencia is the spectacular firework display that lights up the night sky.
• La Tomatina . Just 24 mi (39 km) west of Valencia, the small town of Buñol hosts the largest tomato fight in the world. During La Tomatina , Participants throw more than 125 tons of ripe tomatoes at each other for two hours straight. The crazy tradition began in 1945, and has gained huge popularity throughout the world. Personally, we don’t approve of the insane waste of fruit, but if you’ve ever wanted to smash tomatoes in other people’s faces, travel to Buñol in August.

Now You Know Why You Should Visit Valencia, Spain

There you have it – the best 33 reasons to visit Valencia .

The birthplace of paella will steal your heart with its gorgeous beaches, extravagant attractions, fun festivals, and peculiar museums.

To best prepare for your trip, don’t miss our top Valencia travel tips .

Now, we’re wondering:

Do you think Valencia is worth seeing?

Share your view in the comments below.

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Gosh! Valencia looks lusciously lovely. I want to go there. Now! Arthur, book the flights!

Hey Connie,

Valencia is absolutely gorgeous! You and Arthur will definitely have a blast 🙂

Let us know if you need help planning your trip 😉

Cheers, Naddya and Svet

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