To inspire and help you to see more of the world, whether its down the road or across the globe. Get Your Guide and Viator have some great organised day tours from Valencia to choose from. Its beach,Playa de El Saler, is the nearest pleasant beach to Valencia. Montanejos is difficult to reach by public transport, but there are other ways to reach the town. You can walk amongst the beautiful vineyards, visit the historic wine cellars, and sample the local produce. This island is a natural paradise, with an abundance of interesting plants, animals and marine life. By train: Trains between Valencia and Teruel run several times a day and take around 2hrs 30mins. Id recommend using OMIO to check routes and schedules, and to book tickets in advance. Disclosure: I may earn a small commission from the companies or products mentioned in this post. The region has over 85,000 acres of vineyards and 60 different wineries. The caves and river are believed to date back to the Triassic era. Travel Tip: Nature lovers won't want to miss the Sierra Calderona Natural Park nearby, home to some of the region's best hiking. This article is written by Faraway Lucy writer, Robyn Hewson. On a tour: You can visit both Teruel andAlbarracin(below) on an organised day trip from Valencia. The city is the preeminent place to experience Mudjar architecture, a style of Moorish building and decoration that appears throughout the city, from the 14th-century Mudjar tower to the 12th-century Catedral de Santa Mara de Mediavilla. Situated just off the coast of Alicante, this enchanting marine reserve is the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community. Ten paintings byZurbaranhang in the Convento de las Capuchinas, while theLonja, the old hemp exchange, is worth a look as well. Getting There: Trains run throughout the day from Valencia and take around 30 minutes. Visitors can experience a delicious, authentic meal at one of the local restaurants. Be sure to try this local dish at an authentic spot such as Casa Julia or Restaurante Telero. Getting There: Spain's national bus company,ALSA, runs the bus service that goes from Valencia to Denia. Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with ancient pink-hued houses and traditional hanging balconies, while colourful domed towers peak above the rooftops. Check with boat tour operators in advance, as some will also provide transfers from Valencia. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'londoncitycalling_com-banner-1','ezslot_2',120,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-londoncitycalling_com-banner-1-0')};Escape the city and take a walk or cycle along one of the signposted routes through the nature reserve. What Albarracn lacks in population (just 1,075 inhabitants), it makes up for in stunning natural landscapes and rich history. Im a sucker for a UK staycation and youll usually find me up a mountain at the weekend with a camera in hand. Damian Corrigan is a travel writer who has traveled extensively throughout Spain since moving there in 2003. Its hard to believe this natural paradise is located right outside the city. In fact, if youre looking to try one of Valencias most famous dishes, you cant get more authentic than the Albufera region. The pretty coastal town doesnt yet have the same international recognition as the likes of Alicante or Bendorm. Depending on your fitness level, it takes 1-2hrs. of the locally produced wine. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to discover hidden gems off the beaten track. Its one of the best day trips from Valencia for fans of stunning beaches, medieval castles and delicious food. Some people choose to visit Alicante and Torrevieja in the same day. In the village itself, youll feel like youve stepped back in time to the Middle Ages. This lovely little town can be found about an hour south of Valencia and slightly inland. By bike: For cyclists, theres a scenic bike route that takes you between Valencia and Albufera. While the former is home to a large expat population from all over Europe, it also boasts a lovely historic old town and relaxed beach vibe. The history around every narrow corner will amaze you! 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. On a tour: You can book a private day tour to Xtiva with a local. Tabarca provides visitors with a relaxing interlude from the bustling streets of Valencia, and the chance to explore a charming and untouched Spanish island. From there, take a catamaran to Javea withMundo Marino. The best places to visit in Northern Italy, 14 Things To Do In Kas, Turkey | A Little Slice , 12 things to do in Snowdonia (other than climb Snowdon), Where to stay in Manchester, UK | Area & Hotel Guide. Not a postcard, but it could be! theculturemap Sagunto dates back almost 3,000 years and is absolutely brimming with history. It was once the location of the Roman city ofSaguntum. You can start your journey here by walking around the city walls, taking in the views of the town and the sea. While there are plenty of lively spots to choose from, you wont regret a trip to the special Restaurante Ojal. Lets get exploring! El Palmar is the main town in the region and where you'll find the most traditional paella restaurants in the area. By car: Driving from Valencia to Sagunto takes around 30mins. 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. Less than an hour south of Valencias busy city center lies this calm corner of nature. If you prefer freshwater to seawater, take a short drive to El Palmar and try an Albufera boat trip. Not sure where to start? Alicante is easily accessible via train, bus or rideshare. Craving paella? Cool off at theAquopolis water parkand visitDragut's Cave, named after a 16th-century pirate.. The traditional thatched-roof cottages in this fishermens village are charming, but the locals hospitality is unbeatable. Irene Miravete/Getty Images. Interested in visiting? The city has been on must-visit lists for gourmets since 2015, the year the city was named Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. By car: The drive to Pescola from Valencia takes around 1hr 45mins and is your best option for a day trip from Valencia. Be sure to allow time for long, leisurely meals made with the region's freshest ingredients (you're on vacation, after all). Easily accessible from Valencia, this beautiful village features a limestone gorge, impressive mountains and views that will take your breath away. Book well in advance for the stand-out seasonal menus with wine pairings. The city is energetic and inviting, without being overwhelming. Situated within the Valencian Community, Alicante is a bustling coastal city filled with restaurants, lively bars and scenic beaches. By bus: Jump on the EMTcity bus No. Look for those heading to Cartagena, which take about 1 hour 45 minutes. From quaint coastal towns to Spains lively capital, theres something for everyone. With an array of beaches, an attractive harbour and a marina, this picturesque city is one of the best day trips from Valencia. Due to the time involved in preparing a quality paella, it's often advised to call the restaurant ahead of time to reserve your dishthat way, you won't be waiting upwards of an hour for them to prepare it once you arrive. The route starts at the City of Arts and Sciences and ends at the town of El Saler. The last Wednesday in August marks Spains messiest festival. You can explore the mesmerising caves and stunning underground river on an 800-meter boat ride and a 250-meter walking tour. spain cordoba zaragoza seville granada valencia madrid barcelona tour attractions things tickets tripadvisor You can reach Pescola by car in an hour and a half from Valencia. Utiel-Requena is a Spanish DOP protected wine region close to Valencia. Unlike the bustling streets of Barcelona, Madrid exudes laid-back charm. Sat in the province of Castelln in the larger Region of the Valencian Community, Montanejos is one of the most popular day trips from Valencia with locals and tourists alike. The main grape grown in the area is the nativeBobal variety, which is used to produce fruity, medium to full-bodied red wines. Home to a fine cathedral, the old executioner tower and the remains of an old aqueduct, the medieval village of Segorbe is a must for history buffs. You'll get a copy of my Spanish Cooking Essentials checklist when you do! All rights reserved. Getting There: Most Renfe trains from Valencia will get you to Castelln in 40 minutes to an hour. A post shared by Coves de Sant Josep (@covesdesantjosep). Its one of the most peaceful day trips from Valencia, but also could serve as a stop on the way to Barcelona. Read our Privacy Policy. By train: Trains from Valencia North Station to Xtiva run daily and the journey takes around 45mins. Watch for the visiting exhibitions and book museums and galleries in advance to secure entry. Its one of the best places in Spain for food and drink, and some of the countrys best restaurants are along the coastline. With excellent transport links and a prime location on the southeast coast, Valencia is the perfect base for exploring Spain. From the Romans to the Moors to even Hannibal himself, theres hardly a historic invader thathasntpassed through this hilltop town 30 km north of Valencia. Its no wonder why many consider this tinypuebloone of the most beautiful villages in Spain. These two can also be combined into a single day trip from Valencia. The Va Verde - Ojos Negros route is easily accessible from the city. Looking for more to do in the city itself? Quicker trains run from Valencia Joaqun Sorolla to Requena-Utiel Station in just 22mins. Spanish Almond Cake (Tarta de Santiago Recipe), Top 6 Day Trips from Valencia For When You Need a Break. The views of the Mediterranean from Pescola are breathtaking. On a day trip to Albufera, youll also discover the origins of Valencian cuisine. By trains: Trains run regularly from Valencia North to the towns of Utiel and Requena. This unmissable city is located high up in the mountains, and it provides visitors with a unique and memorable experience. And of course, dont forget to try a glass (or several!) Chulilla is situated an hour and a half away from Valencia and you can reach this scenic village by train or bus. By car: Coves de San Jos is around a 45mins drive from Valencia. spatari Visit the network of caves and tunnels located beneath the city for a glimpse at its fascinating past. This triggered one of the most important wars of antiquity, theSecond Punic War. Denia, on the other hand, is a can't-miss seaside destination in its own right, popular among everyone from locals to international tourists. Xtivas picture-perfect historic center and Arab quarter are perfect for a day of exploration, with thousands of years of history in each cobblestone street. Made with locally grown rice, this stuff is the real dealalthough be aware that it may be on the expensive side. as well as an attractive, easily accessible beach. So which of these day trips from Valencia do you want to go on most? Explore the old town, perched between the more lively Levante beach and the quieter residential Poniente side. Explore Requenas beautiful historic center and take a relaxing stroll through its vineyards. After this, you can visit Sagunto Castle, an ancient building with lots of stories to tell. The area has some 40,000 hectares (98,842 acres) of vineyards growing a variety of grapes most notably the native Bobal grape. If youre lucky enough to arrive on a market day, you can browse through the eclectic mix of stalls. Here youll find bars, restaurants, cafes and even a casino. Top 5 Wine Bars in Valencia No Vino Lover Can MIss, 4 Incredible Wine Tastings in Valencia You Should Check Out, Best Spanish Tortilla Recipe (Tortilla de Patatas), Best Patatas Bravas Recipe Easy Spanish Fried Potatoes with Spicy Sauce. The town of Albarracn is also found in Spains Aragon region, just a short distance from Teruel. The best way to reach Tabarca is to catch a train to Alicante. But this is exactly what makes it a must-visit. But there's more to this historic city than just that. Theres also an array of museums, art galleries, quirky bars and outstanding restaurants to check out too. Trains leave throughout the day and the journey takes just over half an hour. Im a 20-something Brit who loves to pack in as much adventure around work as possible. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Subscribe for free weekly recipes and you'll get a copy of Spanish Cooking Essentials checklist! By public transport: If public transport is your only option, you can take the train to Teruel then jump in a taxi. Although the towns 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 Buol Fair in August, which culminates in a battle between the two resident music societies. If you rent a car, head down the AP-7 you can even stop in Dnia en route where the journey will take around 90 minutes. cool and unique things to do in Valencia. Families should head to Terra Mtica, a theme park on the resorts outskirts, for a day of thrilling rollercoasters and vertiginous water rides. Theres so much to explore in this vibrant city, from the impressive shops of the Gran Va to the unexpected greenery of Retiro Park. Buses leave Estacin de Autobuses de Valencia for Almeria via Dnia regularly and take about 90 minutes. Travel Tip: Legend says that Gandia is the home offideu, a noodle-based cousin of paella. By car: The drive between Valencia and Xtiva takes around 45mins. Getting There: The AVE high-speed train gets you from Valencia to Madrid in under two hours. 2022 Lonely Planet. Alsa buses are also available, but travel time is about 90 minutes. Photo credit: Christies Real Estate, Keep Exploring: Top Vineyard Tours Near Valencia. You might also like:The best time to go to Spain15 free things to do in MadridTrail magic happens all the time on Spains best hikes. Getting There: Gandia-bound Alsa buses depart Valencia several times a day. He has written about the country full time since 2006. By car: The drive between Valencia and Albarracin takes around 2hrs. However, theres more to this beautiful village than sun and sand. For less than 10, you can get a bus or train that takes you from Valencia to Castellon de la Plana. Once you're ready to explore beyond the Spanish capital, visit beautiful village, Roman ruins and walled cities on these top day trips from Madrid. If you visit Madrid on a Sunday, make sure to walk through the El Rastro market in Plaza Cascorro. Renting a car or using a car share is a good option for this journey, which will take around two hours. In addition to some of the best paella in Spain, restaurants in El Palmar also offer fresh seafood directly from the lake, including tender freshwater eel used in all i pebre, another one of the must-try typical foods from Valencia. From tapas to wine, jamn to paella, here are the best Spanish dishes and where to try them. The Parc de LAigera is also worth a wander; the neoclassical park stretches up through the town and is home to two amphitheatres that often house concerts. 1hr 30mins. Head to the nearby village of El Palmar, which was once an island in the lake and is located in the park itself. Private yacht hire is another option if you want a more personalized tour of the coastline. Then stroll back through the narrow streets and grab a tapa and vino at one of the many traditional tascas. The hotel has hosted everyone from Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner to Princess Grace of Monaco and visiting dignitaries. The two destinations can be visited together on a single day trip from Valencia. Coves de San Jos or Caves of San Jos is a spectacular cave system thats home to the longest navigatable underground river in Europe. oostkust dagtour Other enjoying the towns beaches, you can take a wander around its narrow cobbled streets, browse the local craft shops, and visit the Museo de Mar to learn about the areas seafairing past. On a tour: You can visitAlbarracin and Teruel together on an organised day trip from Valencia. This popular neighbourhood is teeming with bespoke shops and trendy caf-bars. Writer Daniel Welsch divides his time between Madrid and Barcelona. Mudjar is a distinctive style that dates back to the time when Christians and Muslims first began to live side-by-side in Spain and the two cultures and styles became intertwined. 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With a coastline filled with picturesque towns and beautiful beaches to the north and south and mountains sprinkled with Medieval villages and ancient castles to the west, theres something for every style of traveller. Keep an eye on the schedule as the buses arent too regular.