Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. The City Tour and Tapas Shore Excursion offers a chance to take in this enchanting destination. From the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to the charming Old Town, the tour takes travelers on a journey through Valencia’s cultural highlights. But the true delight lies in the opportunity to savor the region’s renowned tapas and wines, all while surrounded by the walls of an 11th-century monument. Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural experience or simply craving a taste of Spanish indulgence, this excursion promises to leave you wanting more.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Shore Excursions In Valencia.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 5-hour Valencia city tour for cruise passengers, including guided visits to the City of Arts and Sciences and the historic Old Town.
- Indulge in a 2-hour traditional Valencian lunch with tapas and regional wines at an 11th-century monument.
- Small-group tour limited to 12 participants for a personalized experience, with round-trip transportation from the Port of Valencia.
- Flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and accessibility for wheelchair users.
- Tour rated 5 out of 5 based on customer reviews, highlighting the quality of the guide and culinary experience.
Tour Overview
This Valencia City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights, including the iconic City of Arts and Sciences and the historic Old Town.
Priced at around Kč 2,882 per person, the 5-hour English-language tour is accessible for wheelchair users and features a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers will enjoy a guided tour of the City of Arts and Sciences’ stunning architecture, followed by a walking exploration of Valencia’s Old Town, including the Plaza de la Virgen and Mercado Central.
The tour culminates in a 2-hour lunch and wine tasting at an 11th-century monument, where participants can savor traditional Valencian tapas and paella.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Valencia.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a pickup at the Port of Valencia, Terminal Trasmediterranea, where guests meet their guide at 9 AM.
From there, they travel by private car for 15 minutes to the City of Arts and Sciences, spending an hour exploring the complex’s remarkable architecture on a guided tour.
Next, they head to Valencia’s Old Town, again by private car, for a 1-hour guided tour of sights like Plaza de la Virgen and Mercado Central.
The highlight is a 2-hour lunch at an 11th-century monument, featuring traditional tapas, Valencian paella, and regional wines.
City of Arts and Sciences
After arriving at the port, guests board a private car and in 15 minutes reach the City of Arts and Sciences.
This futuristic complex, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, serves as the first stop on the guided tour.
For one hour, the guide leads the group through this architectural masterpiece, highlighting its innovative design and diverse facilities.
Visitors marvel at the sleek, white structures, including the Hemisfèric IMAX theater, the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, and the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium.
The guide shares fascinating details about the complex’s history, purpose, and sustainability features, providing guests with a comprehensive understanding of this iconic Valencia landmark.
Valencia Old Town
Next, the tour group hops back into the private car and heads to Valencia’s captivating Old Town, a 15-minute drive away. The guided tour takes them through the charming Plaza de la Virgen and the bustling Mercado Central, a historic market brimming with fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.
Plaza de la Virgen | Mercado Central |
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The stunning plaza is surrounded by impressive Gothic and Baroque buildings, including the Cathedral of Valencia. | This vibrant indoor market dates back to the 13th century and offers a glimpse into the daily life of the city. |
Visitors can admire the intricate architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere. | Guests can browse the stalls, sample local specialties, and enjoy the authentic Spanish market experience. |
Lunch and Wine Tasting
Following their exploration of Valencia’s historic Old Town, the tour group now heads to an 11th century monument for a 2-hour lunch and wine tasting experience.
Here, they’ll savor traditional Valencian tapas and paella, accompanied by regional wines. The venue’s historic setting adds to the authenticity of the culinary journey.
Guests can expect a leisurely and convivial atmosphere as they sample the flavors that have made Valencia’s cuisine renowned. This 2-hour interlude provides a delightful respite, allowing travelers to recharge and enjoy the local culture through its time-honored gastronomic traditions.
After the satisfying meal, the tour resumes, continuing to showcase Valencia’s architectural and cultural highlights.
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Highlights of the Tour
The tour highlights Valencia’s architectural wonders, such as the captivating City of Arts and Sciences, as well as the city’s historic Old Town, where guests can enjoy the local culture. A small-group experience limited to 12 participants ensures an intimate and personalized exploration. The tour also features a delectable tapas and wine tasting in an 11th-century monument, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the region. With round-trip transportation to the port, the tour is designed with cruise passengers in mind, making it a seamless and convenient way to discover the highlights of Valencia.
Highlight | Description |
---|---|
City of Arts and Sciences | Guided tour exploring the complex’s captivating architecture |
Valencia Old Town | Visit to the historic Plaza de la Virgen and Mercado Central |
Tapas and Wine Tasting | Enjoy traditional Valencian cuisine and regional wines in an 11th-century monument |
Small-Group Experience | Tour limited to 12 participants for a personalized and intimate exploration |
Important Information
The tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking at a casual pace on flat ground. Guests should be prepared for this level of physical activity.
While the tour highlights the architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, entry fees to the complex aren’t included. Plus, the Mercado Central is closed on Sundays, so tours on those days won’t visit the market.
The tour may be canceled due to severe weather, and in such cases, full refunds will be issued. It’s important for guests to keep this weather policy in mind when planning their excursion.
The tour is designed to be accessible for wheelchair users, ensuring a comfortable experience for all participants.
Customer Feedback
Customers have praised the combination of historical exploration and culinary experiences offered by the Valencia City Tour, rating the excursion highly at 5 out of 5 based on 5 reviews.
Guests highlighted the quality of the guide and the tapas tasting, with many considering it a trip highlight.
The tour’s design for cruise passengers with round-trip transport to the port was also appreciated.
Reviewers felt the balance between visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, the Valencia Old Town, and the tapas and wine tasting at an 11th-century monument was an excellent way to experience the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Attractions?
While the tour has a set itinerary, the provider may be able to accommodate requests to visit specific attractions. Passengers should inquire about customization options when booking to ensure their desired sights are included within the tour’s duration and schedule.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour can be extended, but it may come at an additional cost. Customers should check with the tour operator to inquire about extending the duration and any associated fees. The specifics of customization options are not clearly outlined in the provided information.
Are Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
The tour accommodates dietary restrictions and food allergies upon request. Guests should notify the tour operator in advance to ensure their needs are met during the tapas and wine tasting portion of the experience.
Is There an Option to Explore the City on Our Own After the Tour?
The tour provides a guided experience, but there may be an opportunity to explore the city independently after the scheduled activities. Guests should inquire with the tour operator about any self-guided options or free time at the end of the organized tour.
Can We Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Items During the Tour?
Participants can purchase additional souvenirs or items during the tour. The itinerary includes time for exploring Valencia’s historic Mercado Central, where visitors can browse and shop for local goods and crafts to take home as mementos.
Recap
Experience the vibrant culture of Valencia with the City Tour and Tapas Shore Excursion.
This immersive 5-hour journey offers a perfect blend of architecture, history, and culinary delights.
Explore the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, the historic Old Town, and savor traditional Valencian tapas and regional wines at an 11th-century monument.
With a small group size and wheelchair accessibility, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the heart of this captivating Spanish city.
You can check availability for your dates here:More City Tours in Valencia
- Valencia: Highlights City Tour by Bike with Local Guide
- Valencia: Private City Center Highlights Tour with a Local
- Valencia: 3-Hour City Bike Tour
- Valencia, Biketour of all the city with a local guide
- Valencia Treasure Hunt: Uncover the City’s Secrets
- Valencia (Ruzafa): Guided Bike Tour of the city’s highlights
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