Tour of the Borgias with Cathedral included in Valencia

Exploring the Borgias in Valencia: A Deep Dive into History and Heritage

If you’re curious about the infamous Borgia family and their connection to Valencia, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into their past. Spanning approximately 2.5 hours, it combines walking through historic streets, visiting significant sites, and learning about two of Spain’s most notable popes—Calixto III and Alexander VI. The experience is designed for history buffs, culture lovers, and those keen on uncovering the lesser-known stories behind European power struggles.

What really makes this tour shine is the passion of the guides, particularly Paulino, who impresses with his knowledge and engaging storytelling. For just around $27, you get a well-rounded, value-packed journey into the family’s legacy, along with a visit to the iconic Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Chalice. One thing to consider is that some sites, like the Borgia Palace, are not open to the public, which might leave some wishing for a more in-depth look at certain locations.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy walking tours, historical narratives, and authentic city explorations. It’s ideal for those who prefer small groups (max 15 people) and appreciate guided insights that go beyond basic facts. If your interest lies in European history, religious figures, or Valencia’s local stories, this tour offers a compelling way to see the city through the Borgias’ eyes.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Paulino provide engaging, factual storytelling that makes history come alive.
• Authentic Locations: Visit historic sites like Plaza de Manises, San Nicolas Church, Valencia Cathedral, and more, with detailed explanations.
• Included Entry: The cathedral visit includes entrance, and the Holy Chalice adds an extra special element.
• Concise & Well-Paced: The 2.5-hour duration hits a sweet spot—enough time to explore thoroughly without feeling rushed.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Good Value: For around $27, you receive a comprehensive tour packed with information, guided explanations, and access to major landmarks.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Plaza de Manises

The adventure begins in Plaza de Manises, outside the Generalitat Valenciana. Here, your guide—most likely Paulino—sets the stage by introducing the Borgia family, emphasizing their Valencian roots and their remarkable journey to papal power. This initial stop, lasting about 15 minutes, sets a relaxed tone with plenty of room for questions. Many reviews mention how enthusiastic and knowledgeable Paulino is, making complex history accessible and engaging.

San Nicolas Church: A Window into Calixto III’s Life

Next, you’ll pause in front of the San Nicolas de Bari y San Pedro Martir church, standing before its original façade. This spot is meaningful as it marks the childhood and early life of Alfonso de Borgia, who would become Pope Calixto III. The guide shares anecdotes about his background, and many reviews praise the way Paulino contextualizes his rise from humble beginnings to papal throne. Visitors can expect about 15 minutes here, enough to appreciate the church’s architecture and hear some fascinating stories.

Inside Valencia Cathedral: The Holy Chalice and More

The highlight of the tour is the visit inside Valencia Cathedral, which takes roughly 30 minutes. Here, you’ll see the actual Holy Chalice, famously associated with the Last Supper, which adds an almost tangible connection to history. The cathedral itself is a stunning Gothic masterpiece, and guides typically point out the artworks linked to the Borgias—further enriching the experience.

One review recounts how skipping queues was possible, which meant they could access the cathedral and see the Holy Chalice before it closed. The cathedral’s museum features a grand processional monstrance, adding a regal touch to the visit. Expect detailed descriptions of the artworks and relics, making the cathedral much more than just a pretty building.

Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados

A quick 10-minute stop inside this basilica introduces visitors to Valencia’s patron saint, the Virgen de los Desamparados. The baroque frescoes by Antonio Palomino are notable, and many reviews mention the guide’s passion in explaining these artworks. It’s a brief stop but packed with visual and historical interest, giving a broader sense of local religious culture.

Final Stop: Plaza de San Llorenç

The tour wraps up at Plaza de San Lorenzo, home to the Borgia Palace—where the family once resided and now the Valencian Cortes meet. This 20-minute segment summarizes what became of the Borgias, tying together the threads of their influence in Valencia. During this time, the guide recounts the family’s rise, struggles, and legacy, which many find both satisfying and thought-provoking.

Authenticity and Practical Details

The tour’s small-group setting (up to 15 people) facilitates a more intimate experience. You’ll meet at Pl. de Manises and finish at Cortes Valencianas, making it easy to incorporate into your day. The mobile ticket system simplifies access, and the tour is confirmed immediately upon booking. The price of $27.30 provides significant value—covering entries and expert guidance.

Most travelers find this tour well-paced, with a good mix of sightseeing and storytelling. Reviews highlight the enthusiasm and dedication of guides like Paulino, who are praised for making history engaging, accessible, and fun. Many mention that their knowledge elevated the experience well beyond a typical walking tour.

One noteworthy point from reviews is that, while the tour doesn’t include entry into the Borja Palace itself (which is not open to the public), the tour compensates with detailed explanations of the family’s influence and legacy. Visitors also appreciate that they can skip lines at key sites, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

The Tour’s Value

At just over $27, the tour offers a compelling package—insightful commentary, access to major sites, and a sense of connection to Valencia’s past Borgias. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts who want more than just a superficial overview, as well as those interested in religious and royal lineages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy guided walks that blend storytelling with cultural discovery, this tour is a solid choice. It caters to travelers who prefer small groups for a more personal experience and appreciate guides passionate about their subject matter. It’s especially suited for those with an interest in European nobility, religious history, or Valencia’s local stories.

People who want to see top landmarks like the cathedral and learn about the Holy Chalice firsthand will find this tour particularly rewarding. The historical insights about the Borgia family make it a unique opportunity to connect the dots between Spain and Italy’s history.

However, if you’re hoping for exclusive access to the Borgia Palace itself, keep in mind that it’s not open to the public, so this tour offers a narrative perspective rather than a behind-the-scenes peek.

The Sum Up

This Borgia-focused tour in Valencia packs a lot of detail, history, and personality into just over two hours. Led by a guide like Paulino, whose enthusiasm and expertise shine through, it makes the complex story of the Borgias accessible and engaging. The inclusion of the cathedral visit and Holy Chalice gives the experience a tangible edge that many similar tours lack.

It’s a fantastic option for those who want a well-organized, small-group experience that combines walking, storytelling, and cultural exploration. The price point is reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the depth of information shared, making it a smart choice for travelers with an interest in history and local legends.

This tour offers a genuine, authentic glimpse into Valencia’s connection to one of Europe’s most infamous families. It’s perfect for history lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to add a touch of royal intrigue and religious lore to their trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, and the small group setting makes it manageable for families. However, very young children might find the walking and historical details challenging, so use your discretion.

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, as the tour is often booked around 30 days in advance. The process is straightforward with a mobile ticket.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from 10 to 30 minutes, allowing enough time to take in the sites and listen to explanations without feeling rushed.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves walking through the historic city center and inside the cathedral, it’s best to check individual site accessibility if needed, as some cobbled streets or steps may be involved.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, ensuring flexibility in your planning.

What languages are available for the tour?
While most reviews mention an enthusiastic guide, it’s implied that the tour is conducted in Spanish, but check directly with the provider if you need other language options.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are advisable. As the tour is outdoors and inside churches, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees might be expected.

How much time should I allocate for the entire experience?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and explanations, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

This detailed look at the Borgias tour in Valencia underscores its blend of historical detail, authentic site visits, and passionate guiding. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the Borgia family’s ties to Valencia, it promises an engaging and worthwhile journey through time.