Valencia: City Tour with Tapas Shore Excursion

If you’re visiting Valencia on a cruise and want to make the most of your limited time, this half-day tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience blending history, architecture, and culinary delights. For around $136 per person, you’ll explore the Old Town, marvel at the City of Arts and Sciences, and indulge in authentic tapas and regional wines—all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation. Several reviewers praise the small group size of just 12 people, which makes for a more intimate, engaging experience.

What stands out most about this tour is its balance of cultural exploration and gastronomic indulgence. From the picturesque plazas to futuristic structures, there’s plenty to see and learn. Plus, the inclusion of lunch at an 11th-century monument adds a special historical flavor to the eating experience. A potential consideration is that entry into the City of Arts and Sciences isn’t included, but the exterior views and guided commentary more than compensate for this. This tour suits cruise passengers looking to maximize their sightseeing in a relaxed, authentic style, with plenty of opportunities to taste local flavors.

Key Points

• Ideal for cruise travelers wanting a comprehensive, yet manageable overview of Valencia.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Includes sightseeing of Old Town and the City of Arts and Sciences—two of Valencia’s most iconic areas.
• Tasting of authentic tapas, regional wines, and Valencian paella at a historic venue.
• Transport back to the port is arranged, making planning easier.
• Not suitable for travelers seeking free entry into attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences.

A Deep Dive into Valencia’s Highlights

Starting Point and Orientation

The tour begins at Pl. de Sant Jaume, 1, where your guide will meet you in front of Unic Daily Goodness. This is conveniently close to the cruise ship port, with many cruise lines offering free shuttles directly from the terminal. From here, you’ll head straight into the heart of Valencia’s Old Town—a perfect introduction to the city’s historic charm.

Exploring Valencia Old Town

Within just an hour, your guide will take you through the Plaza de la Virgen, a lively square full of history, with its beautiful basilica and fountain providing perfect photo opportunities. You’ll also visit Mercado Central, Europe’s largest food market, where the sights, sounds, and smells give a true taste of local life.

According to one reviewer, Sharin (the guide) “introduced us to the Plaza de la Virgen, the Silk Exchange, and other landmarks”—highlighting her knowledge about the city’s architecture and stories behind these sites. If you love markets, you’ll appreciate the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Mercado Central, though be aware it’s closed on Sundays, which could affect your experience if your cruise lands on that day.

Hidden Gem Lunch and Tapas Tasting

Next, the tour takes a turn toward culinary heaven. You’ll dine in a historic 11th-century monument, once part of Valencia’s original city walls. This venue’s ambiance alone makes it worth the trip. Here, you’ll indulge in a tasting menu featuring some of Valencia’s most iconic dishes, including Valencian Paella—a must-try for any visitor.

Guests have described this lunch experience as “truly excellent”, with one reviewer mentioning they were treated to “ten delicious tapa dishes with wine pairings”. The wines are regional and prizewinning, perfectly complementing the food. The tapas selection is also highly praised, with many noting the quality and authenticity of the flavors.

The Modern Marvel: City of Arts and Sciences

After lunch, you’ll travel by private car to the City of Arts and Sciences. While entry tickets aren’t included, the guided commentary highlights the futuristic architecture of buildings like the Hemisfèric and the Oceanogràfic. Spending about an hour here, you’ll learn about the design, purpose, and stories behind these structures.

Reviews often mention how impressive the exteriors are, with one visitor noting it’s a good way to appreciate the complex without the long queues or ticket lines. The guided tour makes it accessible, especially if you’re short on time but want to grasp the essence of this iconic complex.

Ending Back at the Port

The tour wraps up with private transportation back to the Trasmed-Grimaldi terminal, making logistics straightforward. Reviewers appreciate the convenience of being dropped right at the port—crucial for cruise travelers keen to avoid the stress of navigating unfamiliar cities on their own.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

According to reviews, guides like Bogi and Sharin go above and beyond, customizing the experience based on guest requests. From including the Silk Market upon request to sharing intriguing stories about the city’s landmarks, their local insights elevate the experience beyond typical sightseeing.

Authentic Food and Wine

This tour is more than just a walk around Valencia; it’s a culinary journey. The tapas and paella are described as “delicious” and “authentic,” with excellent wine pairings adding to the pleasure. One reviewer even called the rooftop tapas and wine experience “the most wonderful” they’ve had.

Comfortable Transportation

Private, air-conditioned transport ensures a relaxed pace and easy transition between sites. It’s especially helpful in a city like Valencia, where the best views often come from buildings and outdoor spaces rather than museums or indoor attractions.

Limited Group Size

With only 12 people max, the small group format means more opportunity for interaction, questions, and personalized attention. This intimacy clearly enhances the overall enjoyment, according to those who’ve participated.

Flexibility for Cruise Schedules

The tour is designed specifically for cruise passengers, with pick-up and drop-off arrangements making it less stressful and more seamless. The tour duration of about 5 hours fits neatly into a typical port day, with options to check starting times based on availability.

Practical Considerations

Price and Value

At $136 per person, this tour offers a wealth of experiences—historical sightseeing, culinary delights, and a glimpse of modern architecture—all with transport included. While the entrance to the City of Arts and Sciences isn’t included, the exterior view and guided overview make it a worthwhile addition, especially given the price.

Walking and Accessibility

Expect around 2 hours of walking at a relaxed pace over flat terrain, which is manageable for most travelers. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broader range of visitors.

Weather and Cancellations

In case of bad weather, the tour might be canceled, with refunds provided. Since part of the experience involves outdoor sightseeing, good weather will definitely enhance your enjoyment.

Timing and Market Closures

Start times vary, so be sure to check availability. Keep in mind that Mercado Central is closed on Sundays—if your cruise arrives on a Sunday, you’ll miss this particular highlight.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for cruise passengers who want a well-rounded overview of Valencia without the hassle of planning individual itineraries. Food lovers will especially enjoy the tapas and regional wines, while architecture buffs will appreciate the exterior views of the City of Arts and Sciences. It’s also a good fit for those who value small group interactions and personalized guides.

However, if you’re eager to explore inside the attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences or visit markets on Sundays, you might consider other options or add a private ticket. This tour offers a balanced, enjoyable experience suited to first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, looking to enjoy Valencia’s highlights comfortably and authentically.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private, air-conditioned transport is provided between the tour stops and back to the port.

Does the tour include entry into the City of Arts and Sciences?
No, entry tickets aren’t included, but you’ll see the exterior and learn about the buildings’ architecture and purpose.

What’s the starting point?
The meeting point is in front of Unic Daily Goodness at Pl. de Sant Jaume, 1, near the cruise port.

How long is the walking?
Expect about 2 hours of casual walking on flat ground, suitable for most mobility levels.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a tasting menu of tapas, regional wines, and Valencian paella at a historic venue.

What if it rains?
The tour may be canceled in severe weather, with a full refund. Outdoor parts are weather-dependent.

Can I customize the experience?
Guides like Bogi and Sharin are known for their flexibility and will accommodate reasonable requests, such as including specific markets.

Is there free time at any stop?
The tour is structured with guided parts and scheduled tasting, but you’ll have time to enjoy the ambiance and scenery at each stop.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now with a pay-later option, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Valencia City Tour with Tapas offers a well-balanced experience that combines history, modern architecture, and authentic local cuisine. It’s particularly suited for cruise travelers who want to maximize their limited time in the city without feeling rushed. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help create a personable and enriching outing, with highlights like the Old Town’s lively plazas and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.

The culinary component—featuring delicious tapas, regional wines, and Valencian paella—elevates this tour from simple sightseeing to a true taste of local culture. If you’re after an experience that’s both informative and flavorful, this tour ticks all the boxes.

In the end, you walk away with a snapshot of Valencia’s past and present, a belly full of incredible food, and great memories—perfect for those wanting an authentic, enjoyable introduction to this vibrant city.