The 15 Best Day Trips From Valencia: The Ultimate Guide
Looking for the Best Day Trips from Valencia? Discover 15 Gems!
By Liam Mulligan | Published on March 12, 2024 |Modified on August 20, 2024
Spain’s third-largest city Valencia is an enchanting city nestled on the east coast of the country. The city is renowned for the way it blends ancient history with modern flair. It is a hub of gastronomy, the home of paella and even has a beach!
With 300 days of sunshine a year, Valencia is the perfect Spanish destination. It didn’t make number 1 on my list of the 20 Best Places To Visit In Spain For First-Timers for nothing!
Whilst there is a lot to see in Valencia, it is also perfectly located for some great day trips. So without further ado, let’s delve into the 15 best day trips from Valencia.
Short on Time? Here’s a quick lowdown
- Closest day trip: Albufera Natural Park
- Cheapest day trip: Albufera Natural Park
- Best city: Madrid
- Most historic: Sagunto
- Best beaches: Cullera
- Best festival: Buñol
- Best wine: Requena
- Best nature: Montanejos
Map of Best Day Excursions from Valencia
1. Albufera Natural Park
Located 10km south of Valencia, Albufera Natural Park is the perfect day trip to escape the city and be at one with nature. Meaning ‘lagoon’ in the local Valencian language, the park is 23.94km2 with 223km2 of rice fields surrounding it. Full of biodiversity, the park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
As the largest freshwater lagoon in Spain, Albufera Natural Park is a haven for birdwatchers. There are over 250 different species residing in the park. Fishing is the most important human resource of the lagoon, and it is common to see fishing boats throughout the day.
Begin your day in Albufera by taking a boat ride on the Albufera lagoon, admiring the landscapes and abundant birdlife. After the tour, explore the surrounding villages. El Palmar is a great option with its thatched-roof houses. It is also home to some delicious seafood restaurants.
With so many rice fields nearby, it shouldn’t surprise you that this is the birthplace of paella, the famous Valencian dish, and a symbol of Spain so no trip to Albufera Natural Park would be complete without trying this icon of Valencia.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Bus
- Journey time: 30 minutes
- Cost: €1.50 each way
- How to get there: Take either the number 24 or 25 bus from Valencia centre and get off at Embarcadero or El Palmar.
Alternatively, you can book a direct tour, such as this one which involves a sunset experience.
2. Xàbia
Xàbia, also known as Jávea, is a picturesque coastal town on the Costa Blanca. Its Old Town is full of narrow streets and whitewashed buildings, offering a glimpse into traditional Spanish life without the tourist crowds.
The Valencia region is known for its gastronomy and Xàbia certainly lives up to the region’s reputation. Xàbia has some fantastic markets where you can sample fresh produce and mingle with locals.
What’s more, Xàbia has a fantastic coastline with some stunning beaches providing plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring nature, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Car
- Journey time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Cost: Cost of hire car
- How to get there: Take E-15/AP-7 south until exit 62 and then follow signs for Xàbia.
3. Peñíscola
Peñíscola is an enticing day trip destination from Valencia. The town is famous for its medieval castle which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Climb the castle, admire its well-preserved fortifications and check out the panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
After climbing the castle, you’ll have earnt your lunch. The promenade in Peñíscola is lined with cafés and seafood restaurants, with produce caught locally. Ask for the local recommendations which may change depending on what has been caught that day.
After a fantastic lunch, spend some time chilling out at one of the town’s many beaches. Peñíscola boasts a series of pristine beaches offering the perfect afternoon activity on your day trip to the town.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Car/Train
- Journey time: 1 hour and 40 minutes by car/2 hours and 30 minutes by train
- Cost: Cost of hire car/From as little as €20 return
- How to get there: Take AP-7 north until you reach the city/Make your way to Valencia’s Estaciò del Nord station, located five minutes walk from the town hall.
4. Cuenca
Located in the nearby region of Castilla-La-Mancha, Cuenca is another fantastic day trip option from Valencia. The town offers a great blend of history, architecture and some great natural beauty spots.
Cuenca’a Old Town is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and it is easy to see why! The walled town was built by the Moors as a medieval fortified city and is still well-preserved to this day. Taken by the Spanish in the 12th Century, it then became a royal town. Make sure you visit the Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses), houses that are built into the cliff edge.
Aside from its history, Cuenca is also notable for its breathtaking scenery. The Enchanted City is a series of strange rock formations that have been created over many centuries. The rocks look like humans and animals and will take your breath away.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Train
- Journey time: 1 hour
- Cost: From as little as €30 return.
- How to get there: Make your way to Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla station located a little further south of Estaciò del Nord station.
5. Alicante
The second-largest city in the Valencian Community region, Alicante is a great option for a day trip for those seeking more city vibes. Situated around 170km/106 miles to the south of Valencia, there are multiple transport options, making Alicante a very viable day trip option.
Alicante has some great historical sights. Visit Santa Bárbara Castle, a fortification dating back to the 9th century. Situated in the centre of Alicante atop Mount Benacantil, it offers perfect panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city itself. There is also a beautiful old town with narrow cobblestone streets and colourful houses.
Alicante is also famous for its beaches. Two of the most popular sites are the stunning Playa del Postiguet and the secluded coves of Cabo de las Huertas, for those who want a quieter beach experience. The city also has a lovely promenade with many great seafood restaurants.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Coach with Alsa
- Journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: From as little as €35 return.
- How to get there: Head to Estaciò d’autobusos (Valencia Bus Station) in the north-west of the city.
6. Madrid
Madrid is Spain’s beating heart and a must-see for any first-timers to Spain. Although Spain’s capital city is 365km away from Valencia, Spain’s fantastic high-speed rail network makes Madrid a great day trip from Valencia.
Madrid has everything! Visit iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and the Plaza Mayor. For those into nature, don’t miss the lush Retiro Park, the perfect place to spend an afternoon. If you’re a sports fan, why not visit the Santiago Bernabeu or Wanda Metropolitano stadiums, home to Madrid’s two famous clubs, Real and Atlético.
Still not convinced? Madrid is also home to world-class museums including the Prado and the Reina Sofía which both house some impressive pieces. My personal highlight of the museums is Picasso’s famous Guernica painting in the Reina Sofía. It will take your breath away and is an important depiction of the depravity of war.
Finally, Madrid is full of trendy restaurants offering some of the finest cuisine in Spain. Madrid is an unmissable stop on any Spanish adventure even if for only a day. If you have a bit more time on your hands, consider planning a separate trip and spending at least a couple of days in this phenomenal city.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Train
- Journey time: 2 hours
- Cost: From as little as €35 return.
- How to get there: Make your way to Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla station located a little further south of Estaciò del Nord station.
7. Barcelona
Another of Spain’s Mediterranean cities, Barcelona needs no introduction. The city is around 350km north of Valencia and is jam-packed full of culture and activities. Barcelona is the perfect city for any first-time visitors but will keep drawing you back. I first visited in 2004 and have been back 6 times since!
Explore the surreal wonders of Gaudí’s masterpieces including the Sagrada Familia, Casa Battló and Parc Güell. Wander down the famous La Rambla stopping off at La Boquería market. Get lost in the labyrinth streets of the Gothic Quarter. And finish your day by watching the sunset on La Barceloneta beach.
Despite being a similar distance from Valencia as Madrid, the high-speed train line hasn’t yet connected these two Spanish metropolises. You will have to either take the regional train or a bus, both of which take around 3 and a half hours.
If you’re interested in visiting Barcelona for the day, check out my post entitled Barcelona To Valencia Train: The Best Way To Get There for all the latest tips.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Train
- Journey time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
- Cost: Tickets start around €80
- How to get there: Make your way to Valencia’s Estaciò del Nord station, located five minutes walk from the town hall.
8. Sagunto
History lovers will not want to miss Sagunto! This northern Valencian town is home to some impressive ruins. A trip to Sagunto will transport you back in time to when the Romans ruled Spain (or Hispania as it was known back then!).
The crowning jewel of this beautiful town is its imposing castle. Sat atop a rugged hill, climb the castle and you will be rewarded with fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside.
Like many on this list, Sagunto has a historic old town, perfect for spending an afternoon exploring. There is also a well-preserved Roman Theater and many charming local restaurants, perfect for savouring some of the region’s excellent cuisine.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Train
- Journey time: 30 minutes
- Cost: Tickets start around €10
- How to get there: Make your way to Valencia’s Estaciò del Nord station, located five minutes walk from the town hall.
9. Requena
Requena is one for the wine lovers! Nestled in the western hills of the Valencian Community, Requena is famous for its winemaking. But that’s not to say wine is all it has to offer.
A trip to Requena is the perfect mix of history and gastronomy. The town used to be a Moorish fortress designed to protect the local area. Today you can still see some of the original town walls. There are also three ancient churches including San Nicolás, which dates to the 14th century.
Requena’s main selling point however is its winemaking. The region is famous for producing some fantastic wines and there are numerous bodegas and tours you can go on to learn about and of course, try the local wine.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Bus with Monbus
- Journey time: Around 1 hour
- Cost: €12 return
- How to get there: Head to Estaciò d’autobusos (Valencia Bus Station) in the north-west of the city.
10. Buñol
Buñol is home to one of Spain’s most famous festivals: La Tomatina. If you’re in Valencia in August, a trip to Buñol is a must-visit. The festival takes place on the final Wednesday in August and will be held on 28th August in 2024 and August 27th in 2025.
If you’re visiting during the festival, make sure you bring some clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and some protective goggles as this is one messy festival.
Buñol is still a great day trip outside of La Tomatina. The town has a castle with panoramic views and some great restaurants, perfect for trying to local Valencian cuisine. There is also La Tomatina Museum where you can learn about the festival’s history and significance.
Whilst the prime time to visit Buñol is in August, it is a great day trip throughout the year.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Bus with Autobuses Buñol
- Journey time: 55 minutes
- Cost: €18 return
- How to get there: Head to Estaciò d’autobusos (Valencia Bus Station) in the north-west of the city.
11. Cullera
Cullera is a great option for beach lovers. Situated 40km from Valencia, the town is renowned for its stunning beaches. Playa de San Antonio is the main beach and has been a Blue Flag beach for many years. In fact, it is one of 8 Blue Flag beaches in Cullera.
Playa de San Antonio attracts lots of families due to its shallow and safe water. The beach is pretty popular but given the size of the beach this is barely noticeable. There are also multiple water sport options at the beach for thrill seekers.
Away from the beach, the town is beautiful with Cullera Castle sitting atop a nearby hill. Stroll through the Old Town taking time to stop at its many artisan shops. Finish your day with a walk down the waterfront promenade, perfect for watching the sunset.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Car
- Journey time: 50 minutes
- Cost: Cost of car hire
- How to get there: Take the CV-502 south
Whilst the train is quicker here, there is only one departure from Valencia in the afternoon.
12. Castellón de la Plana
One for the music lovers, Castellón de la Plana is the Valencia Community’s fourth-biggest city. Located to the north of Valencia, the city is famous for hosting the Benicassim Music Festival, held in July each year. If you’re looking for a great time, it is an unmissable trip from Valencia in July.
That’s not to say that music is all Castellón has to offer. The city is home to historical landmarks such as the Concatedral de Santa María, a Gothic-style cathedral dating back to the 13th century, and El Fadrí, an iconic bell tower that stands as a symbol of the city.
The city also is famous for its beautiful beaches. Located on the Costa del Azahar, there are large stretches of golden sand with clear waters; perfect for those looking to relax and for those adventurous types that love water sports.
Castellón is also famous for its ceramics industry. In the city you can find various workshops where you can learn about the craftmanship and find yourself some great souvenirs to bring home.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Train
- Journey time: 50 minutes
- Cost: Price start as low as €9
- How to get there: Make your way to Valencia’s Estaciò del Nord station, located five minutes walk from the town hall.
13. Alcoy
Alcoy offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty for a memorable day trip. Begin your exploration by wandering through the city’s historic streets, where you’ll encounter architectural treasures like the Plaza de España and the Museo Arqueológico Municipal. These sites offer a glimpse into Alcoy’s rich past, providing insights into its fascinating heritage.
Alcoy also has some fantastic nature nearby. Font Roja Natural Park is perfect for a leisurely hike and picnic. With its lush forests and scenic trails, it is the perfect escape. Alternatively, make your way to Barranc del Cint, a tranquil gorge where you can unwind by the riverbanks and soak in the serenity of the surrounding cliffs.
As the sun sets, make your way to Paseo del Viaducto. Set high above the gorge, you’ll get fantastic views of the town as the sun sets on the horizon.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Bus
- Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: Price start as low as €23
- How to get there: Head to Estaciò d’autobusos (Valencia Bus Station) in the north-west of the city.
14. Xátiva
One for the history buffs, Xátiva dates back to Roman times and was the home of the infamous House of Borgia. One of Spain’s most powerful and controversial families, they produced two popes (born of whom were born in Xátiva) and have been the subject of numerous documentaries and dramas.
Back in the modern era, Xátiva still has lots to offer to tourists. The imposing castle, sitting atop a hill overlooking the town, offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
After visiting the castle, explore the town’s historic centre. Full of picturesque plazas, lively markets and inviting cafés, it is the perfect spot to try traditional Valencian dishes.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Train
- Journey time: Around 50 minutes
- Cost: Price start as low as €7
- How to get there: Make your way to Valencia’s Estaciò del Nord station, located five minutes walk from the town hall.
15. Montanejos
Montanejos is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Valencia region. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a more serene time, Montanejos will be right up your street.
The journey alone is spectacular with the drive taking you through the rugged landscapes of the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park. The River Mijares makes its way through the valley with lush greenery and towering cliffs.
Once you get to Montanejos, you’ll want to visit the Fuente de los Baños, one of the town’s most famous attractions. These mineral-rich thermal springs are believed to have healing properties so rest your weary bones and rejuvenate your soul here.
After destressing at the thermal springs, whitewashed houses and quaint cafés await you in the town. The local cuisine is fantastic, with dishes using produce from the region’s fertile countryside. For the perfect sunset, head back out into the countryside for spectacular views over the rugged terrain.
How to get there
- Best method of transport: Car
- Journey time: 50 minutes
- Cost: Cost of car hire
- How to get there: Take the A-23 north from Valencia
FAQs
How Many Days Are Enough For Valencia?
Valencia is an incredible city with so many things to see and do. In September 2022, I visited the city with my family for a week. At the end of the week, we still felt we hadn’t seen everything!
For a first-time trip to Valencia, I would recommend staying for 4 days. With this amount of time, you can explore the city at a gentler pace and begin to soak up Valencian life. You will definitely want to come back and visit this stunning place!
Can You Do A Day Trip From Valencia To Madrid?
You definitely can! Despite Valencia being 350km from the Spanish capital, there is a high-speed train line that will get you there in around 2 hours. Schedules and tickets can be bought on the Trainline website.
Can You Do A Day Trip From Valencia To Ibiza?
You definitely can but my recommendation would be to fly. The earliest flight going from Valencia to Ibiza leaves at 10:30, arriving in Ibiza at 11:20. The last flight back leaves Ibiza at 22:20 and arrives in Valencia at 23:10.
This would be a quick trip to give you a brief taste of what Ibiza has to offer. If you’re staying in Valencia for longer and want to combine this with an Ibiza trip, read my post entitled Valencia To Ibiza: The Best Way To Get There! for all the options and my top tips.
Final Thoughts: The 15 Best Day Trips From Valencia
And there you have it! 15 fantastic day trips from Valencia. Whilst Valencia is a fantastic city with a multitude of things to do, sometimes the urge to get out of the city and explore the region beckons.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or food connoisseur, there’s something on this list to pique your interest. These trips offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, all within easy reach of Valencia.
I hope reading this list has been useful in inspiring you to find that perfect day trip from Valencia.
About Me
My name is Liam and I’m the owner and author of ‘Travels Around Spain’. I have been obsessed with Spain ever since my first visit 35 years ago. I am on a mission to visit and discover every part of this beautiful country and share all my hints and tips with you all.
Read more about my journey by clicking here.
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