From Albir, Altea, Benidorm & Calpe: Valencia City Excursion

Explore Valencia with a Convenient Day Trip from the Costa Blanca

This day trip to Valencia offers a well-organized experience for visitors staying in Albir, Altea, Benidorm, or Calpe, with prices starting at $44 per person and a duration of 10 to 12 hours. The tour features a comfortable coach journey of around two hours each way, giving travelers ample time to explore Spain’s third-largest city and its vibrant culture. The trip includes five hours of free time in Valencia, with optional extras such as visits to the Mestalla Stadium or the Oceanografic Centre—the largest sea life aquarium in Europe.

A key strength of this excursion is its guided walk through the historic old town, led by knowledgeable guides, with reviews praising their friendliness and expertise. The cost of 8 euros for this optional walking tour is modest, and it allows visitors to appreciate landmarks like the Cathedral, home of the Holy Grail. The tour also provides opportunities to taste local specialties such as paella, coca Valenciana, and horchata, making it a delicious way to experience Valencia’s culinary scene.

While the tour offers a rundown of the city, it does require good walking stamina, especially if combining the free time with optional visits. The drop-off point at the Torres de Serranos provides easy access to the historic core, and the coach’s air-conditioned comfort helps make the long day more pleasant. This tour is a practical choice for those wanting to see Valencia’s highlights without the hassle of arranging transport or guides independently.

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Key Points

• Affordable price at $44 per person for a full-day experience
• Leaves from multiple locations on the Costa Blanca, including Albir, Altea, Benidorm, and Calpe
• Approximately 2 hours each way by coach, with 5 hours of free time in Valencia
• Optional guided walking tour of the old town for 8 euros
• Opportunities to visit Mestalla Stadium or the Oceanografic Centre as extras
• Comfortable, air-conditioned coach transport with friendly, knowledgeable guides

Convenient Departure and Return from the Costa Blanca

The tour begins with pickups from eight different locations, including hotels and central spots in Altea, Calpe, Benidorm, and nearby areas. The coach journey to Valencia lasts about two hours, providing a relaxed start to the day. The drop-off point at the Torres de Serranos leads visitors into the historic part of the city, where the free exploration begins.

Return trips follow the same route in reverse, with drop-offs scheduled from the last pickup point back to the original starting points. The service from Calpe and Altea runs only from June to November, so travelers in those locations should plan accordingly.

Exploring Valencia’s Historic Old Town

Once in Valencia, visitors have around five hours to explore independently. The historic center is compact but packed with sights, including the Cathedral, which is famous for housing the Holy Grail. The Torres de Serranos, a medieval gate, marks the start of the walking tour option, which lasts about 75 to 80 minutes and costs 8 euros.

A guided walk allows visitors to appreciate the architecture of Stately buildings, narrow streets, and landmarks like the Plaza de la Reina. Guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and deep knowledge, making the experience engaging and informative. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and approachability of guides such as Charlotte and Lynn, enhancing the overall experience.

Indulge in Local Flavors and Cuisine

Trying Valencia’s culinary specialties is a highlight of this trip. The tour offers chances to sample paella, the city’s most famous dish, as well as coca Valenciana, a traditional pastry, and horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts. These tastings provide a tasty taste of Valencia’s rich food scene, often enjoyed at local cafes or markets during free time.

For those interested in exploring further, the optional visits to attractions like Mestalla Stadium or the Oceanografic Centre offer deeper insights into Valencia’s local culture and marine life. Prices for these extras vary seasonally, and the tour representative on the day provides detailed information.

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Visiting the Oceanografic and Mestalla Stadium as Extras

The Oceanografic Centre is one of the top optional attractions, perfect for visitors intrigued by sea life. The largest sea world in Europe features different aquatic habitats, with highlights including the dolphin show and the underwater tunnel where sharks, turtles, and rays swim overhead. Many reviews mention the high-quality exhibits and the memorable experience.

The Mestalla Stadium, home of Valencia CF, is another optional stop. It offers visitors a chance to see one of Spain’s iconic football grounds, adding a sporty dimension to the trip. These attractions are not included in the base price, but the tour guide explains the options and prices on the day.

Comfortable, Guided Experience with Flexible Options

The English-speaking guide enhances the trip with informative commentary and helpful tips. Many reviews commend guides like Charlotte, Louisa, and Lynn for their friendly, approachable manner and deep knowledge of Valencia’s history and culture. The air-conditioned coach ensures a comfortable ride, even on warm days.

Participants can choose to join the optional walking tour, which is particularly recommended for those who wish to learn more about the old town’s architecture and history. The full-day schedule balances sightseeing, free exploration, and optional visits, making it suitable for most travelers with a moderate level of mobility.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day Trip

Travelers should wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the day involves a fair amount of walking. The tour advises bringing weather-appropriate clothing and notes that pets are not allowed. The pickup points are varied, so checking the specific location booked is essential.

Since the trip involves long travel times and scheduled pickups and drop-offs, arriving on time is important. The guides are helpful in providing timing details and local tips, ensuring travelers make the most of their free time.

Who Will Enjoy This Valencia Trip?

This full-day excursion is best suited for those who want a low-effort way to see Valencia’s highlights. The combination of coach travel, guided walks, and free exploration appeals to history buffs, food lovers, and football fans alike. The optional extras allow additional personalized experiences.

However, the long day and moderate walking mean it’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pre-existing medical conditions. The tour is also not suitable for children under 2 years or those sensitive to motion sickness.

Final Thoughts on the Valencia City Excursion

This tour offers a balanced combination of guided insights and free time at an affordable price. The professional guides and well-organized itinerary ensure visitors get a comprehensive taste of Valencia within a manageable schedule. The optional visits and local tastings add valuable depth, especially for those eager to experience the city’s culture.

While the long journey might be tiring for some, the comfortable transport and strategic planning help make it a worthwhile outing. This trip is especially suited for travelers staying in the Costa Blanca who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of independent planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved and the nature of some optional attractions.

How long is the coach journey?
The coach ride to and from Valencia lasts approximately two hours each way.

Can I visit the Oceanografic Centre?
Yes, visits to the Oceanografic Centre are optional extras that can be purchased on the day, with prices varying seasonally.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items needed for a full day out.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years. It involves a full day of walking and travel, so consider the age and stamina of younger children.

How much does the guided walking tour cost?
The guided walk in the old town costs 8 euros and lasts around 75 to 80 minutes.

Is there a toilet stop during the journey?
The coach has a toilet stop during the outbound journey but none on the return, so plan accordingly.

What languages are available for guides?
The tour features English and Spanish speaking guides, with reviews indicating fluent and friendly communication.

Can I cancel the trip?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the trip good value for money?
At $44, with extensive free time, optional extras, and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers good value for travelers eager to explore Valencia efficiently.

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