Private Tour of Valencia City - Visiting the City of Arts and Sciences

Private Tour of Valencia City

Discover Valencia’s highlights on a private 4-hour tour, including the City of Arts and Sciences, Gothic towers, Central Market, and the Cathedral with expert guides.

Explore Valencia at Your Own Pace on a Private Guided Tour

For those arriving in Valencia by cruise or land, this Private Tour of Valencia City offers an intimate and flexible way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks in around 4 hours. Priced at $397.06 per person, the tour is designed for your exclusive party, with pickup offered directly at the port or your hotel. The tour boasts a highly positive rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on five reviews, highlighting the quality of guides and overall experience.

This tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach. It enables you to explore Valencia’s modern and historic highlights, from the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to the historic Torres de Serranos, as well as the lively Central Market and the Cathedral. The flexible timing and private setting make it ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowds and tailor their visit to their preferences.

While the tour includes plenty of walking, it remains manageable within a four-hour window, with opportunities for independent exploration at each stop. The group discounts and mobile tickets add convenience, and the professional local guide ensures a smooth, informative experience. Keep in mind that this tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join.

Key Points

Private Tour of Valencia City - Key Points

  • Private, customizable 4-hour tour focused on Valencia’s main landmarks
  • Includes pickup and drop-off from the port or hotel
  • Visits City of Arts and Sciences, Torres de Serranos, Central Market, La Lonja de la Seda, Valencia Cathedral, and Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados
  • Guided commentary provided by an experienced local guide
  • Plenty of free time for independent exploration at each stop
  • Suitable for most travelers, with group discounts available

Meeting Point and Logistics

Private Tour of Valencia City - Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with pickup at the Valencia port, making it highly convenient for cruise passengers. The tour is entirely private, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a personalized pace and flexible timing. After the tour, drop-off is arranged at your original pickup location, ensuring seamless logistics.

The duration is approximately 4 hours, which is enough to cover the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. Since the tour is private, the guide can tailor the pace based on your interests, allowing for a relaxed experience that balances sightseeing with breaks.

Visiting the City of Arts and Sciences

Private Tour of Valencia City - Visiting the City of Arts and Sciences

The first stop is Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a standout modern attraction designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. Built on the site of the former riverbed of the Turia River, it was inaugurated in 1998 with the opening of L’Hemisfèric. This site offers a striking view of contemporary architecture and ambitious design, perfect for photo opportunities.

The guided visit here is complemented by free time to explore independently, where visitors can appreciate the sleek, futuristic structures that have made Valencia famous. Although no admission fee is included, the external views alone provide a stunning visual experience.

Discovering the Serranos Towers

Private Tour of Valencia City - Discovering the Serranos Towers

Next, the tour visits the Torres de Serranos, two impressive Gothic towers that once served as a city gate and defensive structure. Built starting in 1392 under Pere Balaguer, these towers have survived nearly six centuries, with the city walls demolished in 1865. The towers’ pointed arches and vaulted domes offer a glimpse into Valencia’s medieval past.

The 10-minute stop allows for photos and short explanations from the guide. The free admission makes this a must-see for history lovers and architecture fans alike.

Exploring the Central Market

Private Tour of Valencia City - Exploring the Central Market

Valencia Central Market (Mercado Central) is a lively hub for local food and goods, opened in 1839. Originally a space for itinerant markets, it expanded in the late 19th century, reflecting Valencia’s bustling trade history.

A 30-minute visit here offers the chance to walk through a vast, bustling market filled with stands of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties. The friendly atmosphere and variety of goods make it a favorite stop, and the guide can recommend local delicacies and places to enjoy authentic tapas, paella, or ice cream.

La Lonja de la Seda and its Commercial Significance

Private Tour of Valencia City - La Lonja de la Seda and its Commercial Significance

The Lonja de la Seda, constructed in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, served as Valencia’s mercantile contracting center. Inspired by Palma de Mallorca’s model, this historic building was once the hub for commercial deals involving flour, rice, seeds, and other goods.

A brief 15-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate its architecture and historical importance, with the guide providing insights into Valencia’s thriving medieval commerce.

Visiting the Valencia Cathedral

Private Tour of Valencia City - Visiting the Valencia Cathedral

The Valencia Cathedral has served as the city’s main church since the 4th century. Its architectural style is a blend of different periods, reflecting centuries of construction and renovation. The cathedral is not only an active place of worship but also a monument to Valencia’s religious history.

The 20-minute visit includes exterior and interior highlights, with the guide explaining the significance of various features. This site offers a spiritual and cultural focal point of the city.

Shrine of the Virgen de los Desamparados

The Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados is the city’s patron saint church, begun in 1652 and completed in 1824. Built over the ruins of a Roman forum, its architecture combines Baroque, Renaissance, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles.

The 10-minute stop allows visitors to view the shrine dedicated to the Virgen, offering a glimpse into local religious devotion and architectural diversity.

Physical Considerations and Accessibility

This private walking tour involves moderate walking across various historic and modern sites. It is suitable for most travelers, with no specific mention of accessibility challenges. The flexible pace ensures comfort, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing experience.

Benefits of a Private, Customizable Experience

The key advantage of this tour is its private nature, providing an intimate setting for questions and personalized pacing. The local guide is praised for their expertise and ability to control the tour’s speed, making it a comfortable experience for different interests and mobility levels.

The free cancellation policy and advance booking options add flexibility, while additional info indicates most travelers can participate comfortably.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to travelers who value customized sightseeing and prefer to explore at their own pace. Cruise passengers benefit from port pickup, and families or small groups seeking an intimate, guided experience will find it ideal. Food lovers may also appreciate suggestions for local eateries, as mentioned in some reviews.

Final Thoughts on the Valencia Private Tour

The Private Tour of Valencia City offers a well-rounded introduction to both the historic and modern sides of Valencia. It combines key landmarks with the convenience of private transport and personalized guidance, making it suitable for a broad range of visitors.

While it covers many highlights, it remains manageable within four hours, leaving room for independent exploration or relaxation. The high reviews confirm that knowledgeable guides and efficient organization make this tour a reliable choice for a memorable Valencia experience.

Ready to Book?

Private Tour of Valencia City



5.0

100% 5-star

“Celia was outstanding. We had the best time touring the city and seeing all the sites. I highly recommend booking a private tour to see exactly how…”

— Jim K, May 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from the port or your hotel is included in the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing enough time to see multiple sites comfortably.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the stops are mainly free to view, such as the Serranos Towers and Valencia Cathedral. The City of Arts and Sciences is viewed externally, with no admission fee included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the moderate walking makes it suitable for families with children, assuming they can handle the pace.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it is a private tour, guides can tailor the pace and focus areas to suit your interests.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 38 days in advance; however, booking earlier is recommended for certainty.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $397.06 per person, including private guiding and transportation.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Top Private Tours Barcelona.

How do I contact the provider?
You can reach them at +34697613146 or email [email protected].