Shore Excursion: City Tour with Tapas in 11th Century Monument

This Valencia shore excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s diverse character, combining architectural highlights, local flavors, and historical insights. For $139.33 per person, travelers enjoy about 5 hours of guided exploration, with small group sizes limited to 12 for a more intimate experience. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, especially in delivering engaging stories about Valencia’s Old Town, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the 11th-century Moorish venue.

The excursion includes a delicious tapas lunch with regional wines at a historic site, making it ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing. With transportation back to the cruise port provided, it’s particularly suited for cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Valencia.

A key note: the tour starts at 10:00 am from the Pl. de Sant Jaume and concludes with transportation directly to the port. Booking about 117 days in advance shows its popularity. While the tour offers an immersive experience, it doesn’t include entrance tickets to the City of Arts & Sciences, so guests see its exterior and learn about its architecture.

Key Points

• Small group size of no more than 12 people ensures personal attention.
• Includes guided tours of Valencia’s Old Town and City of Arts & Sciences.
• A 2-hour tapas and wine tasting at an 11th-century Moorish venue offers a unique setting.
• Transportation back to the cruise port is included, with pickup at the cruise terminal.
• Price of $139.33 covers food, drinks, and guides, but not entry to the City of Arts & Sciences buildings.
• The tour receives a top rating of 5.0 from 106 reviews, highlighting its quality and popularity.

Discovering Valencia’s Historic Old Town

The tour begins with a visit to Valencia’s Old Town, where architecture showcases a mix of Gothic, Baroque, Arabic, and Romanesque styles. Over the course of about an hour, the guide leads through winding streets filled with stories, legends, and sights that reflect the city’s layered past.

From Monday to Saturday, there’s a visit to Mercado Central, the largest food market in Europe. Guests can admire its vibrant stalls and local produce, gaining insight into Valencia’s rich gastronomy scene. This stop is admission ticket free and offers a lively, authentic atmosphere.

Exploring Valencia’s 11th-Century Moorish Venue

The tour’s highlight is the Moorish cave and secluded patio in an 11th-century historic site called Sea Saffron. This exclusive venue provides a peaceful setting to sample local tapas and regional paella, paired with award-winning wines.

Spending around two hours here allows for a relaxed tasting experience that emphasizes regional flavors. This stop is admission free, but the setting’s authenticity and historic significance make it a memorable part of the day. The ambiance of a Moorish cave combined with a secluded patio creates a serene backdrop for tasting.

Visiting the Iconic City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is Valencia’s most recognizable landmark, designed by Calatrava. The tour dedicates about an hour to walking around its exterior, where guests can appreciate its futuristic architecture and innovative design.

While the visit is exterior only (entrance fees are not included), the guide shares stories behind its construction and significance. Guests often find this part inspiring for its stunning structures and photogenic views. It’s a perfect stop for those interested in architecture and modern design.

The Guided Tour Experience

Guides like Martha excel at making the tour engaging through passionate storytelling and local insights. Reviewers frequently praise guides for their knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. The small group size ensures personalized attention, allowing questions and detailed explanations.

The 5-hour itinerary balances walking tours with tasting stops, maintaining a relaxed pace. The transportation is arranged between stops, making it easy to focus on the sights without worry. The overall flow is designed for maximum learning and enjoyment.

Lunch and Wine Tasting in a Historic Setting

The tapas lunch takes place at Sea Saffron, a historic setting dating back to the 11th century. Guests enjoy a tasting menu featuring Valencian paella and local tapas, complemented by regional wines.

The private rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the city, the port, and the mountains, making this a standout feature. The wine selection is praised for its quality, and the delicious food presentation adds to the memorable experience. The remaining hour here is a perfect way to unwind after touring.

Logistics and Group Size

This small-group experience is limited to 12 participants, fostering a more intimate and flexible atmosphere. The meeting point is at Pl. de Sant Jaume, with the tour starting promptly at 10:00 am.

Transportation back to the Puerto de Valencia is included, arranged directly by the guide. The vehicles are equipped with air conditioning/heating and WiFi, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.

The tour does not include pickup from the cruise terminal, but the starting location is conveniently near public transportation.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if plans change. The confirmation is received at the time of booking, making planning straightforward.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits cruise passengers and visitors who want a rundown of Valencia in a manageable half-day. The combination of historical sites, architecture, local cuisine, and regional wines appeals to those interested in culture, food, and design.

It’s ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours with personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The small group size and expert guides ensure an engaging and insightful journey through Valencia’s highlights.

Final Thoughts on the Valencia City Tour with Tapas

This 5-hour tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and learning. The small group format and passionate guides make it a favorite among past participants, as reflected in its 5.0 rating from 106 reviews.

While it doesn’t include interior access to the City of Arts & Sciences, the exterior views and stories are enough to inspire admiration. The tapas and wine experience adds a memorable flavor, especially in such a historic setting.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to Valencia, combining culture, architecture, and cuisine in a single, well-organized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation back to the port included?
Yes, the guide arranges transportation from the tour stops directly to the Port of Valencia.

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 10:00 am from Pl. de Sant Jaume.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.

Are entrance tickets to the City of Arts & Sciences included?
No, only exterior views are included; entry tickets are not included.

What does the tapas lunch entail?
Guests enjoy Valencian paella and local tapas on a private rooftop terrace, paired with regional wines.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but minimum drinking age is 18. For children, the focus on tasting might need consideration.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the full amount is non-refundable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves strolling through historical streets and outdoor sightseeing.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, it’s advised to inform at booking about any specific dietary needs.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it is subject to favorable weather; poor weather could lead to cancellation with options for a different date or full refund.