19 Day Trips from Valencia
Valencia is known for its futuristic architecture, delicious cuisine and lush green spaces. If you tire of the city buzz, escape to nearby waterfalls, castles and quaint villages on a day trip from Valencia.
I’ve been living in Barcelona for the past seven years, and my time has been filled with plenty of food, fun and fiestas. I’ve travelled to Valencia more times than I can count on my fingers. It’s the palm-lined parks, awe-inspiring art and breezy beaches that keep me coming back, time and time again.
The best things to do in Valencia come in no shortage, from the myriad museums to the paella plates.
With so much to see, do and taste, it’s easy to fall in love with the city. If you want a break from the endless attractions, mix up your sightseeing with a day trip from Valencia.
Whether it’s the waterfalls, beaches or mountains that get your attention, you’re bound to find something right for you.
In this guide, we’ll cover it all - from quaint villages to buzzing seaside cities. Make your Valencia trip unforgettable with these top travel destinations.
Day Trips from Valencia, Spain
The City of Bell Towers poses plenty of possibilities for travellers. Find fresh goods in the local markets, sip wine in the Old Town and whiz through the palm-lined parks on two wheels. Valencia boasts sunny weather year-round, making day trips an easy option no matter what time of year you choose to visit.
Here’s a summary of the best day trips from Valencia:
Benidorm
Dénia
Alicante
Chulilla
Caves of San Jose
Buñol
Castellón de la Plana
Montanejos Thermal Springs
Maestrazgo
Requena
Port Saplaya and Alboraya
Albaraccín
Peñiscola
Sagunto
Port Saplaya
Gandia
Albufera
Cullera
Xátiva
19. Benidorm
Amp up your stay in Valencia with a trip to Benidorm, which sits on the southeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Spain. This part of the Costa Blanca is known for its soaring skyscrapers and lively nightlife, but there’s plenty more to explore beyond that.
The best things to do in Benidorm come in no shortage. Start your day in the Casco Antiguo (Old Town) and admire the views from the ‘Balcony of the Mediterranean’. Kick back at one of the city’s sandy beaches, Levante or Poniente, or escape the tourist crowds at Cala Tio Ximo or Cala Almadraba.
This seaside resort was a tiny fishing village up until the 1960s when it spread with soaring skyscrapers. Fill your time in this popular Mediterranean holiday destination sipping cocktails at the beachfront bars and indulging in the culinary scene.
Keep the kids entertained at the theme parks, Terra Mitica and Aqualandia. When the day’s said and done, head to Benidorm’s famous nightlife district, La Carretera and let loose in the nightclubs.
How to get to Benidorm from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Benidorm is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car. This is an easy day trip from Valencia by public transport.
Bus: The bus takes off from Estació d'Autobusos de València and arrives in Benidorm Estación De Autobuses in approximately 2 hours.
Car: Hire a car and enjoy the freedom to travel on your schedule, or hitch a rideshare option through Blablacar. The drive is about 141 km and takes around one hour and a half.
18. Dénia
Spice up your holidays in Valencia with a day trip to Denia. This cove-carved town is renowned for its seafood scene, so be sure to pack your swimming gear as well as your appetite.
This Valencia day trip is home to a huge haul of historical finds, calm coves and scrumptious seafood. Flock to the City of Gastronomy to swim in pebbly coves and lock lips with the famous gamba roja (red prawn), which is fished just off of the local coastline. Delight your tastebuds in the cosy taverns and sip wine in the centuries-old bodegas.
Get your history fix at the Dénia Castle, spot the Roman artifacts in the Archaeological Museum and learn about the city’s toy-making history at the Toy Museum. See what local life in this port city looks like in the Ethnological Museum, hosted in a 19th-century townhouse.
How to get to Dénia from Valencia:
Travelling from Valencia to Denia is easy, with different options for bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: There are no direct trains, but ALSA buses run from Valencia and Dénia. You can get to the city centre in around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Car: Opt for a Blablacar (rideshare) or hire a car and enjoy the freedom of creating your own route. You can reach the city centre in around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
17. Alicante
Alicante is one of my favourite places to visit in Spain. This day trip takes a bit more time, but it’s definitely worth visiting.
This port city is the capital of the Alicante province and it’s located in Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca.
The old town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, is woven with narrow streets, character-packed homes and lively nightlife. Don’t miss highlights like the medieval Castillo de Santa Bárbara, which easily steals the show.
Shop for local delicacies at the Central Market and visit the iconic Archaeological Museum of Alicante. Spend time in the sun at the best beaches in Alicante and wind up your day indulging in the culinary scene (paella is a must!).
If you want to spend more than one day in Alicante, check out my 3-day travel guide. Although it’s best to visit by car, Alicante is also accessible by public transport. In fact, it’s one of the best day trips from Valencia by train.
How to get to Alicante from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Alicante is simple, with multiple options for train, bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: Take the ALSA bus from Estació d'Autobusos de València to Alicante for around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Train: Take a RENFE train from Estació del Nord to Alacant/Alicante Terminal and arrive in around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Car: Rent a car in Valencia and arrive in Alicante in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
16. Chulilla
Amp up your Valencia trip by travelling to Chulilla. Ancient castles, prehistoric paintings and epic adventures await.
Chulilla is home to hilltop-hugging homes, whitewashed streets and exceptional climbing and walking routes.
Get your heart racing on an iconic trek, the Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes. This scenic route is dotted with wildflowers along the Río Turia. As you make your way around the reservoir, you’ll cross over wobbly wooden bridges. Admire the views of Castillo de Chulilla and immerse yourself in this natural escape.
How to get to Chulilla from Valencia:
The journey from Valencia to Chulilla is easy, with several options such as bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: Book your spots (at least one day in advance) with Hispano Chelvana and arrive in around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The bus usually runs once a day on weekdays, so plan your day trip accordingly.
Car: Hiring a car will be quicker and offer more flexibility. The drive is about 60 km and takes about 45 minutes.
15. Caves of San Jose
The Caves of San Jose call for adventure. With an underground river, cave paintings and more, this is one of the best day trips from Valencia by car.
The Caves of San Jose are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans over a kilometre. Explore 800 metres of the cave by boat and then hit the ground running and discover the remaining 250 metres on foot.
This epic place to visit in Spain has the longest navigable underground river in Europe. Better yet, the cave paintings here are exceptionally well-preserved.
How to get to Caves of San Jose from Valencia:
To get from Valencia to the Caves of San José (Coves de Sant Josep) in La Vall d'Uixó, you have a few options:
Bus: Take a 1-hour Avanza bus from Valencia Bus Station to La Vall d'Uixó. From here, you can arrive on foot in 30 minutes or take a 5-minute taxi.
Train: Take a Renfe Cercanías (C6 line) train from Valencia Nord Station to La Vall d'Uixó and arrive in 50 minutes. From La Vall d’Uixó, opt for either a 30-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi.
Car: The distance is around 50 km and it takes around 40 minutes to get there by car. Free parking is available near the caves.
14. Buñol
Buñol is best known for the world-famous Spanish festival, La Tomatina. This annual event is held in late August and involves an epic food fight, where thousands of overripe tomatoes get thrown at each other. Talk about a unique event to better your stay in Valencia!
If you can’t plan a trip to Spain during August, Buñol offers more than La Tomatina. This scenic town is nestled in the Valencian countryside and offers plenty for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
When planning a day trip from Valencia, don’t miss the Buñol Castle, an ancient medieval fortress with panoramic views. Bunol is scattered with breathtaking hiking trails, waterfalls and rocky canyons.
How to get to Buñol from Valencia:
To get to Buñol from Valencia, you have various options:
13. Castellón de la Plana
With a mix of cultural landmarks, historical hot spots and beautiful beaches, Castellón de la Plana offers the best of the Valencian region.
Spice up your holidays in Valencia by beginning the day early. As the capital of the Castellón province, this vibrant city full of history, culture and a stunning coastline.
Tick the top attractions off your bucket list, like the Gothic-style Catedral de Santa María de Castelló and the 15th-century bell tower El Fadrí. Immerse yourself in local flavours at the Central Market, where you can find Valencian delicacies and plenty of artisanal produce.
How to get to Castellón de la Plana from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Castellon de la Plana is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: Take an Avanza bus from Valencia Bus Station and arrive in 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Train: There are various options departing from Valencia Nord and Joaquín Sorolla Station, with trains running every 30 to 60 minutes.
Renfe Cercanías (C6 line) – approx. 1 hour, costs €5.
Renfe Media Distancia – approx. 50 minutes, costs €8 - €12.
Renfe AVE or Euromed – approx. 30 - 40 minutes, costs €12 - €20.
Car: The distance is 75 km and it takes about 50 minutes to reach Castellon de la Plana.
12. Montanejos Thermal Springs
The Montanejos Thermal Springs offers a rejuvenating escape in nature and it’s one of the most popular day trips from Valencia by car.
Nestled in the scenic province of Castellón, this gem is located about 90 kilometres (55 miles) from Valencia. Montanejos is a charming town with riverside paths and a huge haul of hiking trails.
Join an organised tour of the thermal springs, which combines a scenic hike through the area with a soothing dip in the mineral-rich waters. Immerse yourself in the natural paradise of Montanejos as you hike through the mountains, along the Mijares River to the Chorro and the pools.
How to get to Montanejos Thermal Springs from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Montanejos Thermal Springs is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car.
Organised tour: Take the hassle out of your Valencia trip and opt for an organised tour.
Bus: You can take a bus from Valencia’s Central Bus Station to Montanejos. The bus ride takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Train: There is no direct train to Montanejos, but you can take a Cercanías train from Valencia Nord Station to Navajas (approximately 1 hour). From Navajas, it is a short bus ride or taxi (about 15 minutes) to Montanejos Thermal Springs.
Car: Driving to Montanejos is a convenient option, as it is about 90 km (56 miles) from Valencia. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A-23 highway. Once in Montanejos, you can park near the thermal spring area and enjoy the surroundings.
11. The Maestrazgo
Traverse the time-worn streets of The Maestrazgo on your Valencia vacation. The rugged landscape of this mountainous region will have you head over heels.
On this day trip from Valencia, you’ll encounter a cooler climate and myriad medieval villages, rich in history. Morella is the most famous town in the Maestrazgo municipality and the magic lies in its unique character.
Explore places like Puertomingalvo, Mirambel, Cantavieja and Ares del Maestrat.
Wander the cobbled streets, admire the ancient stone architecture and the breathtaking hilltop views.
Highlights include the lush scenery in Nacimiento del Río Pitarque and Òrgans de Montoro, as well as the Grutas de Cristal caves and Pasarelas De Valloré.
How to get to Maestrazgo from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Maestrazgo is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: There are direct buses from Valencia’s Central Bus Station to towns in the Maestrazgo region. Depending on your destination within Maestrazgo, the journey can take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Train: There isn't a direct train to Maestrazgo, but you can take a Cercanías train from Valencia's Nord Station to Teruel (around 2.5 hours). This is a popular town in the Maestrazgo region and from here, you can take a bus or taxi to your specific destination in the Maestrazgo region.
Car: Driving is one of the best options to reach Maestrazgo, as it's about 140 km (87 miles) from Valencia. The drive takes around 2 hours via the A-23 highway. This option offers more flexibility to visit the small medieval towns of the region, such as Morella, Puertomingalvo, and Cantavieja.
10. Requena
Welcome to the world of wine, medieval architecture and underground caves. Requena has history and gastronomy at its heart, pinning it as a top spot for many travellers.
Requena is liveliest in late August during the Fiesta de la Vendimia, the annual wine harvest festival. This party-packed celebration has vibrant parades, buzzing markets and, of course, plenty of wine.
It’s easy to lose track of how many glasses you’ve had with regional specialties like Bobal and Murviedo. The region is famous for Bobal, a native grape variety that produces deep reds, crisp white wines and classic cava.
If you’re unable to visit Requena in August, you can still experience the renowned wine scene by heading to one of the many bodegas in the Utiel-Requena wine region. Whether you opt for a small family-run winery or a larger estate, you’re in for a treat.
Requena’s historic charm can be found in the fortified old town. As you explore the narrow streets, you’ll stumble upon medieval buildings and hidden courtyards. Hang out in the heart of Requena’s historic district, the Plaza de la Villa and make your way to the 13th-century Gothic Church of Santa Maria.
There are many things to do in Requena, but if you only have time for one stop, don’t miss the Cuevas de la Villa. This underground network of caves once served as storage for wine, food and a refuge in times of war.
How to get to Requena from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Requena is easy, with various options for bus, rideshare or car. This is one of the day trips from Valencia by public transport, no matter whether you visit for a harvest festival or for a relaxing holiday.
Bus: You can catch a direct bus from Valencia’s Central Bus Station to Requena. The bus journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Buses run regularly throughout the day, making it a convenient and affordable option.
Train: The C3 Cercanías train from Valencia Nord Station to Requena takes about 1 hour. Trains run frequently, making this a fast and comfortable option to reach Requena. Once you arrive at Requena's train station, the town center is about a 15-minute walk away.
Car: Driving to Requena is straightforward, as it's around 60 km (37 miles) from Valencia. The journey takes about 45 minutes via the A-3 highway. This is a convenient option, especially if you want to explore the surrounding area. There is parking available around the town center.
9. Port Saplaya and Alboraya
Go beyond the typical tourist spots on your Valencia trip and spend the day in ‘Little Venice’.
Scenic cycling, local flavours and coastal charm set the scene, offering a panoply of pursuits. Begin your day trip by biking through the fields of Albufera, where the region’s famous tiger nuts (chufas) are grown. Get refreshed with a glass of horchata at a local cafe, before making your way to the next stop, Port Saplaya.
This colourful marina is often nicknamed ‘Little Venice’, and it’s a charming place to soak in the seaside atmosphere. If you’re a beach bum, sunbake on nearby beaches like Playa Patacona and Playa Malvarrosa. This one day trip from Valencia offers a mix of nature, culture and delicious local cuisine.
How to get to Port Saplaya from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Port Saplaya is simple, with multiple options for bus, train, rideshare or car.
Bus: Take the EMT bus 30 from Valencia’s central bus station to Port Saplaya. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run regularly throughout the day, providing a direct and affordable option.
Train: There is no direct train to Port Saplaya, but you can take the C1 Cercanías train from Valencia's Nord Station to Albuixech Station (around 25 minutes). From there, it's about a 20-minute walk to Port Saplaya. Alternatively, you can catch a taxi or bus from the station.
Car: If you're driving, Port Saplaya is around 12 km (7.5 miles) from Valencia, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. You can take CV-300 road or A-7 motorway.
8. Albaraccín
Amp up your stay in Valencia by visiting one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Albarracín is the kind of place that makes you wish for more than just a day to explore.
day trips from Valencia by car
This medieval gem is tucked in the mountains of the rugged Teruel region. With a dramatic hilltop setting and well-preserved history, the town serves as the perfect place to spend the day. The ancient defensive walls are steeped deep in spectacular views, especially if you hike up to the historic watchtower, Torre del Andador.
Popular attractions include the Albarracín Museum and the 17th-century Cathedral of El Salvador. When you’re done perusing the postcard-worthy streets, get tucked into the gastronomy scene. Sample local cured sausages, artisanal cheeses and Teruel ham, and pair it with a glass of Aragonese wine.
Outdoor enthusiasts should head to the Pinares de Rodeno Natural Park, which sits just outside the town. This natural landscape is famous for its prehistoric cave paintings and striking red sandstone rock formations.
How to get to Albaraccín from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Albaraccin is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: There are direct buses from Valencia to Albarracín. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and you can catch buses from Valencia's Central Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses) to Albarracín.
Train: There is no direct train to Albarracín. However, you can take a train from Valencia's Nord Station to Teruel on the C-1 line (about 1.5 hours). From Teruel, you'll need to take a bus or taxi to Albarracín, which is about 35 km (around 30 minutes away).
Car: If you're driving, Albarracín is about 170 km (105 miles) from Valencia and takes about 2 hours. You can take A-23 highway towards Teruel, then follow signs to Albarracín. This option gives you a little more freedom to travel on your own schedule. Plus, it allows you to enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains.
7. Peñiscola
On your holidays in Valencia, sprinkle in some sunny beaches and quality time in Peniscola.
Peñiscola is woven with whitewashed buildings, turquoise waters and breathtaking coastal views.
The fortified town is very popular with tourists, so prepare for busy streets and big crowds.
The real magic of Peniscola lies in the quiet inner alleys, away from the hustle and bustle of the tacky tourist areas.
Peniscola is located in the province of Castellón and is a year-round travel destination.
In both spring and summer, the iconic Castle of Pope Luna hosts a Spanish comic film festival and a festival of Baroque music. If you’re a comedy or classical music lover, this could be one of the best day trips from Valencia, Spain.
How to get to Peñiscola from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Peñiscola is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car.
Organised tour: Kick the stress of arranging transport and jump on an organised tour to Peniscola.
Bus: Take a bus from Valencia's Central Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses de Valencia) to Peñiscola Bus Station. The journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Train: There is no direct train to Peñiscola, but you can take the C6 Cercanías train from Valencia's Nord Station to Benicarló or Vinaròs stations. The journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, and from either station, you'll need to take a bus or taxi to Peñiscola, which is about 10-15 minutes away.
Car: If you're driving, Peñiscola is about 140 km (87 miles) from Valencia, and the drive takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. You can take AP-7 or N-340 highways directly to Peñiscola.
6. Sagunto
A trip to Sagunto is a perfect half-day getaway from Valencia. Head up north and get immersed in the huge haul of historical hot spots.
This fascinating town is dominated by the Sagunto Castle, whose history dates back over 2,000 years. In addition to the ruins, Sagunto’s old town is home to winding streets, cosy cafes and plenty of churches and museums, like the Via del Pòrtic Museum and the Domus dels Peixos Museum.
This historical treasure trove boasts ancient Roman ruins and a modern charm. Among all the must-see attractions, the Roman Theatre (Teatro Romano de Sagunto) remains a key venue for performances.
Before the day’s said and done, get adventurous on two wheels! Hire a bicycle and enjoy the views in Sagunto. The bike path is relatively flat and fully paved, making it a scenic journey. You’ll cycle through orange groves, chufa fields and quaint villages along the way. For a mix of nature and history, Sagunto is one of the best day trips from Valencia.
How to get to Sagunto from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Sagunto is easy thanks to the wide range of options available.
Bus: Take a bus from Valencia's Central Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses de Valencia) to Sagunto Bus Station. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes.
Train: The easiest and quickest way to reach Sagunto is by train. You can take the C6 Cercanías line from Valencia's Nord Station to Sagunto Station, which takes about 30 minutes.
Car: If you're driving, Sagunto is located about 25 km (15 miles) from Valencia. The drive takes around 30 minutes via the A-23 highway or CV-310.
5. Port Saplaya
Often called Valencia's Little Venice, Port Saplaya is a charming marina town just a short drive from the city centre. If you don’t have time for a full day out, Port Saplaya will tick all your boxes.
Take your Valencia trip to the next level! Spend half a day admiring the colourful houses that line the marina, snap Insta-worthy shots in front of the charming balconies and wander around the canals. Feel the breeze from the Mediterranean Sea as you wander along the waterfront restaurants and local cafes.
How to get to Port Saplaya from Valencia:
Port Saplaya is easy to reach via bus and train, making it one of the top day trips from Valencia by public transport.
Bus: Take EMT bus number 31 from Valencia city centre to Port Saplaya. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Train: The nearest train station to Port Saplaya is Alboraya-Peris Aragó, located about 3 km from the town. You can take the C4 Cercanías line from Valencia's Nord Station to Alboraya-Peris Aragó, which takes around 15 minutes. From the station, you can either take a bus or a short taxi ride to Port Saplaya.
Car: If you're driving, Port Saplaya is about 8 km (5 miles) from Valencia, and the drive typically takes around 15 minutes. You can take CV-300 or CV-315 to get there directly.
4. Gandia
Gandia is filled with a delightful mix of history and beachside charm. Split your day between sightseeing and unwinding by the sea.
Kick off your trip in the Town Hall and the surrounding plaza, before seeing prehistoric artefacts in the Archaeology Museum. Step inside the 15th-century Ducal Palace, a historical building with an impressive interior and don’t skimp out on the audioguide.
Major attractions include the Monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba and the Parpalló-Borrell Natural Park, which is home to the Cueva del Parpalló (an Upper Paleolithic–era cave).
How to get to Gandia from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Gandia is straightforward, with various options for bus, rideshare or car.
Bus: Catch a bus from Valencia's Central Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses de Valencia) to Gandia's Bus Station. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train: The C1 Cercanías train is one of the quickest and most efficient ways to get to Gandia. From Valencia's Nord Station, the train ride takes about 1 hour.
Car: This is one of the top day trips from Valencia by car, as it’s only 65 km (40 miles) away. The drive takes around 1 hour via the A-7 highway or CV-60.
3. Albufera
If you tire of the city buzz on your Valencia vacation, escape to the Parque Natural de la Albufera. This stunning wetland is just a short distance from Valencia, making it popular among locals and tourists.
Spot water-wading flamingos in Estany de Pujol, take a stroll through the sand dunes and splash around at Playa Lago Saler. Hit the water on a guided boat tour and admire the barranca thatched houses along the way. Board a traditional boat at docking points like Gola de Pujol, Sollana and El Palmar.
Stroll through the hiking trails and boardwalks and spot wildlife like otters and herons. For nature, wildlife and relaxation, Albufera is the best day trip from Valencia.
How to get to Albufera from Valencia:
Getting from Valencia to Albufera is simple, with various options for organised tours, bus, train, rideshare and car.
Organised tour: Enjoy a stress-free day trip on an organised tour to Albufera.
Bus: Take EMT bus number 24 from Valencia’s city centre to El Palmar, a town near Albufera. The journey takes around 45 minutes.
Train: To reach Albufera, take the C1 Cercanías line from Valencia's Nord Station to Silla Station. From there, you can either take a bus or a short taxi ride to reach the park itself. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes.
Car: If you prefer driving, Albufera is about 15 km (9 miles) from Valencia, and the drive typically takes around 20-25 minutes. You can take the CV-500 or A-7 highway, which offers direct routes to the park.
2. Cullera
Combine beach relaxation and historical exploration on the Costa del Azahar. With long sandy beaches and ancient ruins, Cullera is an epic Valencia day trip.
Cullera is a charming coastal town that’s situated just 50 km from Valencia. Climb to the top of Cullera Castle, taste local food at the Central Market and stop by the Church of Saint John.
Nature lovers will find respite in the botanic gardens, Botanic Cullera, while foodies will drool over the tapas at Jamonico’s. Beach enthusiasts can snorkel at Sant Antoni beach or enjoy water sports at Platja de Cullera.
How to get to Cullera from Valencia:
Travelling from Valencia to Cullera is simple, with various options for bus, train, rideshare or car.
Bus: Catch a bus from Valencia's Central Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses de Valencia) to Cullera Bus Station. The journey typically takes about 1 hour.
Train: Taking the C1 Cercanías line from Valencia Nord Station is one of the quickest ways to reach Cullera. The train ride takes approximately 35 minutes, and it’s a direct route, offering a comfortable and cost-effective way to travel.
Car: If you prefer to drive, Cullera is about 50 km (31 miles) from Valencia, and the drive typically takes around 45 minutes. You’ll take the A-38 highway or CV-500 to reach the town.
1. Xátiva
Last but not least! With ancient castles, lively markets and a striking basilica, Xativa is one of the best day trips from Valencia.
This character-packed town is packed with history at every end.
The crown jewel is undoubtedly Xátiva Castle (Castell De Xativa), which is perched on a hill and dates back to Roman times.
To get to the castle, it’s about a 30-minute walk from downtown Xátiva. However, if you're driving, there’s parking at the top so you can skip the hike and head directly to the castle.
The Basilica of Xátiva is a stunning example of local architecture, while the Plaça del Mercat is arrayed with an abundance of local shops and cafes. For something off-the-beaten-track, don’t miss the central patio of the Antic Hospital Reial.
Monuments, museums and hiking routes set the stage for adventure in Xativa. Kick off your day trip in the centre of the action in Plaça de la Trinitat Square. Visit museums like the Colegiata and the Almodi Museum (Museo Municipal Almodi), or join local festivities like La Fira d’Agost.
How to get to Xátiva from Valencia:
Holidays in Valencia promise plenty of fun. But, if you tire of the city, opt for a day trip to Xativa. With various options for bus, train, rideshare and car, getting here is hassle-free.
Bus: Take a bus from Valencia's Central Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses de Valencia) to Xátiva's Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train: The most efficient way to get to Xátiva is by train. From Valencia Nord Station, take the C2 Cercanías line. The journey is just 40 minutes, making it the fastest option for reaching Xátiva.
Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Xátiva by taking the A-7 highway from Valencia. The drive takes about 1 hour, covering a distance of around 62 km (38 miles).
Best Time to Visit Valencia
As you’ve seen, the best day trips from Valencia, Spain certainly come in no shortage. But when is the best time to visit?
Valencia is a year-round destination that offers sunny days and a mild climate. The summer season is the most popular time to visit, with hot temperatures above 30 °C. July and August are considered the best time for beach activities and festivals, but be prepared to battle the big tourist crowds.
The low season, December to February, is the ideal time for budget travellers. If you’re planning a trip to Valencia, the winter season offers mild weather and affordable prices on accommodation, airfares, activities and transport. Learn how to keep things cost-effective with this Travel Budgeting Guide.
The shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December) are the best times to visit Valencia. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather for sightseeing, alongside fewer crowds and lower prices.
Things to do in Valencia
Now that you know about the best day trips from Valencia, it’s time to help you plan your trip. The hometown of paella poses plenty of enticing pursuits, from culinary experiences to architectural gems. Here are some of the top things to do in Valencia:
Sip wine & enjoy tapas on the rooftop of the City of Arts and Sciences
Watch the sunset on a catamaran cruise
Go underground in the Caves of San José
Join an Old Town tour with wine & tapas
See an Andalusian-inspired flamenco show
Spend time wandering around the Oceanogràfic
Get your heart racing on a city highlights bike tour
How to Get Around Valencia
Valencia day trips promise plenty of fun for travellers. If you plan to see the surrounding regions, hiring a bike allows you to see areas like Jardin de Tura and the beaches.
Thanks to the city’s reliable public transport network, the region can be explored without a car. The city is home to over 60 different bus lines, 5 metro lines and 4 tram lines. For maps, routes and timetables, check out the EMT website.
Public transport is also connected to the Valencia Airport, the city centre (Old Town) and surrounding areas.
If you’re only in town for one to two days, it’s worth considering the hop-on hop-off bus. This tourist bus stops at all the major attractions, and it can save a lot of time spent trying to navigate the city on your own.
Hiring a car is considered the best way to get around Valencia. Four wheels will allow you to create your own route and run on your own time. You can make as many stops as you want, allowing you much more freedom and flexibility than public transport. You could even consider a road trip from Valencia to Alicante.
Where to Stay in Valencia
Make your trip unforgettable with this guide on the best places to stay in Valencia. If you’re planning to spend one week in Valencia or more, opt for long-term apartments.
From the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences to the flower-framed streets, this east coast hot spot is home to a huge haul of neighbourhoods. With everything from hipster to historic, here are the top budget, mid-range and luxury accommodations.
Budget (€): Venecia Plaza Centro
Mid-Range (€€): Vincci Mercat
Luxury (€€€): MYR Palacio Vallier
FAQs
Is Valencia worth visiting?
Holidays in Valencia promise plenty of Mediterranean sun, warm weather and historical hot spots. From the Miguelete Tower to the Plaza de la Reina, you’ll have lots of history, culture and food to pack into your trip.
How many days are enough for Valencia?
3 to 4 days are enough to explore Valencia, Spain. In this time, you can see the top attractions and do a day trip to places like Alicante, Albufera, Gandia or Xativa.
What is the most beautiful part of Valencia?
Morella is located in the north of the province of Castellón, which is in the Valencian Community. This is widely considered one of the most beautiful villages in Valencia thanks to its colourful landscape, steep streets and impressive scenery.
Can you do a day trip from Valencia to Barcelona?
Aday trip from Barcelona to Barcelona is worth doing, but only if you start early. Catch a high-speed train in the morning to make the most of your day.
Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Valencia?
Valencia is packed with history, culture and culinary delights, but a day trip provides the perfect mix to spice up your itinerary.
Valencia day trips come in no shortage, with everything from underground caves and roaring waterfalls to thermal springs and whitewashed towns. Whether you choose to explore Xativa, Cullera, Port Saplaya or beyond, you won’t be disappointed.
Before you jet-set off on your vacation, save this guide on the top day trips from Valencia.