Duration: 8 hours

Location: Xàtiva and Albufera Lagoon (~ 1 hour from Valencia)

Availability: Tuesday-Sunday

Discover the soul of Valencia on this full-day private tour, that beautifully combines history, natural beauty, and authentic Valencian cuisine. From the ancient heights of Xàtiva’s mountaintop fortress to the shimmering waters of Albufera Lagoon, this tour invites you to experience the region’s heritage from past to plate.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive south from Valencia, passing through fragrant orange groves, mountain passes, and timeless rural villages. After about an hour, we arrive at the historic hilltop town of Xàtiva, once one of the most important cities in the ancient Kingdom of Valencia. Crowning the twin peaks above the town, the Castle of Xàtiva unfolds along the ridgeline, offering sweeping views of the fertile plains below. We’ll explore the Iberian, Roman, and medieval sections of the fortress, tracing its long history through ramparts, towers, and ancient stone walls. Your guide will share fascinating stories of rulers and empires, including the powerful Borgia family, who hailed from Xàtiva.

The visit includes moderate walking, with plenty of time to rest and enjoy the views. A coffee break on a scenic terrace overlooking the valley offers a chance to soak in the surroundings before descending to the town. Back in the heart of Xàtiva, enjoy a leisurely walking tour of the old town, where cobbled streets, historic fountains, and Baroque facades reveal centuries of history. This charming and lesser-known gem of inland Valencia offers an authentic glimpse of local life and heritage.

After exploring Xàtiva, we travel toward the Albufera Natural Park, home to Spain’s largest freshwater lagoon and the birthplace of paella. The landscape here shifts from mountains to rice paddies and small stretches of roads through the rice paddy farmland. In a traditional Albufera restaurant, we’ll sit down for an authentic Valencian paella lunch, cooked over wood fire with locally grown rice. Surrounded by the very landscape that inspired the dish, this meal is both a culinary delight and a cultural experience.

Following lunch, you may opt to embark on a peaceful boat ride across the Albufera Lagoon in a traditional wooden vessel. As we glide along the calm waters, your guide will share insights into the lagoon’s rich biodiversity and traditional fishing culture. Keep an eye out for flamingos, herons, and other bird species among the reeds – over 300 have been recorded here. It’s a tranquil and refreshing finale to the day, blending natural beauty with a sense of timeless serenity before we return to Valencia.

With private transport, expert local guidance, and a flexible pace, this Xàtiva and Albufera day trip from Valencia offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and gastronomy – a complete Valencian experience in one unforgettable day.

• The exact itinerary varies each time, since this is a private tour just for you. It depends on factors such as opening and closing times, tour start and end times, meeting point, walking pace, weather, and most importantly, the preferences of our guests, ensuring you receive the most personalized experience possible.
• Please note that this tour involves some uphill walking in pedestrianized areas, and we regret that it may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
• The price of lunch is not included in the tour cost (to allow for flexibility) and will need to be paid directly to the restaurant on the day. We would be delighted to help organize lunch for you at a local restaurant within your preferred budget. If you like, your guide can accompany you to assist with translating and ordering, or you can meet your guide after your meal has finished.

• Entrance to Xàtiva Castle
• Local drink/snack
• Private, expert guide
• Private transport

For current pricing and availability, please submit an inquiry through our contact form or email us directly. We’ll be happy to provide a personalized quote based on your requirements.

Lagoon boat ride: 10€/person

Full excellent quality paella lunch (3 courses with wine, beer or soft drinks): 50€/person