Valencia isn’t just about paella and oranges; it’s a city that offers a surprising variety of lunch experiences that go beyond traditional tapas. For those who want to combine food with culture or scenery, Valencia delivers. We especially like the Private Wine Tour with Wine Tasting and Full Lunch for its personalized approach—imagine sampling wines in 9th-century caves while enjoying a delicious, included three-course meal. Or the Valencia Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Valencian Lunch for a relaxed afternoon on the water, with fresh sea air and a serving of authentic paella. Whether you prefer wine country, the coast, or a hands-on cooking class, Valencia has an option that fits.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of lunch experiences, from elegant private tours to lively boat trips, and even an artisan pasta workshop. Each offers a unique way to savor Valencia’s flavors and scenery, with options suited for different interests and budgets.
The types of tours that made our list include:
- Private wine tours with tastings and gourmet lunches, perfect for wine lovers looking for an intimate experience (Tour #1)
- Coastal cruises with onboard paella and swimming stops, ideal for relaxing in the sun (Tour #2)
- Full-day wine country excursions that combine vineyard visits with traditional local food (Tour #3)
- Party boats with lively music and a festive vibe (Tour #4)
- Cooking workshops for those who want to learn and eat, making pasta with an Italian chef (Tour #5)
- Themed parties on a boat with live DJ music and onboard paella (Tour #6)
- Cultural visits paired with a traditional paella lunch at the beach (Tour #7)
- Exotic guided Harley motorcycle tours with scenic stops and local cuisine (Tour #8)
- A horseback riding adventure combined with a hearty Valencian lunch, ideal for active travelers (Tour #9)
Now, let’s explore each of these options in detail.
1. Private Wine Tour with Wine Tasting and Full Lunch
If you’re a wine enthusiast who wants an intimate, hassle-free way to explore Spain’s renowned Utiel-Requena wine region, this private tour is a standout. Over about 7 hours, you’ll enjoy scenic drives through rolling vineyards, with stops at two historic wineries. The tour includes visits to Murviedro’s 9th-century wine caves, where clay pots once stored wine—an experience rich in history. Afterwards, you’ll visit Bodega Vera de Estenas, a family-run vineyard that produces small-batch wines, with a guided tasting of three varieties.
What makes this tour unique is its private nature—your group alone, with just the guide and driver paying close attention to your interests. The full lunch in Utiel isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a carefully curated three-course meal featuring local cuisine, included in the price. The hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel or port ensures a stress-free day. Guests consistently praise the guide’s stories and deep knowledge, with reviews highlighting how the stories added depth to the tastings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers seeking a personalized, enriching experience that combines history, scenery, and exceptional wine and food.
2. Valencia: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Valencian Lunch
For around $48, this 3-hour sailing cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation, scenery, and authentic local flavors. You’ll board a spacious catamaran and cruise along Valencia’s coastline, feeling the sea breeze while enjoying views of the city’s skyline. The highlight is the onboard Valencian-style lunch, featuring paella—a dish that’s practically a symbol of the region—served with a complimentary drink.
Guests love the casual, laid-back atmosphere and the chance to jump into the sea at a secluded beach for swimming and sunbathing. The crew keeps things friendly and relaxed, making it ideal for families or groups looking for a breezy escape. The boat comfortably accommodates everyone, and the on-board bar means you can sip local drinks as you drift along.
Reviews emphasize the delicious food and the peaceful swimming stops, with many commenting that it’s a “fantastic way to unwind after sightseeing.” Though some mention the modest length—just 3 hours—the experience’s charm lies in its simplicity and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic afternoon that combines great food, sea swimming, and spectacular views—great for families or couples.
3. From Valencia: Utiel-Requena Wine Tour and Traditional Lunch
This full-day tour offers an in-depth look at Valencia’s wine country, with visits to two vineyards and a medieval underground winery. Departing from central Valencia, it’s a solid choice for those who love delving into wine production and regional cuisine. The tour includes tastings at Bodega Vera de Estenas, a small, family-run vineyard, and the historic Murviedro wine caves, where clay pots from centuries past still hold wine.
What sets this tour apart is the local expert guide—a WSET3 or WSET4 certified sommelier—who shares insights into the region’s terroir and winemaking processes. The lunch is a highlight, featuring local dry sausages and traditional dishes served at the winery. Guests rave about the personalized service and the chance to ask questions about everything from grape varieties to aging techniques.
At around $221, it’s a good investment for serious wine lovers who want a more comprehensive experience. The reviews note the small group size and the valuable knowledge gained, making it ideal for those keen to learn while tasting.
Bottom Line: An immersive, educational wine trip suited for connoisseurs or curious travelers wanting to explore Valencia’s wine heritage.
4. Valencia: Catamaran Cruise, Paella Lunch and Swim Stop
This 2.5-hour boat trip is a lively way to enjoy Valencia’s coast with plenty of seafood and sun. The highlight is the onboard paella, prepared fresh and served as you relax on deck. The cruise includes a swimming stop at Port Saplaya, a charming beachside area, perfect for cooling off after soaking up the sun.
Guests mention the delicious food and friendly crew, with many appreciating the music and relaxed vibe. The limited time for swimming is a minor drawback for some, but most agree it’s a fun, hassle-free way to combine sightseeing, eating, and swimming.
While not as long as some other tours, this experience offers good value at around $44 per person and is especially suited for those who want to enjoy Valencia’s seaside charm without overcommitting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, fun, and tasty seaside escape—perfect if you want to enjoy paella and water adventure in one go.
5. Valencia: Fresh Pasta Workshop with Lunch/Dinner in the Center
For those who love hands-on experiences, this 2.5-hour pasta-making workshop is a delightful way to enjoy Valencia’s culinary scene. Led by an Italian chef in his home, you’ll learn how to craft authentic fresh pasta using traditional techniques. The class is as much about culture as it is about cooking, offering a taste of Italy without leaving Spain.
Participants get to cook, then enjoy their pasta in a convivial atmosphere. It’s not just a cooking class—it’s an experience that emphasizes flavor, connection, and fun. The focus on making pasta from scratch means you’ll leave with skills you can replicate at home, plus a satisfied belly.
While this tour is shorter and less about sightseeing, it’s perfect for foodies, couples, or anyone wanting a memorable culinary experience. The reviews show high satisfaction, with diners raving about the flavorful dishes and friendly guidance.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers eager to learn, cook, and eat Italian-style pasta in the heart of Valencia.
6. Valencia: Catamaran Party Boat with Lunch
If you’re after a lively, party atmosphere, this party boat experience delivers. With live DJ music onboard, you can dance, mingle, and enjoy the view of Valencia’s coast. The lunch usually includes a tasty paella, making this trip both fun and filling.
Guests enjoy the upbeat vibe, with many praising the friendly staff and the overall festive feel. It’s a good choice for groups of friends or anyone who wants a party with a view. The boat’s layout allows for socializing, dancing, and soaking up the sun.
At $65 per person, it’s a bit pricier than some, but the lively atmosphere and onboard entertainment make it worthwhile. Reviewers mention the good food and fun music, and many say they’d do it again.
Bottom Line: Perfect for celebrating, dancing, and enjoying Valencia’s coastline in a high-energy setting.
7. Lladro Factory Visit and Paella Lunch at the Beach
This tour combines art, craftsmanship, and cuisine in a relaxing 3-hour experience. You start with a visit to the Lladro Factory and Museum, where you’ll see porcelain figurines crafted by artisans with meticulous skill. The guided tour explains the entire process—from clay to finished product—culminating in a look at their historic and current collections.
Afterward, you head to Playa de la Malvarrosa for a traditional Valencian paella in a seaside restaurant. The combination of art and food makes this ideal for culture buffs and art lovers. Reviewers emphasize the quality of the lunch and the fascinating tour of the factory.
At about $134, it’s a well-rounded cultural and culinary outing. It’s best suited for those interested in art, porcelain, and authentic food in a relaxed beach setting.
Bottom Line: A cultural and gastronomic combo—perfect for art lovers, families, or anyone wanting a leisurely day at the beach.
8. Guided Harley Tours with Lunch
For the motorcycle enthusiast, this 6-hour guided Harley tour offers a chance to explore Valencia on a Sportster, feeling the engine roar beneath you. You’ll cruise along scenic roads, stopping at viewpoints for photos, and enjoy a local lunch in between rides.
The tour is suited for those comfortable with riding or willing to be part of a small group for an exciting adventure. With the guide sharing stories along the way, it combines scenery, culture, and cuisine in a distinctive way. The reviews highlight the thrill of riding and the personalized experience.
This experience is best for adventure seekers who want a different way to see Valencia, combining adrenaline with good food.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable, high-energy way to explore the Valencia region—ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts or those craving something different.
9. Valencia: Horseback Ride + Lunch + Hotel Pick-Up
This package offers a relaxed horseback ride through open fields just outside Valencia, topped off with a hearty 3-course lunch. The 1-hour ride is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with an experienced guide leading the way through scenic countryside.
The included hotel pick-up makes this a stress-free option, especially for those staying in the city. After riding, you’ll enjoy a traditional Valencian meal at a local restaurant, making this experience perfect for nature lovers and culinary enthusiasts.
Guests mention the pleasant ride and the delicious local lunch, with many appreciating the convenience of the round-trip transfer.
Bottom Line: A good choice for active travelers wanting a blend of outdoor activity and local dining, especially if staying nearby.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch in Valencia
When selecting the best lunch experience, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re passionate about wine, a private wine tour offers intimacy and education, while a coastal cruise like the sailing catamaran combines scenery and seafood. For a hands-on culinary experience, the pasta workshop is perfect.
Budget-wise, the party boat provides a lively atmosphere at a reasonable price, while the cultural Lladro tour combines art and cuisine. Adventure travelers might prefer the Harley motorcycle or horseback riding options.
Timing is key—book early for popular tours, especially in summer, and consider the length of each experience. Check availability and plan around your main sightseeing schedule.
Final Thoughts
Valencia offers a diverse range of lunch experiences that suit all interests—from wine connoisseurs to beach lovers, and culinary adventurers. If you want a personalized, immersive wine day, the private wine tour is hard to beat. For those seeking relaxation and stunning seaside views, the sailing cruise or party boat will fit the bill. Foodies and culture buffs will love the pasta workshop or the Lladro factory visit with beach paella.
No matter how you choose to spend it, booking early is wise, especially in peak season. Valencia’s lunch experiences promise memorable flavors and scenery—make sure to pick one that matches your style and enjoy every bite of it.
This guide should help you narrow down your options and plan a delicious, authentic lunch in Valencia. Happy eating!
