Valencia stands out as a city where gastronomy, art, and local culture blend seamlessly. It’s a place that invites you not just to observe but to participate—whether that’s rolling up your sleeves to make authentic paella, exploring bustling markets, or capturing its vibrant streets through a camera lens. One of our favorite experiences is the Valencian paella cooking class with market visit, where you learn the secrets of this iconic dish right at the source (see details here). That combination of hands-on cooking and local shopping makes it a top pick for foodies.
Valencia’s rich culinary traditions, lively markets, and scenic countryside make it ideal for engaging workshops and classes. From traditional paella workshops to private cooking experiences, these hands-on activities are perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Valencia’s culture. Here, we’ve compiled the 15 best workshops and classes in the city, covering everything from authentic cuisine classes to photography walks.
Below, you’ll find a variety of experiences designed for different interests and budgets. Whether you’re eager to master the art of Valencian paella, want a private cooking session with a Michelin-starred chef, or prefer a creative photography tour, this list has you covered.
1. Valencian paella cooking class, tapas and visit to Ruzafa market
At number 1, this highly-rated Valencian paella class in Ruzafa offers a full immersion into Valencian culinary culture. For about $74, you’ll spend around 3.5 hours learning to cook authentic paella made with chicken and rabbit—not seafood, despite Valencia’s seaside reputation. The experience begins with a stroll through Ruzafa Market, where Spanish chefs introduce you to the ingredients that define regional cuisine. You’ll also participate in a sangria-making workshop, enjoy tapas on arrival, and then settle in to cook your own paella. The meal is complemented by salad, wine, fruit, cake, and coffee.
What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format and the emphasis on teaching a skill that lasts beyond the trip. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere and the authentic recipes, with one saying, “We learned to make a delicious paella and appreciated the appetizers, sangria, and desserts included.” This class is perfect for food lovers who want a fun, immersive experience with local chefs.
Bottom line: A lively, comprehensive, and authentic way to learn Valencian culinary traditions in a friendly setting.
2. Paella Cooking Class, Wine Tasting & Central Market in Valencia
At number 2, this paella and wine experience combines the best of Valencia’s culinary scene in a 4-hour tour for around $75. You start by exploring Mercado Central de Valencia, where you select fresh ingredients alongside your guide. Then, in a live cooking session, you learn step-by-step how to prepare a true Valencian paella with a professional chef. Each participant gets their own cooking station, making this hands-on experience very engaging.
Guests rave about the informative guides and the chance to try local tapas and wines alongside the cooking. One reviewer notes, “Daniel gave us a tour and history of the dish before we started cooking,” which adds context to the process. The meal ends with everyone enjoying the freshly cooked paella, complemented by local wines and tapas.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for culinary enthusiasts eager to learn local techniques while exploring Valencia’s vibrant market scene.
3. Valencian paella workshop and visit to the Algiros market
Number 3 features this paella workshop with a market visit, which combines culture and cooking. For about $80, you’ll spend roughly 2.5 hours learning to make traditional Valencian paella with expert chefs who have over 12 years of experience. The tour starts with a visit to Algiros Market, where you pick fresh ingredients and learn about local Valencian produce. Afterward, you’ll head to a professional kitchen to cook the dish, with the opportunity to ask questions and get personalized tips.
Guests praise the entertaining instructor Zaher, saying he made the class both fun and educational. Many appreciate the chance to participate actively in preparing the meal and enjoy eating together at the end. It’s perfect for foodies eager for a hands-on, authentic experience that combines market shopping with cooking.
Bottom line: A lively, authentic way to master Valencian paella while exploring local markets.
4. Seafood paella cooking class, tapas and visit to Ruzafa market
Number 4 on our list is the Seafood paella class with market visit, which specializes in seafood paella, Valencia’s most famous dish. For $79.94, you get a 3.5-hour experience with all necessary equipment provided. The day kicks off with a visit to Ruzafa Market to select fresh seafood and ingredients, then moves into a small-group cooking lesson led by passionate guides.
Guests love the personalized attention and enjoyable atmosphere, with many noting the delicious tapas, wine, and dessert included. Participants also learn to make sangria and savor their creations with salad, local wines, and coffee. The class is well-suited for seafood lovers or those wanting to refine their cooking skills in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for seafood fans wanting a comprehensive, fun experience with authentic Valencian flavors.
5. Valencia: Paella Cooking Class with Central Market Tour
In spot 5, this market-focused paella class combines shopping, cooking, and dining for about $74. It offers a live, step-by-step lesson with a professional chef, starting with a visit to Mercado Central to buy fresh ingredients. Then, you’ll prepare Valencia’s iconic dish in a friendly environment.
Guests enjoy extra touches like tapas and unlimited wine, making it a well-rounded experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable instructors and the opportunity to bring home recipes to cook later. This class is perfect for those who want a strong culinary foundation and a taste of local life.
Bottom line: A practical, engaging class ideal for foodies eager to learn regional cooking techniques.
6. Authentic Valencian Paella Cooking Class
The sixth spot belongs to this farmhouse-based paella experience, which takes you outside the city into the scenic landscape of orange groves and rice paddies. For $79.94, the hands-on class lasts about 4 hours and is led by a gourmet instructor in a traditional farmhouse setting. You’ll learn secrets of Valencian paella while surrounded by nature.
Guests love the informality and authenticity of cooking in a rural setting, with some praising the vegetarian options available. The meal ends with everyone sharing a home-cooked dish in a relaxed, scenic environment. This experience suits nature lovers and culinary adventurers looking for a memorable setting.
Bottom line: An immersive, scenic way to become a paella ambassador in a genuine farm environment.
7. Valencia: Paella Workshop and Algiros Market Visit
Number 7 offers a paella workshop with market visit in about 2.5 hours for $78. The guide, Carles, is described as animated and informative, making this a lively introduction to Valencian cuisine. You’ll visit Algiros Market to select ingredients, then cook paella with a local chef, and finish with the meal along with tapas and sangria.
Guests appreciate the interactive nature of the class, with many noting the helpful tips and tricks shared. It’s a good fit for foodies wanting a quick yet authentic experience with local flavor.
Bottom line: A fun, interactive way to learn traditional Valencian dishes in a short time.
8. Valencian Paella Cooking Class, Tapas & Sangria – Evening
In spot 8, the evening paella class offers a relaxed, social environment for just $74.42. Over 3 hours, you learn to make paella and sangria, enjoying tapas and dessert along the way. The class emphasizes Spanish culture and culinary traditions, making it ideal for those seeking a lively social experience.
Reviewers highlight the fun atmosphere and how the instructors ensure everyone is involved. It’s especially well-suited for couples or groups wanting an engaging evening activity.
Bottom line: A lively, social way to enjoy Valencian cuisine with a relaxed evening vibe.
9. Valencia: Evening Guided Paella Workshop, Tapas, and Drinks
Number 9 features this guided, evening paella class for roughly $73. It includes learning to cook authentic Valencian or seafood paella, enjoying tapas and drinks, and discovering local culinary customs. The class lasts about 3 hours and covers tips from a local chef.
Guests rave about the friendly atmosphere and the chance to sample Manchego cheese, ham, and steamed mussels. The inclusive drinks—sangria, beer, soft drinks, and wine—make it a memorable, flavorful evening.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for food and drink enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive, fun night out.
10. Valencia: Paella Workshop, Tapas and Ruzafa Market Visit
At number 10, this market and paella class combines market shopping, cooking, and tasting in about 3.5 hours for $73. You’ll explore Ruzafa Market to pick ingredients, then cook with a local chef and enjoy a meal with tapas and wine.
Reviewers praise the fun, interactive class and the delicious food. Many mention how the experience is perfect for foodies eager to learn authentic recipes while enjoying local flavors.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, engaging experience for those wanting market insights and hands-on cooking.
11. Valencia Paella & Tapas Home Cooking Class with Local Chef Jose
Number 11 offers a private home cooking experience for $115, emphasizing local hospitality. Hosted by chef Jose in his own home, this class includes sangria, tapas, paella, and dessert. It lasts about 3 hours and is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, intimate experience.
Reviews mention how Jose’s passion and knowledge make the class memorable, with many noting the home-cooked atmosphere and delicious food. It’s an excellent choice for foodies seeking a local, authentic experience in a warm setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a personalized and home-style Valencian culinary experience.
12. Vegetable Paella cooking class, tapas and Ruzafa market visit
Number 12 provides a vegetarian/vegan paella option for about $80. Lasting roughly 3 hours, the class emphasizes vegetarian ingredients, with participants shopping at Ruzafa Market. It also includes tapas, coffee, fruit, and sweets, offering a full meal.
Guests praise the inclusive atmosphere and delicious dishes, often highlighting how the chefs make everyone feel involved. It’s ideal for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone wanting to explore plant-based Valencian dishes.
Bottom line: A great choice for vegetarian and vegan travelers wanting authentic paella without seafood.
13. Any Day is Sunday: Paella Cooking Class with Tapas and Sangria
Number 13 offers a Sunday-inspired class that captures Valencia’s relaxed weekend spirit. For about $116, this 3-hour class includes paella, tapas, sangria, and desserts. It’s designed to be enjoyable and informal, with an emphasis on local customs.
Participants appreciate the personal touch and the creative atmosphere, often mentioning how Jose’s guidance makes the experience both fun and educational. It’s especially suited for families or groups wanting a laid-back, immersive experience.
Bottom line: A delightful, casual way to enjoy Valencian cuisine and culture.
14. Valencia: Traditional Paella Cooking Class and Dinner
This traditional dinner experience lasts about 2 hours, led by a passionate chef. It includes learning secrets of authentic Valencian paella, enjoying snacks and sangria, and then sitting down to savor your own home-cooked dish.
Guests highlight the engaging instruction and delicious meal, with many saying it’s a perfect culinary introduction. Ideal for those seeking a shorter, focused class with a relaxed dinner vibe.
Bottom line: A compact, delicious way to learn Valencian paella with a friendly atmosphere.
15. Private Photography Walking Tour & Workshop in Valencia
Number 15 is a unique artistic experience, offering a private photography tour led by a seasoned photographer. Over 2-3 hours, you’ll explore hidden alleys, scenic viewpoints, and learn techniques like the art of observation to capture deeper images.
Ideal for photographers or travelers wanting to improve their visual storytelling, this tour combines customized instruction with stunning cityscapes. Reviewers praise Max’s ability to teach observation skills and the beautiful locations visited.
Bottom line: A perfect fit for creative travelers seeking to enhance their photography skills while discovering Valencia’s streets.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in Valencia
When deciding between these options, consider your interest focus—are you a foodie wanting to master paella (see the top-rated classes), or a culture seeker interested in photography (see the photography tour)? Budget plays a role, too; private classes like Jose’s home cooking tend to be pricier but offer a more personalized experience. For shorter visits, the market-focused classes offer quick, immersive learning. If you’re traveling with family or friends, look for classes that emphasize group participation and fun, like the evening paella courses.
Book early, especially for popular classes in high season, and check if your preferred experience includes market visits, wine tasting, or special dietary options.
Final Thoughts
Valencia offers a broad selection of workshops that allow you to taste, learn, and create like a local. For the culinary enthusiast, the Valencian paella classes and private home experiences stand out for their authenticity. Nature lovers and those wanting a scenic backdrop will appreciate the farmhouse paella, while art and photo buffs can enjoy the personalized photography tour.
With options spanning market visits, hands-on cooking, private dinners, and creative photography, Valencia truly caters to a wide range of interests. To make the most of your trip, plan ahead and book your preferred activity early—these experiences fill up quickly during peak season.
Enjoy your time in Valencia—whether you’re perfecting your paella skills, capturing stunning images, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, these workshops will add depth and flavor to your visit.
