Tour of the Borgias with Cathedral included in Valencia

Exploring the Borgias in Valencia: An Honest Guide to the Historic Tour

If you’re intrigued by the fascinating and often controversial history of the Borgias, this tour in Valencia offers an engaging way to connect with their story. While I haven’t personally taken this exact experience, based on the reviews and detailed itinerary, it seems like a solid option for anyone interested in exploring the city’s links to this powerful family.

What really shines are the knowledgeable guides and the well-structured route, which includes highlights like the cathedral and the Holy Chalice—an absolute must-see for history buffs. However, one thing to keep in mind is that you won’t actually visit the Borgia palace itself, which might be a disappointment if you’re hoping for a peek at the family’s residence. This tour seems best suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, historically rich walk through Valencia’s old town, with a focus on the Borgias’ legacy.

Key Points

• Expert guidance makes history engaging with passionate explanations and storytelling.
• Includes highlights like the Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Chalice, making it a culturally rich experience.
• A very reasonable price point for a 2.5-hour guided tour with tickets included.
• Small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience.
• Not a visit to the Borgia palace, but still offers plenty of context about their influence.
• Highly praised reviews emphasize enthusiasm, knowledge, and smooth pacing.

What to Expect from the Borgias Tour in Valencia

This tour runs for approximately two and a half hours, walking you through the historic center of Valencia with a focus on the Borgias’ roots and influence. The price at around $27.30 per person offers good value, especially considering that your ticket to the cathedral and the Holy Chalice museum are included. It’s perfect if you’re after an affordable, educational experience without sacrificing depth.

The tour kicks off in Plaza de Manises in front of the Generalitat Valenciana, where your guide introduces Calixto III and Alexander VI, the only Spanish popes, and sets the scene for the family’s impact on Valencia. The route then takes you to Parroquia de San Nicolas, highlighting Alfonso de Borgia’s rise to the papacy and offering a close-up look at the original façade—an impressive piece of architecture and history.

Next, you’ll step inside the Valencia Cathedral, a highlight of this experience. The guide points out works associated with the Borgias and, most notably, the Holy Chalice—claimed by many to be the actual Holy Grail. The cathedral’s interior is grand and packed with stories that help bring the past alive. The included visit to the museum further enriches the experience, especially with the display of the ornate processional monstrance.

From there, you’ll visit the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, where the patron saint of Valencia is enshrined among beautiful baroque frescoes. It’s a peaceful stop that offers a different perspective on the city’s spiritual history.

The tour concludes at Plaça de Sant Llorenç, where the Borgia Palace once stood. Though the palace isn’t open to the public now, your guide explains the family’s final fate and its lasting influence on Valencia’s history. Several reviewers mention that the walking pace is well managed, with stops that allow for questions and photos, making the experience comfortable and engaging.

Why This Tour Works Well

Most reviews praise Paulino, the guide, for his enthusiasm and deep knowledge. Multiple travelers highlight that his storytelling makes history tangible and memorable. You won’t just listen passively—you’ll be encouraged to ask questions and get a clearer picture of how the Borgias intertwined with Valencia’s history.

The inclusion of the cathedral and Holy Chalice adds a layer of significance. For many, seeing the Holy Chalice in person is a highlight, especially considering the ongoing debate about its authenticity. The fact that you can skip the line at the cathedral (a common complaint in other tours) is another plus, saving you time and frustration.

The small group size (max 15 participants) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd. It allows for a more personalized experience and the chance to engage with your guide directly. Based on reviews, the overall atmosphere seems friendly, lively, and full of insights.

What Could Be Better

A few reviewers mention disappointment about not being able to see the actual Borgia palace, which is not open to visitors. That’s an important detail if you’re hoping to step inside a Borgia residence. Also, since the tour is about the family’s legacy and historical sites, it’s not a family-friendly experience per se, but it’s suitable for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Weather can also be a consideration—since outdoor stops are part of the tour, poor weather might impact your experience. However, the fact that you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance means you can plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re passionate about history, especially related to the Borgias or Valencia’s old town, this tour is a natural fit. It’s also ideal for travelers on a budget who want a guided experience that covers several key sites, with tickets included. Those who enjoy storytelling and engaging guides will benefit most; if you’re looking for a quick, superficial overview, this might be too detailed.

It’s not specifically designed for families or kids, but older children with an interest in history or architecture could find it interesting. The focus on historical buildings and stories means it’s best suited for curious adults or older teens.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is geared toward adults and older teens interested in history. While not explicitly family-focused, curious older children might enjoy the storytelling aspect.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes entry to Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Chalice museum, and the guide’s narration. No hidden costs or extra fees.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, walking through the city’s historic center with several stops.

Is the tour walkable for most people?
Yes, it involves walking through Valencia’s old town but the pace is manageable, and stops are planned to give you time to rest and take photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What are the meeting points?
The tour starts at Pl. de Manises, 4 and ends at Cortes Valencianas, Pl. de Sant Llorenç, both in the city center.

Is there any mention of transportation?
No specific transportation is required; it’s a walking tour with near public transportation options nearby.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the typical group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Who leads the tour?
The experience is led by Paulino, who is highly praised for his knowledge and enthusiasm.

To sum it up, this Tour of the Borgias with Cathedral included in Valencia offers a detailed, engaging, and cost-effective way to explore one of the city’s most intriguing historical families. Perfect for history lovers, it combines storytelling with cultural highlights, all led by a passionate guide. While it won’t take you inside the Borgia palace itself, it compensates with depth, context, and a friendly atmosphere. If you’re in Valencia and want to connect with a fascinating past, this tour is definitely worth considering.