Valencia: Old Town Tour, Wine & Tapas in an 11th c. Monument

Discovering Valencia’s Old Town with Wine & Tapas: An Honest Review

Valencia, with its sun-dappled streets, centuries-old architecture, and lively plazas, is a city that beckons for exploration. The Valencia: Old Town Tour, Wine & Tapas in an 11th-century Monument offers travelers a chance to see the city’s historic core through the eyes of a local guide, combined with a delicious tasting experience that highlights regional flavors. Judging by over 1,500 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, this tour seems to hit the sweet spot for many visitors.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines cultural discovery with culinary delights. You get a leisurely walk through Valencia’s most iconic squares and streets, along with the chance to visit a private, 11th-century monument – an unusual and memorable highlight. Plus, the tasting session paired with prizewinning regional wines makes the evening feel both educational and indulgent. The only caveat? The price of $91 per person, while fair considering the inclusions, might be a bit steep for those on a tight budget. Still, if you’re into meaningful city tours combined with food and drink, this one is worth considering.

This tour is particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and those who enjoy a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. It’s not a high-energy outing but more of an enlightening, flavorful stroll through the city’s past and present. Travelers interested in authentic experiences that go beyond just sightseeing will find a lot to appreciate here.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides like Tuathla, Amelia, Martha, and others, who keep the commentary engaging and personalized.
• A Perfect Mix of Culture and Cuisine: Expect a balanced itinerary of walking, learning, and tasting, with regional wines, tapas, and paella.
• Exclusive Access Adds Value: Gaining entry to an 11th-century monument is a rare opportunity, elevating this tour above typical city walks.
• Quality Food and Drink: The tapas and wine receive praise for their quality and presentation, with many reviewers noting the generous portions and interesting pairings.
• Relaxed Pacing and Group Size: The tour involves about an hour of easy walking, no stairs, and is conducted in a small-group setting, which makes it comfortable and intimate.
• Flexible Booking & Refund Policy: With options to reserve and pay later, plus a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, this tour offers peace of mind for planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off outside the Unic Daily Goodness bar, right in the heart of Valencia’s Old Town. From there, you’ll set out on a leisurely walk through the city’s most renowned plazas, such as Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen. These spots are the pulse of Valencia, bustling with locals and visitors alike, showcasing a blend of architectural styles ranging from Roman to Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque. Our guides consistently impress with their depth of knowledge, as reviews repeatedly mention, making the stories behind these landmarks come alive.

What makes this walking segment stand out? The guides’ ability to weave history, architecture, and local culture into a narrative that feels both informative and engaging. For example, one reviewer appreciated how their guide, Cormac, was enthusiastic, attentive, and knew a lot about the city’s architecture. The walk is about an hour at a relaxed pace, perfect for soaking in the sights without feeling rushed or exhausted.

A particularly memorable feature is exclusive access to a historical monument dating back to the 11th century. This private visit offers a rare glimpse into Valencia’s layered past, adding an intimate and exclusive element to the experience. Inside, you’ll be surrounded by ancient stone walls, feeling transported back centuries.

Following the visit, the tour transitions into the dining portion, which promises a tasting menu of local tapas, paella, and dessert. The food is served in a stylish venue within the old city walls, emphasizing quality and regional authenticity. Reviewers mention the dishes are carefully prepared, plentiful, and paired with prize-winning regional wines. The wine choice is another highlight, with many mentioning the attentive pairing that elevates the tasting rather than just filling the glass.

The evening wraps up back at the starting point, giving you flexibility to explore more of Valencia afterward, or simply unwind with new friends and a glass of wine. The entire experience lasts about four hours, making it a manageable yet enriching outing.

Why the Reviews Speak Volumes

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with descriptions like “passionate,” “attentive,” and “enthusiastic,” which is key because a good guide can turn a good tour into a memorable experience. Several reviews mention how the guides shared interesting facts about Valencia’s history, architecture, and even local agriculture, which adds depth to what might otherwise be a superficial walk.

Many reviewers also highlight the quality of the food and wine. With descriptions like “perfectly prepared,” “delicious,” and “plentiful,” it’s clear that the tasting component is a major part of the appeal. The venue’s ambiance and the variety of wines and dishes seem to make the experience feel special without feeling overly formal.

The balance of sightseeing and tasting is probably what makes this tour a standout. Instead of just walking around, you get to sit, eat, and savor local flavors, which helps you connect more deeply with Valencian culture.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is priced at $91 per person, which includes the guided walk, the tasting menu, and the wines. While it might seem a bit pricey at first glance, many reviews mention the good value for the quality and exclusivity of the experience. The private access to an ancient monument and the intimate setting for food and wine further justify the cost.

It’s wheelchair accessible, involves about an hour of walking at a leisurely pace (no stairs), and is conducted in English. The meeting point is easy to find outside the Unic Daily Goodness bar, and the tour ends right where it begins, making it convenient to continue exploring afterward.

One important note is that Central Market Valencia is closed on Sundays and in the afternoons, so tours on those days won’t include a visit there. If you’re hoping to visit this popular spot, plan accordingly.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve in advance, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund. This flexibility is always helpful when traveling.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Sign Up?

This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, in-depth look at Valencia’s Old Town without the rush of large tour groups. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about history, architecture, and local culture while also indulging in tasty food and wine. It’s especially suited for foodies and wine lovers who appreciate quality and pairing.

If you’re traveling with a curious mind, an appetite for authentic regional cuisine, and a desire for a more personalized experience, this tour ticks all those boxes. The guides’ passion and knowledge shine through, making it clear that a lot of effort has gone into creating a memorable outing.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a high-energy tour with lots of walking or major sights like museums or art galleries, you might find this a bit laid-back. Also, if budget constraints are critical, consider whether the price aligns with your priorities—many find the experience worth it for the exclusive access and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour involves about an hour of walking at a leisurely pace with no stairs, and it’s wheelchair accessible.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided walk with live commentary in English, a full tasting menu of tapas, paella, and dessert, plus regional prizewinning wines.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet outside the Unic Daily Goodness bar on the corner of Placa de Sant Jaume, 1. It’s a straightforward meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including the walk, the visit to the monument, and the tasting session.

Does the tour include visits to Central Market Valencia?
Not on Sundays or in the afternoons, as the market is closed then. Outside those times, the market may be part of the walk.

Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, the relaxed pace and interesting sights make it suitable for older kids, especially those interested in history and food.

All in all, if you’re after a balanced, authentic taste of Valencia’s old town combined with exceptional food and wine, this tour offers a thoughtful and enjoyable experience. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the city’s culture while sampling some of its best flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: