Valencia Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Thinking about exploring Valencia through its food? This Valencia Walking Food Tour by Secret Food Tours promises a flavorful peek into the city’s culinary soul — perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a well-rounded picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is how it combines delicious local dishes like Paella Valenciana with insightful commentary on the city’s culture and history. Plus, the small group size, capped at 12, ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the meeting point.

If you’re a foodie eager to taste Valencia’s best bites, enjoy walking through historic streets, and value knowledgeable guides, this tour could be just right for you. It’s especially suited for travelers who like a balance of food, sights, and stories — but those looking for a very quick snack might find it a bit more involved than they need.

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: The tour highlights regional delicacies, including the renowned Paella Valenciana and fresh fish tapas.
• Expert Guides: Visitors praise guides like Alex and Yaiza for their knowledge, making the experience both tasty and educational.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers a relaxed, personalized vibe.
• Cultural Stops: Besides food, you’ll see landmarks like the Cathedral, Roman ruins, Central Market, and La Lonja de la Seda.
• Time & Price: About 3 hours for $110.36 per person, a solid value considering the variety of food and local insights.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starts at Plaza de la Reina, right in the heart of Old Town.

A Detailed Look at the Valencia Food Tour

This 3-hour walking tour is designed to show you the best of Valencia’s food scene, along with plenty of sights and stories. The experience kicks off at Plaza de la Reina, in the very core of the city. Here, you’ll start with a traditional horchata, a cool, milky drink made from tiger nuts, served in a historic hotel that’s been around for over 200 years. This first stop sets the tone — a taste of local tradition in a charming setting.

One of the things we really appreciate here is the focus on regional specialties. You’ll get to sample fresh fish tapas at a beloved local bar, which is a great way to experience Valencia’s seafood reputation firsthand. The guide will share insights about the city while you enjoy dishes like mussels or other regional delicacies, all while wandering through streets lined with history.

Next, you’ll visit Plaza de Santa Caterina, where you’ll see important landmarks like the Valencian Congress, the Cathedral, and Roman ruins. This part isn’t just about food; it’s about connecting the dots between Valencia’s ancient past and its lively present. The walk itself offers a glimpse into how deeply layered this city is, with stories behind every corner.

The tour then takes you to a classic tavern in the old town, where you’ll experience more regional flavors. This might include grilled sardines drizzled with olive oil, garlic, and parsley — a simple but flavorful staple. Reviewers have consistently praised the quality of the food and the knowledge of guides, like Amy_W who said, “Alex really knows her stuff!”

The final, and arguably the highlight, is a high-end Valencian restaurant where you’ll indulge in Paella Valenciana — the dish that puts Valencia on the culinary map. This hour-long segment is a real treat, giving you the opportunity to see how authentic paella is prepared and served. From the reviews, it’s clear that guests often mention the deliciousness of the paella and the overall experience of tasting this iconic dish in the city.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of food, culture, and history. You’re not just eating; you’re learning about why each dish is important to Valencia’s identity. The inclusion of regional delicacies, regional wine, horchata, and a “secret dish” makes the experience feel exclusive and thoughtfully curated.

What Travelers Are Saying

People consistently give this tour a perfect 5-star rating. Amy_W called it a “GREAT DAY,” highlighting the delicious bites, great drinks, and engaging conversation. She also appreciated the variety — from horchata to authentic paella — and the fact that guides like Alex make it both fun and informative.

Jay_R noted that the guide shared knowledge about the food, culture, and history, making the experience educational as well as flavorful. Karen_T pointed out how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by providing insights into Valencia and its cuisine.

Many reviews mention the small group size as a major plus. Sandra_W, who traveled with her family, appreciated how the intimate setting allowed for better connection with the guide, creating a more personalized experience. Michele_P loved the personal touch that made exploring local foods feel special, especially for those who might be intimidated by trying new dishes alone.

The quality of the food, especially the paella, is consistently praised. Multiple reviewers mention that the dishes are fresh, flavorful, and authentically Valencian, making the experience more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of local culinary culture.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

The tour is priced at $110.36 per person, which, considering the quality of food, the guided experience, and the small group size, provides good value. It’s about 3 hours long, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules. The tour offers group discounts, so if you’re traveling with friends, it’s worth checking those out.

You won’t get hotel pickup or drop-off included, so plan your transportation to the starting point at Plaza de la Reina. The tour is near public transit, making it accessible from different parts of the city.

While the physical activity is moderate — mostly walking between stops — it’s good to have decent mobility, especially since you’ll be exploring historic streets and landmarks. The tour’s maximum of 12 travelers keeps things cozy, allowing for more interaction with your guide.

Weather can affect the tour, so outdoor plans might be affected by rain or high temperatures. The tour provider offers options for rescheduling or full refunds if weather cancels the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love trying authentic regional dishes, enjoy learning about local history and culture, and prefer tours that combine food with sightseeing, this experience is an excellent pick. It’s perfect for culinary enthusiasts eager to taste Valencia’s specialities like paella, horchata, and regional tapas.

Travelers who appreciate small-group settings will enjoy the relaxed, personal feel. It’s also well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of food, sights, and stories in a manageable timeframe.

However, if you’re looking for a quick snack or don’t want to walk much, this might feel a bit more involved than necessary. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to plan how to reach the starting point.

Final Thoughts

This Valencia Walking Food Tour from Secret Food Tours offers a genuine taste of the city’s culinary and cultural scene. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines delicious regional dishes, like Paella Valenciana, with insightful storytelling about Valencia’s history and traditions. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and carefully curated stops make it stand out.

For those who enjoy food as a window into local culture, this tour is a worthwhile investment. It’s especially beneficial for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with gourmand exploration without feeling rushed or lost in a large crowd.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’re likely to come away with a deeper appreciation of Valencia’s food heritage and some memorable bites. Just prepare to walk, taste, and learn — a winning combo for a genuine local experience.

FAQs

Is hotel pick-up included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point at Plaza de la Reina.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy multiple tastings and explore key sights in Old Town.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, making the experience more intimate and allowing for personalized attention from your guide.

Does the price include all food and drinks?
Yes, the tour includes all tastings — from horchata and regional delicacies to Paella Valenciana and regional wine. The price also covers a secret dish.

Are there vegetarian options available?
The provided information doesn’t specify vegetarian options, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have dietary restrictions.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate walking and focus on food make it suitable for most adults, but families with young children should consider the pace and the types of food.

What should I wear?
Since it’s a walking tour in urban streets, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than 24 hours, and the full amount isn’t refunded.

In all, this Secret Food Tour offers a chance to truly taste and learn about Valencia in a way that feels authentic and relaxed. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about local culture, it’s a solid way to spend a few hours in this vibrant city.