Hola! Planning a trip to Valencia and wondering what else you can explore nearby? You’re in luck! This vibrant Spanish city is surrounded by charming towns, stunning natural landscapes, and hidden gems that are perfect for a day away. From majestic castles and historic towns to whitewashed villages and tranquil beaches, there are plenty of amazing places to discover just a short drive away. Best of all? These day trips offer a wonderful escape from Valencia’s buzz and let you experience the authentic charm of the region. Vamos, come with us and discover the best day trips from Valencia, Spain!
Note. We personally visited all mentioned places near Valencia while living in the area for a few months. Each destination is within 1.5 hours of Valencia by car (and many of them are much closer).
This website uses affiliate links thanks to which we may earn a commission for purchases you made at no additional cost to you. If you like the content, consider using those links to support us. Thank you!
Transport on day trips from Valencia
The fastest way of getting to all the mentioned places near Valencia is by car, either yours or rented. If you don’t travel with your car, you can easily rent the best one for your needs through the Rental Cars website.
Most of the towns are also accessible by public transport, by trains and buses. You can search for the connections that might interest you on the rome2rio.com website.
f you don’t want to put too much effort into planning, you can always take advantage of the guided tours and let someone else take care of all the details. For example, you can take part in this popular Albufera Day Trip with Boat Tour and Transfer or this fascinating Peniscola Day tour with Game of Thrones locations. Looking for something unique and delicious? Take a look at this Orange Farm and Orchard Trip with Tastings – yummy!
For more well-reviewed tour options, visit GetYourGuide or Viator website.
Day trips from Valencia, Spain
Xativa
Xativa is located about 60km from Valencia. It’s one of the most charming historic towns in the Province of Valencia, packed with rich history, cultural treasures, scenic views, and a quaint old town. Xativa is best known for its impressive hilltop castle, being the birthplace of two Borgia popes – Callixtus III and Alexander VI, and a fascinating mix of Roman, Islamic, and Christian heritage. It’s also less crowded than other nearby tourist spots, making it a perfect place to soak up an authentic Spanish vibe! Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of hilltop castles, or simply looking for an unforgettable day trip from Valencia, Xativa won’t disappoint.
Port Saplaya
Port Saplaya is located only about 10km from Valencia and is often affectionately called “Little Venice” by locals. This colourful coastal gem will charm you with its picturesque canals, pastel-hued houses, tranquil beaches, and relaxed vibe. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful seaside escape, a scenic stroll, or a cozy spot to sip coffee by the water, Port Saplaya offers this perfect mix just a stone’s throw from Valencia’s city center! And the best part? You can enjoy its beauty without the usual tourist crowds! Without a doubt, Port Saplaya is one of the most picturesque day trips from Valencia you don’t want to miss.
Peniscola
Peniscola is located about 140 km from Valencia and is one of those places that can steal your heart in the blink of an eye. This picturesque coastal village boasts a typical Mediterranean charm with its whitewashed houses adorned with blue ornaments, flower-filled balconies, narrow cobblestone streets, and cozy squares. Highlights include a stunning castle overlooking the sea, holiday-perfect beaches, and… a unique house entirely covered in seashells! It doesn’t surprise us at all that Peniscola was named one of the most beautiful villages in Spain! With its postcard-worthy scenery and laid-back vibe, this town is just a perfect day trip from Valencia.
Sagunto
Sagunto is located about 30km from Valencia. It’s a hidden gem for history lovers, and one of the best spots to explore the region’s rich history and ancient charm. If you’re into Roman ruins, hilltop castles, charming old towns, and nice beaches, this is your kind of place! Unfortunately, Sagunto often flies under the radar of travelers heading to more popular spots. But trust us, with its over 2000 years of stories to tell, this town is totallt worth exploring. And the best part? You can explore it all without the crowds! Without a doubt, Sagunto is one of the coolest day trips from Valencia.
Albufera Natural Park
Albufera Natural Park is located only about 20km from Valencia and offers a peaceful escape into nature. This beautiful freshwater lake is the largest one in Spain and is surrounded by rice fields, pine forests, and walking trails. It’s also a great spot for sunbathing on pristine beaches, birdwatching, cycling, and even a relaxing boat ride at sunset. This area is also the birthplace of paella, so don’t miss the chance to try this iconic local dish in one of the traditional restaurants in the nearby village of El Palmar. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, tranquil views, or a taste of authentic local culture, Albufera Natural Park is one of the most rewarding day trips from Valencia.
Denia
Denia is located about 100km from Valencia and makes for a fantastic day trip filled with charm and variety. Whether you want to explore historic old town, admire spectacular views, hike in the nearby Montgo Natural Park, or sample local specialties – Denia has it all and won’t disappoint. The town is also famous for its culinary scene and was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy – it’s a real treat for food lovers! With its lively vive, rich history, and coastal beauty, Denia is one of the most interesting towns on the Costa Blanca.
Javea
Javea, or Xabia in the local Valencian language, is located about 110km from Valencia. It’s one of the gems of the Valencia Region, offering everything you could wish for – stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, magnificent viewpoints, a charming historic center, and scenic hiking trails. On a day trip from Valencia, you can wander through the old town, swim in hidden coves, stroll along the coastline, or enjoy fresh seafood in a beachfront restaurant. What’s more, Javea still remains quieter and less crowded than some of its neighbours, making it an ideal spot if you’re seeking a peaceful, more relaxed escape.
Gandia
Gandia is located about 70km from Valencia. The town’s charming old town is full of interesting landmarks, including the impressive Ducal Palace and many beautiful churches, all surrounded by quaint streets perfect for a peaceful stroll. While the heart of Gandia offers a rich cultural experience, the town is also well known for its sandy beaches, lively promenade, and relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Whether you want to explore architectural gems, unwind on uncrowded beaches, or soak up authentic local life, Gandia is a refreshing day trip from Valencia that many travelers overlook.
Altea
Altea is located about 130km from Valencia and is one of the most peaceful and picturesque seaside white towns in Region of Valencia. With its narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning sea views, Altea feels like a place where time has slowed down. The town’s most iconic landmark is the blue dome of its main church, located on a small hill and visible from kilometres away. Altea is also a haven for artists – there you’ll find numerous art galleries, artisan workshops, and craft shops with beautiful handmade items. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape full of charm, creativity, and coastal beauty, Altea is easily one of the best day trips from Valencia for that.
Calpe
Calpe is located about 120km from Valencia. The town is most famous for the iconic Peñon de Ifach, a mighty limestone rock that towers over the coast and gives the area its unique character. But there’s so much more to enjoy in Calpe! You can wander through its charming and colorful old town, relax on sandy beaches, or visit the salt flats where you might spot adorable pink flamingos. Calpe is also a great spot for a scenic seaside lunch, and hiking lovers will enjoy the trail leading up and around the Penon rock. If you have extra time, combine your visit with nearby Altea to create one of the most scenic and rewarding day trips from Valencia.
Explore local attractions
Cullera
Cullera is located about 40km from Valencia and is a perfect choice for a relaxed coastal day trip to a place where golden sands meet rich history. Often overlooked by travellers, this charming Spanish town is packed with impressive monuments, striking viewpoints, long sandy beaches, and rich cultural heritage, all wrapped in a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. It’s a fantastic destination for beach lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike –whatever you’re after, you’ll likely find it in Cullera. And all of that without the tourist crowds!
Via Verde del Mar & Desert de les Palmes Natural Park
Just about 85 km from Valencia, you’ll find a fantastic duo of natural escapes: the Via Verde del Mar and the Desert de les Palmes Natural Park. Together, they make for a refreshing day trip from Valencia, perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Via Verde del Mar is a scenic coastal route located between Benicassim and Oropesa, following the path of a former railway line. It stretches about 5.6 km one way and is suitable for both walking and cycling. Its difficulty is low, which makes it a fantastic option for people of all ages. Along the way, you’ll be treated to dramatic sea views, pine forests, rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and old watchtowers, making it one of the most picturesque green routes in the Region of Valencia.
Just a short drive inland, the Desert de les Palmes Natural Park offers a completely different kind of beauty, with peaceful mountain landscapes, several hiking trails, and spectacular viewpoints overlooking the coast and nearby towns like Benicassim or Castellon. There you’ll also find a few historic sites, like monasteries and hermitages, tucked among the hills. Even if you’re not up for a full hike, it’s well worth driving through the park for a scenic ride with spectacular views.
Benidorm
Benidorm is located about 140km from Valencia. In just a few decades, it transformed from a sleepy fishing village into one of Spain’s most famous holiday resorts, offering one of the most surprising contrasts in the region. Benidorm is often affectionately called the “Manhattan of Spain”, and one look is enough to tell that this city is indeed totally different from most Spanish cities. But there’s more to it than just skyscrapers – think golden beaches, scenic mountain views, a vivid nightlife scene, and countless attractions for both adults and kids. Benidorm is a truly unique day trip idea from Valencia, definitely worth considering.
Alicante
Alicante is located about 160km from Valencia. It’s one of the largest cities in Spain population-wise and a beloved travel destination all year round thanks to its typical Mediterranean climate. While it’s a little bit more than a 1.5-hour drive, we think it’s absolutely worth the trip. Alicante has so much to offer: a charming old town full of character, the impressive hilltop Santa Barbara Castle, the quirky and colorful Mushroom Street, and plenty of cultural attractions. Add to that a lively nightlife scene, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, and you’ve got a city that’s perfect for a full-day trip from Valencia.
Explore local attractions
Day trips from Valencia, Spain – Summing up
And there you have it – our pick of amazing day trips from Valencia that are all within easy reach from the city, packed with charm, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for history, seaside relaxation, or something off the beaten path, there’s something nearby waiting to be explored. If you’re staying longer in the city, you definitely won’t be bored! We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in the beautiful Region of Valencia. Enjoy your time!
We’ve personally visited each of the mentioned places and liked them all in their own unique way.Wondering what are our current TOP5 day trips from Valencia? Xativa, Peniscola, Denia, Port Saplaya, and Altea!
