Valencia Old Town: Wine & Tapas Tour in 11th Century Monument

Summary

Walk ancient streets taste paella sip wine inside old walls

Step into Valencia’s oldest streets with a local guide, see iconic plazas and historic markets, then share tapas, paella, and regional wine inside an 11th-century monument few ever enter. You’ll taste real flavors and stories — with laughter echoing off ancient walls.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you look up and realize the stone above you has seen a thousand years? That’s how it started for me on this Valencia Old Town tour. We met our guide right on Calle Caballeros — she waved at us from under a faded awning, already chatting with a couple of older locals about football scores. The city felt alive, even though it was just before lunch, and the light bounced off those pale buildings in a way that made everything look sort of golden. I kept getting distracted by the smell of oranges (or maybe someone was peeling one nearby?) as we wandered toward La Lonja de la Seda. Our guide told us about silk traders and pointed out little carvings I’d never have noticed — honestly, I had to squint to see some of them.

The Central Market was buzzing, all voices and clinking glasses, but not in a touristy way — there were people buying tomatoes like they always do. We couldn’t go inside because it was Sunday, but just standing outside, you could hear the hum through the doors. From there we drifted through Plaza de la Reina and then Plaza de la Virgen. There was a wedding going on at the cathedral — everyone spilling out in bright clothes and two little girls spinning around in white dresses. Our guide grinned and said something about how Valencians find any excuse to celebrate. I liked that.

The best part? We ended up somewhere I’d never have found alone: this quiet spot tucked behind the old Arab wall from the 11th century. Inside, it felt cool and kind of secretive; you could run your hand along stones that must’ve been here since El Cid’s time. The meal itself — all these little plates of tapas (the anchovies were my favorite), then paella with crispy bits at the bottom, plus local wines that actually made me pause after each sip. At one point someone tried to pronounce “horchata” properly and our host laughed so hard she nearly spilled her glass. I still think about that view through the tiny window — just rooftops and sky.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Valencia Old Town tour and dining

• Meet guide at Calle Caballeros
• See exterior of Silk Exchange building
• Explore Valencia Central Market
• View Valencia Civil Gothic architecture
• Pass through Plaza de la Reina
• Admire Cathedral of Valencia
• Exclusive dining with tapas and wine

Top questions

How long does the Valencia Old Town wine & tapas tour last?

The tour usually lasts several hours including walking time and the full meal experience.

Is food included on this Valencia Old Town tour?

Yes, a full menu of tapas, paella, dessert, and regional wines is included.

Does this tour include entry to historical monuments?

You’ll have exclusive access to dine inside an 11th-century Arab wall monument; other sites are viewed from outside.

Is this Valencia food tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including transportation options.

Are non-alcoholic drinks available during the wine & tapas tour?

Yes, non-alcoholic options are available upon request during your meal.

Where does this Valencia Old Town tour start?

The meeting point is on Calle Caballeros near Uniq Daily Goodness café.

What if I have dietary restrictions for this tour?

Please advise any specific dietary requirements when booking so they can be accommodated.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walk through Valencia’s old town with stops at historic sites like La Lonja de la Seda and Plaza de la Virgen before exclusive entry to dine inside an 11th-century Arab wall monument—enjoying a full menu of regional tapas, paella, dessert, prizewinning Valencian wines or non-alcoholic drinks—all led by a knowledgeable local guide.