Valencia: Utiel-Requena Wine Tour & Tastings with Transfers

Summary

Utiel-Requena vineyards tastings near Valencia with real winemakers

You’ll ride out from Valencia to two Utiel-Requena wineries, meeting real winemakers who share their stories—and their best bottles—with you. Taste distinct local wines in cool cellars and sunlit patios, with private transport included so you can relax all day. Expect laughter, honest conversation, and moments that linger long after you’re back in the city.

What’s the experience like?

We were already laughing about how I’d nearly missed the Empalme metro stop when our guide Marta waved us over—she had that easy Valencian warmth, you know? The drive out of Valencia was quiet, just fields and that soft golden light. I kept thinking the air smelled a bit like wild herbs and something earthy, maybe from the vines. It’s only about an hour to Utiel-Requena but it felt like we’d crossed into another country by the time we rolled up to the first bodega.

The owner, Paco, met us right outside. He shook everyone’s hand (firm grip—my fingers still remember) and started talking about his family’s wine like he was introducing old friends. I tried to repeat “Bobal” back to him—Li laughed when I butchered it in Spanish. The cellars were cool and a little damp, barrels lined up like soldiers. You could hear this faint drip somewhere, echoing off stone walls. We tasted three wines at the end; one was so peppery it made me pause mid-sip, but in a good way.

The second winery was smaller, almost hidden behind olive trees. Our guide switched easily between English and Spanish as she explained fermentation (I zoned out for a second watching sunlight catch dust motes in the air). The tasting here felt more relaxed—no rush, just us and the winemaker chatting about weather and grapes. I brought some bread from my bag because lunch isn’t included (they tell you that), which honestly made it feel even more like a picnic with friends than a formal tour.

I still think about that last glass of rosé on the patio—quiet except for distant birds and someone’s laughter drifting over from inside. The drive back to Valencia felt slower somehow, everyone a little quieter but smiling. If you’re looking for a day trip from Valencia that doesn’t feel staged, this wine tour is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit two wineries with tastings

• Meet at Empalme metro station
• Travel to Utiel-Requena vineyards
• Visit first winery and learn history
• Enjoy wine tasting at first winery
• Visit second winery and learn vinification
• Enjoy wine tasting at second winery
• Return to Empalme metro station

Top questions

How far are the Utiel-Requena wineries from Valencia?

The wineries are located about one hour by car from Valencia city center.

Is transportation included in this wine tour?

Yes, private transportation is included from Empalme metro station in Valencia.

Are food or snacks provided during the wine tastings?

No food is included during tastings, but you can bring your own snacks for the car ride.

What languages are the winery visits conducted in?

Both winery visits are conducted in English.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at the car park in front of Empalme metro station in Valencia.

Can pregnant travelers join this wine tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is this wine tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private round-trip transportation from Empalme metro station in Valencia out to two different Utiel-Requena wineries (chosen based on availability), guided visits at each estate with passionate locals sharing their process—all conducted in English—and generous tastings at both stops before heading back to the city together.