Valencia Paella and Central Market Food Tour
Indulge in 8 local tastings over 5 stops, including a traditional esmorzaret breakfast and horchata
Eat like a true Valencian in the city that gave the world paella. This expert-led tour takes you through the city's vibrant food scene, beginning with the traditional esmorzaret, a hearty "second breakfast" that locals cherish. From there, explore the historic center and the iconic Central Market, enjoying 8 tastings including fresh horchata, local vermouth, and artisanal snacks. Your tour ends in a sit-down lunch featuring the perfect authentic paella in the heart of its home city.
What You Get With This Tour
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Expert English-speaking guide
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5 stops with 8 tastings
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Central Market visit
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Traditional esmorzaret breakfast
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Authentic paella lunch
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Horchata and local coffee
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Local wine, beer, or vermouth
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Become a paella playa
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Guide tips
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Bottled mineral water
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Soft drinks
Tour Itinerary
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1
Meet your guide at Plaza del Colegio del Patriarca
Your tour begins at the fountain in front of the historic University building. You will meet your expert guide and learn more about your culinary route. -
2
Experience a traditional Valencian esmorzaret
oin locals for their beloved esmorzaret, a mid-morning snack ritual more substantial than a standard breakfast. You will taste typical bocadillo sandwiches and appetizers that have fueled workers for generations while learning about this essential social tradition. -
3
Browse the stalls of the Central Market
Then, enter one of Europe’s largest produce markets to admire its stunning Modernist architecture. Your guide introduces you to artisanal vendors selling world-class saffron and citrus in this bustling sensory hub. -
4
Sample local sweets and horchata
Take a break to satisfy your sweet tooth with a tasting of traditional Valencian treats. You will learn about the history of horchata, a refreshing drink made from local tiger nuts, and dip fartons, spongy, glazed sweet breads, into the cool beverage. -
5
Savor an authentic paella lunch
Next, enjoy a sit-down lunch featuring paella, the region’s most famous export at a local favorite spot. Learn how to identify true Paella Valenciana while pairing your meal with local wine and conversation. -
6
Your tour finishes at Plaza del Colegio del Patriarca
The experience concludes back at the university square. You will walk away with a full stomach and a deeper understanding of the local culture and the best neighborhood landmarks.
Additional Information
Good to know:
Accessibility: This tour is wheelchair accessible as we navigate flat city streets and public markets. If you have specific mobility concerns please contact us know in advance so we can make the proper accommodations.
Dietary Restrictions: This experience is unfortunately not suitable for gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan diets due to the traditional ingredients used in authentic paella. Please contact us in advance regarding other allergies to see if we may be able to accommodate you.
Alcohol Consumption: This tour includes local wine; participants consuming alcohol should be of legal drinking age in Spain (18). Please bring a government-issued ID if you plan to partake.
Please Note: Tap water is available upon request, but bottled mineral water and soft drinks are not included in the tour price and must be paid for separately.
Age Requirement: The minimum age for this experience is two years old.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your 3-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Central Market visit
Traditional esmorzaret breakfast tastings
Authentic paella lunch
Local wine, beer, or vermouth
Horchata and local coffee
Walking tour of historic Valencia
Maximum group size of 10
What to bring:
Government-issued ID
Comfortable shoes
Camera
Water bottle
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, this experience is great for families with children aged two and up.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
This tour is wheelchair accessible as we navigate flat city streets and public markets. If you have specific mobility concerns please let us know in advance so we can make the proper accommodations.
Does this tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
This experience is unfortunately not suitable for gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan diets due to the traditional ingredients used in authentic paella. Please contact us in advance regarding other allergies to see if we may be able to accommodate you.
What happens if it rains?
This tour runs rain or shine, so we recommend bringing an umbrella or rain jacket. Most of our stops, including the Central Market and restaurants, provide plenty of cover from the elements.
Is lunch included on this tour?
Yes, your booking includes both the mid-morning esmorzaret tastings and a full sit-down paella lunch. Local wine, beer, or vermouth is also included with your meal.
