Valencia cruise port excursions

Welcome aboard this comprehensive guide to “Valencia cruise port excursions”.
I’m Sarah ( or Miss Tatane 😛), passionate about cruising and a cruiser just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and advice with you, so that you can experience each destination to the full.

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Valencia cruise port excursions

How to get from Valencia port to the city center?

How to exit the Valencia cruise port

When you exit the ship, cruise companies often offer a shuttle ticket for €12.90 per person to the city center. Honestly? Avoid it! There’s a simple, efficient alternative… and it’s four times cheaper.

Here’s how to do it:

• Exit the ship, take the free orange shuttle (organized by the port): it will take you to the terminal exit.
• Once outside, walk 2 minutes following the blue arrows on the ground ➡️ to the public bus stop.
• There, take bus number 4 for only €1.50 (payable directly to the driver).

In 15-20 minutes, you’ll be in the historic center of Valencia, at the Plaza de la Reina or Ayuntamiento stops.

Bonus: To visit the Turia gardens, take bus 95 from the same stop!

Free guided tour

Valencia cruise port excursions

Explore the streets of Valencia and discover its iconic landmarks during a captivating free tour.

What to see in the city center of Valencia?

The starting point is at Plaza de la Virgen, the historic heart of Valencia.

On the agenda:

• Plaza de la Virgen: Introduction to the city with the Basilica of Virgen de los Desamparados and the Turia fountain.
• Palacio de la Generalitat: A remarkable example of Renaissance architecture, now the headquarters of the regional government.
• El Miguelete: Anecdotes about the iconic bell tower of the Valencia Cathedral.
• La Lonja de la Seda: Immerse yourself in 15th-century Valencia, once the center of trade.
• Central Market: Step into the 20th century with this jewel of Valencian modernism, built in 1914.
• Torres de Serranos: Impressive remains of the city’s medieval walls.

The free tour ends at Plaza del Mercado, after a 2.5-hour stroll through the centuries.

Practical details

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Meeting point: Plaza de la Virgen

What to do in Valencia on a cruise stop?

Now that you’re in the city, here are my tried and tested recommendations to discover the wonders of Valencia, based on your preferences.

The city of Arts and sciences

A futuristic place you should not miss. You will find:

• L’Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe
• The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum
• The IMAX cinema and planetarium at the Hemisférico

👉 Perfect for a modern visit, especially if you are with children.

Strolling through the historic center

Wander through the ancient alleys and discover:

• The Valencia Cathedral
• The Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• The charming Plaza de la Virgen

Take your time to sit at a terrace and enjoy a refreshing horchata!

The city of Arts and sciences

Valencia cruise port excursions

Just next to the Oceanogràfic is the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex blending art, science, and technology. You will find interactive museums, gardens, and an IMAX cinema, offering a complete experience.

• Modern and impressive architecture
• Interactive museums and exhibitions for both young and old
• The IMAX cinema for an immersive experience

How to get there?

• Metro: L10
• Bus: 23, 95
• The tourist bus drops you right in front!

These two sites, which are a few steps away from each other, form an ideal combination for an enriching excursion in Valencia. Whether you are a nature lover or an innovation enthusiast, you’ll find something to satisfy your curiosity.

L’Oceanogràfic

L’Oceanogràfic, located just a few minutes by bus from the port, is the largest aquarium in Europe and a must-see for marine life enthusiasts. You’ll discover a variety of ecosystems, from tropical seabeds to polar regions. It’s the perfect place to observe fascinating species like sharks, dolphins, and whales.

• Immerse yourself in different marine environments
• Observe iconic marine creatures: sharks, dolphins, whales
• An ideal place for families and nature lovers

The historic center

Valencia cruise port excursions

After visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, head to the heart of the old town, where the history of Valencia can be felt at every corner. The Valencia Cathedral is one of the city’s major monuments. It is said to house the Holy Grail, and its architecture blends Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles. From its bell tower, El Miguelete, the view of the city is spectacular.

• The Cathedral, an architectural and spiritual gem
• Plaza de la Virgen: an iconic place full of history
• Charming pedestrian streets and local atmosphere

How to get there?

• Bus: 4, 7, 27, 73, 81, C1
• The tourist bus drops you right in front!

It’s a great place to stroll, have a coffee on a terrace, and soak in the Valencian atmosphere.

The Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Chalice

Located in the heart of the historic center, the Valencia Cathedral is a blend of styles, from Gothic to Baroque. The place is impressive, whether you’re religious or not.

It is especially known for housing the Holy Chalice, which many believe to be the Holy Grail. It is displayed in a special chapel and attracts many visitors.

Don’t miss:

• Renaissance frescoes above the main altar, recently rediscovered
• The attached museum, with works by Goya and Juan de Juanes
• Climbing the bell tower El Miguelete: 207 steps for a spectacular view of the entire city

Visiting hours:

• Monday to Friday: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
• Saturday: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM

How to get there?

• Bus: 4, 9, 19, 81, 94, C1, C2
• The tourist bus drops you right in front!

Plaza del Ayuntamiento

Valencia cruise port excursions

Located in the city center, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento is an unmissable landmark. Surrounded by official buildings like the town hall and central post office, it offers impressive architecture and a constant buzz of activity.

• Large urban square with fountains and gardens
• Ideal for a break or to observe local life
• Close to the main shopping streets

The square is particularly beautiful in the evening when the buildings are lit up. If you can, return to experience Valencia by night. It is often used as a backdrop for events, especially during Las Fallas.

Lonja de la Seda – Silk museum

A UNESCO World Heritage site, La Lonja de la Seda is a gothic masterpiece. This building impresses with its twisted columns and vast contract hall, a testament to Valencia’s commercial power in the 15th century.

• Impressive architecture with rich decoration
• A quick but impactful visit, located right in the historic center

Visiting hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday & public holidays: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Price: 2 €

A cultural landmark not to be missed, just a stone’s throw from the central market.

The central market

Valencia cruise port excursions

This covered market is a feast for the senses. Beneath its wrought-iron structure and colorful stained-glass windows, you’ll find an incredible variety of local products: Iberian ham, fresh fruits, cheeses, spices…

• One of the largest covered markets in Europe
• Fresh products and local specialties
• Authentic and lively atmosphere

How to get there?

• Bus: 4, 7, 27, 28, 60, 81
• The tourist bus drops you off right in front!

It’s the perfect place to taste a bit of real Valencian life or to pick up some delicious souvenirs.

Carmen district

This historic neighborhood, located just behind the cathedral, is a maze of narrow streets, colorful façades, and charming little bars. It blends heritage, street art, and vibrant nightlife.

• Picturesque walk between medieval past and modernity
• Tapas bars, galleries, and street art murals
• Lively area, perfect in the late afternoon

It’s one of the best neighborhoods to feel the soul of Valencia, away from the overly touristy circuits.

Hortensia Herrero Art center

Valencia cruise port excursions

An exceptional contemporary art venue in the heart of the historic center. Located in the stunning 17th-century Palacio Valeriola, this center showcases the private collection of Hortensia Herrero.

The space:

• 17 rooms across 4 floors
• Over 100 contemporary art pieces
• A peaceful garden and remnants of an ancient Roman circus

Here, you can discover major artists like Anselm Kiefer, Anish Kapoor, or Andreas Gursky, along with site-specific creations.

How to get there?

• Bus: 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 16, 26, 28, 31, 32, 70, 71, 81, C1
• The tourist bus drops you off right in front!

A beautiful cultural stop, modern and elegant, to make during your visit to the center.

Turia gardens

An ancient riverbed transformed into a vast urban park, the Turia gardens stretches across nearly 9 kilometers through Valencia. Today, it’s one of the largest green spaces in Spain, perfect for a nature break in the heart of the city. During our stops in Valencia, we always have plenty of time to visit the center and take a detour through the Turia gardens. I highly recommend it: it’s an impressive place, and taking a little break there is truly refreshing.

• Shaded paths, bike lanes, and playgrounds
• Ideal for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing
• Passes through several neighborhoods and major sites (City of Arts and Sciences, Bioparc…)

How to get there?

• Metro: L3, L5, L7, L9
• Bus: 6, 11, 16, 26, 28, 94, 95, C2
• The tourist bus drops you off right in front!

This true green lung connects the tourist sites and offers an escape from the urban hustle. A peaceful break, highly appreciated by locals and visitors alike.

Valencia tourist bus

Why not make the most of your time in Valencia with the tourist bus?
If you don’t feel like dealing with the metro or local buses, or sticking to just one neighborhood, the tourist bus is a great alternative. For 22 euros, you can hop on and off as much as you want throughout the day, allowing you to discover as much as possible without unnecessary fatigue.

The route includes 17 stops at key points of the city: City of Arts and Sciences, port, historic center, bullring, Faller Museum, Mestalla Stadium, and more. You’ll get a comprehensive view of Valencia, with French-language commentary on board to better understand what you’re seeing.

This time-saving option is invaluable on a stopover and lets you explore much more than the average cruise passenger.

• Hop on and off as often as you want
• Board directly at the port exit
• Avoid transfers and local transport
• Perfect if you have little time and a lot to see
• Ideal for a first-time, stress-free discovery of the city

Marina

Cruise Stopover in Valencia

If you love cruises, you naturally love the sea. And the Valencia Marina is the perfect place for that. Located between the commercial port and the seaside promenade, this modern area is designed for those who want to walk by the water, relax on a terrace, or enjoy a water sport.

This is where iconic places like the Veles e Vents building are located, which hosts exhibitions, events, and refined restaurants. You’ll also find numerous bars and beach clubs, such as the famous Marina Beach Club, which is very lively in the evening.

The marina is also an excellent starting point for:

• Taking a boat ride or enjoying a sunset aperitif at sea
• Trying sailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking (several providers on-site)
• Enjoying a meal with a view of the yachts

How to Get There?

• Bus: 4, 19, 92, 93
• Metro: L5, L6, L7, L8
• The Tourist Bus drops you off right in front!

It’s a great way to enjoy a stopover with your feet in the water… while staying in Valencia.

Where to swim in Valencia?

Craving some sunshine and soft sand? Discover the beautiful beaches of Valencia right from the cruise port!

If your stop in Valencia makes you want to relax by the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll be happy to know that some fantastic beaches are easily reachable from the cruise terminal. Picture this: just moments after disembarking, your feet are in the warm sand, soothed by the sound of the waves…

Several options are available to you:

• Malvarrosa Beach: This is Valencia’s most famous urban beach, long and lively. You’ll find plenty of paella restaurants, beach bars (chiringuitos), and water activities here. It’s easily accessible by bus or taxi from the port.
• Patacona Beach: Located just north of Malvarrosa, this beach is a bit quieter and more family-friendly, while still maintaining a pleasant atmosphere with its own restaurants and facilities. Also accessible by bus or taxi.
• Las Arenas Beach: Adjacent to the port and marina, this beach is ideal if you have limited time or want to combine the beach with a visit to the port area. You’ll find elegant hotels and restaurants with sea views here.

Whether you simply want to soak up the sun, swim in the clear Mediterranean waters, enjoy an authentic paella with an ocean view, or try some water sports, Valencia’s beaches are a perfect getaway during your cruise stop. Don’t forget your sunscreen and swimsuit!

Things to do during your stopover in Valencia

MTT wishes you the most beautiful cruise stopover in Valencia