Valencia stands out as a top destination for food lovers thanks to its vibrant markets, seaside taverns, and rich culinary traditions. The city’s lively street life and authentic flavors make it an ideal place for exploring through food tours. Whether you’re soaking in thermal springs in Montanejos or sampling tapas in local taverns, Valencia offers a variety of unique tasting experiences. One of our favorites is the Valencia: Montanejos Hot Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall, which combines natural beauty with a relaxing day trip—perfect for travelers looking to combine nature and cuisine.
For those who want to focus on the city’s culinary scene, the Valencia Tapas Crawl by Food Lover Tour delivers a lively, intimate exploration of local bars and eateries. Meanwhile, history and culture mingle with food at the Valencia: Market Food Tour Including Tapas & Paella Tasting, which takes you through the bustling Central Market and ends with a classic Valencian paella.
Below is a quick overview of the top food tours in Valencia, each offering a different way to experience the city’s flavors and atmosphere.
1. Valencia: Montanejos Hot Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall, food
Discover the natural beauty of Montanejos with this full-day trip that mixes relaxation and exploration. This tour is rated 4.8/5 from 325 reviews, making it a favorite among travelers who want a break from city sightseeing. It includes a soak in thermal springs, a visit to the stunning Girlfriend Waterfall, and a guided walk through scenic surroundings. The highlight is unwinding in the thermal pools—an experience you won’t forget, especially after a morning drive from Valencia.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. You’ll enjoy an included lunch and visit the Embalse de Arenós for photos and further exploration. The tour is designed for small groups—between 2 and 27 people—which ensures a more personal experience. Guides like Ivan and Serena get high praise for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the day both informative and fun.
This trip is ideal for active travelers who love nature, water, and a relaxed pace. Keep in mind, it’s a long day with plenty of walking and swimming, so some mobility is helpful. Bottom line: a great way to escape the city and enjoy authentic natural scenery paired with local flavors.
2. Valencia Tapas Crawl by Food Lover Tour
For around $87.08, this Valencia Tapas Crawl offers a lively, hands-on way to discover the city’s best bites. Over roughly three hours, you’ll explore the city center with a small group—just 10 people—visiting four different eateries and bars. Your guide takes you to locals-only spots where you can sample a variety of specialties like esgarraet, cocas, ham, and seafood croquettes.
What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic, less touristy venues. You’ll wash down the food with local wines and mistela, giving you a real taste of Valencia’s culinary culture. The guide is knowledgeable and friendly, helping you navigate the city’s food scene without the stress of planning. Guests consistently mention how enjoyable and relaxed the experience is, with “good portions and a variety of wines” being common praise.
This tour is perfect for those who want a quick, flavorful overview of Valencia’s tapas scene, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie. Its moderate price and small-group setting make it a good value. Note that it’s a short but rich experience, ideal if you’re tight on time but want a genuine taste.
3. Valencia: Market Food Tour Including Tapas & Paella Tasting
If you’re after a culture, this Market Food Tour offers a deep dive into Valencia’s culinary heart. Lasting about 2.5 hours, it combines a visit to the bustling Central Market with stories behind the food, followed by tastings of local tapas and, at the end, a classic paella served on a shaded terrace.
What makes this tour distinct is the balance of history, local stories, and food. You’ll explore hidden spots in the old town and learn how ingredients like fresh seafood, saffron, and local vegetables come together in authentic Valencian cuisine. The included paella tasting is a highlight, offering a genuine experience of a dish that is both emblematic and delicious.
Led by an expert guide, this small-group tour emphasizes local flavors and traditions—perfect for travelers who want both a cultural and culinary overview. Guests love how the guide shares stories about the city while introducing them to the market’s lively atmosphere. It’s a great value for those wanting a comprehensive introduction to Valencia’s food scene in just a few hours.
Bottom line: an excellent choice for history and food buffs wanting a well-rounded experience.
4. Half Day Valencia Foodie Cycling Tour
For the active traveler, the Half Day Valencia Foodie Cycling Tour hits the spot. Over six hours, you’ll cycle from the marina through l’horta nord farmland, with stops at beaches, markets, and historic neighborhoods. It combines seaside scenery, local food tastings, and cultural sights like the Port Saplaya, known as the “Little Venice” of Valencia.
This tour is perfect if you want to combine physical activity with culinary exploration. You start at Santa Marcelita Bikes and travel along the Malvarrosa and Patacona beaches, enjoying the sea breeze. You’ll have a traditional Valencian brunch in a small town, then explore local specialties like horchata and traditional pastries in Alboraya. Other highlights include visiting vibrant markets and tasting local food in cafes along the way.
Guests appreciate the balance of cycling and tasting, with many noting the friendly guides and scenic routes. Though it’s a longer tour, it’s suitable for moderate fitness levels and those wanting to see beyond the city. If you’re keen on combining outdoor activity with food, this is an excellent choice.
Bottom line: a fun, active way to see Valencia’s outskirts and enjoy authentic flavors.
5. Valencia: Food Tour with Tapas & Drinks
This Valencia Food Tour with Tapas & Drinks offers a lively three-hour exploration of the city’s culinary scene. Led by guides who speak multiple languages, the tour takes you through local eateries and bars that most travelers miss. You’ll sample traditional tapas and local drinks, all while discovering the stories behind each dish.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on hidden spots and local stories, giving you a more intimate view of Valencia’s food culture. Guests rave about the good portions, variety of wines, and friendly guides. This experience is especially suited for travelers who want a casual, enjoyable introduction to Valencia’s vibrant food scene, with enough time to chat and soak in the atmosphere.
It’s an ideal tour for friends, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, social experience. The short duration makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing, and the focus on local flavors makes it both fun and educational.
Bottom line: great for a quick, flavorful taste of Valencia’s culinary life.
6. Valencia: Spanish Delights Food & Drink Private Tour
If you’re looking for a personalized, in-depth experience, the Spanish Delights Private Tour is tailor-made for foodies. This private tour takes you through the lively El Cabanyal fishing district, exploring markets, taverns, and authentic spots. You’ll taste more than 12 Spanish flavors, including tapas, cheeses, cold meats, and churros with hot chocolate.
The tour is flexible and designed for those who want a customized experience, with a guide sharing detailed insights into local cuisine and traditions. Highlights include sampling crispy chipirones, smoky padrón peppers, and visiting vibrant markets and taverns. The guide’s expertise ensures you get a full understanding of the cultural significance behind each dish, making it both a culinary and cultural journey.
Rated for its personalized attention and authentic flavor, this tour suits visitors who want a more intimate and comprehensive exploration. The only potential downside is the price—at $166 per person, it’s the most expensive on our list but offers a bespoke experience.
Bottom line: perfect for food connoisseurs who value a private, in-depth tour.
How to Choose Your Perfect Valencia Food Tour
Picking the right food experience depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re eager for a relaxing nature day, the Montanejos Hot Spring offers a scenic escape. For a quick introduction to local tapas, the Food Lover Tapas Crawl provides a lively, small-group experience. Those wanting a deeper dive into Valencia’s markets and paella should consider the Market Food Tour. Active travelers will appreciate the cycling tour combining outdoor exploration with food tastings.
For a more casual, social experience, the Tapas & Drinks tour offers a fun way to sample local flavors without much planning. And for those seeking a personalized, in-depth journey, the Private Spanish Delights tour offers the most tailored experience.
Remember to book early, especially for popular tours, and consider your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you prefer a group or private experience.
Valencia offers an impressive variety of culinary adventures—whether you want to relax in thermal springs, explore on two wheels, or indulge in authentic tapas. With options ranging from half-day city tastings to full-day outdoor escapes, there’s something for every food-loving traveler. Whichever tour you choose, you’ll leave with a full belly and a deeper appreciation for Valencia’s authentic flavors.