Valencia is one of the top Spanish destinations for summer holidays. With a large city like the capital of Turia nearby, the Valencian coasts are a great option, as are places far from the sea.
The outskirts of the big city also offer many options in summer. Among these destinations, some of Valencia's beach towns stand out for their unique charm, while others, located inland and with a medieval atmosphere, also offer unmissable attractions.
These are the 10 best towns near Valencia, each with its own personality and attractions that deserve to be explored.
Bocairent
Bocairent is a village that takes you back to the Middle Ages with its stone houses and cobbled streets. The medieval quarter is the heart of the town. The historic snow tunnels offer a window into ancient food preservation practices in the area, while the nearby Sierra de Mariola Natural Park also offers beautiful scenery.
In Bocairent there are also hiking trails through the natural park, where you can observe a variety of endemic flora and fauna. Bocairent is approximately 90 kilometres from Valencia, which is about an hour and 20 minutes by car.
Chulilla
Nestled in a unique setting, Chulilla is a must-see destination for active and nature tourism enthusiasts. This picturesque village rises like a balcony over the Turia River canyon, offering great panoramic views with its karst landscape and rock formations.
One of Chulilla's landmarks is its ruined castle, which rises majestically above the village offering a view that contrasts with the unspoilt nature of the surroundings. In addition, the Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes is a thrilling experience of hanging bridges not to be missed in the Valencian Community and allows visitors to enter the canyon. The town is also a paradise for climbing enthusiasts.
Chulilla can be reached from Valencia via the Turia motorway. In total, it will take you one hour by car to get there.
Chelva
Chelva is a cultural patchwork in the heart of the province of Valencia, where traces of past civilisations come together. Here there are traces of Andalusian, Jewish and Christian cultures, which is reflected in its diverse architecture.
As you walk through Chelva, you come across its different historic quarters, each with a different history. The Ruta del Agua (Water Route) is another great attraction, a peaceful walk that follows the course of ancient irrigation channels and takes you through serene landscapes.
The town is close to Chulilla, so you can make the most of visiting both towns on the same trip. If you go straight to Chelva, it will take you just under an hour by car.
Requena
Requena is synonymous with wine and culture. Inland and not far from Castilla-La Mancha, it is noted for its Roman history and its well-preserved medieval architecture. A major attraction in Requena is the Cuevas de la Villa, an underground network dating back to Moorish times. You can also take advantage of being close to the Hoces del Cabriel Nature Reserve.
In the area, you can also enjoy wine tastings, where you can sample some of the region's best vintages. Moreover, visits to the local wineries not only give you an insight into the winemaking process but also the history of a winemaking tradition that has shaped the local culture.
Requena is on the Madrid–Valencia motorway, so it is well connected. It will take you less than an hour to reach the town if you leave from the city.
Ayora
Located near the Corredor de Almansa, Ayora is a hidden treasure in Valencia province. It is dominated by Ayora Castle, an imposing monument that dominates the landscape and offers panoramic views over the valley. Not far away is the La Hunde nature reserve, a haven for local flora and fauna.
Other historical treasures this town has to offer include Nuestra Señora de la Asunción parish church and the many local festivals that celebrate Ayora's history and culture.
From Valencia, this town is a little further away: you'll have to drive an hour and a half to get there.
El Palmar
Located in the heart of La Albufera Natural Park (south of the city of Valencia), El Palmar is known for its exquisite local food where you can try the authentic Valencian paella, prepared over a wood fire and with fresh ingredients.
It is also renowned for its traditional boats, albuferencs, where you can take boat trips on La Albufera's calm waters, a perfect setting for admiring the natural scenery and a Valencia landmark.
The big plus of this place is that it's so close to the city centre, making it one of the most popular towns in Valencia to live in. El Palmar is only 20 minutes from the city centre.
Xativa
Known for its rich history, Xàtiva captures the essence of Spanish history through its streets and monuments. Xàtiva Castle, perched high on a hilltop, offers not only spectacular panoramic views of the city and its surroundings but also holds a fascinating history dating back to Roman times.
Its monuments also include a majestic cathedral and the ancient city walls. It is also home to multiple cultural festivals held throughout the year, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions.
Southwest of Valencia, Xàtiva is less than an hour's drive from the city centre.
Buñol
Buñol is world famous for its La Tomatina festival, a massive tomato-throwing event. It is also a place with a rich cultural heritage and a deep history dating back to ancient times.
Buñol Castle, which dates back to the 13th century, is one of the town's most emblematic monuments. It offers a window into the region's medieval past and provides panoramic views over the surrounding landscape. Moreover, the Buñol River's natural pools are perfect for a day of relaxation.
The town of the popular Tomatina festival is just a 35-minute drive west of Valencia. Its proximity and ambience make it a great place to not only visit but also to live in Buñol.
Cofrentes
Located at the point where the rivers Júcar and Cabriel meet, Cofrentes is often considered the most beautiful village in Valencia. It is a treasure trove for nature and adventure lovers. Like many villages in the area, it is dominated by Cofrentes Castle, built in the 12th century.
The Hervideros Spa is another point of interest, known for its thermal waters that have been used since Roman times. In addition, the Cerro de Agras Volcano offers a unique hiking trail that will take you through a volcanic landscape that is dormant and unusual in this region.
Located halfway between Ayora and Requena, Confrentes is an hour and 20 minutes by road from Valencia.
Serra
Located in the heart of the Sierra Calderona Natural Park, Serra stands out for its natural beauty. One of its main attractions is undoubtedly the Garbí viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the area.
Moreover, history is present in its ancient watchtowers and the majestic Carthusian monastery of Portaceli, a monument that is not only a visual delight but also a place full of stories and legends. The area is also an important hub for hiking trails, one of the most popular activities in Serra.
Serra and the natural park in which it is located are very close to Valencia, reachable in less than 40 minutes. The park's proximity and comfort, with its facilities and easy trails, make it an ideal destination among the towns of Valencia for a day out with children.
