The Best Way To Experience Valencia And Its Cruise Port

Our Ultimate Guide To Valencia Cruise Port

The Spanish port of Valencia is a popular cruise stop on Western Mediterranean cruise holidays. The city is stunning, easily accessible from the dock and has plenty to do in and around the area.

Below, we share our ultimate guide to help you make the best of your time here.

What To Expect When You Arrive At Valencia Cruise Port

Valencia is located on the southern coast of Spain, with Barcelona to the east and Alicante to its west. Looking out over the Mediterranean, the terminal is situated on the Poniente Quay, with two berths (395m and 379m long, respectively) that are closely situated to the Valencia Passenger Terminal. 

Access to the terminal is straightforward via an elevated walkway. However, if your ship docks further away, free shuttles are provided to the cruise terminal. Once inside, you will find a variety of services here, including a tourist information office, duty-free and gift shops, restaurants and toilets, internet access, taxis and public transport links.

The city centre is just 4km away. Although it is walkable, cruise lines often provide shuttles from the port to the centre of Valencia- the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

However, if your ship does not offer a shuttle service, the Valencia Tourist Card is a good alternative option. Prices vary depending on the duration required, with the card offering not only transport to and from the port but also free entry to museums, monuments and discounts on many other tourist services in the area too. 

Plenty of taxis are also available, costing around 20 Euros each way, which could work out cheaper than a shuttle bus if travelling as a group! However, if your time in Valencia is short, it may be worth booking an excursion or one of the private tours available to make the most of the sights and attractions in the surrounding area.  

Things To Do In Valencia

The city centre of Valencia has lots to offer guests visiting for the day. Simply wandering around the narrow streets of the El Carmen neighbourhood, taking in the mix of Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, and baroque architecture, interspersed with its vibrant green parks, is a lovely way to spend a few hours.

The Cathedral Miguelete and Holy Grail is a highlight. Take the 207 steps up the tower, and the long climb to the top will certainly be worth it; the panoramic views of the city are truly amazing.

There are also 34 museums in Valencia; from modern art and science to the Valencia History Museum, you can delve deep into the fascinating culture of this region. Don't miss the City of Arts and Sciences complex, where you’ll find an aquarium, IMAX cinema, vantage point and an interactive science museum- definitely worth a visit. 

We’d also recommend exploring the Central Market. As the largest market with fresh produce in Europe, it is celebrated for its rich and varied cuisine, incredible aromas and captivating Valencia culture. Browse over 1200 stalls of fresh fruit and vegetables (especially Valencia oranges!), meats, cheeses, spices, nuts and fish. 

If you’re seeking something a little less urban, the beaches around Valencia are spectacular. Discover trendy hotspots with long promenades and delightful restaurants just minutes away from the city centre, or for something more on the wild side, head to the outskirts of the city. Swim, snorkel, surf, or simply relax under your parasol with a refreshing drink or two.

Hiring a bike is also a great way to see more of the city and get to some of the beaches that are slightly further away. There’s also the Valencia Tourist Bus Tour, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you could book a Segway tour and spot the sights of Valencia as you ride along the pavement. 

Nearby Places To Visit

The Albufera Natural Park is a great place to discover more about the region’s biodiversity. Just 10 kilometres from the city centre, you can reach it by bike or take the number 25 bus, which heads straight there.

The park is a beautiful combination of pine forests, rice fields, dune beaches and an expansive lake, all of which you can explore via its marked trails. At the park, discover the origins of Valencian cuisine in the exact place where paella was created!

Port Saplaya is about 10 minutes drive by car from Valencia. Nicknamed ‘Little Venice’, it is a purpose-built holiday village with an air of romance, known for its quaint beaches, unique buildings and harbour. Picturesque and quiet, take your time to admire the colourful rainbow of houses and an attractive promenade with bars and cafes.

The Caves of Saint Jose are one of the most famous attractions in the area, about an hour’s drive from Valencia itself. Take the boat tour on the longest navigable underground river in Europe to see dramatic stalagmites and stalactites filling these awe-inspiring caves.