There is so much to explore in Valencia – Spain’s third-biggest city and Mediterranean gem with rich history, futuristic architecture and a beach. Yet, if you’re looking to get beyond the city, it also serves as a perfect gateway to some of Spain’s most charming and picturesque small towns. Each of these towns offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, and has its own unique character. Here are some of our best small towns in the Valencian region.

The 6 Best Small Towns Near Valencia Spain to Explore

1. Xàtiva

Xàtiva is known for its impressive castle and historical significance. It is a beautiful town found in the hills of the Sierra de Vernissa and offers unforgettable panoramic views of the surrounding areas. It has a rich history that dates all the way back to Roman times. Fun fact – it’s also the birthplace of two popes! 

What Is Xativa Famous For?

• Xàtiva Castle: This sprawling fortress offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and gives an insight into the town’s rich history.
• Museo de Bellas Artes: A museum showcasing local art and historical artifacts, including a portrait of King Philip V hung upside down.

How Can You Get to Xativa From Valencia?

• By Train: You can get a direct train from Valencia Estació del Nord (North Station) to Xàtiva. Thes run regularly and take about 45 minutes only.
• By Car: A 50-minute drive via the A-7 highway.

What to Do in Xativa:

• Explore the castle and enjoy a picnic with impressive panoramic views.
• Taste typical local cuisine at one of the town’s many traditional restaurants.
• Take a stroll through the old town and visit the Church of Saint Felix
• If you’re an art lover, make sure to visit the Bellas Artes Museum.

2. Requena

Requena is a small town in the heart of Valencia’s wine country, Utiel-Requena. Known for its vineyards, wine production and medieval architecture, Requena is a lovely small town near Valencia to explore. Wine lovers won’t want to miss this one!

What is Requena Famous For?

• Wine Tasting: Especially known for its cava (sparkling wine) and red wines.
• Historic Caves: These ancient caves were used for wine storage and can be explored on a tour.

How to Get To Requena from Valencia

• By Train: Trains from Valencia Estació del Nord to Requena take around 1 hour.
• By Car: A 1-hour drive via the A-3 highway.
• With a guide: we’ll take you on a complete trip to enjoy everything Requena has to offer with round-trip transport in a private vehicle.

What is there to Do in Requena?

• Visit local wineries for tours and tastings.
• Explore the historic caves and the Old Town.
• Attend the annual Requena Wine Harvest Festival if visiting in August.

Want a guided tour? Visit Requena like a local and enjoy a visit to a boutique family winery out in the Valencian countryside learning the winemaker’s secrets and sampling the best local wines and snacks. You’ll also get the chance to explore Requena’s citadel, castle, tunnels and caves.

3. Teruel

The setting of Los Amantes de Teruel, the Spanish equivalent to Romeo & Juliet, Teruel is steeped in history and legend. Home to a World Heritage Site – the Mudejar monuments-  it has a wealth of medieval architecture. Couple it with a visit to the nearby small town of Albarracín – a national monument – for stunning views and a perfect daytrip from Valencia.

What is Teruel Famous For?

• Los Amantes de Teruel: The setting of the legend behind one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays.
• Medieval Architecture: From Roman fortresses to the famous brick and ceramic towers, Teruel boasts plenty of interesting architecture.
• World Class Ham: The cured hams in Teruel are some of the best in the world.

How to Get to Teruel from Valencia

• By Train: You can get a train straight from Valencia with a journey time of around 2 and a half hours.
• By Car: Around 1.5 hours drive from Valencia. Maximize the day by combining it with a trip to nearby Albarracín. 

What to Do in Teruel

• Admire the Mudejar Art: This specific architecture blends multiple architectural styles and brings in both Moorish and Christian influences. Along with the Roman and Medieval architecture, there is so much to see in Teruel.
• Taste the Local Foods: From world-class hams to traditional dishes like migas, there are so many delicious flavors to enjoy in this small town near Valencia.
• Enjoy Unparalleled Views: The small town of Teruel sits high above the sea with views of the surrounding medieval walls and fields of sunflowers.

4. Altea

If you want to see Valencia off the beaten path, Altea is a stunning coastal town known for its whitewashed buildings, narrow side streets, sea view and artistic vibe. For those seeking a picturesque Mediterranean experience, this is your place.

What is Altea Famous For?

• Altea Old Town: With charming narrow streets, art galleries, and stunning views, Altea’s Old Town is totally picturesque.
• Church of Our Lady of Solace: This church in the heart of the town is famous for its iconic blue domes.

How to Get to Altea from Valencia

• By Car: Approximately a 1.5-hour drive via the AP-7 highway.
• By Bus: Regular buses run from Valencia and take about 2 hours.

What to Do in Altea

• Take a tranquil stroll through the old town and visit the hole-in-the-wall art galleries.
• Relax on the pebble beaches and enjoy the stunning seaside panoramas.
• Dine at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood.

5. Peñíscola

Peñíscola is a historic coastal town famous for its medieval castle perched on a rocky headland which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. It was also the setting for filming Game of Thrones – an idea of the epic scenes you can find here!

What is Peñiscola Famous For?

• Peñíscola Castle: Known as the “City in the Sea,” this castle was historically the residence of Pope Benedict XIII.
• Stunning Beaches: Long stretches of sandy beaches with crystal waters ideal for relaxation.
• Game of Thrones: More recently, Peñiscola is famous for being one of the filming locations for the Game of Thrones!

How to Get to Peñiscola from Valencia

• By Train: You can get the trains from Valencia to Benicarló-Peñíscola station – about 1.5 hours – followed by a short bus ride.
• By Car: A 1.5-hour drive via the AP-7 highway.

What to Do in Peñiscola

• Tour Peñíscola Castle and its surrounding walls.
• Enjoy the beaches and water activities.
• Explore the old town with its narrow streets and charming shops.

6. Bocairent

A secret spot nestled in the Sierra de Mariola mountains, Bocairent is an ancient town known for its Moorish caves, Medieval architecture, and iconic beehive structure. Surrounding it is the most beautiful nature scenes with crystal clear pools just asking to be swum in!

What is Bocairent Famous For?

• Covetes dels Moros: These stunning Moorish caves are carved into the mountainside and ready to explore.
• Historic Center: Its well-preserved medieval streets and buildings allow you take a step back into history!

How to Get to Bocairent from Valencia

• By Car: Approximately a 1.5-hour drive via the A-7 highway.
• By Bus: Buses from Valencia take about 2 hours.
• With a guide: Discover this magical town as part of our Moorish Caves and Mountain Springs tour, including round-trip transport to and from Valencia.

What to Do in Bocairent

• Visit the Covetes dels Moros caves.
• Wander through the historic center and admire the beehive architecture.
• Hike in the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park with the most stunning views.

Want to visit Bocairent like a local? Our visit combines an exploration of magical Bocairent and the best the town has to offer, with a trip to the crystal clear Pou Clar – natural mountain pools and springs nestled in the Sierra Mariola mountains.

Explore Valencia and Beyond

These are just some of the best small towns near Valencia spain. If you want to discover Valencia and the rest of Spain like a local, design a Spain trip that lets you experience Spain in the most authentic way possible!