The beauty of Valencia doesn't only lie in the city itself - you'll also have the opportunity to explore some of the most charming cities around you. From beautiful towns with seaside beaches and rocky landscapes to historical sites, there are plenty of places close to Valencia that offer an ideal day or weekend trip.

1. Alicante

Alicante is a charming port city, located just a 2-hour train ride from Valencia. Easily accessible, this adorable area makes for a perfect day trip! Along with beaches and a stunning port, Alicante also features an ancient castle located on a hill - amazing views are guaranteed.

5 quick facts about Alicante:

  • It’s second-largest Valencian city.
  • It’s been around for over 7000 years.
  • Santa Bárbara Castle has the most amazing views ever.
  • Must-try food: seafood.
  • Must-visit museum: Museo de Hogueras.

How to get to Alicante from Valencia:

Take a RENFE train from Estació Nord (2hrs, from €10,25).

2. Xàtiva

But if you’re tired of seaside cities, take a 40-minute train ride down to Xàtiva. Although small, Xàtiva features a unique castle well-worth your visit. This ancient city is full of history that’s just waiting to be explored. Bring your hiking shoes - this place has several viewpoints that make for a perfect hike!

5 quick facts about Xàtiva:

  • Fantastic Gothic architecture!
  • Played an important part of the history during the Al-Andalus Islamic era.
  • The slopes below the Xàtiva castle hold some of the rarest plant species.
  • Must visit viewpoint: Bellvert

How to get to Xàtiva from Valencia:

Take a RENFE train from Estaciò Nord (35min, from €3)

3. Calpe

Looking for a fantastic seaside beach close to Valencia? Try Calpe! Known for its sandy beaches, Calpe offers a perfect escape, whether it’s just for a day or for a weekend. Along with its beaches, Calpe also offers a rocky landscape, ideal for hiking.

5 quick facts about Calpe:

  • Some of the best beaches in Spain you’ll ever see!
  • Best hiking trail and viewpoint: Mirador Monte Toix
  • Ideal for watersports!
  • Home to Spain’s smallest natural reserve.
  • Seriously, the beaches are amazing.

How to get to Calpe from Valencia:

Take a train from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla to Ganda, switch to a train from Ganda to Calpe. (1hr 40min, from €7)

2. El Palmar

Welcome to the surf capital of Andalucia. El Palmar is where you need to go if you want to get away from heaps of tourists and enjoy a relaxing local atmosphere instead. The landscape is completely unspoiled and the beach is well-preserved - ideal for a getaway and that surfing lesson you always wanted to take!

5 quick facts about El Palmar:

  • Extremely long and wide beach.
  • Quite windy - ideal for surfing.
  • Ideal for a relaxing weekend.
  • Absolutely gorgeous landscapes.
  • Undiscovered by tourists.

How to get to El Palmar from Valencia:

Take a plane from Valencia airport to Jerez de la Frontera (1hr 15min, price depends on booking time.)

1. Ibiza

Whoa, we’re going to Ibiza! If you’re in the mood to party and experience the island life for a weekend, Ibiza is the place to be. Being just a mere 45-minute flight away from Valencia, Ibiza is the ultimate charming destination. Along with tons of beaches, you can also enjoy going up the Ibiza Castle, take in one of many hiking trails, and explore the island to the fullest.

5 quick facts about Ibiza:

  • It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • You can get a tan on 57 different beaches.
  • Clubbing destination for many party goers.
  • Ibiza has 300 days of sunshine per year.
  • You can party at 6 different super clubs!

How to get to Ibiza from Valencia:

Take a plane from Valencia airport to Ibiza airport (45min, price depends on booking time.)

Take a ferry from Valencia (5hrs 10min, from €40.)

And that's it for our 5 charming day and weekend trips from Valencia! Do you have any tips? Let us know in the comments!

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