Valencia isn’t just about its stunning architecture or beaches—it’s a food lover’s paradise, especially when it comes to market visits and cooking experiences. The city’s vibrant markets, like Mercado Central or Algiros, are treasure troves of fresh produce, cured meats, and local delicacies. But what really makes Valencia stand out are its paella workshops, where you can learn the secrets of this iconic dish from local chefs, often shopping at lively markets like Russafa or Ruzafa before cooking. A standout is the Valencian paella cooking class, tapas and visit to Ruzafa market, which combines market exploration with hands-on cooking and a taste of local wines, all in a small-group setting.
For those who want a deeper dive into Valencia’s culinary scene, some tours include market visits combined with wine tastings, or even focus on vegetarian paella, offering a comprehensive and authentic experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or just curious about local ingredients, these tours make Valencia a culinary adventure worth exploring.
Quick Overview
The best shopping and market tours in Valencia include a range of experiences: paella cooking classes, market visits with chef-led instruction, and food tours with tastings. The options vary from local market explorations like Russafa or Algiros, to learning to cook traditional Valencian dishes with professional chefs. Some tours include wine and sangria tastings, while others focus on vegetarian or seafood paella. All provide a chance to learn about local ingredients and culture firsthand. Check out the full list below to find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Valencian paella cooking class, tapas and visit to Ruzafa market
At number 1, this small-group paella class stands out with its authentic approach. You will visit Ruzafa Market with Spanish chefs, learning to select the key ingredients for the traditional Valencian paella. The class emphasizes making chicken and rabbit paella—no seafood! Alongside the cooking, you’ll enjoy a sangria-making workshop, tapas bites, and drinks. The class concludes with a communal feast featuring your freshly made paella, salad, wine, and dessert. With over 680 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, it’s a top choice for anyone wanting an immersive culinary experience. The teaching style is friendly and engaging, with cooks of all levels feeling welcomed. This tour is especially great if you want to bring home a skill that lasts longer than most souvenirs.
Bottom line: Excellent value for the price, full of lively market visits, and perfect for foodies eager to master the authentic Valencian paella.
2. Paella Cooking Class, Wine Tasting & Central Market in Valencia
Next on the list, this comprehensive four-hour experience combines a market visit with a hands-on cooking class. You start by shopping for fresh ingredients at Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest indoor markets. Then, a professional chef guides you through making authentic Valencian paella at your own station—up to 3 people per station. The class also includes local tapas and wines, creating a well-rounded taste of Valencia. Guests mention the informative guides, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food. The class’s size and expert instruction make it suitable for foodies who want to learn the true art of paella from locals.
Bottom line: An ideal choice if you want to combine market exploration, hands-on cooking, and wine tasting in a relaxed setting.
3. Valencian paella workshop and visit to the Algiros market
At number 3, this two-and-a-half-hour workshop focuses on traditional Valencian recipes. You’ll visit the lively Algiros Market with an expert chef, who will introduce you to local ingredients. Then, you’ll head to a professional kitchen to cook a classic Valencian paella and other dishes like a potato omelet and coca de llanda. The tour emphasizes learning the secrets of Valencian cuisine, with many reviewers praising the entertaining instructor Zaher. It’s perfect for those who want a shorter, more focused experience with hands-on cooking and market touring.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a fun, interactive deep dive into Valencian flavors in a shorter time frame.
4. Seafood paella cooking class, tapas and visit to Ruzafa market
Number 4 offers a seafood-focused paella experience in a small-group setting. You’ll shop at Ruzafa Market (closed Sundays), learning to select fresh seafood and other ingredients. The class includes making sangria, tapas, and enjoying a seafood paella with salad, wine, and dessert. Guests note the personalized attention from instructors Anna, Christine, and Valentin, making it feel like cooking with friends. The experience is ideal for seafood lovers or anyone wanting to learn the seafood version of paella, which is just as authentic and flavorful.
Bottom line: A lively, all-inclusive seafood paella class that combines market shopping, cooking, and conviviality.
5. Valencia: Paella Cooking Class with Central Market Tour
This four-hour class puts you in the shoes of a Valencian chef, shopping at Mercado Central for fresh ingredients. You’ll participate in a step-by-step cooking lesson that covers how to prepare a traditional paella. Afterwards, enjoy your dish with local tapas and wine. The host’s knowledge and friendly attitude are frequently highlighted in reviews. The class offers good value, especially for those wanting a comprehensive culinary experience that combines culture and cuisine.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in learning Valencian cooking from scratch and tasting their own creation.
6. Valencia: Paella Workshop and Algiros Market Visit
Number 6 features a local chef-guided workshop with a visit to Algiros Market. You’ll learn about local ingredients and cook paella, a potato omelet, and coca de llanda. The session concludes with enjoying the meal you’ve prepared along with sangria, making it a relaxed, hands-on gastronomic experience. Guests comment on the interactive nature and the opportunity to learn industry tips directly from a Valencian chef.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a multi-dish experience with a relaxed vibe and market insights.
7. Valencia: Paella Workshop, Tapas and Ruzafa Market Visit
This 3.5-hour workshop takes you into the colorful Ruzafa neighborhood. You explore the market with a local chef, then learn to cook your own paella from authentic ingredients. Before cooking, enjoy tapas and wine to set the mood. The class emphasizes creating your own dish from scratch and then sharing a meal together. Reviewers highlight the fun atmosphere and expert guidance, making it ideal for foodies who want a comprehensive local experience.
Bottom line: A lively, market-based cooking class with plenty of tasting and cultural insights.
8. Valencia: Morning Food Tour with Central Market Visit
For a more relaxed, cultural food walk, this tour combines a visit to Mercado Central with tastings of local tapas. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an intro to Valencian food in a shorter three-hour format. The tour also includes drinks and special breakfast treats at the Town Hall Square. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and diverse stops, making it suitable for those who prefer tasting over cooking.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting to experience Valencia’s culinary scene without a hands-on approach.
9. Vegetable Paella cooking class, tapas and Ruzafa market visit
Number 9 specializes in vegetarian and vegan paella, perfect for dietary restrictions or those seeking a healthier option. You shop at Ruzafa Market with local cooks, then prepare vegetable paella, tapas, and other Spanish specialties. The class is small and interactive and ends with a shared meal of delicious vegetarian dishes. Many reviewers mention how fun and inclusive the experience is, and how they learned new cooking techniques.
Bottom line: Ideal for vegetarians or anyone wanting a plant-based take on Valencian cuisine.
10. Award-Winning Paella & Market in Small Group with Chef Jordi
This small-group experience features Chef Jordi, a Valencia native and award-winning chef. You visit Russafa Market, then cook Jordi’s award-winning paella in a cozy setting. The tour includes sangria, snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who want a personalized, authentic experience. Guests praise Jordi’s friendly approach and expert techniques, making it a memorable way to learn Valencian paella secrets.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who appreciate small, intimate groups and local chef insight.
11. Valencia Morning Food Tour with Central Market by Food Lover Tour
This three-hour morning tour focuses on local tapas and traditional breakfast. You visit Mercat Central, try Spanish breakfast staples, and sip local drinks in a relaxed, social setting. The tour appeals to those who want to experience Valencia’s casual food culture and learn about local eating customs from a passionate guide.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who prefer tasting and cultural insights over hands-on cooking.
12. Valencia: cook your paella (with purchase at Russafa market)
Finally, this interactive cooking class invites you to purchase ingredients at Russafa Market and then cook your own Valencian paella. With a friendly guide, you’ll learn the secrets of Valencian gastronomy while preparing your meal. The class concludes with sangria, tapas, and your freshly made paella, offering a practical, culinary experience that’s easy to fit into any schedule.
Bottom line: An accessible, fun option for travelers who want to cook their own paella using fresh market ingredients.
How to Choose the Best Shopping & Market Tour in Valencia
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interest level, and time available. If you want a full immersion with market visits, cooking, and wine, the Paella Cooking Class, Wine Tasting & Central Market is a fantastic choice. For those seeking a shorter, more focused activity, the Valencian paella workshop and visit to the Algiros market offers a great introduction. Budget travelers may prefer the small-group, intimate classes with local chefs, like Chef Jordi’s award-winning paella.
If your main goal is to learn to cook vegetarian paella, the Vegetable Paella cooking class ensures an inclusive, flavorful experience. For tasting-focused visitors, guided food tours like the Morning Food Tour provide insight without the cooking.
Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure you get the experience that best matches your culinary curiosity and schedule.
Final Thoughts
Valencia offers a diverse range of shopping and market tours that cater to every interest and budget. The paella workshops are ideal for those wanting to learn authentic recipes in a fun, interactive setting, while market visits with tastings give insight into local ingredients and culture. For a more relaxed experience, guided food tours provide a taste of Valencia’s best flavors.
Whether you’re a food novice eager to learn or a culinary expert looking to perfect your paella technique, these tours promise an authentic taste of Valencia’s gastronomic charm. To make the most of your trip, consider booking early and choosing a tour that matches your culinary curiosity. Valencia’s markets and kitchens are waiting—time to get cooking!