Bike tour with city guide from old to new

A lively journey through Valencia’s past and present, led by a passionate guide

If you’re looking to get a true feel for Valencia in a short amount of time, this bike tour from the old town to the new is an excellent choice. For around $40, you’ll spend roughly three hours cycling through some of the city’s most iconic sights, starting at the historic heart and ending amidst its cutting-edge architecture. Led by a local guide—Annick, as many reviewers have praised—you’ll get a well-balanced mix of history, modern design, and local tips that make this tour both enriching and fun.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guidance that brings the city’s stories to life—Annick’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through. Second, the diverse scenery: from the charming old town with its Roman roots to the sweeping modern structures of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. A possible consideration? The group size is limited to 12, which is great for personalized attention but might feel crowded during peak times. This tour is best suited for those who want an active introduction to Valencia, especially if you enjoy cycling and appreciate authentic insights from a local.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering both historic and contemporary Valencia
• Knowledgeable guide who offers personalized tips and engaging stories
• Comfortable bikes and manageable group size ensure a relaxed experience
• Highlights include the Turia Gardens, Calatrava’s architecture, and the Plaza de la Virgen
• Price offers good value for a personalized, guided city introduction
• Flexible options available for private tours or different times

Exploring Valencia by Bike: An Authentic and Practical Choice

Valencia is a city that beautifully marries history with modern innovation, and what better way to experience this than on two wheels? This bike tour offers a practical, eco-friendly way to see the city’s highlights, while also soaking in the local atmosphere. With a native guide like Annick, you’ll gain insight into places that are often missed by travelers just walking around on their own.

This tour is perfect for those who like a bit of activity during their travels, but it’s also accessible for most travelers because of its manageable 3-hour duration. The price of around $40 is quite reasonable, especially considering the guided nature of the experience and the small group size, which ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd.

The Itinerary: From Old to New

Start at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and the Old Town

The tour kicks off in the center of Valencia, at the Tourism Office near Plaça de l’Ajuntament. Here, you’ll pick up your bike and get a quick briefing. We loved the way the guide smoothly transitions from city basics to deeper stories. The first stops include the Ceramics Museum and the old University of La Nau, which are less crowded but visually captivating.

Cycling through the Jardín del Turia

A highlight is the Jardín del Turia, the expansive park that was once a riverbed. It’s a verdant “green lung” that cuts through the city, offering a peaceful escape from city traffic. We appreciated how the guide pointed out interesting features and shared anecdotes about the park’s history, making the ride both relaxing and informative. Reviewers have called this the “best way” to discover this area, and we agree.

The Futuristic Buildings of Calatrava

Next, the tour descends to the River Turia’s former bed, where the city’s most famous architect, Santiago Calatrava, has crafted buildings that seem to reach for the sky. Expect to be wowed by the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a complex of startlingly modern structures. The guide explains Calatrava’s vision and design philosophy, making what we see more meaningful.

A 30-minute stop here lets you marvel at the architecture and take photos. Many travelers note that this part of the tour is a “WOW moment,” perfect for those who love modern design. It’s also a chance to learn about the architect behind these iconic buildings, adding depth to your sightseeing.

The Historic Heart: Plaza de la Virgen

Finally, we cycle back toward the old town, passing the Serranos Gate, one of the remaining city gates, and arriving at the Plaza de la Virgen. This square, dating back to Roman times, remains the heart of Valencia. It buzzes with local life, and the guide shares stories that help you imagine how the city’s history has shaped its present.

This stop is a favorite among reviewers, who find it a great way to conclude the tour, connecting the modern architecture with the city’s ancient roots. It’s an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the ambiance before returning to the starting point.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at the Tourism Office in Plaça de l’Ajuntament and ends right back there, making logistics simple. It runs on Wednesdays from 10 AM to 1 PM and is available from November 2019 through June 2026. With a small group limit of 12, you’ll have a chance to ask questions and get personalized tips from Annick.

Accessibility and Comfort

Most travelers can participate, and the bikes are comfortable for varied levels of cycling experience. The tour’s duration of around 3 hours is designed to be manageable, combining sightseeing with light exercise without becoming tiring.

Cost and Value

At just over $40, this guided bike tour provides excellent value. You’re paying not only for the bike and route but also for the expert narration and insider insights. Many reviews emphasize that Annick’s passion and knowledge truly enhance the experience, leaving visitors with a genuine understanding of Valencia.

Cancellation and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. If your plans change, you can reschedule or get a full refund, which is especially helpful if you’re trying to keep your trip flexible.

Why You’ll Love It

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed way of discovering Valencia’s key sights. If you enjoy cycling and are curious about the city’s history and architecture, you’ll find this experience both fun and informative. The small group size and local guide ensure you’ll get personalized attention and insider tips, making your visit more enriching.

Many travelers have praised Annick’s friendly and enthusiastic approach, calling her a “top guide” and noting her ability to make the city’s stories come alive. Her ability to combine historical facts with anecdotes and restaurant tips makes for a well-rounded tour.

Final Thoughts

This bike tour from old to new in Valencia offers a fantastic mix of history, modern architecture, and local insights—all in just three hours. It’s a practical way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, and the small group setup guarantees personal attention. The guide’s passion and knowledge seem to elevate the experience, making it a memorable part of your Valencia visit.

If you’re after a fun, active, and authentic introduction to the city—especially if you appreciate architecture and history—you’ll find this tour to be a great investment. It’s ideal for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with some exercise and enjoy the city’s stories from someone who knows it well.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or less experienced cyclists?
Most travelers can participate, and the route is manageable for those with basic cycling skills. If you have specific concerns, contacting the operator directly might help.

What is included in the price?
You get a bike, a helmet, a knowledgeable guide, and the route described. Entrance fees to attractions are not included, but most stops are free to view from the outside.

Can I book a private tour or go at a different time?
Yes, private tours and different timings can be arranged by contacting the guide directly at [email protected].

How long are the stops?
Stops are brief—around 15-30 minutes—allowing plenty of time to see the sights without feeling rushed.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, it’s available from November 2019 through June 2026, with weekly departures on Wednesdays.

What if it rains?
The tour’s weather policy isn’t specified here, but most outdoor bike tours are canceled or rescheduled in heavy rain. Checking the weather forecast and contacting the guide beforehand is recommended.

Can I bring my own bike?
The tour provides bikes, so this isn’t necessary unless you prefer your own equipment.

What language is the tour in?
The reviews mention a Flemish guide, but generally, the tour is conducted in a language understood by the group—likely English or Spanish, depending on arrangements.

Are there bathroom stops?
While not explicitly mentioned, typical stops in parks or squares usually include access to facilities, but it’s good to ask the guide beforehand.

How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a more personal experience and easier navigation through the city.

To sum it up, this bike tour in Valencia makes for a lively, informative, and enjoyable way to see the city’s essential sights. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply want a practical way to explore, you’ll walk away with a richer understanding and appreciation of Valencia’s unique character.