Requena Old Town
Discover Requena Old Town, a historic gem in Valencia's wine country, famed for its ancient underground wine caves and charming medieval streets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
Requena Old Town
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Requena Old Town, a historic gem in Valencia's wine country, famed for its ancient underground wine caves and charming medieval streets.
"The underground caves are gorgeous, and don't forget to try the local wines."
🍽️ Book Cave Dining
Reserve a table in a bodega for an unforgettable meal. Bring a light jacket, as caves can be cool!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to see the old town is by wandering its narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underground Wine Caves (Bodegas)
Various locations throughout the old town
Explore ancient cellars carved into the rock, where wine has been made and stored for centuries. A truly unique experience!

Castle Ruins
Castillo de Requena
Discover the remnants of Requena's historic castle, offering panoramic views and a sense of its past grandeur.

Charming Old Town Streets
Casco Antiguo
Get lost in the picturesque, winding alleys of the historic center, filled with traditional architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Caves and Wine
Wander the Historic Streets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍽️ Book Cave Dining
Reserve a table in a bodega for an unforgettable meal. Bring a light jacket, as caves can be cool!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to see the old town is by wandering its narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes!
Visiting Valencia for a couple days
📸 Be Patient with Photos
Vehicles can be present in squares and streets, so be ready to wait for clear shots.
🍷 Taste Local Wines
Requena is wine country! Don't miss the chance to sample the region's unique wines.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍽️ Book Cave Dining
Reserve a table in a bodega for an unforgettable meal. Bring a light jacket, as caves can be cool!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to see the old town is by wandering its narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes!
📸 Be Patient with Photos
Vehicles can be present in squares and streets, so be ready to wait for clear shots.
🍷 Taste Local Wines
Requena is wine country! Don't miss the chance to sample the region's unique wines.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Requena Old Town is praised for its unique underground caves and charming historic streets, offering a glimpse into centuries of wine culture. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the atmospheric dining experiences in the bodegas. However, some reviewers note that parts of the old town appear neglected, and the presence of vehicles can detract from the ambiance and photography opportunities.
"A very pretty town with many cultural buildings to visit, and I'd like to highlight the friendliness of the staff who work there. They go out of their way to explain everything to you, which is very valuable."
Divina Baste
"The old town is very cool, you can visit the caves, which are gorgeous, and don't forget to try the local wines."
Admilson Castelao
"Very charming place, nothing to do with the new part of town, a pleasure to get lost in these streets"
Oscar pm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Requena Old Town is easily accessible from Valencia. You can drive, which takes about 45-60 minutes. Alternatively, trains run regularly from Valencia's Estació del Nord to Requena station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the old town.
Parking can be challenging within the narrow streets of the old town. It's often best to park in designated areas on the outskirts and walk in. Some accommodations may offer private parking.
Absolutely! Requena Old Town makes for a fantastic day trip from Valencia. You can explore the main sights and enjoy a meal within a few hours.
The old town is best explored on foot. Its charm lies in its winding streets and hidden corners, which are perfect for leisurely strolls.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the history and significance of the old town and its caves. Some tours may include wine tastings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the old town itself is free. However, specific attractions like the underground caves (bodegas) or museums may have an admission fee. It's advisable to check in advance.
Opening hours vary for different attractions. The caves and museums typically have set hours, often closing for a midday break. Restaurants and shops follow their own schedules.
Yes, booking tours, especially for the popular wine caves and dining experiences, in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season.
Wandering the streets, admiring the architecture, and visiting the castle ruins (exterior) are generally free. The main churches are also often free to enter.
Visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon, can help you avoid the largest crowds. Sundays and Mondays are often quieter.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for picturesque street corners, the castle views, and the entrances to the cave cellars. The Plaza de la Villa is also a lovely spot.
Yes, vehicles in the streets and squares can sometimes obstruct views and make it challenging to get clear, unobstructed photos. Patience is key.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, and the presence of cars might be more noticeable.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from the staff or tour guide, especially if you're in a private dining area.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the narrow streets and cave interiors. A standard zoom lens will cover most other needs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying 'Morteruelo' (a meat pâté), 'Ajo Arriero' (a cod and potato dish), and local cured meats. Of course, sample the regional wines!
Several restaurants offer dining experiences in the historic bodegas. El Yantar de Pilar is a popular choice, known for its fusion cuisine in a cave setting. Booking is essential.
While traditional Valencian cuisine is meat and fish-heavy, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's best to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when booking or ordering.
Prices can vary. Casual tapas and local eateries are more affordable, while restaurants offering cave dining or fusion cuisine will be more expensive. Expect mid-range to higher prices for specialty experiences.
Yes, wine tasting is a major draw. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, and some restaurants in the caves also provide wine pairings with their meals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be limited in certain areas. The winding streets are great for a stroll, but keep an eye on little ones to ensure they don't wander off. The novelty of dining in a cave can also be a memorable experience for the whole family, though ensure the restaurant is child-friendly.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Beyond winery tours, many restaurants in the old town, especially those located in the caves, offer excellent wine pairings and tasting menus. This is an ideal opportunity to sample a variety of local wines and learn about their characteristics from knowledgeable staff. Don't miss the chance to purchase bottles directly from producers to enjoy later.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While cave tours and wine tastings have costs, prioritize one or two key experiences that interest you most. Public transport from Valencia is also a more economical option than driving if you factor in fuel and parking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Underground World
Visitors can tour various bodegas, learning about the traditional methods of winemaking and aging. Some tours include wine tastings, allowing you to sample the local varietals, such as Bobal. The sheer scale and ingenuity of these underground complexes are impressive, and they are a testament to Requena's long-standing connection with wine. Remember to bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the caves remains consistently cool year-round.
Planning Your Bodega Visit
* Book in advance: Popular bodegas, especially those offering dining, fill up quickly.
* Wear comfortable shoes: The cave floors can be uneven.
* Consider a guided tour: This provides valuable historical context and insights into the wine-making process.
Exploring the Historic Casco Antiguo
While the old town possesses undeniable charm, some visitors note that certain areas appear somewhat neglected, with abandoned houses and faded facades. This can detract from the overall aesthetic for some. Additionally, the presence of vehicles in many of the streets and squares can disrupt the historical ambiance and make photography more challenging. Despite these points, the sheer character of the old town, especially when you venture off the main paths, is captivating and offers a peaceful escape from the modern world.
Tips for Exploring the Old Town
* Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestone streets can be uneven.
* Allow ample time: Get lost and discover hidden corners.
* Be mindful of vehicles: Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit