Day trips from Valencia

Short on time

The Albufera is the easiest outing, with a lake and a boat. The paella version is in the Valencia guide. Huerto Ribera is a different idea: an orange orchard visit with a tasting.

Children or bad weather

San José Caves. A boat ride underground. It's the trip that best survives a rainy day, and it works with children.

Swimwear or walking boots

Montanejos. Thermal bathing and a waterfall, with a panoramic stop. Pack swimwear and a towel, and check whether food is included.

Chulilla. The Turia canyon and hanging bridges. Expect real walking, so check the level and your footwear.

Castles, old towns and wine

Peñíscola is the coastal option, with its castle and Game of Thrones locations. Add Morella and the day gets longer, with lunch included. The Guadalest, Altea and Algar Waterfalls route packs three stops into one day and works better in good weather. Xàtiva has a castle and a medieval town. The Utiel-Requena vineyards come with a tasting.

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Count the stops and the free time at each: three towns in one day means little time in any of them. Check whether entry is included too: the caves and Algar aren't always. Staying in Benidorm or Alicante? Some trips run the other way, into Valencia.