How to Spend a Day in Xàtiva: Exploring the Town and the Castle
Located in the immediate inland region from Gandia, across the bordering mountain range, is the large town of Xàtiva. ‘What’s there?’ you might wonder. Even before you enter, you will be welcomed by the impressive view of Xàtiva Castle sitting atop a rather large mountain. The winding road and stone walls zig-zagging to the fortress are unmissable from the highway and railway leading into the town. And at night, the castle and mountain pass are lit up like a warm greeting for all to see.
Our guide will show you how to plan a day trip to Xàtiva including travel tips, climbing to Xàtiva Castle, where to stop for lunch, and a brief tour of the Old Town.
Morning
Getting to Xàtiva
Reaching Xàtiva is straightforward, whether you're travelling by train, car, or bus. A direct railway line serves the town, and well-maintained highways provide easy access. Plus, its convenient location, unlike some of the more remote villages nearby, makes for a stress-free day trip.
Train: Travelling by the C1 or C2 train is the most convenient route, particularly from Valencia City. Secure your tickets online through Trainline or Renfe, or purchase them directly at Valencia Nord Station. You'll arrive in Xàtiva in about an hour.
Bus: From Valencia City, buses depart from the main bus terminal, Estació d'Autobusos de València (Valencia Bus Station). Book a ticket with Alsa, the primary bus operator serving the Valencia to Xàtiva. The journey is just over an hour.
Car: It’s a 50-minute drive from Valencia City to Xàtiva along the A7 highway. You can book a hire car through Booking.com, Rentalcars.com, or car-sharing apps such as Amovens.
A view of the Xàtiva railway and mountains beyond
Stopping for Coffee in Xàtiva
Once you’ve arrived at Xàtiva, you’ll likely need some refreshment! There’s a small cafe at Xàtiva Train Station, which I have tested and approved. If you fancy a coffee elsewhere, you might also like to try:
TIPICS (2,200 reviews, 4.4 stars) - A cosy restaurant with modern aesthetic offering a range of coffees, lattes, teas, and pastries near Xàtiva train station. I used to come here many times when I lived in the town!
Cafetería Pasaje - By Run Run (160 reviews, 4.3 stars) - Coffees, rich hot chocolates, teas, and juices are available at this quaint espresso bar and cafe. Try the ‘Swiss hot chocolate’ (chocolate suizo) on a cold day, you won’t be disappointed.
Granier (610 reviews, 4.1 stars) - The classic bakery chain in Spain, Granier has a nice selection of baked goods, coffees, and cold drinks. This one is usually busy.
Exploring Xàtiva Castle
After fuelling up on coffee, head straight for Castillo de Xàtiva (Castell de Xàtiva in Valenciano). Mornings are perfect for avoiding crowds and summer heat. Alternatively, catch the magical glow of the setting sun in the afternoon or early evening. Either way, expect stunning panoramic views year-round.
A view from Castillo Menor, looking across the Xàtiva Castle complex.
Access and tickets
The castle stands majestically above the town, accessible in a couple of ways. For the energetic, a steep hill road winds its way up. Alternatively, a convenient shuttle bus is available for a small fee (around €1). Once there, you can purchase tickets at the booth, or secure them online in advance if you're concerned about sell-outs.
The entrance to Xàtiva Castle
Things to see
Xàtiva Castle is divided into two distinct sections: the Castillo Menor (lower castle) and the Castillo Mayor (upper castle). Starting in the Castillo Menor, you’ll discover the castle’s ancient origins and various architectural styles reflecting its long history. Then, ascending to the Castillo Mayor, you can enjoy the most breathtaking views of Xàtiva and the surrounding countryside.
A small yet impressive and immersive museum sits within the castle complex. There are Arabic and Christian artifacts and exhibits including spears, swords, suits of armour, and life-size scenes of how areas of the castle may have looked.
Don't miss the chance to walk along the ramparts, explore the courtyards, and peek into the various towers and chambers. Key sights include the remains of Roman and Arab fortifications, the prison cells, and the stunning views from the highest point. Allow at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the castle's beauty and historical significance.
Wander through the Ibn Hazm Gardens, which are a recent addition to the Castillo Mayor grounds. The gardens are a tranquil tribute to the Al-Andalusian poet, Ibn Hazm, who found sanctuary in Xàtiva and wrote the poem 'The Ring of the Dove.' The gardens are defined by a linear water feature that leads to star-shaped pools, complemented by the graceful silhouettes of palm trees and flowers that would have been found in gardens of that era.
Lunchtime
Where to eat lunch in Xàtiva
There is a cafe at Xàtiva Castle but it does get busy. I’d recommend making your way back down to the town to find a local restaurant. There’s more choice and there’ll be a more relaxed atmosphere.
Here are some recommendations:
Restaurante El Túnel (1,500 reviews, 4.6 stars) - Probably the highest-rated restaurant in Xàtiva with an elegant setting, a beautiful courtyard, and delicious fresh local cuisine.
Terrassa Sant Josep (850 reviews, 4.2 stars) - A stunning place to eat with chic outdoor dining and mountain vistas just below the castle.
Carpanel (620 reviews, 4.4 stars) - Valencian dishes in a local restaurant. Choose from paella, croquetas, carrillera de cerdo, fresh fish, and salads.
Il Padrino Due (580 reviews, 4.4 stars) - Italian restaurant with pizzas, pasta, tiramisu, and panna cotta.
Afternoon
Stroll through Jardí del Bes
Beside the historic Fuente de los Veinticinco Chorros is the Jardí del Bes (Garden of the Kiss), a small, intimate garden in Xàtiva. The little oasis, though modern, evokes the romantic spirit of past eras, earning its name from the love poems traditionally spoken within the grounds.
Here, you can admire the carefully arranged plants and shady trees, a colourful painted mural, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and appreciate the trickling water fountains.
Crowning the garden is a stone goblet, covered by an Islamic-Arabian domed roof and adorned with a tapestry of intricately patterned tiles.
Tour the Old Town
While Xàtiva may not rival Valencia's size, it packs a punch with its rich history, easily explored in a day. Here's your guide to the best things to see and do:
Almodí Museum - a 16th-century stone wheat market in the old quarter. It was renovated into the Museo del Almudin and now houses the history of Xàtiva with artifacts such as pottery, Arab baths, Roman stones, and ancient inscribed altars. They often host pop-up contemporary art exhibitions.
La Seu - the largest and most-notable church in Xàtiva. Once a mosque, it was replaced by the 16th-century Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria. You can also visit the museum inside.
Museum of Fine Arts - inside La Casa de l’ Ensenyança, you will find fine oil paintings, Gothic altarpieces, carved stone, and illustrations from Valencian artists.
Market Square - known locally as Plaça del Mercat, the busiest square in the heart of Xàtiva. There are old buildings to admire, an outdoor market, and plenty of cafes and bars to visit.
The Water Route - a marked trail of Xàtiva’s many ancient royal, monumental, and public water fountains. Follow the route with this map.
Visit the Jardins del Palasiet
Finally, the day finishes at the beautiful Palasiet Gardens.
Located near the Alameda and the Town Hall, the Jardins del Palasiet is a green space with a history dating back to the early 20th century. Originally designed as a public park, it has evolved into a vibrant display of diverse flora, featuring a wide array of flowers and palm trees.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Jardins del Palasiet serves as a cultural hub, hosting a room for exhibitions and significant local events, making it a central gathering point for the community. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, admire the diverse plant life, and explore the exhibition space, which often showcases local art and history.
Map: A day in Xàtiva
Navigate our Xàtiva walking itinerary using the interactive map below.
Enjoy your trip!
That’s a wrap on our guide to spending a day in Xàtiva town and castle! Our itinerary delivers a day of discovery, from commanding castle views to the hidden corners of the Old Town. For history, local flavors, or simply a scenic escape from Valencia, Xàtiva's blend of ancient charm and accessible travel makes it a must-visit.
