Road trip route through the prettiest towns in the Valencian Community

A local guide with stops, practical tips and crowd-free alternatives

If there’s one truly authentic way to discover the prettiest towns in the Valencian Community, it’s by car. Total freedom, scenic roads, and the chance to stop where it genuinely feels worth it. Here at Wiber, as people from “la terreta” (a local, affectionate way Valencians refer to their land and to people from the Valencian Community) and lovers of slow travel, we’re sharing an optimised route that blends must-see favourites with lesser-known gems—perfect for escaping the summer crowds.

Ideal if you land at Valencia Airport or Alicante Airport and want to make the most of your car hire—without the stress.

Classic recommended route: the prettiest towns in the Valencian Community

Ideal if it’s your first trip, or if you’re after classics that never fail.

1. Altea – The whitewashed beauty of the Mediterranean

One of the most photographed pretty towns in the Valencian Community. Its old quarter—with white houses and sea views—is pure Mediterranean essence.

Must-see stops:

• Old town and Plaza de la Iglesia
• Viewpoints at sunset
• Seafront promenade (quieter in the morning)

LOCAL WIBER TIP: park in the lower areas and walk up. You’ll avoid traffic and enjoy it more.

2. Guadalest – A mountain village with postcard views

Small, spectacular and truly unique. El Castell de Guadalest looks straight out of a postcard and offers one of the best panoramic views of inland Alicante.

Recommended stops:

• Castle of San José
• Guadalest Reservoir
• Ethnographic museum

LOCAL WIBER TIP: go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid organised coach trips.

3. Peñíscola – History by the sea

One of the prettiest towns in the Valencian Community where history and beach life come together perfectly.

Don’t miss

• Papa Luna Castle
• Walled old town
• Coves and coves of the Serra d’Irta Natural Park

Practical tip: stay outside the historic centre and walk in.

4. Morella – A journey back to the Middle Ages

For many, the most impressive town in inland Valencia. Walls, a castle and hearty local food.

What to see

• Morella Castle
• Walls and aqueduct
• Blasco de Alagón and Mayor streets

Foodie extra: try black truffle when it’s in season.

5. Xàtiva – History, fire and endless views

One of the most historically significant places in the Valencian Community. Birthplace of the Borgias and shaped by its past, Xàtiva blends heritage, nature and spectacular panoramas over inland Valencia.

Must-see stops

• Xàtiva Castle (a twin fortress with epic views)
• Old town and Calle Montcada
• Collegiate Basilica of Santa María

Local tip: head up to the castle early or at sunset. In summer, avoid the midday heat and bring water—it’s worth taking it slow.

6. Villajoyosa – Colour, sea and true seaside soul

Famous for its colourful seafront houses, Villajoyosa is one of the prettiest towns in the Valencian Community with the most personality. More local and less “Instagrammy” than other Costa Blanca spots.

Recommended stops

• Hanging houses in the old quarter
• Seafront promenade and Playa Centro
• Historic neighbourhood and old walls

Practical tip: start early for a quiet stroll through the old town, then have breakfast by the sea. That’s when Villajoyosa feels most authentic.

7. Elche – A palm-tree oasis in Europe

Elche doesn’t always make it onto road-trip lists, but it’s one of a kind. Its Palm Grove (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) creates a landscape you won’t find anywhere else on the continent.

What not to miss

• Elche Palm Grove
• Huerto del Cura
• Basilica of Santa María and the historic centre

Wiber tip: explore the Palm Grove on foot or by bike, moving away from the most central areas. That’s where you’ll feel the city’s real calm.

8. Requena – Wine, underground caves and medieval charm

Right in inland Valencia, Requena is perfect if you’re looking for pretty towns in the Valencian Community tied to wine and history. Ideal for a relaxed stop—or an overnight stay.

Don’t miss

• Cuevas de la Villa (medieval underground caves)
• La Villa historic quarter
• Utiel-Requena wineries

Local tip: if you’re into wine tourism, book your winery visit in advance at weekends. Weekdays are much more relaxed.

9. Sagunto – A castle that dominates the skyline

Sagunto is one of the great hidden classics… unfairly overlooked. Its Roman castle stretches across the hilltop and is one of the most impressive in the entire Valencian Community.

Key stops

• Sagunto Castle
• Roman theatre
• Jewish quarter and historic centre

Practical tip: if you’re visiting in summer, check out the Sagunto theatre festival, with major performances staged in the Roman amphitheatre itself. It’s open-air, genuinely special, and perfect for warm August nights.

Looking for pretty towns in the Valencian Community without the crowds? Local recommendations (PRO level)

If you want authenticity with zero queues, add these lesser-known places—just as spectacular:

• Bocairent – Moorish caves and a medieval old quarter
• Chulilla – Hiking, canyons and hanging bridges
• Fanzara – Street art and absolute calm
• Puebla de San Miguel – Pure nature in the Rincón de Ademuz
• Ares del Maestrat – Raw inland scenery, stone houses and silence. One of the Maestrazgo’s best-kept secrets.
• Culla – A gorgeous historic centre and zero rush. Ideal for an overnight stay and a proper switch-off.
• Gestalgar – The Turia River, natural pools and a real village vibe.
• Vall de Gallinera – Not just one village: several (Benialí, Benissivà…) scattered among mountains and cherry orchards.
• Benaixeve – Very under the radar, ideal for hiking and total disconnection.

👉 Here, a car isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. And the experience is completely different.

Practical tips for your road trip

If you want the most famous pretty towns in the Valencian Community → Altea, Peñíscola, Morella, Xàtiva, Villajoyosa

If you prefer authentic places without the crowds → Culla, Ares del Maestrat, Gestalgar, Vall de Gallinera.

• Best time to go: May, June, September and October
• Avoid peak hours: 12:00–16:00 in summer
• Roads: many are mountain roads—drive calmly
• Parking: check public car parks before entering the historic centre

With a hire car, you can improvise, take detours and discover towns that don’t show up in the guidebooks… and that’s where the magic is.

Start your route with total peace of mind

If you arrive by plane, pick up your car at the airport and start your trip queue-free thanks to our tech:

• Wikey Smart Box or Smart Car
• Clear pricing, with no hidden fees
• Real reviews (4.6/5 on Trustpilot)

Because discovering the prettiest towns in the Valencian Community should be as easy as enjoying the journey.