Luxury travelers seeking a distinctive experience in Valencia, Spain, need look no further. After joining a Sea Saffron tour on a recent visit, I can wholeheartedly recommend this unique offering.
Our guide for the evening was Eduardo Aguilar, who also owns the company. His enthusiasm for Valencia and the tour was contagious. Warm, personable and clearly knowledgeable, he met us at our city-center hotel, Vincci Mercat, and provided a private transfer to the City of Arts and Sciences.
We explored the City of Arts and Sciences, a signature cultural complex that showcases the striking, sculptural work of Valencia-born architect Santiago Calatrava. As we walked, Aguilar explained the inspiration behind the major buildings and pointed out details that bring the architecture to life. The setting offered constant opportunities for memorable photos.
After the walking portion, we continued to Valencia’s tallest building, where a private event space on the top floor awaited us. Our exclusive experience included a 10-course tapas tasting timed perfectly with sunset. We began on the terrace, taking in panoramic views of the city while sipping Cava and enjoying Manchego cheese and Marcona almonds. When the air cooled, the tasting moved indoors to a comfortable dining area.
All ten courses were exceptional, showcasing regional specialties and local ingredients that reflected Valencia’s culinary identity. Each bite was thoughtfully prepared, and it’s hard to single out a favorite because the menu offered a balanced mix of textures and flavors. Spanish wines—both whites and reds—were paired with the dishes, enhancing the tasting and highlighting the diversity of the country’s wine regions.
The tour includes private transfers to and from guests’ hotels. In our case, we extended the evening with a final stop at Café de las Horas in the city center for a glass of agua de Valencia rather than heading straight back. Aguilar accommodated the change of plan without hesitation, ensuring a smooth and flexible experience from start to finish. Overall, the evening combined insightful local storytelling, unforgettable views and a refined tasting that makes Sea Saffron an outstanding choice for travelers seeking a high-end, authentic Valencia experience.