Excursion Unesco valencia silk road walking tour tour at Valencia

Explore the beautiful Old Town of Valencia, and its longstanding connection to the art of silk production, during this scenic and informative, half-day excursion to the 'City of Silk'.

Valencia, College of High Silk Art, Museum

Depart the pier for the short drive to the College of High Silk Art, which is located in the old seat of the Higher Art of Silk-Making Authority, an institution established in 1477 to set rules and standards of quality for Valencian silk-makers. During your guided visit to this 15th-century building, renovated in the 18th century, stop by the Museum to learn out about the history of silk in Valencia, hand-made process of weaving and rich artistic heritage of the building itself. In addition, your guide describes the arduous preparation of the Espolin characteristics of Valencian clothing.

After the museum visit, the guests will have possibility to visit traditional silk shop located in the museum. The Valencia Silk Museum store offer exclusive artisanal items made from natural Valencian silk.

Barri de Velluters, Central Market, Tasting of Horchata & Farton

Next, take a short stroll through the Barri de Velluters, a neighbourhood established by velvet-makers in 1465. Your walking tour continues with a stop to the bustling Central Market where you can enjoy a short free time to stroll around it. This early-20th-century building spans over 26,000 square feet (about     2,415 square metres), and hosts 400 stalls specialising in fresh products. During your walking tour, stop for a tasting of 'horchata', a typically sweet and refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and 'fartons'.

Silk Exchange Building

Your last stop is at the cornerstone of UNESCO's Silk Road Project, the Silk Exchange building. A masterpiece of Mediterranean civil Gothic architecture, this building is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Valencia. The Silk Exchange was built between 1483-1548 to facilitate trade between the producers of the rich silk fabrics made in Valencia, and the merchants their silk products attracted from all over Europe.  At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Valencia, College of High Silk Art, Barri de Velluters, Silk Clothing Shop, Central Market, Horchata and Fartons Tastings, Silk Exchange Building

Note

Please note: This tour involves moderate amount of walking for approximately 2.5 km, at times over uneven, cobblestone and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the approximate 65 steps at the sites visited; lifts are available, except at the Silk Market. Guests must consider appriximately 3 hours walking. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Photography/videography is not permitted inside the sites visited. On Sunday, the Central Market can only be viewed from outside. On Sunday afternoon, the Silk Exchange Building will be closed and will be visited outside only. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.