Requena Old Town - a narrow street with buildings and a clock tower in the distance
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Requena Old Town

4.4
·21 reviews·Requena, Spain

Discover Requena Old Town, a historic gem in Valencia's wine country, famed for its ancient underground wine caves and charming medieval streets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday & Monday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Requena Old Town - a narrow street with buildings and a clock tower in the distance

Requena Old Town

Best Time

Sunday & Monday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Requena Old Town, a historic gem in Valencia's wine country, famed for its ancient underground wine caves and charming medieval streets.

4.4
(21 reviews)

"The underground caves are gorgeous, and don't forget to try the local wines."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍽️ Book Cave Dining

Reserve a table in a bodega for an unforgettable meal. Bring a light jacket, as caves can be cool!

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to see the old town is by wandering its narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underground Wine Caves (Bodegas)

Underground Wine Caves (Bodegas)

Various locations throughout the old town

Explore ancient cellars carved into the rock, where wine has been made and stored for centuries. A truly unique experience!

Instagram
Castle Ruins

Castle Ruins

Castillo de Requena

Discover the remnants of Requena's historic castle, offering panoramic views and a sense of its past grandeur.

TikTok
Charming Old Town Streets

Charming Old Town Streets

Casco Antiguo

Get lost in the picturesque, winding alleys of the historic center, filled with traditional architecture.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Caves and Wine

Requena's underground caves are a must-see, offering a glimpse into centuries of wine storage and production. Many restaurants offer dining experiences within these unique cellars. Book ahead for the best spots! Instagram

Wander the Historic Streets

The old town is a maze of charming, narrow streets. While beautiful, some areas show signs of neglect. Be prepared for uneven surfaces and be mindful of vehicles, which can detract from photos. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunday & Monday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Local dining buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The calm before the storm in Spain 😳 We thoroughly enjoyed #requena in the wine country west of #valencia on Sunday and Monday. The well- preserved old portion of town, with its castle ruins, narrow winding streets, and underground cave where wine has been made and stored; staying at the lovely @los_canilleros bed and breakfast; lunch at Sierra Norte winery nearby. Tuesday morning we were woken ...
trailblazerwellness
22 likes • 280 views

🍽️ Book Cave Dining

Reserve a table in a bodega for an unforgettable meal. Bring a light jacket, as caves can be cool! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to see the old town is by wandering its narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes! Reddit

@ey_lacocinadepilar in the square of the old town of Requena, Valencia ~ fusion cuisine combined with traditional Spanish dishes, the best and most delicious combination 🤤🍷🍴 Tip: make sure to book a table in the bodega (undergound cave) for the full experience, and take a little jacket with you 😉 ........ #elyantarlacocinadepilar #elyantar #restaurante #Requena #visitarequena #Valencia #oldtown...
stefiash
0 likes • 1K views
reddit.com

Visiting Valencia for a couple days

📸 Be Patient with Photos

Vehicles can be present in squares and streets, so be ready to wait for clear shots. Reddit

🍷 Taste Local Wines

Requena is wine country! Don't miss the chance to sample the region's unique wines. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🍽️ Book Cave Dining

Reserve a table in a bodega for an unforgettable meal. Bring a light jacket, as caves can be cool! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to see the old town is by wandering its narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes! Reddit

📸 Be Patient with Photos

Vehicles can be present in squares and streets, so be ready to wait for clear shots. Reddit

🍷 Taste Local Wines

Requena is wine country! Don't miss the chance to sample the region's unique wines. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(21 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Requena Old Town is praised for its unique underground caves and charming historic streets, offering a glimpse into centuries of wine culture. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the atmospheric dining experiences in the bodegas. However, some reviewers note that parts of the old town appear neglected, and the presence of vehicles can detract from the ambiance and photography opportunities.

"A very pretty town with many cultural buildings to visit, and I'd like to highlight the friendliness of the staff who work there. They go out of their way to explain everything to you, which is very valuable."

Divina Baste

"The old town is very cool, you can visit the caves, which are gorgeous, and don't forget to try the local wines."

Admilson Castelao

"Very charming place, nothing to do with the new part of town, a pleasure to get lost in these streets"

Oscar pm

What People Like

Unique underground caves
Charming historic streets
Atmospheric cave dining

What People Dislike

Signs of neglect
Vehicle presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Requena Old Town is easily accessible from Valencia. You can drive, which takes about 45-60 minutes. Alternatively, trains run regularly from Valencia's Estació del Nord to Requena station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the old town. TikTok

Parking can be challenging within the narrow streets of the old town. It's often best to park in designated areas on the outskirts and walk in. Some accommodations may offer private parking. Reddit

Absolutely! Requena Old Town makes for a fantastic day trip from Valencia. You can explore the main sights and enjoy a meal within a few hours. TikTok

The old town is best explored on foot. Its charm lies in its winding streets and hidden corners, which are perfect for leisurely strolls. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the history and significance of the old town and its caves. Some tours may include wine tastings. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the old town itself is free. However, specific attractions like the underground caves (bodegas) or museums may have an admission fee. It's advisable to check in advance. Instagram

Opening hours vary for different attractions. The caves and museums typically have set hours, often closing for a midday break. Restaurants and shops follow their own schedules. Instagram

Yes, booking tours, especially for the popular wine caves and dining experiences, in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season. Instagram

Wandering the streets, admiring the architecture, and visiting the castle ruins (exterior) are generally free. The main churches are also often free to enter. TikTok

Visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon, can help you avoid the largest crowds. Sundays and Mondays are often quieter. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Look for picturesque street corners, the castle views, and the entrances to the cave cellars. The Plaza de la Villa is also a lovely spot. TikTok

Yes, vehicles in the streets and squares can sometimes obstruct views and make it challenging to get clear, unobstructed photos. Patience is key. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, and the presence of cars might be more noticeable. TikTok

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from the staff or tour guide, especially if you're in a private dining area. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the narrow streets and cave interiors. A standard zoom lens will cover most other needs. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Don't miss trying 'Morteruelo' (a meat pâté), 'Ajo Arriero' (a cod and potato dish), and local cured meats. Of course, sample the regional wines! Reddit

Several restaurants offer dining experiences in the historic bodegas. El Yantar de Pilar is a popular choice, known for its fusion cuisine in a cave setting. Booking is essential. Instagram

While traditional Valencian cuisine is meat and fish-heavy, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's best to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when booking or ordering. Reddit

Prices can vary. Casual tapas and local eateries are more affordable, while restaurants offering cave dining or fusion cuisine will be more expensive. Expect mid-range to higher prices for specialty experiences. Instagram

Yes, wine tasting is a major draw. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, and some restaurants in the caves also provide wine pairings with their meals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Requena Old Town offers a unique adventure for families, particularly with its underground caves. Kids often find the idea of exploring hidden tunnels fascinating. While the caves themselves are generally safe, supervision is key. The Castle of Requena ruins also provide a sense of history and imagination for younger visitors. TikTok

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be limited in certain areas. The winding streets are great for a stroll, but keep an eye on little ones to ensure they don't wander off. The novelty of dining in a cave can also be a memorable experience for the whole family, though ensure the restaurant is child-friendly. Instagram

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

Requena is a paradise for wine lovers, being a significant wine-producing region in Valencia. The underground bodegas are not just historical sites but living testaments to the area's winemaking tradition. Many wineries offer guided tours that delve into the cultivation of grapes like Bobal and the aging process. Reddit

Beyond winery tours, many restaurants in the old town, especially those located in the caves, offer excellent wine pairings and tasting menus. This is an ideal opportunity to sample a variety of local wines and learn about their characteristics from knowledgeable staff. Instagram Don't miss the chance to purchase bottles directly from producers to enjoy later. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Exploring Requena Old Town can be very budget-friendly. Wandering the historic streets and visiting the castle ruins are free activities. TikTok Many of the churches are also open to the public without charge. For meals, opt for local tapas bars or bakeries rather than the more upscale cave restaurants to save money. Reddit

While cave tours and wine tastings have costs, prioritize one or two key experiences that interest you most. Public transport from Valencia is also a more economical option than driving if you factor in fuel and parking. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Underground World

Requena's most distinctive feature is its extensive network of underground caves, known as 'bodegas'. These subterranean spaces, carved into the soft sandstone, have been used for centuries for wine storage and production. Exploring these cool, dimly lit tunnels offers a unique historical perspective and a glimpse into the region's viticultural heritage. Many of these bodegas have been transformed into atmospheric restaurants and event spaces, providing an unforgettable dining experience. Instagram

Visitors can tour various bodegas, learning about the traditional methods of winemaking and aging. Some tours include wine tastings, allowing you to sample the local varietals, such as Bobal. The sheer scale and ingenuity of these underground complexes are impressive, and they are a testament to Requena's long-standing connection with wine. Remember to bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the caves remains consistently cool year-round. Instagram

Planning Your Bodega Visit



* Book in advance: Popular bodegas, especially those offering dining, fill up quickly. Instagram
* Wear comfortable shoes: The cave floors can be uneven.
* Consider a guided tour: This provides valuable historical context and insights into the wine-making process. Reddit

Exploring the Historic Casco Antiguo

The Casco Antiguo (Old Town) of Requena is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that invite exploration. As you wander, you'll encounter charming plazas, historic churches like the Iglesia de San Salvador, and remnants of its medieval past, including the Castle of Requena. The architecture reflects centuries of history, with stone buildings and traditional facades. TikTok

While the old town possesses undeniable charm, some visitors note that certain areas appear somewhat neglected, with abandoned houses and faded facades. Reddit This can detract from the overall aesthetic for some. Additionally, the presence of vehicles in many of the streets and squares can disrupt the historical ambiance and make photography more challenging. Reddit Despite these points, the sheer character of the old town, especially when you venture off the main paths, is captivating and offers a peaceful escape from the modern world. TikTok

Tips for Exploring the Old Town



* Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestone streets can be uneven.
* Allow ample time: Get lost and discover hidden corners.
* Be mindful of vehicles: Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

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