City breaks in Spain are gaining popularity as tourists seek the cultural and historic experiences that cities are so well placed to deliver. 

A weekend city break in Valencia or Barcelona allows visitors plenty of time to explore the must-see attractions and the chance to get off the tourist-trail to discover the bars, restaurants and shops in the maze of streets that are the real beating heart of the city.

For those with a little more time, city hopping from Valencia to Barcelona is a great way to experience Spain. Take the scenic route out of Valencia and head inland on your way north. Discover rural Spain, travel a bit slower for a while, and revive and recharge.

Situated mid-way (more or less) between Valencia and Barcelona and not far from the network of routes that connect the two cities, we set up Casa de Olivos with tourists city-hopping in Spain very much in mind.   Two or three days on a city break in Valencia can be exhausting, with walking throughout the day and busily planning the next days adventures during down time. Breaking up the 4 hour drive from Valencia to Barcelona with a couple of nights in a rural retreat is the perfect antidote to any Spanish city-break fatigue.

One couple city hopping from Valencia to Barcelona recently reminded us of just how important this stop off is when travelling between cities. They really enjoyed having the space to relax and commented on how they really welcomed the change of pace.  

Casa de Olivos provides the perfect place to refresh and relax before heading off home, or onwards to the next city. Nestled in the heart of rural Castellon province we are a world away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Chill by the pool, cook up a feast on the barbecue, or explore the local towns and beaches.  Experience rural Spain - the area is teeming with cultural heritage, fiestas, breath-taking landscapes and excellent cuisine.

Whatever the time of year, there’s something happening and plenty to see and do.

We’ve put together an outline itinerary that might whet your appetite for a 7 night Spanish twin city break with a bit of downtime at our rural retreat in the middle. If you’d like help customising your own itinerary, why not give us a call or email and we’ll do our best to help you plan your perfect city-and-rural break in Spain.

Whether you're city hopping in Spain or just looking for somewhere to disconnect from the every-day, we look forward to welcoming you here soon.

Claire & Ed

An example 7 night Itinerary might include:

Day 1

Arrive Valencia – visit the Iglesia de San Nicolás, and Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange)

before finding a pre-dinner drink and dinner

Day 2

Explore Mercado Central for breakfast, drop in to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken,

wander around the City of Arts and Sciences before heading to the beach

to cool your feet in the Mediterranean

Day 3

Morning in Valencia perhaps starting at the Mercado de Colón for a coffee and pastry

before traveling north via Villafames for a late lunch.  

Arrive at  Casa de Olivos late afternoon and cool off in the pool. 

Watch the sun set from The Perch with an ice-cold Sangria before nailing your barbecue supper

Day 4

Chill by pool. You’ve earned it.

If you feel adventurous later, pop out to Vinaros for dinner overlooking the sea,

or venture a little further to Peñiscola, dine on the stunning Citadel in the Sea

and browse the shops in the balmy evening air

Day 5

Continue your journey north for Barcelona after a morning swim and breakfast by the pool.

Why not stop for lunch overlooking the Roman amphitheatre in Tarragona on the way

Day 6

Barcelona day. Start by exploring the streets of Eixample, with its beautiful architecture.

You’ll find plenty of places for coffee and cake, and some great photo-moments

including the  view of the Tibidabo mountain and Gaudis Casa Batllo or house of bones.

Stay with the Gaudi theme and gaze in awe at the Sagrada Familia.

A late lunch in Passeig De Sant Joan, before heading on to Parc de la Ciutadella

for a stroll, a sit, or even a snooze!  

Dinner in La Raval district after a walk along the famous La Rambla.

Day 7

The Gothic quarter and Cathedral of Barcelona are calling.

Drop into the nearby Picasso museum too. If it’s all been too much, head for an afternoon on the beach.

Otherwise, head for the El Born district and keep on strolling.

You’ll find somewhere perfect for a drinks and dinner there

Day 8

One last walk through Eixample and look out for La Pedrera-Casa Milà,

another Gaudi masterpiece, before heading for home