Discover the things to do in Gandia, Spain. In addition to its excellent beaches, this is a city with a high historical and cultural value. You will be able to enjoy numerous attractions and places on your trip to this coastal area.
You will be able to walk through its charming historic centre while you learn about the history of this city and all its secrets. On the other hand, you can’t miss its wonderful coastline of white sands and warm waters. As well as its excellent gastronomy, in which the famous fideua of Gandia stands out. Keep reading to discover more!
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Things to do in Gandia Spain
The Walls of Gandia, Spain
Considered a cultural and historical heritage site in Spain, the Walls of Gandía are one of the most recommended features to visit in the city. Although they have practically disappeared, their remains will leave you fascinated.
In the 16th century, these walls surrounded the entire historic centre of the city. Also, they were responsible for protecting the city from possible attacks. It might be interesting to take a tour to discover the different remaining parts while you get to know the city at the same time. Definitely a visit you can’t miss during your visit to Gandía!
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Alquería del Duc
Located in the middle of the Marjal, the Alquería del Duc is a medieval fortification of Muslim origin. Currently, there is a centre teaching courses related to tourism and gastronomy.
It has a beautiful façade in which some original features can still be seen, such as its loopholes and watchtower. It is currently known as the Centre for Tourist Development. In addition, the courses given are mainly dedicated to supplying the needs of the market. When you have finished your visit, you can go to the Ullal. This is a wetland that is a short distance away and has beautiful flora and fauna.
Bairén Castle
Also known as the Castle of San Juan, this impressive monument was once the most important fortification in the defence of La Safor. As it was located on the top of a hill, it enabled excellent control over the whole area.
Having been largely destroyed by battles, nowadays only the remains of the castle are left. You can make out pieces of walls, gates and towers that can be seen even from the beach. Access to this impressive site is easy via a path; once you reach the top, the views over the sea will leave you speechless.
- What are the opening hours of the Castell de Bairén? You can visit the Castell de Bairén on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 12:00.
- How much does it cost to visit the castle? The entrance fee is €2 to visit the interior of the citadel. It costs €1 for children under 12 and retired persons.
Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia, Spain
This building is, without a doubt, one of the most emblematic and beautiful places to see in Gandía. Besides having an enormous cultural value for the city, it is located in the historic centre of Gandía.
Surrounded by various shops and religious buildings, this monument was built on the site of an old Muslim mosque. With a completely gothic façade, it has an imposing bell tower that can be seen from almost any part of the city. It is the starting point for most of the religious events that take place in Gandía throughout the year. Also, you can reach it on foot from the famous Paseo de las Germanías. It will truly amaze you.
- What are the visiting hours of the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria? Visiting hours are from Monday to Sunday from 8:30 to 12:00 and from 18:00 to 20:00.
- How much does the entrance fee cost? Admission to the Collegiate Church is free.
The Marshes of Gandia, Spain
Just a short walk from Gandia is the incredible natural area of La Marjal. Located next to the Alquería del Duc, this site is a large reserve of fauna and flora with a great natural value for the city.
Characterised by its wetlands, this area is an idyllic place to take a walk after a day’s sightseeing, or have a pleasant picnic under one of its leafy trees. You can escape the hustle and bustle of the city by immersing yourself in a natural environment while discovering its great variety of plants and animals. A real treasure in the city of Gandia, Spain.
Ducal Palace of the Borjas
Blessed with unparalleled architectural beauty, the Borja Ducal Palace is one of the main places to see in Gandía. You cannot miss the wonders of this monument.
Once inside, you will feel like you have travelled back in time to the 15th century as you admire different historical and artistic features in Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles. As a complement to the rooms of this museum, you can also visit the Espài de les Emocions room; in this curious place, you will feel like you have immersed in a real journey into the past thanks to virtual reality. An experience not to miss on your visit to Gandia, Spain.
- How much does it cost to enter the Borja Ducal Palace? A guided tour costs €7, while an audio tour costs €8. You can also take a night tour for €10.
- What are the opening hours of the Palace? The Palace is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00.
Archaeological Museum of Gandia, Spain
Located in the emblematic old building of the Hospital de San Marcos, this important museum houses an extensive collection centred on the prehistoric period of the Safor region.
Along its route, you can discover the evolution of its customs from the Palaeolithic period to the hunting societies of the Neolithic. In addition, in its collection you can see pieces from some of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. 100% worth a visit if you want to learn more about the history of Gandía and its surroundings.
- What are the opening hours of the museum? The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00.
- How much does a ticket to the museum cost? General admission costs €2, while reduced admission costs €1 for groups under 25 and over 65.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What beaches to visit in Gandia?
Gandía has an abundance of beaches, due to its excellent coastal location. Here are some of our recommendations, although all of them are truly spectacular.
L’Ahuir Beach
Playa l’Ahuir is located in the northernmost part of the city, and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches to see in Gandia. Being further away from the city centre, it is the ideal place to avoid the large crowds.
Over two kilometres long, you can enjoy absolute tranquillity and radiant sunshine on this beach in an impressive dune landscape. In addition, this place has a strong ecological value for the city, mixing white sands with abundant vegetation. It will become your favourite beach in Gandía, especially if you like to practice nudism in the sea.
Venice Beach
Unlike its companion, Playa l’Ahuir, Playa Venecia is located to the south of Gandía. Thanks to its low tourist influx, you can enjoy the tranquillity of its sands.
Located to the south of the marina, this small beach flows into the river Serpis. As well as offering the usual beach facilities, at this point you can also enjoy activities such as scuba diving and sport fishing. Just like its companion, this beach is also located in a natural environment with dunes and vegetation that will make your stay here completely magical.
Playa Norte
One of the busiest beaches in Gandía, attached to the promenade. It can get crowded in summer, but it also offers an incredible atmosphere as most of the restaurants, hotels and services are located along it.
Varadero Beach
If you want to enjoy the peace and quiet, don’t hesitate to visit Varadero Beach. As well as being equipped with an incredible hammock service, it also offers a series of recreational services that will make your visit very entertaining. And, of course, all this in an unbeatable natural setting.
What to do around Gandia, Spain?
Grao of Gandia, Spain
Grao of Gandía, also known as the fishing quarter of Gandía, makes up the entire coastal area of the city. This place has much more to offer than just the beaches.
A must-visit, in Grao de Gandía you can enjoy a morning on the long beach and try the traditional fideuà in a restaurant along the promenade. In the afternoon, you can visit the Church of San Nicolás and finish the day with an ice cream in the port area.
Benicadell Peak
The Cima de Benicadell is considered one of the most beautiful hiking routes in the Valencian Community. With a height of more than 1,104 metres above sea level, this peak offers breathtaking views.
You can easily access the path from the small village of Beniatjar. Along the way, you will be surrounded by a completely natural environment while enjoying a sunny morning in the open air. Along the way you’ll find the recreational area of Les Fontetes, in case you want to stop for a bite to eat before continuing your hike – a natural gem!
Cullera
This is a town located about 20 minutes from Gandía and can be the perfect option if you have the time to get out of the city and visit a bit of the surrounding area.
You can get to know this small town in a day trip, where you can enjoy not only its incredible beaches but also some of its main historical attractions. Among them, we recommend you to visit the Castle of Cullera. It is located at the highest point of the town and from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the whole city. An ideal destination to get to know the surroundings of Gandía!
Rull Cave
Located just 34 kilometres from Gandía, the Rull Cave is an authentic natural jewel made up of numerous stalactites and stalagmites. It belongs to the municipality of La Vall d’Ebo, in the province of Alicante.
You can take a guided tour of the cave along a 220-metre circular route. It is equipped with an electrical system so that you can enjoy all its details. As well as discovering its great geological value, which dates back to the Prebetic period. Along the route you will observe the different volumes and perspectives of the underground formations that have been formed over the years. You can enjoy this visit at a very affordable price.
- What are the opening hours? From November to February, the caves are open from 11:00 to 17:00. From March to October, from 11:00 to 18:30, and from April to September from 10:30 to 20:30.
- How much does it cost to enter the caves? The price per adult is €4, while children and people over 65 pay only €3.
What to do with children in Gandia, Spain?
Ausias March Park
It’s common knowledge that kids love parks. There are certainly quite a few to see in Gandia, but we definitely recommend you to visit the Ausias March Park.
This park offers a large space of more than 50,000 square metres. Here children will have a great time running from one side to the other. In addition, it has an excellent location next to the Serpis River and gardens that occupy a large part of the land. It is the ideal place to spend a pleasant morning or afternoon with the family.
Gandilandia
After a long day of sightseeing around the city, taking the little ones to an amusement park can be the ideal way to end the day on a high note. Gandilandia is a small amusement park for children up to 10 years old.
With a generous 1,000 square metres of land, this little park has a wide variety of attractions, from the classics like the bumper cars or the Ferris wheel, to water rides that will turn a hot day into a refreshing day. They also sell vouchers at very cheap prices, so the kids will have a great time!
- How much does the Gandilandia pass cost? The entrance fee for six rides is €10.
- What are Gandilandia’s opening hours? The park is open every day during the summer season from 19:00 to 00:30.
Escape to Terra Mitica
Situated just an hour away is the world famous Terra Mitica theme park. With a fun theme based on five ancient civilisations of the Mediterranean, this place is an adventure for all the family.
As well as being able to enjoy an infinity of attractions for all ages, you can enjoy different shows throughout the day, with which the kids will have fun and learn in equal parts. We recommend you to visit this park in summer to enjoy its impressive water attractions. And all for an amazing price!
- How much does a ticket to Terra Mitica cost? The price per adult is €39 at the ticket office, while a child ticket costs €28. You can enjoy cheaper prices by buying your ticket online on the official website.
- What are the opening hours? Currently, the park is open daily from 11:00 to 20:00.
Where to eat in Gandía?
In Gandía you will find a wide variety of places to eat, especially dedicated to Mediterranean cuisine. Here we recommend a list of places that are a must-try
Restaurant Chef Amadeo
You can’t miss a plate of fideuà in Gandia, the birthplace of this incredible dish. On the seafront promenade you’ll find a myriad of places, but we recommend you visit Chef Amadeo’s restaurant. You’ll be amazed by his hearty rice dishes and seafood.
Casa Sanchis La Tulipa
If you want to enjoy a classic “picaeta” dinner, you can’t miss a visit to Casa Sanchis La Tulipa. You’ll be able to try a range of super-specialised and alternative tapas with that traditional Mediterranean touch of the area – you’ll love it!
Restaurant Kayuko
Last but not least, you can’t miss a visit to a seafood restaurant in Gandia. Our top recommendation is Restaurante Kayuko, where you can enjoy an excellent menu with different seafood products for around €32. Don’t miss out!
Where to stay in Gandia?
Centre-city
The centre of Gandia is a good area to stay in, especially if you are travelling with children or the elderly. You will be able to enjoy good access to all services and the most pleasant entertainment.
- One option for accommodation is the Hotel Borgia. This three-star hotel offers comfortable rooms right in the centre of Gandia, as well as an excellent breakfast buffet. The price per night for two people is approximately €60.
- Another option is the Apartamentos Biarritz, where you can enjoy comfortable and simple flats, ideal for the whole family to stay and enjoy the centre of Gandia. Prices are around 70€ per flat per night
Beach area
The beach of Gandia is the most sought after area, mainly due to its location and atmosphere. This is why you will find higher prices here. At the same time, you will be able to enjoy great hotels with good value for money.
- First of all, we suggest the Hotel Cibeles Playa. This hotel is located on the fifth line of the beach, just a 5-minute walk away. You will be able to enjoy a wide range of amenities in beautiful rooms with sea views. The price per night is around 100€ for two people.
- Secondly, you can go to Senator Gandia Spa Hotel, just a 1-minute walk from the beach. Here you will find all the necessary amenities, as well as a varied breakfast buffet. The price per night is approximately 110€ for two people
Itineraries for your trip to Gandia, Spain
What to do in 1 day in Gandia, Spain?
- First, visit the Castle of Bairén.
- Then, take a swim at l’Ahuir Beach.
- Later, stroll through La Marjal.
- Finally, visit the Collegiate Church of Sant María de Gandía.
What to do in 2 days in Gandia, Spain?
- Excursion to the Rull Cave
- Visit the Grao of Gandia
- The Archaeological Museum of Gandia
- Visit the Alquería del Duc
- Discover the Walls of Gandia
- Climb to the Benicadell Peak
Tips for a trip to Gandia
- If you plan to go to the beach, don’t forget to take sunscreen with you.
- Don’t forget that the city area and the beach area are separate.
- Choose the right hotel zone depending on the type of trip you want to do.
- Don’t forget to bring bikinis or swimming costumes for the water.
- If you are travelling with friends, we recommend staying in the beach area.
How to plan your itinerary of the places you want to see in Gandia, Spain?
If you want to discover a quicker and more organised way to prepare for your trip to Gandía, don’t hesitate to download the Passporter app.
- Get inspiration from other travellers’ experiences.
- Create your own itinerary from scratch.
- Add the cultural, leisure or food places that interest you the most.
- Organise your route by choosing the best method of transport.
- Finally, share your photos on your traveller profile. It is important so that other users of the app can learn about your experience and be inspired.
If you want to know in more detail how to do all this, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary with Passporter.
Frequently asked questions
– Firstly, there is l’Ahuir beach. As we mentioned earlier in the post, this is one of the most secluded beaches and therefore offers unparalleled tranquillity. You can enjoy fine sand and really clean waters. Don’t forget that it is a nudist beach.
– The North Beach as we mentioned in the post is one of the most popular beaches in Gandía.
– Varadero Beach if you want to enjoy the peace and quiet.
– Restaurante Chef Amadeo
– Casa Sanchis La Tulipa
– Restaurante Kayuko
In Gandía you can choose from different types of accommodation, ranging from amazing hotels and nice hostels to flats or private cottages. Also, depending on your interests, you can choose to stay in the city centre or in the coastal area. Here are some of our recommendations.
– If you want to enjoy the beach and the party on the promenade, we recommend renting a flat or booking a room at Hugo Beach Hotel for an incredible €25/night for two people.
– If you prefer to stay in the city centre, you can choose to rent a flat or book a room at the Hotel Baroja for 50€/night for two people, located right in the city centre.
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