Gandia: Beyond the Beach - Unearth Borgia Secrets, Hidden Vineyards, and the Authentic Valencian Coast
Gandia totally took me by surprise—in the best possible way. You know how some places just hit the sweet spot between being lively but not too hectic, beachy without being overly built up, and genuinely Spanish without feeling like it’s been staged for the tourists? That’s Gandia for you.
When I first rocked up there, I wasn’t expecting the beach to be that good. But Playa de Gandia? It’s huge, golden, and the sea is that perfect sort of swimmable blue that makes you want to stay in all afternoon. What I loved most, though, was that even in peak season, it didn’t feel like one of those packed-to-the-rafters resort towns. You still get proper space to breathe—and sunbathe, obviously.
The old town’s a real gem too, and loads of people miss it because they get stuck on the beach side. But head a little inland and you’ll find the Palau Ducal dels Borja, which honestly feels like something out of a historical drama. It’s this gorgeous, slightly faded Gothic-Renaissance palace where you can really imagine how ridiculously powerful the Borgia family once were. I did the tour and ended up getting totally sucked into the history—more than I expected, to be honest!
There’s a bit of everything here—chilled cafes, traditional bakeries where they serve fartons (yes, that's really what they’re called) with horchata, and some cracking little tapas bars hidden away on side streets where the locals go. I stumbled into one near the market square where the tortilla was outrageously good—still a bit gooey in the middle, just how it should be.
Gandia’s one of those places where you start planning your return before you’ve even left. It’s got just the right mix of beachy vibes, cultural surprises, and that low-key, laid-back charm that makes you feel like you’ve found a bit of real Spain.
Best Things To Do In Gandia Spain
Visit Gandia Beach:
Relax on the pristine sandy beaches and enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters.
Explore Gandia's Historic Center:
Wander through the charming streets and admire the architecture.
Discover the Borgia Route:
Follow the footsteps of the famous Borgia family and visit their ancestral home by visiting the Ducal Palace.
Take a Stroll along Paseo Marítimo Neptuno:
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic promenade with beautiful views of the coastline.
Visit Santuario de Santa María de la Valldigna:
Explore this impressive monastery complex and learn about its fascinating history.
Explore Cullera Castle:
Take a trip to the nearby town of Cullera and visit the iconic castle overlooking the city and the sea.
Go on a Wine Tour:
Discover the renowned wine region of Valencia and indulge in wine-tasting experiences at local wineries.
Visit Albufera Natural Park:
Explore the stunning wetland Albufera Nature Park and reserve, take a boat ride, and taste the famous Valencian dish, paella.
Go hiking in Parc Natural de la Marjal de Gandia:
Enjoy nature walks and birdwatching in this beautiful marshland area.
Experience Water Sports:
Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing along the coast.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Gandia:
Learn about the region's rich history and archaeological discoveries.
Discover the Silk Museum:
Learn about the silk production process and its historical importance in the region.
Go Shopping in Gandia's Markets:
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mercat del Prado and Mercat Municipal.
Visit the Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria:
Admire the impressive architecture and religious artwork of this historic church.
Explore the Cova del Parpallo:
Discover the prehistoric cave paintings and archaeological remains in this unique site.
Play Golf at Oliva Nova Golf Club:
Enjoy a round of golf at the renowned Oliva Nova Golf Club with its stunning views of the sea.
Attend a Festival:
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Fira i Festes de Gandia or the Moors and Christians Festival.
Taste Local Cuisine:
Sample authentic Valencian dishes such as paella, fideuà, and horchata at traditional restaurants.
Best Places To Visit in Gandia
Gandia Castle
Gandia Castle, also known as Castillo de Bairén, is a medieval fortress located on a hill overlooking the town.
It was built by the Muslims in the 10th century to defend the territory from Christian invasions.
The castle has a rectangular shape with four towers at each corner and a large central tower that dominates the landscape. It was conquered by James I of Aragon in 1240 and became part of his kingdom. Later, it was owned by different noble families, such as the Borja or Borgia, who also built the Palau Ducal dels Borja.
The castle suffered several damages during wars and earthquakes and was abandoned in the 18th century. Today, it is a historical monument that can be visited for free. From its ruins, you can enjoy panoramic views of Gandia and its surroundings.
The Convent of Santa Clara
This convent is located in the centre of Gandia. It was originally home to ten nuns who abandoned their French convent. The sister of a French Price, Maria Escarlata, was amongst the nuns and had taken refuge after fleeing from being forced into marriage.
An exquisite art collection, which has been cherished for 550 years, is housed inside the convent.
The Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria of Gandia
This is the main church in the city which dates back to the 14th century. Its sombre architectural style was once embellished with rich interior decorations of paintings and sculptures but they disappeared during the Spanish Civil War.
Plaza del Prado
This is a charming, vibrant square in the heart of Gandia Spain which hosts a multitude of bars and quality restaurants serving a variety of cuisine and great tapas. There is also a small, traditional indoor market.
There is a real hustle and bustle about the place, without it being overcrowded, and it´s a great way to spend a few hours whiling away your time, people watching. A useful play area is located within close proximity.
The Passeig de les Germanies
A favourite spot for the locals, this tranquil, tree-lined promenade is filled with fountains and benches. It is an ideal place to go for an evening stroll or to relax under the shade of the trees. There are many restaurants and bars to visit where you can sample the local cuisine.
Cueva del Parpaltó
This is one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe. Amazing views are to be had around the countryside and it´s a great place to spend your day walking, cycling or enjoying a picnic.
Parc de L´Alqueria Nova
This is a pretty little park situated in the old town. It is very well cared for and its tranquillity offers you a chance to catch your breath and watch the world go by.
The Route of the Borgias
This route includes sites associated with the Borgia family who settled in Valencia after King James of Aragon took control from Moorish rulers. The route ends in Valencia, passing by various monuments and Valencian towns where the Borgias left their mark.
The Gardens of the House of the Marquis
These are romantic palace gardens with native plants, palms, pines and bamboo.
During the summer, theatre performances are held and the House of Culture at the back of the garden is used for exhibitions and other cultural events.
The Ducal Palace of Gandia
The Ducal Palace dates back to the 14th century, is attached to the city wall, and has two gates – one Gothic and the other from the Renaissance.
The interior comprises the Crown Hall and also the stunning Golden Gallery of Baroque style. Each room tells its own individual story and there are multilingual guides to explain the history of the place.
Best Gandia Festivals, Events and Festivities
Moors and Christians Festival (May): The Moors and Christians Festival is a spectacular reenactment of Gandia's historical battles between Moors and Christians, dating back to the city's medieval past. It is one of Spain´s best Festivals and includes colourful parades, elaborate costumes, and dramatic performances, the festival offers a captivating glimpse into Gandia's tumultuous history.
Gandia International Festival (July-August): This vibrant cultural event brings together local and national artists showcasing their talents in music, dance, and theatre. Get to see lots of fun performances, workshops, and exhibitions, making it a must-visit for festival goers.
Fira i Festes de Gandia (September): This is one the most important festivals held in Gandia each year. The event features lively parades, traditional music and dance performances, colourful street markets, and delicious gastronomic offerings.
Fallas de Gandia (March): The Fallas festival in Gandia is a spectacular display of artistry and creativity, with elaborate sculptures and colourful displays adorning the streets. The festivities include lively parades, traditional music and dance performances, and breathtaking fireworks shows.
Sant Antoni Abat (January): This traditional festival pays homage to Sant Antoni Abat, the patron saint of animals. Celebrated in January, the festival features bonfires, processions, and animal blessings, as well as cultural performances and culinary delights.
Mare de Deu de la Victoria (July): This religious festival honours the patron saint of Gandia, Mare de Deu de la Victòria, with a series of religious ceremonies, processions, and cultural events. Get to see colourful parades, or you can attend mass at the city's historic churches.
Gandia Jazz Festival (June): This lively music festival attracts enthusiasts from far and wide with its stellar lineup of local and international jazz artists. From soulful performances to lively jam sessions, the festival offers a diverse range of musical experiences against the backdrop of Gandia's picturesque surroundings.
Semana Santa (April): Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a deeply rooted tradition in Gandia, marked by religious processions, solemn ceremonies, and elaborate reenactments of biblical events. The city's streets come alive with colourful parades, intricate floats, and traditional rituals, providing a fascinating insight into Gandia's religious heritage.
Fiestas de Sant Roc (August): The Sant Roc Festival is a joyous celebration dedicated to Saint Roch, featuring a lively array of cultural events, music performances, and culinary delights. Enjoy traditional dances, sample local delicacies, and partake in festive processions.
Gandia Pirate Festival (July): Set sail for adventure at the Gandia Pirate Festival, where you can embark on a swashbuckling journey filled with pirate-themed activities, treasure hunts, and theatrical performances. With costume contests, live entertainment, and interactive experiences for all ages, this festival is must visit maritime adventure for the whole family.
Gandia Cuisine & Eating Out
Gandia Spain is not only known for its stunning beaches but also for its delectable Spanish cuisine.
The gastronomy of Gandia and the surrounding region is a true reflection of Valencia's vibrant culinary traditions, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and a mix of Mediterranean and traditional Spanish influences.
One of the iconic dishes of the region is paella, and Gandia Spain is celebrated for its mouthwatering variations of this famous rice dish.
From traditional paella Valenciana with rabbit and chicken to seafood paella bursting with flavours of the sea, you can find a wide range of options to satisfy your taste buds.
For an authentic paella experience in Gandia, visit Restaurante Los Bestias. With its picturesque location overlooking the beach, this restaurant offers a perfect setting to taste this iconic Valencian dish.
Another local speciality is fideua, a dish similar to paella but made with short noodles instead of rice. The noodles are cooked in a rich broth with a variety of seafood, resulting in an incredibly tasty dish.
To sample the best fideua in Gandia, head to Restaurante Casa Concha, a popular establishment known for its traditional Valencian cuisine. We highly recommend the Fritura Variada de Pescado del Grau, a delicious plate of locally caught fried fish.
When it comes to tapas, Gandia does not disappoint. The resort is dotted with numerous tapas bars where you can indulge in a variety of delicious small dishes.
Casa Sanchis La Tulipa, located at Carrer del Forn, Num10 is well worth visiting to ease your tapas cravings, it is a good local bar that offers an excellent tapas selection.
Here you find all the favourites from the classic Spanish tortilla and patatas bravas to more unique creations that showcase the creativity of the chef. We would highly recommend the Pil Pil Prawns as a good dish as a nice starter.
For those looking for a fine dining experience in Gandia, Restaurante Casa Jose is a must-visit. This award-winning restaurant offers a gastronomic journey through the flavours of the region, with an emphasis on high-quality fresh fish and authentic paella dishes.
Located right by Gandia beach it is the perfect place to enjoy an evening meal. We highly recommend the Monkfish Marinera style and the incredible creamy lobster rice.
