Discover Valencia’s Unique Local Drink Specialties
When you’re in Valencia, there’s one thing you simply cannot miss… Valencia’s Local Drink Specialties! And let me tell you—Agua de Valencia is one of the city’s most iconic beverages, and yes, it tastes absolutely delicious.
Agua de Valencia is a refreshing cocktail made from cava, fresh orange juice, vodka, gin, and a touch of sugar. It was first created in 1959 by Constante Gil at the famous bar Café Madrid de Valencia, right in the heart of the city.
According to the book Valencia Noche by María Ángeles Arazo, during that time, a group of Basque travelers frequently visited Café Madrid. They would often order “Agua de Bilbao” (a playful name for the bar’s best cava). Eventually, they grew tired of drinking the same thing every time and challenged the owner to surprise them with something new. The result? A fresh, citrusy cocktail they named Agua de Valencia. They loved it, kept ordering it on every visit, and helped it gain popularity. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that Agua de Valencia really became well-known among the general public.
Today, this unique drink is one of Valencia’s must-try specialties. Every tourist who visits the city makes it a point to try a glass (or pitcher!) of Agua de Valencia. It’s more than just a drink—it captures the spirit and flavor of the city itself.
What makes it so uniquely Valencian? The fresh orange juice, of course! Oranges are the fruit of Valencia. In fact, you’ll see orange trees lining streets and plazas all over the city. But be warned—not all of them are sweet. Many of the oranges you see in the city are ornamental and not meant for eating. You’ll know right away if you try one! Still, it’s beautiful to see how this iconic fruit is woven into the city’s culture and daily life—and even more delightful to taste it in such a refreshing cocktail.
The best place to try Agua de Valencia is, of course, where it all started: Café Madrid. This charming and historic café still serves the original cocktail and remains a favorite among both locals and tourists. But you don’t have to go far to find it—you can enjoy Agua de Valencia in restaurants, cafés, and bars all over the city. It’s a popular choice on warm evenings and is often ordered by groups to share.
But where can you find the best one? That’s a tough question—and one only you can answer! Every bar adds its own twist, and everyone has their favorite spot. It’s a great excuse to go on a little tasting tour of the city. Who knows—you might just find your perfect glass of Agua de Valencia!
Local Drink Specialties
Of course, Agua de Valencia isn’t the only local drink worth discovering. Horchata de chufa is another traditional Valencian specialty. Made from tigernuts, this non-alcoholic, creamy, and slightly nutty drink is best enjoyed ice-cold, especially during the hot summer months. You’ll often see it served with a sweet pastry called farton, which you dip into the horchata. It’s a local tradition and a beloved afternoon treat.
Valencia also boasts a strong café culture, with local wines from the Utiel-Requena region, craft beers, and even vermut casero (homemade vermouth) gaining popularity among the younger crowd. Whether you’re sipping a citrusy cocktail by the beach, enjoying horchata in the shade of a plaza, or clinking glasses of vermouth in a cozy bar, Valencia’s drink culture is a full experience—flavorful, social, and deeply rooted in local traditions.
Want to try Agua de Valencia the fun way?
Join the Tour Me Out Pub Crawl!
Explore some of the best bars in town, meet fellow travelers, and of course—taste the famous Agua de Valencia along the way. It’s the perfect mix of nightlife, culture, and fun, led by locals who know exactly where to go. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this is the ultimate way to experience Valencia by night.
Book your spot now and let’s toast together—¡Salud!
