{"id":75275,"date":"2023-03-29T14:27:54","date_gmt":"2017-08-11T09:08:30","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/traveltriangle.com\/blog\/?p=75275"},"modified":"2024-10-30T15:47:58","modified_gmt":"2024-10-30T10:17:58","slug":"la-tomatina-festival-tour-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/traveltriangle.com\/blog\/la-tomatina-festival-tour-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Tomatina Festival And More: Here\u2019s What All You Can Do On Your Spain Getaway This August In 2026!"},"content":{"rendered":"

With the Tomatina festival just round the corner, there couldn\u2019t be a better time to visit Spain! But when questions like where to stay, where to eat, how to commute, and how much to spend start to haunt us, that much-awaited Spain getaway to experience Tomatina goes down the drain. And while most other blogs give ample information on what the festival is about, they leave out the crucial bit. But not anymore!<\/em><\/p>\n

We have put together for you a complete guide of the Spain tomato festival with essential info like accommodation options, restaurants, bars, sightseeing options, transportation, shopping, etc, that you can keep in mind while browsing budget Spain tour packages from India.<\/em><\/p>\n

When is La Tomatina festival 2026?<\/h2>\n
\"La<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

La Tomatina will be celebrated on 27th August 2026<\/strong>\u00a0in Bu\u00f1ol. The festival is celebrated on the last Wednesday of August.<\/p>\n

Where does La Tomatina take place?<\/h2>\n
\"BUNOL<\/div>\n

Image Credit: JFCSvalencia for Wikimedia Commons <\/a><\/p>\n

La Tomatina takes place on the streets of Bu\u00f1ol, a charming little hamlet located 38 kilometers west of Valencia, its provincial and autonomous capital city, in Spain. While it may have started for a different (and certainly bizarre reason) altogether, it is now celebrated to honor Bu\u00f1ol\u2019s patron saints – Luis Bertr\u00e1n and the Virgin Mary.<\/p>\n

With a population of not more than 9,000 people, the town of Bu\u00f1ol sat unnoticed year after year till travelers around the world caught wind of the bizarre, yet totally fun Tomatina festival that takes place here every year. As far as the people of Bu\u00f1ol are concerned, they are the some of the most friendliest lot you\u2019ll find in the Europe, and definitely the most creative and adventure-loving as well (where else do you find a festival that legally allows you to throw tomatoes on one another?)<\/p>\n

Must Read:<\/strong> Top 17 Most Beautiful Cities In Spain: You Must Be A Robot To Resist The Spell Of These<\/a><\/p>\n

What happens during the Tomatina week in Spain?<\/h2>\n
\"TOMATTNA\"<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

Tagged as the ‘World’s Biggest Food Fight’, La Tomatina is the Spanish tomato throwing festival that takes place on the last Wednesday of August every year. During the Tomatina festival, Spain becomes lively and cheerful than ever. The festival begins at 11 AM on the said day right after the sound of the first cannon and ends at 1 PM when the second cannon is fired to mark the end of the festival. What happens in these two hours is nothing less than a battle where participants throw, rub, and bathe in tomatoes. But the two hours of La Tomatina festival isn\u2019t all that you\u2019ll get to experience on your Spain holiday!<\/p>\n

The Tomatina frenzy begins a week before the main festival. So you\u2019ll have a week long of excitement to indulge in. Since the ideal duration for a Spain getaway is around 6 days 5 nights, you\u2019ll have a plethora of things to explore and festivities to engage in while you\u2019re here. Let us underline the prime events you need to look out for on your Spain trip:<\/p>\n

27th August, 2026: Music, Dance, Wine, Fireworks, Parades…and Paella!<\/h3>\n
\"Music<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

A day before the festival, it\u2019s pure madness on the streets. With music, laughter, dancing, and fireworks, the whole town of Bu\u00f1ol is drenched in a jolly festive spirit. After shopkeepers have put down protective plastic wraps in their shops, everyone gears up for the fun event of the night before the main festival – the Paella making competition!<\/p>\n

Culinary enthusiasts line up to prepare the most delicious of Spanish dishes. Once the winner is announced, a grand feast begins wherein food and wine, including the freshly cooked Paella, is distributed to everyone around.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> 20 Remarkable Places To Visit In Madrid That Will Give You A Taste Of The Good Life In Spain!<\/a><\/p>\n

27th August 2026: Let the battle begin!<\/h3>\n
\"La_Tomatina_2014\"<\/div>\n

Image Credit: Carlesboveserral for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Trucks bring in and throw onto the central streets of Plaza del Pueblo more than a hundred metric tonnes of tomatoes. But the desperately waiting crowd cannot begin the festival right away! At about 10 AM, a piece of Spanish ham<\/strong> is put up on top of a greased wooden pole. The festival can only begin once a brave soul out of these thousands of people has climbed the pole and retrieved the meat.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s the most comical scene for spectators as people try to fight their way to the top in the most bizarre and awkward ways, slipping right back down each time. The warriors soon accept their defeat, and while the ham still dangles on the top, the cannon is fired at sharp 11 AM, the and madness begins!<\/p>\n

By the time the second cannon is fired at 1 PM, the town, along with its inhabitants, has been painted red. One is not allowed to throw any more tomatoes after this time. These two crazy hours of squashing tomatoes on strangers and rolling people on the tomato pulp sprawled floor ends with trucks spraying down water on these people. What you\u2019ll see now aren\u2019t just de-tanned individuals, but also the shining, spick and span streets of Bu\u00f1ol, washed clean by the buckets of citric acid thrown over it.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Honeymoon in Spain: A Romantic Espa\u00f1ol Vacation<\/a><\/p>\n

How can one get to Bu\u00f1ol for La Tomatina festival?<\/h2>\n
\"BUNOL<\/div>\n

Image Credit: Mike1979 Russia for Wikimedia Commons <\/a><\/p>\n

Getting to Bu\u00f1ol is relatively easy, especially from Valencia (in comparison to Barcelona and Madrid).
Getting to Bu\u00f1ol from Valencia:<\/strong> The nearest airport to Bu\u00f1ol is 30 miles away in Valencia. From the airport you can take a local bus, hail a cab, or simply hire a car and drive to Bu\u00f1ol yourself. Or you can get to the Valencia Central Station and take one of those trains to Bu\u00f1ol that leaves after every 60 minutes (the first one is probably at 8:08 AM). The 50 minute train journey is the most convenient and inexpensive way to get to Bu\u00f1ol for Tomatina.Getting to Bu\u00f1ol from Barcelona:<\/strong> One way is take a flight to Valencia and then a road trip to Bu\u00f1ol by bus, car shared cab, etc. The other is to getting straight to Bu\u00f1ol by train, taxi, or hired car.<\/p>\n

How much does it cost to get into La Tomatina?<\/h2>\n
\u00a0\"TOMATTINAA<\/div>\n

Image Credit: flydime for Wikimedia Commons <\/a><\/p>\n

La Tomatina festival tickets cost INR 750\/- per person (10 Euros) and are only available to the first 20,000 people who book it well on time. But don\u2019t fret if all tickets are already sold out. Tomatina festival tours are also available which includes not just the tickets to the festival but also your accommodation and other amazing deals. You can still be a part of the amazing events around it, or experience other things that Spain has to offer!<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Take The World & Paint It Red at La Tomatina 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

What is the average budget per person per day for a holiday in Valencia, Spain?<\/h2>\n

Worried about budget issues? Fret not. We have it sorted! Here\u2019s a breakdown of the estimated budget of a day in Bu\u00f1ol, Valencia, including primary aspects like accommodation, meals, local transfers, sightseeing, and various others, like shopping. Bu\u00f1ol in Valencia is a relatively inexpensive little town, so you\u2019ll not have many troubles finding ideal spots for yourself to stay, eat, and hang out at.<\/p>\n

\"tomatina<\/div>\n

Avg Flight Rate (round trip):<\/strong> INR 1,44,500\/-
Avg Accommodation:<\/strong> INR 6,500\/- (EUR 86)
Meals (with alcohol):<\/strong> INR 3,000\/- (EUR 40)
Local Transfers:<\/strong> INR 2,000\/- (EUR 27)
Sightseeing:<\/strong> INR 1,000\/- (EUR 13)
Miscellaneous:<\/strong> INR 5,000\/- (EUR 66)
Total Avg Budget Per Day:<\/strong> INR 17,500\/- (EUR 233)<\/p>\n

Note:<\/strong> Flight rates are not included in the budget given above as they may vary on the traveler\u2019s destination and time of booking. Also, these are per person rates.<\/p>\n

Where should one stay during the Tomatina week in Spain?<\/h2>\n

Being a small town with only around 9,000 inhabitants, Bu\u00f1ol doesn\u2019t have many accommodation options. When early birds have booked all the limited hotels in the town, people turn to the next available options – the hotels in Valencia. You can stay in Valencia and commute between the two towns as getting to Bu\u00f1ol from Valencia takes only around an hour.<\/p>\n

1. Venta Pilar | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"Venta<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

You may remember this hotel from the hit Bollywood flick \u2018Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara\u2019. It\u2019s the same hotel where the actors in the film stayed overnight to enjoy the Tomatina festival on their bachelor\u2019s trip…and got a surprise visit from the suspecting fiance! With comfortable, air conditioned rooms, free WiFi, a restaurant, bar, and lounge, this budget hotel in Spain is a mere 5 minutes walk from the train station, and a good choice for someone who doesn\u2019t want to spend a lot on accommodation.
Location:<\/strong> Avenida Perez Galdos 5, 46360 Bu\u00f1ol
Average Price:<\/strong> INR 4,000 per person per day
TripAdvisor Rating:<\/strong> 3.5 | Google Rating:<\/strong> 4.2
TripAdvisor Reviews<\/a><\/p>\n

2. Hotel Restaurante Condes de Bu\u00f1ol | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"Hotel<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

Owned and run by a Spanish family in Bu\u00f1ol, this hotel and restaurant is among the most affordable hotels in the Valencia province, and a great stay option for Tomatina fans. The hotel is equipped with basic facilities like free WiFi, room service, air conditioning, other than a lavish restaurant and bar.
Location:<\/strong> Avenida Blasco Ibanez 13, 46360 Bu\u00f1ol
Average Price:<\/strong> INR 5,000 per person per day
TripAdvisor Rating: 4<\/strong> | Google Rating: 3.7<\/strong>
Website<\/a> | TripAdvisor Reviews<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Hotel Zenit Valencia | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"stay<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

One of the best and most inexpensive hotels in Valencia, Zenit is lies close to the Valencia North Railway Station and the Town Hall square. Equipped with a lavish 5-star restaurant, fitness centre, business centre, bar and lounge, free parking, and free WiFi, the hotel is perfect for those looking for reasonably priced accommodation options in Valencia at the time of the Tomatina festival.
Location:<\/strong> Calle Bailen 8, 46007 Valencia
Average Price:<\/strong> INR 8,000\/- per person per day
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5<\/strong> | Google Rating: 4.2<\/strong>
Website<\/a> | TripAdvisor Reviews<\/a><\/p>\n

Which Are The Best restaurants In Bu\u00f1ol?<\/h2>\n

Here are some of the best restaurants located in Bunol which will let you experience a fine-dine while attending the La Tomantina festival.<\/p>\n

1. La Boheme | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"La<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

Offering a varied menu with many gluten-free delights, this restaurant is a must visit for all foodies visiting Bu\u00f1ol during the Tomatina festival. The quirky diner and bar boasts of a hospitable, friendly staff and offers finger-licking items off its menu like hamburgers, pizzas, tapas, desserts, pancakes, crepes, and many Spanish delights like Paella.
Location:<\/strong> Calle Jesus Saez Ramirez 2, 46360 Bu\u00f1ol
Average Price:<\/strong> INR 1,000 per person (with alcohol)
TripAdvisor Rating: 4<\/strong>
TripAdvisor Reviews<\/a><\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> The Tomatina Fever Is On! Here\u2019s How To Plan A Perfect Holiday In Spain, The ZNMD Way!<\/a><\/p>\n

2. La Taska | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"La<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

This cosy hideaway for food lovers in Bu\u00f1ol is the perfect place where you can hang out with your friends after the festival is over. The relaxed, laid-back atmosphere and rooftop seating provides a for a pleasant dining option in Bu\u00f1ol. Serving an extensive menu of some of the best and most innovative fare in Spain with the likes of Paella (in different varieties), nachos, salmon, hot dogs, Gazpacho, Spanish Omelet, Jamon Serrano, and Turr\u00f3n, you\u2019ll not regret your decision to dine here while in Bu\u00f1ol.
Location:<\/strong> Calle del Doctor Garces Vericat, 1, 46360 Bu\u00f1ol
Average Price:<\/strong> INR 1,000 per person (with alcohol)
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5<\/strong>
TripAdvisor Reviews<\/a><\/p>\n

Tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t forget to try the range of craft beer coming straight from the diner\u2019s microbrewery!<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> 8 Best Spanish Cuisines That Will Make You Fall In Love With Spain All Over Again!<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Ricard Camarena Restaurant | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"800px-Hotel_Valencia,_Santana_Row_(4961844298)\"<\/div>\n

Image Credit: mindgrow for Wikimedia Commons <\/a><\/p>\n

The place has a fancy decor with red brick walls and a high ceiling. But what\u2019ll actually blow your mind at this stylish diner is their range of Mediterranean, European, and Spanish cuisines that includes the likes of amuse bouche, roasted aubergine, steak tartare, seafood platter, along with a great wine list, all prepared in their tasteful, open kitchen. Though a little expensive, the culinary experiences Ricard Camarena provides in this abode is the finest you\u2019ll have in all of Valencia.
Location:<\/strong> Avda. Burjassot n0 54, 46009 Valencia
Average Price:<\/strong> 9,000\/- (with alcohol)
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5<\/strong>
TripAdvisor Reviews<\/a><\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Two Weeks In Spain: An Ultimate Guide For Exploring The Country\u2019s Gorgeous Marvels Like A Pro<\/a><\/p>\n

Which are the best places to visit in Spain<\/h2>\n

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Spain during the La Tomatina festival which will keep you engaged, entertained and have fun.<\/p>\n

Though limited in number, Bu\u00f1ol provides some very indulgent sightseeing options to its visitors who come bask in the Tomatina fun. Some of the best places to visit in Bu\u00f1ol and Valencia include:<\/p>\n

1. Castillo De Bu\u00f1ol | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"Castillo<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

Located right in the centre of the town, the castle sits majestically on a small hill between the Borrunes ravine and the Bu\u00f1ol River\u2019s moat formation. The castle was built in the 13th century and was earlier a Muslim stronghold, before finally being given over to the Christians. Don\u2019t miss out on the breathtaking architecture of the old Mercador Palace, the Church of the Saviour, and a part of the old Gothic Palace when here. Kids can visit the exciting museums on the castle grounds which bears artifacts from the Paleolithic Age, Iron Age, and the Roman era. Apart from being a great exhibit of Spain\u2019s glorious past, the castle also holds various musical concerts in its courtyard from time to time.
Location:<\/strong> Calle del Castillo, s\/n, 46360 Bu\u00f1ol
Admission Price:<\/strong> Free
Timings:<\/strong> 10 AM – 2 PM<\/p>\n

2. San Luis Park | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"San<\/div>\n

Image Credit: Judgefloro for Wikimedia Commons <\/a><\/p>\n

The favourite hangout of youngsters residing in or visiting the town, San Luis is a public park located in the western part of the Bu\u00f1ol. It playing host to a number of cultural and festive events throughout the year, and provides lovely views of the Bu\u00f1ol River. Other than banking on the peaceful views of the river gushing by, one can cover the length of the river in a refreshing stroll. Other places of interest in the park include a tiny chapel, a bar and an open air auditorium.
Location:<\/strong> San Luis Park, Calle San Luis, 46360 Bu\u00f1ol
Admission Price:<\/strong> Free
Timings:<\/strong> Open at all times<\/p>\n

3. Cueva Turche | Bu\u00f1ol<\/h3>\n
\"Cueva<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

Once you follow the Bu\u00f1ol River down from the San Luis Park till where it eventually splits off into the Charca de las Palomas river, you\u2019ll end up at a gorgeous waterfall, cave and pool with picnic tables right next to it. It is one of the most relaxing place in Bu\u00f1ol where you can take a dip, explore the mysterious cave, and have fun with your wanderer mates. And the best part, the ideal time to visit this area is monsoons! All the more reason for you to start packing for Spain already!
Location:<\/strong> Cueva Turche, Charca de las Palomas, Bu\u00f1ol
Admission Price:<\/strong> Free
Timings:<\/strong> Open at all times<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Honeymoon In Spain: 15 Best Places For A Romantic Espa\u00f1ol Vacation In 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

4. The City of Arts and Sciences | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"The<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

An IMAX cinema, Europe\u2019s largest aquarium called the Oceanogr\u00e0fic, the Pr\u00edncipe Felipe Science Museum with interactive exhibits, the avant-garde opera house known as Palau de les Arts Reina Sof\u00eda, and the impressive l\u2019Assut de l\u2019Or bridge along with the Agora, are the crown jewels of the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia. Apart from these iconic attractions, you can also spot the magnificent, futuristic architecture of Santiago Calatrava in the colossal structure of this entire complex. It is an amazing place for all your entertainment and leisurely needs, apart from being a heaven of knowledge for kids and one of the 12 Treasures of Spain!
Location:<\/strong> Av del Profesor Lopez Pinero, 7, 46023 Valencia
Admission Price:<\/strong> INR 3,000\/- is the average ticket price of all major attractions at City of Arts and Sciences
Timings:<\/strong> 10 AM – 9 PM<\/p>\n

5. Playa de El Saler Beach | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"Playa<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

With pearly white sand, deep blue water, absolutely clean shores and a cool breeze year-round, the Playa de El Saler is the among the most popular beaches in Valencia. Nestled in the heart of the La Albufera Natural Park, this beach is a favourite of all youngsters for it’s wild vibe. This enormous stretch of 2.6 km of fine, silky white sand has massive dunes and a large expanse of pine trees which makes this beach an utterly picture-perfect haven to explore for beach bums, couples, and families on their trip to Spain.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> 15 Best Things To Do In Barcelona That Are Enough To Relish The Real Taste Of Spain!<\/a><\/p>\n

Which are the best places for shopping during the Tomatina festival in Spain?<\/h2>\n

1. Chic Market | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"Chilli<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

This market has a handful of stalls selling a range of exciting stuff like Spanish clothing, vintage accessories (headwear, fans, etc) and curios. You can go crazy shopping here and buy pretty souvenirs and apparels for your gang at very reasonable prices.
Location:<\/strong> Calle de Caballeros 36, 46001 Valencia<\/p>\n

2. Madame Mim | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"buy<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

Travelers are always fascinated by what Madame Mim has to offer, which is why Valencians call it the best best vintage shop in the city. Apart from the usual lot of clothes and accessories, the store has a line of the quirkiest of items on the shelves that can make the best of souvenirs or home decor articles. No one can just walk away after a peek into the gallery!
Location:<\/strong> Calle de Puerto Rico 30, Valencia<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> 10 Sensational Wedding Venues In Spain That Will Give You Major #WeddingGoals<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Lladr\u00f3 | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"Lladr\u00f3\"<\/div>\n

Image Source: Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n

Have an inkling towards porcelain statues and crockery? This store in Valencia is famed for its unique porcelain sculptures. Started by the three Lladr\u00f3 brothers as a small shop more than half a century ago, this place is now a full-fledged factory on the outskirts of Northern Valencia that has an employee count of over a hundred and exports its products all over the world. One can actually walk through, select and purchase figurines from this factory-cum-museum-cum-store.
Location:<\/strong> Calle del Poeta Querol 9, Valencia<\/p>\n

4. Bodegas Baviera | Valencia<\/h3>\n
\"Bodegas<\/div>\n

What use is a Spain holiday without buying some of its finest wine? And what better place to buy Spain\u2019s oldest wine and cavas than the Bodegas Baviera established back in 1870. Indulge in a stimulating wine tasting session and pick the best of brands while you\u2019re here. The current owner of Bodegas is mad about music, so on entering the shop, you\u2019ll first be greeted with a wide variety of odd looking musical instruments adorning the walls, before you can lay your eyes on their wine stock.
Location:<\/strong> Carrer de la Corretgeria, 40, 46001 Val\u00e8ncia<\/p>\n

La Tomatina Rules:<\/h2>\n
\"La<\/div>\n

Image Source<\/a><\/p>\n

You may remember a rule or two from when Katrina Kaif mentioned them in ZNMD. But let us just brush your memory up a bit:<\/p>\n