LA TRAVIATA
Buñol - 17 Calle Cid
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In the mountains of the Valencian province lies Buñol, a charming medieval village that has gained international fame thanks to its famous Tomatina, the world’s largest tomato battle. But this picturesque town offers much more than this unique event: a historic centre rich in history, an imposing medieval castle and a natural landscape that invites adventure.
The local economy, historically linked to the paper industry and agriculture, has now diversified to embrace tourism, thanks mainly to the Tomatina, which attracts visitors from all over the world every year, transforming this peaceful village into a stage for one of Spain’s most colourful and entertaining events.
It all started in the 1940s with a brawl during a village festival in Buñol. A group of young people who were a bit too ‘lively’ got into an argument and, being near a fruit and vegetable stall, started throwing tomatoes at each other.
The following year, the tomato-throwing quarrel was repeated as a voluntary goliard, but ended with police intervention. After years of ups and downs between illegal and official tomato throwing, the Tomatina festival became an unmissable tradition for the inhabitants of Buñol and the authorities could only make it official (and legal) once and for all.
Today, the Tomatina is one of the most important events in all of Spain, attracting tourists from all over the world and has initiated a series of parties and side events (pre-party, after-party, tours) as well as a merchandising line.
La Tomatina is celebrated on the last Wednesday of August, from 11:00 to 12:00 sharp. The streets through which the tomato trucks pass are, of course, closed to traffic, and in order to participate in the festivities, you need to buy an entrance ticket, which is available online at the event’s official website.
You can choose between a simple entrance ticket to the tomato throw or packages that include parties, dinner, T-shirts and gadgets plus tickets for the raffle. Prize up for grabs? A place on the legendary pick-up trucks, for the satisfaction of throwing tomatoes from above into the crowd!
Minors are also admitted to the party, but caution is advised for those who decide to attend with their children.
Also be careful when organising a Tomatina event in your town: the ‘Tomatina’ trademark is registered. Be wary of imitations!
Buñol is a small village in the Valencian hinterland and the best way to get there is by far to rent a car at Valencia airport. You only have to drive less than half an hour along the A3 motorway to exit number 322, which is called Buñol. From here you will arrive at your destination in a few minutes, following the signs to the city centre.
If, on the other hand, you don’t like driving, from the airport you will first have to get to the centre of Valencia, then head to the Xativa station, where you will find the C3 regional train that will take you directly to the Buñol station in just over an hour and a quarter and 8 intermediate stops. The train is operated by the Cercanìas company.
During the Tomatina, finding accommodation in Buñol can be complicated due to the influx of visitors. The town offers some options, such as small hotels, hostels and room rentals, but availability is limited. Many participants choose to stay in the nearby towns of Valencia or Chiva, where the accommodation offer is wider, with hotels, B&Bs and flats. Booking well in advance is essential, as accommodation tends to sell out quickly during the festival.
What's the weather at Buñol? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Buñol for the next few days.
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