Best Places to Visit in Valencia, Spain
Valencia is Spain’s third largest city and is often in the shadow of its more popular neighbors Barcelona and Madrid. With a multitude of things to see and do in the city, we thought it would only be fitting to put together a guide on some of the best places to visit in Valencia. In this guide, you’ll find everything from the historic center and beautiful beaches to finding the most delicious things to eat in Valencia
Valencia is an incredible city that’s filled with years of history but at the same time has tonnes of modernity to it. The city is situated right on the Mediterranean coast, so you can spend your days lazing on sandy beaches or tuck into delectable Spanish cuisine.
The city is the birthplace of Paella, that’s reason enough for me to visit! There’s something about that authentic Spanish flair in this city along with its cultural wonder that’s bursting with incredible places to explore.
Whether you’re simply strolling through its old town, gazing at the innovative City of Arts and Sciences Complex, or eating a delicious paella, Valencia is a city that has it all. What I loved about Valencia is that it can serve as a city break or if the Valencia sightseeing gets too much for you, you can head to one of the city’s many nearby beaches and relax for the afternoon. And best of all, you can discover it all in a few days’ time.
After spending time in this amazing city, we couldn’t wait to put together an incredible guide packed full of awesome things to do in Valencia. Add these attractions to your Valencia bucket list, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time discovering one of Spain’s fascinating coastal cities.
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How long do you need in Valencia
I would recommend spending 3 to 4 nights in Valencia. This is enough to cover some of Valencia’s top attractions, but also chill out and relax by the beach. If you had more time on your hands, you could easily spend a relaxing week here.
Getting to & around Valencia
You can take a train from Barcelona directly to Valencia, it takes about 3.5 hours and is an enjoyable journey around the coast. Similarly, you can take the train from Madrid to get to Valencia or vice versa. It takes about 2 hours roughly.
From the airport, you can take the metro to Old Town. Definitely cheaper than taking a taxi.
Getting Around Valencia
The city is flat and super accessible with great public transport. While you are in Old Town, you can easily get to most attractions by foot. For attractions a bit further away, take the public bus or metro. Here are some of the ways to get around the city.
Metro/ Bus: Valencia’s metro and bus systems are both very good. You can purchase single rides or if you are in the city for a couple of days you could look into the 24, 48 or 72-hour cards. You can buy tickets at Metro stations.
Walking: Walking is a great option as the city is mostly flat and incredibly easy to navigate through.
Bikes/ Scooters: If you are feeling a little adventurous you could hire a bike or scooter and make your way through the historic center with little to no effort.
Best Time to Visit Valencia
Valencia’s Mediterranean climate is pleasant all year round. The best time to visit Valencia typically falls between March and June when there are mild temperatures and ample sunshine. During this period, you can experience some of the city’s biggest festivals, such as Las Fallas.
The city gets crowded over the summer months (June/ July) and is still buzzing until the end of October.
Best Places to Visit in Valencia
You’ll find so many things to do in Valencia. The city is rich in cultural attractions and Valencia’s palm-fringed plazas are full of life.
Valencia has a charming historic center, but the city also has a modern side to it showcasing its Modern Art Institute, along with the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
With a heap of history, delectable food, and incredible nightlife, the city has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the top attractions and best places to visit in Valencia.
1. City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and the Oceanografico)
The City of Arts and Sciences is an incredible futuristic complex of modern architecture. It looks like something out of a Star Wars movie. It’s one of the most impressive modern buildings in Europe displaying modern culture and scientific exhibitions.
The complex has six main areas:
- Hemisfèric IMAX Cinema, which screens 3-D digital films and serves as a planetarium.
- Umbracle: landscaped gardens with shaded walkways.
- Museu de les Ciències which an interactive museum with science exhibits, the environment, and technology.
- Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium.
- Palau de les Arts, the opera house
- The Ágora is used for concerts.
You can spend hours wandering through this complex. It’s one of the best places to visit in Valencia if you are traveling with kids to Valencia or on a rainy day.
2. L’Oceanografic
Whether you are traveling with kids to Valencia or just by yourself, L’Oceanogràfic is probably one of the best things to do in Valencia if you love the aquarium. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Valencia so make sure you head there early in the day to avoid large crowds.
LÓceanografic is actually a complex of several buildings, dedicated to marine ecosystems and environments: Wetlands, Temperate and Tropical, Oceans, Mediterranean, Antarctic, Arctic and Islands, and the Red Sea.
Some of the most popular things to see are sea lions, beluga whales, sea turtles, walruses, penguins, seals, and dolphins.
If you’re looking for something special to do, enjoy a meal at the Submarine Restaurant within the Oceanogràfic de Valencia building. The dining room is surrounded by a circular aquarium and features a chandelier that looks like a swarm of jellyfish.
You can purchase combined tickets for admission to the Oceanogràfic aquarium and the Museu de les Ciències or the Hemisfèric.
3. L’Umbracle
L’Umbracle is part of the Ciudad de les Artes y Les Ciences. It’s like a large greenhouse filled with plants and vegetation from Valencia and other parts. Unlike most of the other attractions in Ciudad de les Artes y Les Ciences, LÚmbracle is free to explore.
4. Explore the historic City Centre
Walk through the historic center of the city and explore more than 2000 years of history. The Ciutat Vella (“Old City”) is the heart and soul of Valencia. The city’s historic center has a plethora of ancient plazas that look like they haven’t changed in centuries.
Stepping into this part of the city is like stepping back in time. All the main sights and attractions are within easy walking distance, so you can fit a lot in during a single day. From the impressive cathedral and a regal palace to the bustling market and modern art gallery, there are plenty of ways to fill your day.
The narrow, winding pathways that make up this part of the city are lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and artisan boutiques. They’re perfect for popping in when you want a break from sightseeing.
If you visit Valencia in the summer head for Plaza de la Virgen and grab a drink of Horchata; a chilled drink made of ground tiger nuts, almonds, and a selection of grains, all flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. It’s incredibly refreshing!
5. Valencia Cathedral
Valencia’s Cathedral is the highlight and most prominent landmark in the historic center. It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. As a result, you’ll find a mixture of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Valencian Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical. It’s probably one of the more unique cathedrals in Spain due to the combination of architectural styles.
Originally this location was the site of an ancient Roman temple, and then a Moorish mosque. The interior has a lovely ambiance with its majestic domed ceiling and a rose window. A highlight of the cathedral is the Chapel of the Holy Grail. The most sacred object is the Holy Chalice, an artifact said to be the Chalice that Jesus used to perform the Holy Eucharist.
The Cathedral of Valencia also has a museum, the Museo Catedral de València, which displays a collection of religious art. Both the Cathedral and the museum can be visited with an admission fee, which includes an audio guide with various language options.
In addition to visiting the interior of the cathedral, you may want to check out the bell tower, a.k.a El Miguelete. Originally it stood completely alone from the cathedral, but extensions in the late-1400s brought the two structures together.
The climb is not for the faint-hearted as there are over 200 stairs to get to the top. But you’ll be rewarded with incredible views once you get to the top.
Things to do at the Cathedral of Valencia:
- Take a guided tour of the cathedral and learn about its history and architecture.
- Visit the Chapel of the Holy Chalice and see the legendary cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper.
- Admire the beautiful stained glass windows.
- Attend a Catholic Mass or special event in the cathedral.
- Climb up to El Micalet bell tower and take in the city views.
6. Plaza de la Virgen
Overlooking the cathedral, the Plaza de la Virgen is one of the oldest and loveliest of Valencia’s many plazas.
The square is bordered by several landmark buildings. Across the square is the Palace of the Generalitat and next to the Catedral de València is the Real Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados, the most important Baroque church in Valencia.
7. Valencia Bullring (Plaza de Toros de Valencia)
One of the most popular things to do in Spain is to visit a bullring and perhaps experience a bullfight. The bullring in Valencia was built in the 19th century. It takes inspiration from the Roman amphitheater and colosseum. If you have time on your hands, be sure to book your tickets well in advance.
You can also learn about the history of the bullring and the cultural event at the building’s museum. You will need about an hour to tour the Valencia Bullring.
8. Malvarrosa Beach
I love cities that offer the best of all worlds. Valencia is one of those cities where you can find plenty of attractions to keep you busy but at the same time, it has some beautiful beaches if you want to take a day off from all the sightseeing.
Malvarrosa Beach is one of Valencia’s main beaches, and it’s easily reachable by public transport. Within minutes of the old town, you could be spending a relaxing day sunbathing and swimming at the Mediterranean beach. Malvarrosa is a wide strip of golden sand that stretches for a kilometer along the city’s seafront.
The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for all the amenities it provides, from lifeguard towers, a medical station, drinking fountains, and showers amongst other facilities. It’s one of the best places to visit in Valencia.
If you get hungry, you’ll find plenty of restaurants in this area that serve Valencian paella. Try La Pepica, famous for its enormous rice dishes.
9. Wander through Central Market
The beautiful central market building is worthwhile visiting even if you are only there to marvel at the metal art and glass design.
If you are a foodie or want to be in foodie heaven, make your way to Central Market in Valencia. There are over 1000 stalls that sell everything seafood, fresh produce, meats, cheeses, sweets, and snacks. You’ll find flavors of the Mediterranean here. It has a very local and inviting vibe. If you are a foodie like me, you may end up spending several hours here.
You’ll find all the great Spanish delicacies like chorizo, jamón ibérico or manchego cheese. Great place to pick up a few local ingredients and head for a picnic to the beach.
If you do not want to buy anything, head to one of the restaurants where you can have tapas, assorted dishes, and sandwiches. Whether you want to buy products or enjoy the cuisine, the Central Market is a great place to visit.
10. Barrio del Carmen
This is probably one of the more bohemian parts of the city. You’ll find plenty of hip boutiques, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Calle de Caballeros, which begins at Plaza de la Virgen, is where many nights out in Valencia will end up.
You’ll also find the highest concentration of street art in El Carmen District. Be sure to wander the streets around here as it showcases so much color and creativity.
11. The Silk Exchange (La Lonja de Seda)
This building was part of a golden age for manufacturing and trade in the city and was built between 1482 and 1533. It is one of the finest Gothic buildings and is included among UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its historical and cultural significance.
You will need about an hour to tour this historical site.
12. Jardín del Turia
In the middle of the city, you’ll find Jardin del Turia, one of the largest urban parks in Spain. It’s the perfect place to head to for some much-needed relaxation after all the sightseeing.
It is said that the gardens came about in the 20th century after the River Turia burst its banks in 1957 causing great damage to the city. The river was diverted and in the 80s its riverbed was turned into nine kilometers of green space.
There are many interesting stops along the way, from footpaths, sports pitches, and landscaped gardens, you could spend a day discovering this park. You can hire a bike and ride through the park at your own pace.
13. Parque Gulliver
This imaginative attraction is located close to the City of Arts and Sciences. This park was designed after Gullivers Travels and has a 70m long figure of Gulliver where kids can climb onto the fingers and legs of the giant.
If you are traveling to Valencia with kids, they will have a great time running around the giant figure. There are slides, ramps, stairways, and all kinds of little interactive features. There’s also a giant chessboard, a mini golf course, and a skating area.
14. Go on a tapas tour of Valencia
I’ve always believed that one of the best ways to get to know a place is through its food. And Valencia has an incredible culinary scene. Apart from being the birthplace of traditional Spanish paella, the food in Valencia also has Moorish influences and Mediterranean flavors.
Be sure to go on a tapas tour and try some of the authentic flavors of this region.
15. Bioparc Valencia
One of the best things to do in Valencia is to spend the day at Bioparc, especially if you are traveling with kids. This giant wildlife park is home to more than 150 African animal species. The landscape was created to house the animals close to their native habitats as possible.
There are so many exotic animals to admire here, from hippos, lions, and gorillas to Madagascan lemurs, you’ll feel like you have been transported back to Africa.
The environment is designed so that you feel as though you are almost barrier-free. Bioparc is divided into four separate zones; Savannah, Madagascar, Kitum, and Equatorial Africa. The trees, plants, and flowers have all been imported from Africa, giving you a truly immersive experience.
16. Taste a traditional paella
Valencia is the home of paella and you can’t visit the city without feasting on the saffron rice dish. Traditionally, ingredients in paella are sourced from the land and include rabbit and snails. However, these days you can find alternate variations with seafood or chicken.
There are plenty of restaurants that serve Paella, but try to find one that isn’t located in the tourist areas. If you want the best paella in Valencia, get off the beaten track and go to restaurants frequented by Valencians. There are plenty around Malvarrosa, and if possible it will always pay to make reservations.
17. Las Fallas
This festival marks the beginning of spring and is Valencia’s biggest and boldest festival. For over two weeks during the month of March, the city transforms into a colorful and joyful celebration during the Fiesta de San José (Feast Day of Saint Joseph). If you are visiting in March, one of the best things to see in Valencia is Las Fallas.
Las Fallas is a religious festival that displays creativity, color, and endless fireworks and most colorful of any fiesta in Spain. The festival includes traditional music and food, a parade, fireworks, and unique art exhibits.
This festival is known for its large floats featuring figures made of paper-mâché. These creations are set up in the streets and then burned at midnight on the last day of the fiesta.
18. Wander around Ruzafa
Like so many other cities Valencia has several neighborhoods, each with their own unique vibes. This hip neighborhood is filled with chic cafes, bars, clubs, restaurants, boutiques, and artist studios. You can also visit the Mercat de Russafa while you are here.
19. Visit the World’s Largest Miniature Museum
For one of the most unique things to do in Valencia, head to L’Iber, the Tin Soldier Museum. This attraction is said to be the world’s largest miniature museum with almost 100,000 tin soldiers on display.
This Valencia City Tour covers some of the places listed above including tasting some delicious tapas along the way. Or you can book some of the best attractions in Valencia right here.
Final Thoughts
With so much to see and do in Valencia, the city is a cultural wonder waiting to be explored. For many traveling to Spain, Valencia may not be on top of your travel list. But I assure you once you make a trip to this city, it will forever remain in your heart.
Hopefully, this Valencia travel guide has shown you some of the best things to do in Valencia and tips for planning your trip to this incredible city. Drop a comment and tell me what your favorite thing to do in Valencia is.
Happy Travels!
Neighborhoods in Valencia
The top tourist attractions in Valencia are mostly in the Ciutat Vella (Old Town), the historic city center around the cathedral, and Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
Other attractions such as the beaches are a bit further away but thankfully easily accessible by public transport.
For easy access to key sights aims to stay in the city center near the old town. Alternatively, you can stay in the neighborhood of Ruzafa or Malvarossa.
Ciutat Vella (El Carmen): Historic Centre
The old town of Valencia is the heart and soul of the city and the most touristy neighborhood. The former walled district consists of 5 regions. El Carmen is located within the historic center, close to the city’s main attractions and restaurants.
Ruzafa: Modern and Nightlife
This hipster neighborhood is filled with cafes, restaurants, and stores. It is cheaper to stay here than El Carmen and still very close to downtown.
El Cabanyal and La Malvarosa
If you are looking for some calm and tranquillity, try finding accommodation in El Cabanyal or La Malvarossa. It’s easy enough to get to the city center from here using public transport.
Benimaclet: A taste of local life
Benimaclet is a lively, multicultural area, home to traditional families, students, and foreigners. The region is full of restaurants and bars. Public transport is also very accessible.
Things to Eat and Drink in Valencia
Valencia’s traditional cuisine is the result of a mix of factors from the Mediterranean climate, the coast, vegetable gardens, and foreign influence, amongst other factors. The city houses some of Spain’s award-winning restaurants.
Here are some must-try foods in Valencia.
1. Valencian Paella
Since Valencia is the birthplace of Paella, you can’t go without trying Spain’s famous dish here. Originally this humble dish was enjoyed by farmers and laborers. Traditional paella recipes are made with Valencian rice, saffron, green beans, and a mixture of chicken and rabbit (not seafood as you find these days)
Where to eat Paella: There are so many restaurants all around Valencia that serve this iconic dish but some of the best places to try out this dish are La Pepica, located right on Valencia’s famous Malvarossa Beach, Barraca de Toni Montoliu in Alboraya, and Casa Carmela at the beach.
Tip: The Spanish tend to eat Paella for lunch, so any places advertising Paella for dinner are doing it more so for the tourists.
2. Esgarret
Typical Valencian tapa – roasted red peppers, salted cod, garlic, and lots of olive oil.
3. Valencian Clóchinas
A type of mussel typical of Valencian waters. It’s delicious. The clóchinas season goes from the end of April to the beginning of September.
4. Churros con chocolat
Head to Horchatería Santa Catalina or Plaza de la Reina and enjoy some delicious churros.
5. Turrón
This delicious candy is made of almonds, egg whites, and sugar. It is a traditional Christmas candy. There are two versions, the soft and the hard. Both definitely worth trying.
6. Agua De Valencia
Did you know Valencia has its own cocktail? This is one of my favorite drinks made from freshly squeezed orange juice topped up with cava, vodka, and/or gin. Delicious for that Mediterranean climate.
7. Horchata and Fartón
Made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar; this is a popular drink in Valencia and is a treat on a hot summer’s day
Fartons are spongy sweet pastries covered in powdered sugar. These are usually dipped in horchata, and enjoyed together.
One of the most popular hochaterias in Valencia is Horchateria Santa Catalina. It definitely gets crowded so try to get there when they open. They also sell delicious churros con chocolate in case you were looking for an alternate option.
Things to do in Valencia at night
If you are looking for things to do in Valencia at night, head to the neighborhood of El Carmen. The neighborhood is home to several music bars.
Valencia Tourist Card
With the Valencia Tourist Card you travel for free on buses, trams, and metros; get free entry to municipal museums and monuments and enjoy special discounts on Valencia’s main tourist attractions.
Cost
The card starts from about €14 and goes up to €23 depending on which option you use.
How long does it last
The card can be used for 24, 48, or 72 hours depending on the type of card you choose. The card is activated with its first use. The hours of validity will start to count from that moment.
Once you have used your Valencia Tourist Card, recycle it at our Tourist Offices.
Free Public Transport
FREE bus, metro, and tram travel for 24, 48, or 72 hours starting the moment the card is activated. Includes journeys to and from the airport. Allows you to travel on any of Valencia’s metro, city bus, and tram zones.
Free Entry to Museums And Monuments
Free entry to municipal museums and monuments such as the Lonja de Seda (silk exchange), the Serranos and Quart Towers, the Fallas Museum, and the Almoina, as well as many other attractions.
Special Discounts
- Special discounts for the city’s main tourist attractions include:
- City of Arts and Sciences
- Oceanogràfic
- Bioparc
- up to 20% off guided tours, 50% off entry to Marqués de dos Aguas Palace and 10% discount off entry to the Cathedral.
Children
Children up to the age of 5 travel free on EMT buses, up to the age of 6 on suburban trains, and up to the age of 9 on the metro and trams. They are also free or at a reduced rate on tourist attractions.
Children up to the age of 15 incl. enter the municipal museums and monuments for free.
2 days in Valencia
If you had 2 days in Valencia, here’s how you can spend your time in the city:
Day 1
- Climb the Serranos Towers (one of the best sights in Valencia).
- Walk around the El Carmen neighborhood.
- Visit Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) and Valencia Central Market.
- Have lunch near Plaza de Ayuntamiento.
- Walk around Plaza de la Reina and try horchata with fartóns.
- Make your way to Ruzafa and walk through shops, and visit bars with tapas, cocktails, and live music.
Day 2
- Hire a bike and ride through the Turia Gardens park.
- Marvel at the City of Arts and Sciences.
- Spend the afternoon relaxing at Malvarrosa beach and eat paella.
- Head to the Port of Valencia (Marina).
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