What Are the Best Things to Do in Valencia?
Valencia, located on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that blends futuristic architecture with historic charm, beautiful beaches, and world-class cuisine. Below is an in-depth guide to the best things to see, do, and experience in Valencia.
1. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
This world-famous architectural complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava, represents Valencia’s modern side. It includes several remarkable attractions:
- L’Oceanogràfic: Europe’s largest aquarium, home to thousands of marine species such as sharks, dolphins, and belugas.
- Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe: An interactive science museum perfect for children and adults alike.
- L’Hemisfèric: A planetarium and IMAX cinema shaped like a giant human eye.
- Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: An impressive opera house offering performances and guided tours.
The complex is surrounded by the Turia Gardens, an excellent place for cycling, walking, or relaxing among fountains and palm trees.
2. Visit the Old Town (Ciutat Vella)
The heart of Valencia is its Old Town, full of narrow streets, historic architecture, and lively plazas. Highlights include:
- Valencia Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece that is said to house the Holy Grail. Visitors can climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic city views.
- Plaza de la Virgen: One of Valencia’s most charming squares, surrounded by cafes and historic buildings.
- Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most beautiful examples of Gothic architecture.
- El Carmen District: A bohemian neighborhood filled with street art, small bars, and cultural attractions.
3. Enjoy Valencia’s Beaches
Valencia has some of the best urban beaches in Spain.
- Malvarrosa Beach: A wide, sandy beach lined with restaurants serving authentic seafood dishes.
- Las Arenas Beach: Ideal for an evening walk along the promenade.
- El Saler Beach: Located south of the city, this quieter beach is surrounded by dunes and pine forests within Albufera Natural Park.
4. Discover Albufera Natural Park
Just 10 kilometers south of Valencia lies Albufera, a large freshwater lagoon surrounded by rice fields. It is the birthplace of the traditional paella.
Visitors can take a peaceful boat ride on the lagoon, watch the sunset, and enjoy traditional Valencian paella in nearby villages such as El Palmar. The park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with flamingos, herons, and other species commonly seen.
5. Experience Valencian Cuisine
Valencia’s gastronomy is one of its main attractions.
- Paella Valenciana: The original version, made with chicken, rabbit, and local beans, is a must-try dish.
- Horchata and Fartons: A sweet drink made from tiger nuts, best enjoyed with soft pastries called fartons.
- Tapas and Local Wines: Found throughout the city, especially in neighborhoods like Ruzafa and El Carmen.
- Agua de Valencia: A refreshing cocktail made with orange juice, cava, and spirits.
6. Visit Art Museums and Enjoy Local Street Art
Valencia offers a strong artistic culture.
- IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art): A top modern art museum in Spain.
- Museum of Fine Arts: Houses an impressive collection of classical art by Velázquez, Goya, and other masters.
- Street Art in El Carmen: The district’s walls are covered with colorful murals and graffiti, reflecting the city’s creative energy.
7. Walk or Cycle Through the Turia Gardens
The Turia Gardens is a nine-kilometer-long park that was once a riverbed. After the river was diverted, the space was transformed into one of Spain’s largest urban parks.
It is ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing in nature. Families often visit Gulliver Park, where children can play on a massive sculpture of Gulliver from “Gulliver’s Travels.”
8. Visit Bioparc Valencia
Bioparc is a new-generation zoo designed to immerse visitors in naturalistic environments. The habitats recreate African ecosystems where animals such as elephants, lions, and gorillas live in spaces that closely resemble their natural homes.
9. Experience Local Festivals
Valencia is famous for its festivals, which showcase its deep-rooted traditions.
- Las Fallas (March): A spectacular festival featuring enormous sculptures that are displayed, celebrated, and finally burned in a fiery celebration.
- La Tomatina (Buñol): Although held in a nearby town, this world-famous tomato-throwing event attracts thousands of visitors each August.
10. Climb the Torres de Serranos
These medieval towers once formed part of Valencia’s defensive walls. Today, they serve as one of the best viewpoints in the city, offering beautiful views of the Turia Gardens and the historic old town.
11. Explore the Ruzafa Neighborhood
Ruzafa is Valencia’s trendiest area, known for its creative energy, boutique shops, independent galleries, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to some of the city’s most innovative restaurants and cafes.
12. Visit the Central Market (Mercado Central)
The Central Market is one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful indoor markets. The building itself is a work of art, featuring iron and glass architecture. Inside, visitors can explore hundreds of stalls selling fresh seafood, meat, cheese, fruits, and spices. It is also an excellent place to sample local snacks and delicacies.
13. Watch the Sunset at the Marina
The Marina de Valencia has developed into a stylish waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and sailing clubs. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset dinner, take a catamaran cruise, or simply admire the view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Useful Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The months of March to June and September to October offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Getting Around: Valencia is flat and bicycle-friendly. Renting a bike is one of the best ways to explore.
- Pace of Visit: Take your time. Valencia is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, especially when experiencing its food, culture, and atmosphere.
