Located on the east coast of Spain, Valencia is a city that elegantly combines the modern and the old. From its iconic City of Arts and Sciences to its beautiful beaches, this city has something for everyone. If you are planning to visit Valencia, here are the best things to do in this Mediterranean gem.
1. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most emblematic symbols of Valencia and a must-see for any tourist. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic complex includes several attractions:
- L´Hemisfèric : An IMAX cinema and planetarium in the shape of an eye. Ideal for watching documentary screenings on nature and space.
- Príncipe Felipe Science Museum : An interactive museum perfect for science and technology lovers.
- L´Oceanogràfic : Europe's largest aquarium, home to an incredible variety of marine species from around the world, including sharks, dolphins and turtles.
- Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía : An impressive opera house and cultural centre where concerts and operas are held.
This resort is ideal for spending a whole day, especially if you are traveling with your family.
2. Relax on the beaches of Malvarrosa and Las Arenas
Valencia is a coastal city with beautiful, well-kept beaches. The most popular are Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas , both easily accessible from the city centre.
La Malvarrosa is a wide, golden sandy beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It also has plenty of restaurants and bars on the seafront, where you can sample local flavours. Playa de las Arenas, closer to the port, is another great place to relax. In addition, many bars in the area offer live music during the summer season, creating an ideal atmosphere for an afternoon on the beach.
3. Walk through the Turia Garden
The Turia Garden is one of the largest urban parks in Spain and a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The Turia was once the river that ran through Valencia, but after a major flood in 1957, the riverbed was diverted and transformed into a park. Today, this vast green space covers more than nine kilometres of green areas and recreational zones, where you will find:
- Thematic gardens and fountains.
- Cycle and jogging tracks.
- Picnic areas and children's games.
- Monuments and sculptures.
Walking or cycling through the Turia Gardens is a great way to enjoy Valencia's climate, especially in spring and autumn.
4. Visit the Central Market of Valencia
The Mercado Central is one of the largest fresh produce markets in Europe and a must-see in Valencia. Opened in 1928, the building is an example of modernist architecture with high ceilings and colourful stained glass windows. Here you will find a wide variety of fresh produce such as fruit, vegetables, sausages, seafood and meats.
Browsing the stalls at the Mercado Central is a sensory experience and a chance to sample local produce. Don't miss the chance to buy some Valencian oranges or sample the famous Iberian ham . Plus, many local restaurants and bars in the area offer tapas and traditional dishes that you can enjoy while watching the hustle and bustle of the market.
5. Climb the Miguelete Tower
The Miguelete Tower is the bell tower of the Cathedral of Valencia , located in the old town of the city. Climbing the 207 steps to the top of this Gothic-style tower is an experience that rewards you with panoramic views of Valencia. From the top, you can admire the architecture of the city and get a privileged view of its monuments.
Valencia Cathedral itself is another place worth exploring, as it combines several architectural styles, such as Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque. Inside the cathedral, the Holy Chalice is said to be found, a revered relic that some consider to be the true Holy Grail.
6. Enjoy Valencian cuisine: paella and horchata
Valencia is the birthplace of paella , and trying an authentic Valencian paella is a must. Traditional ingredients include rice, chicken, rabbit, and green beans. Many restaurants in the city, especially in the Playa de la Malvarrosa area and the Carmen neighborhood, offer this iconic dish. Some of the best places to try paella are La Pepica and Casa Carmela , two traditional restaurants near the sea.
Besides paella, another must-try is horchata . This refreshing drink, made from chufa (a tuber), is popular throughout Valencia. You can accompany it with fartons , a spongy sweet perfect for dipping in horchata. The best horchaterías are found in the Alboraya neighborhood, on the outskirts of the city.
7. Visit the Barrio del Carmen
The Barrio del Carmen is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Valencia, with a history dating back to medieval times. Today, El Carmen is known for its vibrant nightlife, urban art and charming narrow streets. It is a perfect place to stroll and discover:
- Street art : Valencia is famous for its street art, and El Carmen is home to some of the best works.
- Bars and Cafes : The nightlife in El Carmen is lively and diverse. From tapas bars to alternative pubs, you will find something for every taste here.
- History and architecture : The Torres de Quart and the Torres de Serranos are two gates of the old city wall that are located in this area and are still standing.
8. Admire the Fallas of Valencia
If you are lucky enough to visit Valencia in March, you cannot miss Las Fallas , one of the most famous and spectacular festivals in Spain. This celebration takes place between March 15 and 19 and consists of the creation and burning of large cardboard and wood figures, called “fallas”. The Fallas depict satirical themes and are spectacularly decorated.
In addition to the fallas, the festival includes parades, fireworks and the offering of flowers to the Virgen de los Desamparados. The culmination of the celebration is the “cremà”, on the night of March 19, when all the fallas are burned in a spectacular fire and pyrotechnic show.
9. Take a trip to the Albufera
Just 10 kilometres south of Valencia lies the Albufera Natural Park, a beautiful wetland that offers a unique natural experience. Here you can:
- Boat rides : The Albufera is famous for its boat rides, an excellent way to enjoy the landscape and biodiversity of the area.
- Birdwatching : This natural park is home to numerous species of migratory birds, making it an ideal place for nature and bird watching lovers.
- Enjoy the local cuisine : La Albufera is considered one of the birthplaces of paella, so it is an excellent opportunity to taste this dish in a natural setting.
10. Attend a match at the Mestalla Stadium
If you are a football fan, attending a Valencia CF match at the Mestalla Stadium is an unforgettable experience. This stadium is one of the oldest in Spain and has a unique atmosphere. Valencia CF matches are vibrant, and the passion of the Valencian fans is felt at every moment. In addition, the stadium offers guided tours where you can explore the changing rooms, the trophy room and the playing field.
Valencia is a city with endless activities for all tastes. Discover its modern architecture and centuries-old traditions, this city has a lot to offer. Valencia will not disappoint you.