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14 Best Things to do in Valencia (City Trip Guide)

Valencia, the birthplace of Paella and the third-largest city in Spain , is often overlooked and underestimated in favor of its big brother Barcelona . However, it offers much the same in terms of its striking architecture, fantastic food, beautiful parks, and beaches. Not only this, but it comes with a big plus side- far fewer tourists and smaller price tags! Discover the best things to do in Valencia on a city trip.

Day 1 – Ancient Valencia

Welcome to historical Valencia. A city that is split into the old and new city. Spend your first day soaking up the history of the charming old town on foot. Start your morning early to avoid the crowds and make sure to grab yourself a typical Spanish breakfast of ‘tostada con tomate’ to gain energy for your day ahead. 

1. Eat Your Way Through the Central Market 

Mercado Central, one of the biggest markets in Europe , boasts some of the best local fruits, vegetables, and fish caught that morning. The market ceiling is a huge dome painted with oranges, Valencia’s trademark fruit. 

Here are all your hotel options in Valencia.

2. Valencia Silk Exchange

After the market, stroll across the road to the old Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda) and buy a ticket for 2 EUR to go inside. Prepare to be blown away by the beautiful stained glass and stone pillars built to look like twisted palm trees. Alternatively, join a guided walking tour of Valencia’s Old Quarter and learn more about its history.

Tip: On Sundays the entrance is free.

3. Get Lost in the Streets of El Carmen

Valencia was under Moorish rule for hundreds of years, and this Northern African influence is clear to see within El Carmen with narrow roads, water features, and palm trees. 

Hotels in Valencia 😴

From the Silk exchange, the heart of El Carmen is only 2 minutes away. Get lost in the back streets and see the contrast between some of the oldest buildings in the city, next to modern and colorful street art- undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Valencia.

To learn more about Valencia’s fascinating history, join a walking , bike , or segway tour. You’ll be led by a knowledgeable guide who can tell you all the secrets of Valencia’s streets. Even better, join a food and history tour where you can stop off at various bars and restaurants to try the local delicacies.

Time for lunch? Saona (Plaza de la Virgen) does an amazing 3-course menu of the day for under 10 EUR. Be sure to book ahead.

4. Climb the Cathedral

After lunch, make your way to the cathedral of Valencia. El Micalet, the name of the cathedral tower, is a 207 steps climb but one hundred percent worth the beautiful views over Valencia and its many blue-domed rooftops.

Entrance: 2 EUR.  If you have an interest in religious history, visit the cathedral on your way down to see the Holy Grail!

5. Plaza de la Virgen

Once you have finished up at the cathedral, make your way under the Arco de La Calle de la Barchilla and around the cathedral to Plaza de la Virgen. At night the square really comes alive and is filled with people from circus performers to musicians. For dinner, get a delicious pasta around the corner at La Papardella.

Day 2 – Futuristic Valencia, Spain

The new City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most popular things to do in Valencia. Spend day 2 of your trip exploring the park and new city by bike. 

Join a guided bike tour exploring the City of Arts and Sciences

6. Cycle Through the ‘River’

Start your day by hiring a bike and cycling through the incredible 7 km long park, which winds around the city, admiring its many orange trees, palm trees, and water features. This used to be the River Turia, but as it was so prone to flooding, the river was redirected, and the area was turned into a green space for the people of Valencia. 

Tip: Make sure to cross over the Pont de las Flores when arriving into the park from the city center, a beautiful bridge made up entirely of pink flowers.

7. The City of Arts and Sciences – Unique thing to do in Valencia

At the south end of the park, you will find the ‘new city’ of Valencia. This extremely futuristic complex was designed by Valencian-born architect Santiago Calatrava and was only finished in 2005. Initially budgeted at 300 million euros, it is estimated to have cost three times the amount!

Get your entrance tickets here

Admire the eyeball of ‘La Hemisferic’, the shell of ‘La Palau de la Reina Sofia’, and the whale skeleton of The Science Museum. During the summer months, kayak or paddleboard in the water that surrounds the buildings.

Did you know? Valencia is also home to Europe’s largest aquarium, which is situated next to the city of arts and sciences. You can even enjoy an ‘underwater’ dinner experience here, where you dine among sea life.

Get your tickets for the aquarium here

8. Trendy Rusafa 

Make your way back to the city center via the neighborhood of Rusafa, one of Valencia’s coolest and most up-and-coming areas. Shop at one of the many vintage clothing stores and grab a healthy lunch at Bluebell Cafe or Artysana. 

9. Palau Marques de Dos Aguas 

On your journey back from Rusafa, make one last stop at the impressive marble mansion ‘Palau de Marques de Dos Aguas’, a symbol of Valencian wealth which is now a ceramic museum. This is arguably one of the most outstanding buildings to see in Valencia.

10. See a Flamenco show 

Although Andalucia is the home of flamenco, Valencia still does a great job of showcasing this traditional Spanish dance. See a late-night show at Cafe del Duende for only 12 EUR including a drink.

Get tickets for a Flamenco show

Hungry? Around the corner from Cafe del Duende is La Greta, serving some of the best tapas in town. Go before the show and order the Patatas Bravas.

Day 3 – Eat, Beach, and Repeat in Valencia

After two beautiful days of sightseeing, take your last day to relax and enjoy the best things to do by the sea in Valencia.

11. Colorful Streets of Cabanyal

On your way to the beach, do not miss the colorful houses of Cabanyal, which feel more reminiscent of Cuba than Spain . If you are in Valencia for more than three days, continue cycling to the colorful harbor of Port Saplaya, which has been coined as Valencia’s own ‘little Venice ’.

Getting there – From the city center, take the metro to Maritim Serreria and then the tram the rest of the way OR take the tram from Pont de Fusta, depending on where you are located. Even better, cycle! The city is extremely bike-friendly, with bike paths almost everywhere. 

12. Relax on Valencia beach 

Valencia’s beach lies just beyond Cabanyal, a long stretch of white sand lined with palm trees. At the closest end, you have Malvarossa, but if you have the energy, it is worth going a little further down to Patacona, which has lots of great beach bars and delicious places to eat.

Tip: Grab brunch at La Mas Bonita for great beach vibes!

13. The Old Gates of Valencia

Take the tram back to Pont de Fusta, where you can walk across the bridge to the Serrano Towers, one of the only remaining gates that used to surround the city. Climb to the top for views of the mountains surrounding Valencia. 

14. Valencia Rooftop Sunset 

Finish your Valencia city trip in the main city square, ‘Plaza Ayuntamiento’. Here you will find a rooftop bar where you can see spectacular views over the city during sunset.

How Much Does Valencia Cost?

Although Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, it’s considerably cheaper than other destinations like Madrid or Barcelona. You can eat in delicious restaurants for next to nothing, especially at lunch when a ‘Menu del Dia’ can cost as little as 8 EUR for 3 courses.

Costs of Traveling in Valencia

Travel on a budget in Valencia, from $320 − $350 USD weekly per person, mid-range $710 − $1710 USD, and high-end from $1630 − $2480 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $60 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $100 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $40 USD
• Activities: $3 − $5 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Visit Valencia

Valencia has a fairly big airport with flights leaving to destinations all over Europe . If your city doesn’t offer flights to Valencia, consider flying into Barcelona or Madrid and taking a direct train from there.

The city is easily accessible from the airport. Simply walk downstairs to the metro from the terminal, and any line will take you to the main city stops, such as ‘Xativa’ or ‘Colon’, in around 20 minutes. Price: 4.90 EUR. 

Getting Around

Valencia is a small and walkable city. If you choose to hire bikes, you may not need to take public transport at all! However, there is a very affordable tram and metro with many stops throughout the city and down to the beach. The price for a 10-trip ticket is between 7.60 – 21 EUR, depending on which zones you need.

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Where to Stay in Valencia

Accommodation in Valencia is reasonably affordable. Aim to stay in the city center, near to the old town or Rusafa, for easy access to the key sights.

For a more affordable option, stay a little outside of the center on the metro line for easy access to the city. Alternatively, find a hostel down by the beach.

Best Time to Visit Valencia

The best time to visit is out of the prime summer months when the weather is cooler, and it’s more pleasant to walk around and see all the things to do in Valencia.

During the winter months of December- February, the days are sunny, and the temperature is between 15-20 degrees. If you’re visiting during the summer months of June-September, expect highs of up to 40 degrees!

Extra: Experience ‘Las Fallas’ in March, a unique month-long festival that centers around the dates 15-19, where each district creates a giant sculpture, which is burned on the last night. Expect a lot of noise, fireworks, and street parties lasting until the early hours of the morning.

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Best Things to do in Madrid, Spain

Seville, spain: 14 best things to do, best things to do in barcelona (travel guide).

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I Love Valencia visited the city some time ago. I Love horchata also. Valencia is a lovely city

Incredibly extensive post. The city is expanding the metro and opening up more areas to visit by the water in the coming years too.

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Valencia Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 16, 2024

However, after I wandered the streets, relaxed on the beach, stuffed my face with paella on the seaside boardwalk, and visited the futuristic art museum, I left realizing Valencia had grown on me. It was a cool city with tons of history, art, and good vibes.

Originally a Roman colony and once the capital of Spain , Valencia is the birthplace of paella (and is allegedly home to the Holy Grail). With three UNESCO Sites, one of the largest markets in Europe , and the massive City of Arts and Science complex, Valencia is well worth a visit. I’d recommend spending at least three days here.

This Valencia travel guide can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Valencia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Valencia

1. Visit the City of Arts and Sciences

This huge complex is a piece of art in itself. Its futuristic look and design makes it one of the most photographed places in Valencia. Construction started in 1996, and the first part of the complex opened in 1998 (with the newest addition opening in 2009). The complex is one of the 12 Treasures of Spain and sees over 4 million visitors each year. It’s home to an IMAX theater, planetarium, museum, marine area, opera house, a massive open garden, and more. Admission to the museum is 8.70 EUR. A combo ticket is 38.90 EUR. You can easily spend half a day here just casually wandering around or a full day if you visit several of the sites within the complex.

2. Throw tomatoes at La Tomatina

Started in 1945, this festival is held on the last Wednesday of August in neighboring Buñol, about 25 miles outside of Valencia. La Tomatina is an epic hour-long tomato fight that draws upwards of 20,000 people to the small town (only 10,000 people live in the town itself). Over the hour, more than 360,000 pounds of tomatoes are used during the festival. Once the food fight is over, stay for a giant celebration with live music and sangria. It’s as messy and chaotic as you’d expect, and It’s the most amazing festival I’ve ever been to! Tickets cost 12 EUR and sell out quickly.

3. Wander Casco Histórico

This is the impressive historic district of Valencia where you can find the main square (the Plaza de la Virgen) and the Gothic Valencia Cathedral. It’s a great place to explore the ancient winding streets of the Barrio del Carmen and its typical Spanish-style buildings with their large doors, balconies, and windows. The history here stretches back over 2,000 years, as the region was home to the Romans, Visigoths, and Muslims over the centuries. It’s also one of the largest historic centers in Europe, making it the perfect place for a stroll or to grab a seat at a cafe and people watch over a beer or a hot chocolate.

4. Retreat to the Albufera

This national park and nature reserve contains a beautiful freshwater lagoon— the largest in Spain. Located less than 15 miles outside the city, this a nature lover’s perfect day trip. Go on a hike around the lake (there are 6 different trails), or take a bike ride on one of the paved paths. There are also over 300 species of birds here, making it an ideal place to spot wildlife. The lake is surrounded by rice fields, which explains how this area became the birthplace of paella. It’s worth it to stick around for sunset views. To get here, take city bus 24 or 25 for an hourlong trip that costs 3 EUR roundtrip. Another great way to see the area from a different perspective is by taking a boat tour, which costs 10-20 EUR.

5. Cross Calatrava’s Bridge

This was designed by Valencia’s most famous son, Santiago Calatrava, who also designed the City of Arts and Sciences, the Hemisferic, and the Umbracle. It’s a very modern and ultra-cool-looking bridge worth seeing up close. It’s a small bridge, and there’s not much to do here, but you can’t visit the city without walking across it and snapping some photos.

Other Things to See and Do in Valencia

1. take a free walking tour.

My favorite way to get to know a city is to take a free walking tour. They’re a budget-friendly way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Tour Valencia offers a daily tour that lasts a couple of hours and covers all the main sights, from the gothic cathedral to the historic towers and town gate. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Admire Valencia Cathedral

In the 8th century, the Balansiya mosque stood on this site. It wasn’t until the 13th century that the present Gothic-style cathedral was built, which took almost two centuries to complete. Today, the cathedral is home to medieval frescoes and an ornate Holy Chalice considered by some to be the actual Holy Grail. The chalice dates to the 1st century and has been used by various Popes over the centuries. It’s 9 EUR to tour the cathedral and museum (including an audio guide) and an additional 2 EUR to go up the octagonal bell tower (known as “Miguelete”). It’s worth the visit, and the view from the bell tower is one of the best in the city.

3. Explore Central Market

Although this site originally started out as an open-air market, the city decided to move it indoors in the 19th century. Officials hosted several architectural competitions to come up with a new design. The result was a brand new modernist style known as Valencian Art Nouveau, which somewhat resembles a cathedral with its roof domes and the large cupola at the center. The entire building is filled with iron columns, bright ceramic tiling, and delicate stained glass. It’s one of the largest markets in Europe. Come here to people watch, shop for food and souvenirs (there are more than 1,200 stalls), and sample tapas. Make this one of your first stops of the day, as the market closes at 3pm and is closed on Sundays.

4. Visit La Lonja

This 15th-century former silk market and commodity exchange were built between 1482-1533, and is now an UNESCO World Heritage site. The late Valencian-Gothic building with soaring ceilings and an austere, castle-like appearance is one of the best preserved of its kind in Europe and a must-see. Walk through the main gate and into a cool courtyard filled with orange trees and see the Pavilion of the Consulate of the Sea, with its richly decorated ceilings and an elaborate stone staircase. Found in the Old Town, it’s just around the corner from the Central Market. It’s 2 EUR to visit. On Sunday mornings, there’s a flea market held in front of La Lonja.

5. Celebrate Las Fallas

This festival in March is one of the biggest in Valencia, and a chance to party with the entire city. It celebrates the arrival of spring and locals do so by constructing huge model heads and sculptures and then burn them down in a dramatic finale. According to legend, this “build and burn” follows the Pagan tradition where people would gather their unwanted belongings in the streets and then burn it all to welcome spring. Las Fallas goes on for a full month with daily events. For the finale that takes place at the end of March, be prepared to celebrate until the wee hours of the morning with fireworks and drinks!

6. Cycle the Jardí del Túria

Jardí del Túria is a long stretch of park, one of the largest in Spain, that runs through an old dried-up riverbed (the river was diverted to prevent flooding in the city). The government wanted to build a road in its place, but locals fought for the green space to be made instead. It’s dotted with sculptures, sports fields, gardens, open grassy spaces, and buskers. Rent a bike, pack a picnic, and spend a couple of hours taking in the sights as the path snakes east to west and passes several major monuments, including the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, Museum of Fine Arts, and more.

7. Lounge on the beach

Although this isn’t as much of a beach destination as the Costa Blanca further south, you can still find beautiful sand at the beaches in Valencia. Malvarosa, which is easily accessible from the city and has a long promenade, is the most popular place to hang out but be prepared for high prices if you plan to eat here. Las Arenas, Patacona, and El Saler (located in the La Albufera nature reserve) are other popular beaches. If you’re looking for something less crowded, El Puig, which is slightly further away from the city, and is a mix of pebbles and sand, is a good option.

8. Eat paella

Valencia is the birthplace of paella (there are several kinds of paella now; this version is known as Valencian paella). The dish, made from locally grown rice, takes its name from the Valencian word for frying pan (referring to the large pan the paella is made in). The original Valencia version is traditionally made with rabbit, snails, and green beans, and has been around since the 1800s as a filling dish for farmers. You’ll see it on menus everywhere from nicer restaurants to beach shacks. It’s a major part of the culture, so be sure to try some while you’re here!

10. Explore the Sagunto Roman settlement

Around 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Valencia is the coastal town of Sagunto. It was both an Iberian and Roman settlement and still has several historic sites to explore, including a castle that overlooks the town, a heavily restored Roman theater, and city walls that date back to the Islamic occupation. There’s a history museum here as well as an exhibition room at the top of the castle. The town has some nice churches to admire too. It makes a great place to explore for an afternoon, and the views on top of the castle are pretty impressive. The bus to Sagunto takes about 30 minutes and costs 2-4 EUR.

11. Check out Valencia’s towers

In addition to the cathedral’s Miguelete tower, there are two more towers to see in Valencia, both of which make up the last remnants of the ancient city wall (the wall had 12 towers but was pulled down in 1865). There is the Gothic Serrans Tower or Serrano Tower which was built at the end of the 14th century. The massive city gate and watch towers are one of the best-preserved monuments in Valencia and is less than a 10-minute walk from the main square. The other tower is the 15th-century Quart Towers which has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, including a women’s and military prison, and most notably, the cannonball marks document how the massive structure stopped Napoleon’s troops in 1808. Admission is 2 EUR for each tower, which you can climb.

12. Visit the Ceramics Museum

The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, one of Spain’s best examples of Baroque architecture, is home to the González Martí National Museum of Ceramics (Museo Nacional de Cerámica y Artes Suntuarias González Martí). Founded in 1947, here you can find an enormous collection of ceramics, some dating from the 18th century. The museum also has some of Picasso’s works. It’s interesting enough for a quick stop, and you can easily see everything in less than an hour. Admission is 3 EUR.

13. Wander the Museum of Fine Arts

The building this museum is in is a work of art itself. Built between 1683 and 1744, it was originally a seminary college (its architect was Juan Bautista Pérez Castiel, who also designed Valencia Cathedral). The museum has art by medieval painters and by painters from the Valencian School. It also has works of well-known artists including Pintoricchio, Andrea del Sarto, Van Dyck, Murillo, Velázquez, El Greco, and a room devoted to Goya. Exhibits include drawings, etchings, sculptures, and archaeological pieces. If you like Renaissance art or are a fan of Goya, I’d recommend a visit. It’s free to enter.

14. Visit the Caves of Sant Josep

The Caves de Sant Josep are a system of natural underground caves that house the longest navigable underground river in Europe. LED lights illuminate the UNESCO-recognized paintings and engravings on the walls dating back to the Paleolithic era. You can also kayak through the caves on a two-hour tour. Boat tours cost 10 EUR and kayaking is 35 EUR (book in advance). The caves are a 45-minute drive from the city.

  For more information on other cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Granada Travel Guide
• Madrid Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide

Valencia Travel Costs

A basic private hostel room for two starts at 90 EUR per night during peak season but can go as high as 150 EUR. Prices are about 10% less for private rooms in the off-season.

Camping is available just outside the city, with plots ranging from 15-25 EUR per night for a basic tent plot for one person without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Hotel pricing has increased in recent years. Those within Valencia average around 150 EUR. Hotels a few miles outside of the city start around 75 EUR. While a few budget hotels in the city offer free breakfast or a pool, most are pretty basic so don’t expect anything too luxurious.

Airbnb is available around the city, with private rooms starting at 30 EUR per night (but averaging closer to 65 EUR). If you want an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least 100-120 EUR per night (though prices can easily be double that when not booked in advance).

Food – In Valencia, paella is one of the major culinary staples, owing to its origin here. Other favorites include arròs negre (a squid and squid ink paella), cured sausages, gazpacho, and all el pebre (a local stew-type dish made from garlic and peppers).

A casual meal of traditional Valencian cuisine costs around 12-15 EUR. If you want a multi-course meal and a drink, expect to pay 25-35 EUR.

If you plan to eat at the beach, expect to pay more than 10 EUR for a sandwich and at least 30 EUR for a seafood dinner. Beer and wine are about half-price if you buy them yourself (instead of at a bar or restaurant).

Cheap fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. Pizza is around 12-15 EUR.

Beer is usually around 3 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is under 2 EUR. Bottled water is about 1.50 EUR.

If you buy your own food, expect to spend 55-65 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Valencia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Valencia, expect to spend about 90 EUR per day, you can afford to stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like free walking tours and relaxing in the parks or at the beach. Add at least 20 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of about 200 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel, eat out for most meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid tours and activities like seeing the City of Arts and Sciences and the Cathedral.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for most meals, drink as much as you’d like, take more taxis or rent a car, and do as many paid tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Valencia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Valencia is generally more affordable to visit than Madrid or Barcelona. However, food, drinks, and tours can really add up if you aren’t watching your spending. Here are some tips on how to save money in Valencia:

• Take a free walking tour – Free Tour Valencia offers a variety of free walking tours that can introduce you to the city and show you the lay of the land. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Budget extra for food – Valencia has a lot of wonderful seafood restaurants (it’s what the city is famous for). Splash out once in a while and get a good meal down by the beach.
• Cook more meals – When you’re not splurging on local favorites, stick to buying your own groceries and cooking your meals. It’s not fancy, but it’s much cheaper and will help you save money for those nicer meals.
• Visit the Mercado Central – This is the main fruit and vegetable market in Valencia. Buy snacks, small meals, and groceries here to cut down on your food budget and give you a taste of local life.
• Stay with a local – While hostels are cheap in the city, staying with a local drastically lowers your expenses. It’s also a great way to connect with the local scene and get a better sense of the city and its people. Use Couchsurfing to find a local host who can show you around. Just be sure to send your requests early.
• Get the tourist card – If you plan on seeing a lot of attractions and using a lot of public transportation, consider getting the Valencia Tourist Card. It comes in 1-,2-, and 3-day options for 15 EUR, 20 EUR, and 25 EUR respectively. It offers discounts all over the city in addition to free transportation and free entry into certain attractions.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Valencia

There are several excellent hostels in Valencia and a few budget hotels. My recommended places to stay are:

• The River Hostel
• Purple Nest Hostel
• Red Nest Hostel
• Cantagua Hostel
• Urban Youth Hostel
• Olympia Consul del Mar
• Rooms Ciencias

How to Get Around Valencia

Public transportation – Buses cost 1.50 EUR per trip within the city limits. A 24-hour Valencia Tourist card gives you free transit and costs 15 EUR.

Valencia’s underground subway is particularly useful in the summer months because of the air conditioning. A one-way ride costs 1.50 EUR and the metro also reaches the airport.

If you’ll be taking bus and metro, purchase a SUMA card for 10 trips on city buses, metro, tram and suburban trains for 10EUR.

Getting to and from the airport is straightforward, with one-way city bus tickets costing 1.50 EUR.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented in the city, either per hour or per day, with prices varying depending on the season. Valenbisi is the public bike rental service with hubs all round the city. Expect to pay around 10-15 EUR per day (or just 6 EUR for three hours).

Taxis – Taxis start at 4 EUR (6 EUR at night), with the normal tariff being 1 EUR per additional kilometer. Skip them if you can as the prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber in Valencia lets you request traditional cabs. There is also an app called Cabify that works in a similar way.

When to Go to Valencia

Because of Valencia’s temperate climate (it sees more than 300 days of sun per year), beach season extends from July to October. During this time it can get crowded and accommodations prices are about 40% higher. If you don’t mind the crowds, this is the time of year to party all night at beach clubs. Expect daily highs above 31°C (88°F) in the summer.

Personally, I think the best time to visit is in late spring or early autumn when crowds haven’t peaked but the weather is still warm enough for swimming but not too hot for exploring on foot. At this time of year, you’ll be able to see and do everything you want (there are no major holidays or closings) but at a more relaxed pace.

In the winter (December-February), the weather is still comfortable, reaching highs of 18°C (65°F). While the crowds disappear during this time, some museums have shortened hours. In December, the old town is all lit up with Christmas lights.

Keep in mind during the Las Fallas de San José festival in March, accommodation books up quickly so allow plenty of time for planning (prices rise too).

How to Stay Safe in Valencia

Valencia is a safe place to visit. Violent crime is rare, but like other Spanish cities, pickpocketing is common (especially in the major tourist areas and on public transportation). Keep your valuables secure and out of sight at all times.

When at a cafe or restaurant, don’t leave any valuables like phones or bags on the table unattended. They can disappear quickly.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Several of the hostels have female-only dorm rooms, but these sometimes sell out befor the larger dorm rooms. For specific tips on staying safe, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on Spain. They’ll be able to provide specific advice that I, a man, can’t.

Tourist scams are prevalent as well, so keep an eye out for groups of kids trying to distract you, as they’re probably trying to take your money. Also, be wary of people offering to carry your luggage. They may try to charge you a large fee. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When out at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if intoxicated.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Valencia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Valencia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
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• Related Blogs

Visiting Valencia: The Complete Travel Guide

I have written many articles about visiting Valencia. From things to do in Valencia to where to stay, the best restaurants, and much more.

Valencia has been my home for a few years now and I love sharing tips to make your trip to Valencia the best it can be.

So, to make it easier for you, this is an overview of all the articles I have written about visiting Valencia.

Whether you’ve already started planning your trip or are just wondering if Valencia is worth visiting, I hope these articles will answer all your questions.

Visiting Valencia: Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Trip

1. the best things to do in valencia.

When you’re planning to visit Valencia, you probably want to know what the highlights of the city are . 

And maybe a few hidden gems too.

In this article I give you a very practical list of things to do in Valencia. From sights to see to what to eat.

Valencia really is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. And, even better, many of the things I list to see and do are free!

READ THE ARTICLE

2. Things to Do With Kids in Valencia

Are you visiting Valencia with kids?

Then you’ll be happy to hear that there actually is a lot to do in the city to keep your kids entertained .

From museums focusing on kids to one of the most unique playgrounds you’ve ever seen…

3. Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Valencia

Valencia has changed a lot in recent years and has become a lot more eco-friendly. So much so that it was named the  European Green Capital of 2024 .

In this article I share a wide range of activities, places to visit, restaurants to try, etc., all with a more sustainable focus.

READ THE ARTICLE  

4. Where to Stay in Valencia: the Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Valencia isn’t the biggest city you will ever visit, but it’s definitely big enough to have very distinct neighborhoods with different vibes and different pros and cons .

What the best place to stay is for you depends on your preferences.

In this article I share the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in, depending on what you want to see and do in the city.

5. How to Use the Metro & Save Money

Figuring out public transport when visiting a new city can be a pain.

Valencia only has a few metro lines so figuring out which one to take isn’t too difficult. Deciding which ticket to get gets a little more complicated though, especially if you don’t want to pay more than you have to.

In this article I explain how to use the metro when visiting Valencia, and specifically how to use the TuiN and SUMA cards , which can make using the metro cheaper and more convenient.

6. The Best Tapas Restaurants in Valencia

You can’t come to Spain without trying some tapas, right?

Valencia has a wide range of tapas places and some are definitely better than others.

If you’re visiting Valencia for the first time you’ll quickly end up in the touristy bars and restaurants that often charge too much for low quality, inauthentic food.

Therefore I wrote this article to help you find the better tapas bars around the city .

7. The Best Rooftop Bars in Valencia

It might just be me, but I love going to rooftop bars when exploring a new city.

It’s both a nice break from sightseeing and a great way to get a view of the city .

Valencia has a number of nice rooftop bars and I have been to all of them many times.

In this article I list all of the rooftop bars and their pros and cons.

8. The Best Paella Restaurants in Valencia

Did you know that Valencia is the birthplace of paella ?

So when you visit Valencia you definitely have to try some paella!

But the same as with tapas restaurants, many tourists visiting Valencia end up at restaurants that serve low quality paella and cater just to tourists.

Spoiler alert: most of the best paella restaurants are not in the city center or close to any of the must-visit sights.

So, you might have to factor in some extra time to get to these restaurants, but if you like authentic experiences I promise it’s worth it!

9. Taking a Paella Cooking Class in Valencia

Looking for something special to do when you visit Valencia?

Then I can highly recommend taking a paella cooking class !

It takes you to the local market to buy fresh ingredients and teaches you everything there is to know about this traditional dish.

Note: apart from the traditional paella you can also choose to cook a vegetarian or a seafood paella.

10. The Best Restaurants for Authentic Chinese Food in Valencia

Ok, tapas and paella are great, but after a few days of that, you might want to try something else.

And, Valencia has its own Chinatown with some great restaurants that are well worth checking out!

11. Camping Around Valencia

Although there are no campgrounds in the city itself, there are actually great options to go camping in the area.

Camping is very popular along the Spanish coast, especially as a summer vacation.

But not all campgrounds offer the same quality and facilities, which is why I wrote this article.

The article includes information about where to camp, rules & regulations, and a list of recommended campgrounds.

12. The Best Day Trips From Valencia

I’d say a complete Valencia travel guide should include some information about the surrounding area too.

Valencia is a great city to visit in itself. But if you have the time these day trips will give you a much more diverse experience.

From castles worth visiting to hikes, wineries, beaches, and more.

13. Celebrating Las Fallas in Valencia

If you happen to visit Valencia in March you have to check out this festival!

Las Fallas is truly unique… It starts with fireworks and giant street parties and ends with the burning of impressive statues that took a year to build.

Valencians are very proud of this festival and as a visitor it gives you an interesting look into an important part of their culture.

In fact, Las Fallas is such an important festival that it even made it onto UNESCO’s World Heritage List !

Things to Know Before Visiting Valencia

1. the weather in valencia.

It can get really hot in summer, especially in August, and surprisingly cold in winter, mostly in January and February.

You might not think of Valencia as a destination where it ever gets cold, and although the temperature won’t normally ever drop below zero degrees Celcius (32 degrees Fahrenheit), most houses don’t have central heating and are poorly insulated. This makes a mildly cold day all of a sudden feel a lot more unpleasant than you expected.

In summer temperatures occasionally hit 40 degrees Celcius (104 Fahrenheit) and with many places not having air conditioning, and you probably wanting to explore parts of the city on foot or by bicycle, this heat can get quite annoying!

I’d therefore say spring and fall are the best times to visit Valencia .

2. Tipping in Valencia

Most locals leave no tip and therefore most local bars and restaurants don’t expect you to do so either.

That being said, many bars and restaurants in the more touristy parts of the city have gotten used to tourists tipping and therefore expect it more, but it is never mandatory.

Salaries in Spain are quite low, especially for hospitality staff, so tips will always be appreciated .

I’d recommend at least leaving some small change, up to 10% of the value of the bill.

Tipping taxis isn’t very common, but simply rounding up the fare is appreciated and makes a cash transaction easier for the driver.

Tipping hotel staff or hairdressers and other services is not a common thing to do in Valencia.

3. Siesta in Valencia

Although more and more shops stay open all day long, you’ll still find some smaller shops and other businesses closed for siesta, which can be anywhere between 1pm and 5pm.

Almost all bars and restaurants stay open, but several restaurants won’t serve food from around 4pm until 7 or 8pm, which, if you like an early dinner, is something to keep in mind.

4. Taxis in Valencia

Taxis are relatively inexpensive in Valencia. They are a great option to get to places that take too long by public transport, or to get home at night after the metro has stopped running.

It’s generally fairly easy to just hail a taxi on the street, but there are also two taxi apps : Cabify and Free Now.

Cabify is most similar to Uber, and Free Now is the app from the traditional Valencia taxis. Both are good and offer similar prices. I’d recommend downloading both, because I’ve had times where Cabify couldn’t find me a driver and Free Now could, and the other way around.

5. The Beach and the City are Far Apart

I love Valencia but there is one thing that’s a bit annoying: the city center and the beach are located just far enough from each other to make it feel as if you have to choose between the two.

If you are a beach person and your main reason for visiting Valencia is to enjoy time by the beach, then definitely make sure your accommodation is close to the beach.

If you are visiting Valencia as a city break, then I’d recommend staying in the city center. But just know that going to the beach might then require a bus ride, a metro ride, or both, and probably a taxi ride back if you want to stay by the beach in the evening, as metros stop running and buses become very infrequent.

Or you can of course do what more and more locals do: cycle between the city center and the beach.

6. In August Most Things Close

Shops, bars, restaurants, and government offices; many of them close for most, if not all, of August.

August is when the Valencians traditionally leave the city to spend time in their summer homes.

This combined with the August heat for me is a reason to not recommend visiting Valencia in August. But, the city does get nice and quiet in August which gives it a vibe that is different from the rest of the year.

Useful Articles About Spain

If you are visiting Valencia, you might find these articles about Spain helpful as well.

1. Things to Know Before Traveling to Spain

In this article I answer some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Spain.

From questions about safety and prices to dos and don’ts when in Spain.

2. The Best Time to Visit Spain

Spain is a diverse country and the best time to visit depends both on where you want to go and what your reasons for visiting are.

This article explains it all.

3. Famous Spanish Food You Should Try

If you are anything like me, part of your reason for visiting Valencia, or any new place, is to try the local food.

And apart from paella and tapas there are quite a few other Spanish delicacies worth trying.

4. Christmas in Spain

Celebrating Christmas in Spain is a bit different from celebrating Christmas in most other countries.

For starters, Christmas here lasts 14 days!

So if you plan to visit Valencia around Christmas time you might want to read this article to find out more about how Christmas is celebrated here.

5. Facts About Spain

Do you want to know more about Spain and the Spanish? Then this list of facts about Spain is for you.

From useful to surprising and some shocking facts…

Have a Great Time Visiting Valencia!

Enjoy your trip to Valencia and feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions about this beautiful city.

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Valencia   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sergio Formoso | Getty Images

Why Go To Valencia

Valencia is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the wallet. The green hues found in the Jardí del Túria  contrast with the shimmering golden sand and sparkling cerulean waves lapping against its beaches. And the color of its oranges is as rich as the taste. Those who say this Spanish coastal city lacks any sense of charm may have never walked under the citrus trees as they drop blossoms onto the cobblestone streets or listened to the hum of the Valencian dialect amidst the produce stands of the Mercado Central . Although it has spent years hiding in the shadows of larger cities, Valencia now offers a mixture of Madrid 's history and Barcelona 's contemporary atmosphere for a slightly more wallet-friendly price tag.

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• # 3 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024
• # 17 in Best Places to Visit in Spain

Best of Valencia

Best hotels in valencia.

• # 1 in Caro Hotel
• # 2 in Only YOU Hotel Valencia
• # 3 in Hotel Palacio Vallier

Best Things to Do in Valencia

• # 1 in Central Market (Mercado Central)
• # 2 in City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts y les Ciencies)
• # 3 in Turia Gardens (Jardi del Turia)

Popular Tours

San Jose Caves Guided Tour from Valencia

(364 reviews)

from $ 76.56

Valencia Old Town Tour with Wine & Tapas in 11th Century Historic Monument

(1680 reviews)

from $ 83.21

Valencian paella workshop and visit to the Algiros market

(230 reviews)

from $ 71.01

Valencia Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Valencia are in April and May and September to October, the sweet spots full of warm weather and void of crazy crowds. In general, the city boasts a Mediterranean climate with consistently pleasant weather most of the year, although the extreme heat of August sees most locals shutting down businesses and fleeing north for cooler weather. Valencia sees an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. While average high temps range from 60 degrees in the cooler months to 85 degrees in the height of summer, don’t go unprepared for scorching hot days (and weeks), when the thermometer hovers around 95 to 100 degrees in July and August. Wintertime is pretty comfortable – between the mid-40s to mid-60s – and the city is more or less tourist-free. The downside is that certain attractions shorten their hours of operation.

Weather in Valencia

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Eat like a local Paella, a Spanish rice dish, originated in Valencia. Don't leave without trying it.

Drink like a local Valencians soak up their 300 days of sunshine on cafe terraces with a glass of wine or cold beer and several rounds of tapas. Don't be afraid to embrace their laid-back lifestyle.

Sleep like a local Do not expect to make plans with Valencians for the early afternoon. That time is reserved for the midday siesta , and many businesses are closed, apart from places like large department stores and eateries. Because of this, the Valencians generally do not sit down to dinner until 8:30 to 10 p.m.

How to Save Money in Valencia

Visit in the offseason Although some of the top sights switch over to winter hours, Valencia's hotels drop their prices from November to January.

Dine at the Mercado Central Plenty of restaurants centered on the Mercado Central offer prix fixe menus and great tapas for about 13 to 15 euros (around $14 to $16) per person.

Purchase a Valencia Tourist Card It comes with unlimited travel on the city's mass transit as well as free admission to municipal museums and monuments, discounts at the major museums, attractions and shops. Available in one- to three-day denominations, the cards are available for purchase at most tourist desks, in vending machines at the airport and online here .

Culture & Customs

Valencia is the capital of both the province and the autonomous community of the same name. It has two official languages, Spanish and the Valencian dialect of Catalan. (Be aware that Valencians prefer to call Spanish, or Espanol, Castellano, since Valencian, which locals consider a language and not a dialect, is Spanish too.) While Spanish predominates, the local government uses Valencian. This can create some confusion for visitors, as one or the other language (and sometimes both) may appear on streets signs. The bilingual residents of the city won't expect travelers from outside the province to know Valencian.

The siesta is observed in Valencia, meaning many businesses, including shops and some museums, will close for part of the afternoon, typically from around 1:30 or 2 p.m. to 4:30 or 5 p.m. The exceptions to this practice are restaurants, which may operate during the traditional siesta time, but close for a couple hours before reopening for dinner service around 8 or 9 p.m. (the standard starting time for the meal). Shopping malls and large supermarkets tend not to close for siesta. Many businesses (other than museums, cinemas, bars and restaurants) do not open at all on Sundays, or, if they do, will have shorter hours.

The official currency in Valencia is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to check the current exchange rate before you go. Most restaurants and stores accept major credit cards. As in the rest of Spain, tipping is not common in Valencia.

What to Eat

The best Spanish cuisine in located on the winding streets of Center City (especially in the Mercado Central ), while another top option are the cafes and tapas bars near La Avenida del Puerto. Many restaurants offer prix fixe lunch menus, which are a great way to sample Spanish cuisine without spending too many euros. Remember that the Spanish do not normally sit down to dinner until 8:30 p.m. at the earliest. If you find that your stomach is rumbling before it's time to eat, follow the Valencians to one of the many tapas bars located throughout the city.

Valencia is the birthplace of one of Spain's most popular dishes, paella . The paella Valenciana is a mixture of rice, seafood, meat and vegetables flavored with saffron.

Valencia is also known for its orange groves. Don't miss your chance to sample this juicy fruit the way Valencians do. If you're looking for some refreshment after a long day of sightseeing, order an agua de Valencia – a cocktail typically made from gin, vodka, cava (Spanish sparkling wine), sugar and freshly squeezed orange juice – at a sidewalk cafe. 

Visitors should relax while in Valencia: Although the city sees its fair share of petty theft, for the most part it's very safe. Guard against any petty theft by keeping an eye on your possessions, especially on the beaches. You should also exercise common sense at night: Solo travelers should stray from walking through unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, and all should refrain from strolling the Turia gardens after dark.

The U.S. Department of State recommends exercising increased caution when traveling through Spain due to threats of terrorism. Consider signing up for the Smart Travel Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to stay up to date on any alerts.

Getting Around Valencia

The best way to get around Valencia is by metro, which reaches as far as the Valencia Airport (VLC) about 5 miles west of the city. Public buses help supplement the metro coverage, but these can be confusing. Instead, consider walking or renting a bike to the closest sights and activities. We recommend forgoing the rental car: parking is near impossible to find, and the city's narrow streets can make driving difficult for visitors. If you think you'll be relying heavily on public transportation during your trip, consider purchasing the Valencia Tourist Card , which offers free travel on metro, tram and bus for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

From the airport, you can take metro lines 3 or 5 – both of which link the airport to the city center. Alternatively, the Aero-Bus connects the airport directly to the city center, whereas bus route No. 150 stops several times in the towns of Manises and Quart de Poblet, as well as the Mislata suburb, along the way. Taxis are another (more expensive) option. Fares cost a minimum of 20 euros (around $21.86) and include an airport surcharge of 5.40 euros (around $6).

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need your U.S. passport to enter Spain, and remember that it must be valid for at least three months after your departure. To stay longer than three months, you'll need to obtain a visa before you arrive in Spain. Families should be prepared to show proof of relationship if they are traveling with children, since the Spanish government is working hard to prevent international child abduction. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

The Torre del Miguelete offers spectacular views of Valencia.

Explore More of Valencia

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 3 in  Best Places to Visit in Spring

# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in March 2024

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14 Must-Know Valencia Travel Tips for First Time Visitors

I’m all about helping you make the most of each trip, so I thought a post dedicated solely to essential Valencia travel tips would be handy.

After sharing the best free things to do in Valencia and some hidden gems you should check out, I figured that the logistics and other tips I’ve learned from personal experience are equally as important.

So let’s dive into all the things you should know before planning a trip to the beautiful city of Valencia.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Trip Planning Tips for Visiting Valencia

How to get to valencia.

Both international and national flights arrive daily at Valencia’s airport, which is located only 10 km (about 6.2 miles) from the city center. You can also get to Valencia by train from Barcelona or Madrid.

Compare train and flight prices in one place on Omio (formerly GoEuro).

Where to Stay

The old district of Ciutat Vella is probably the best area to stay in Valencia ( unless you’re visiting during the Fallas festival when most of the city is closed for both private vehicles and buses – see my accommodation recommendations on my Fallas post ).

You’ll be at the center of all the action, surrounded by the most beautiful streets, historical landmarks, and countless restaurants and bars.

Here are a few highly-rated accommodations in Ciutat Vella :

Budget – Pensión Alicante : This guesthouse offers budget-friendly single, double, and triple rooms with either a shared or a private bathroom. Read reviews and book it here.

Mid-Range – L’Esplai Valencia : Located a stone’s throw away from Plaza de la Reina, this b&b offers spacious double and triple rooms with a small balcony. The area is packed with cafes and restaurants, and the hotel has a score of 9+ in every category. Read reviews and check availability.

Mid-Range – Sorolla Centro : This 3-star hotel is centrally located near Valencia’s train station and City Hall Square, and it offers spacious rooms for up to 3 people, some with a private terrace. The front desk is available 24/7, and you can also enjoy a highly-rated breakfast. Browse the latest prices here.

Luxury – Hotel Helen Berger : This 4-star hotel offers big modern rooms, 24/7 reception, an on-site restaurant, and optional breakfast. Check its latest prices and availability.

You can also find great places to stay in the hipster neighborhood of Ruzafa or the coastal neighborhood of Poblats Marítims .

Take Day Trips

I absolutely LOVE taking day trips outside the big city. Though Valencia itself is incredibly gorgeous and interesting, there are tons of places around it that are also worth the visit. Here are a few day trips from Valencia you can add to your itinerary:

1. Village of El Palmar and the Albufera National Park

If you’re looking for the best paella in Valencia , you should also visit the exact place where this iconic rice dish was born. The Albufera is Spain’s biggest lake, offering an interesting mix of natural landscapes and Valencian countryside magic. You can visit it on your own by bus (line 24 or 25) or book a half-day tour .

2. Port Saplaya

This colorful little coastal town is located only 8 km (less than 5 miles) away from Valencia and is easily reached by bus (line 112).

3. MORELLA & PEÑÍSCOLA

To step back in time, head to these two enchanting towns and their medieval castles. To visit them, book a guided day tour .

4. Other Ideas

If you’re a wine lover, you can also book a full-day wine tour of Valencia’s countryside . To sail down the longest underground river in Europe, book this highly-rated half-day caves tour .

If you’re traveling in a car, you can visit places like Torrevieja Pink Lake (Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja) or Tortosa .

Lastly, you can use Omio (formerly GoEuro) to compare bus and train prices and book a ticket from Valencia to beautiful nearby places like the city of Alicante or the historic towns of Sagunto , Xativa, and Denia .

When to Visit

As a coastal city sitting on the Mediterranean, Valencia offers pleasant weather from spring to fall.

While July and August are obviously the busiest months, March is when you can attend the most amazing festival called Las Fallas . Welcoming spring in Europe , this celebration is an experience of a lifetime. For more info, read my Fallas festival guide.

Valencia is also one of the best places to visit in Spain in winter . You can absorb some Christmas spirit yet enjoy much milder temperatures than other European winter cities have to offer.

How to Get Around

Valencia’s public transport system includes both Metro and buses, and you’re gonna need both to explore the city.

To get around Ciutat Vella (the old district and the most touristic part of Valencia), you can either walk or use buses. Surprisingly, the Metro is only convenient when you want to move between different neighborhoods of the city.

Another option to consider is a bike rental. With about ten different rental companies, it’s a super popular way to get around the city.

How to Get From the Airport

Apart from taxis, there are two easy ways to get to the city. Metro lines 3 and 5, and  bus number 150  (consult all stops  here ) go directly from the airport to the city center, and the journey should take about 30-45 minutes.

You Can Enjoy It on a Low Budget

I wouldn’t call Spain a budget-friendly destination, but there are plenty of places to visit in Spain that are suitable for all budget ranges, and Valencia is one of them.

From cheap eats and tapas bars to accommodations to attractions, you can enjoy the best of Valencia even if you’re on a tight budget. This city offers dozens of cheap and free things to do and see , including visiting some of its most famous landmarks.

You can also check out these free tours offered in Valencia:

• Free tour of Valencia
• Free street art tour
• Free mysteries and legends night tour

Valencia Tourist Card – Yes or No?

In comparison to other European city cards, the Valencia Tourist Card is pretty budget-friendly.

It offers unlimited use of public transportation and countless discounts you can check out here . However, whether it’s going to save you money depends on what exactly you want to do and see.

If you only have one day in the city and you won’t visit that many paid museums and sites, though the card isn’t expensive, I’m not sure it’ll be worth the investment.

For a longer stay, I’d consider purchasing it because it can potentially save you money, but again, it all depends on how many and which tourist spots you’re planning to visit ( many can already be visited for free but be sure to check out the full list of discounts ).

Read reviews and get your 24/48/72-hour Valencia Tourist Card here.

Learn Some Basic Spanish (And Valencian)

Like other places in Spain, the region of Valencia also has its own language called  Valenciano , which sounds similar to Catalan.

The locals also speak Spanish, but English is a whole other story. Most people speak very little English or not at all, so it’s better to know some basic phrases .

Go to a Football Game

Football is a huge part of the Spanish culture, and attending a game is a must.

The atmosphere and energy in the stadium, as well as the love of the fans for their team, are unbelievable. You don’t have to be a fan to enjoy and appreciate this experience.

Tickets are available on  Valencia CF’s official website , and you should purchase yours a few weeks in advance, if possible.

Food Related Valencia Travel Tips

Where to eat paella.

Paella, oh, paella. What’s better than getting the opportunity to feast on Spain’s most recognizable rice dish where it was actually born?

Now, I’m not saying there aren’t any tourist traps, but when you know where to find those traditional restaurants, you’re in for a major treat.

Here are a few of my most favorite spots to devour some authentic paella:

La Pepica (Passeig de Neptú, 6):  Opened in 1898 and beloved by Ernest Hemingway, this restaurant is one hell of an institution in Valencia. It is quite big, but still manages to feel homely and inviting, and the paella is delicious.

El Coso (Passeig de Neptú, 12):  From the decor to the service to the food itself, I had such a positive experience here. I would definitely go back for one more bite!

La Riua (Carrer del Mar, 27): With a unique decor of ceramic tiles and plates surrounding you and the most amazing food, the traditional atmosphere in this restaurant will surely win you over.

Good to know:  The paella is usually made for a minimum of 2 people, and the prices stated on the menus are for one person.

Here are several other recommendations for the best paella in Valencia.

Don’t Pay for Hotel Breakfast in Advance

Apart from the fact that a hotel breakfast in Spain is not always worth the money, Valencia is packed with the sweetest bakeries and cafes.

A few to check out are Ubik Cafe, La Petite Brioche, and Dulce de Leche, but you can find dozens of other great breakfast and brunch spots.

Other Valencia Tips

Don’t worry too much about the siesta.

In a big city like Valencia, not everything closes during siesta time.

You can go sightseeing in Valencia and visit museums from morning to evening, and most tapas bars and restaurants are open during these hours (1 PM – 4 PM) since it is when the locals eat their lunch.

It’s a Safe City

In general, Valencia is considered a very safe city (one of the safest in Spain) and can be a great solo travel destination.

Nevertheless, I always recommend following basic rules like watching your belongings and avoiding walking alone at night, just like you would in other cities.

Read more about Spain:

• Spain travel tips
• Spain’s hidden gems
• Spain travel quotes
• Best road trips in Spain
• Novels about Spain
• Spain themed gifts
• Monuments in Spain
• Long weekend breaks in Spain

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

Boasting one of the most modern set ups in the entire continent, Valencia blends seamlessly a millenary tradition with a deeply-rooted medieval heritage and the most futuristic environment available in the country. From the ecstatic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias to the Fallas and the cathedral, Valencia is altogether one of a kind. Spanish courses

About Valencia

• Introduction to Valencia
• Why Travel to Valencia?
• Food & Drink
• Photo Gallery

Planning Your Trip

• Travel to Valencia
• Property and Real Estate
• Accommodations
• Study Spanish
• Summer Language Camps
• Tourist Card
• City Transportation
• Flights to Valencia
• Car, Scooter, Bike Rentals
• Visas & Embassies
• Safety & Emergencies
• Cathedral & Around
• Ayuntamiento & Around
• City of Arts & Sciences

Culture & the Arts

• Architecture
• Movie Theaters

Out & About

• Restaurants

Trips from Valencia

• La Albufera

Spain Travel Guides

• Alicante Guide
• Cadiz Guide
• Cordoba Guide
• Granada Guide
• Ibiza Guide
• Madrid Guide
• Malaga Guide
• Marbella Guide
• Salamanca Guide
• San Sebastian Guide
• Sevilla Guide
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• Valencia Guide
• Zaragoza Guide

Valencia City Guide

Located on the east Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Valencia is Spain’s third largest city after Madrid and Barcelona and has quickly become one of the countries most exciting. From traditional paella to its world-famous Las fallas festival, Valencia has plenty to offer in terms of festivities and tradition making it one of the most interesting and important cities in Spain.

Valencia is one of the most beautiful cities in the country; with its exuberant variety of perfectly kept flora and lush gardens as well as breathtaking architecture and visitor attractions. From the Museum of Fine Arts to the Botanic Gardens, the city has something for everyone and rest assured you won’t be disappointed.

This travel guide to Valencia is the perfect companion to planning your trip to discover a city that you will never forget.

How to get there

As Spain's third largest city, you can imagine the constant waves of people flowing into and out of sunny, seaside Valencia.

What to See

Gently regulated by the sea upon which it sits, Valencia's pleasant Mediterranean climate means that any time is good for a Valencia trip.

The problem is that with so many things to do in Valencia, chances are you'll run out of time before you get to do it all!

Culture & the Arts

With artsy film houses, an incredible panorama of Spanish architecture and some of Spain's most famously fiery festivals, Valencia has a cultural scene that most cities can only dream about.

Due to its great location and unbeatable travel and transportation options, Valencia serves as a great starting point for a diverse and endless arrayof enticing day-trips. Read more

About Valencia intricate yet compelling history.

Sunny beach town, culinary pioneer, sophisticated metropolis, cultural trailblazer, historical hotbed, architecural mosaic, friendly home away from home... these are just some of the ingredients that mix together to create the Valencia we know and love.

How to Use this Guide

We are here to give you all the details for your trip to Valencia, from the stuff that you need to know before leaving home in Planning Your Trip to the best things to do once you're here in Out & About .

We've also developed sections like History , to give you some background on the city's past, and a Culture section that collects the most attractive leisure and cultural activities happening in town.

25 Best Things to Do in Valencia, Spain (2024 Travel Guide)

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Wondering what to do in Valencia to make the most of your trip to Spain? Whatever moves you when you travel, below you’ll find an extensive list of the very best things to do in Valencia .

With sun-kissed shores, friendly locals, world-famous landmarks, and crazy fiestas, Valencia is one of the best cities to visit in Spain and a wonderful choice for a long weekend break.

In this Valencia travel guide , I cover everything from top attractions and fun activities to scrumptious local delicacies you simply cannot miss when organizing your dream trip to Valencia .

Top 10 Things To Do in Valencia

Valencia is packed with spectacular buildings, gentrified neighborhoods, and peaceful green areas. This is my definitive list of what to see and do in Valencia for the time-conscious traveler.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit several museums and attractions, it might make sense to buy the Valencia Tourist Card. The card also includes unlimited free public transport around the city (including the metro to and from the airport).

1. Marvel at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is a mind-blowing architectural complex made up of six of the most famous buildings in Valencia. It is the attraction that put Valencia on the tourist map and a place worthy of your Spain bucket list .

The complex is situated at the southeast end of the former Turia riverbed. It consists of an opera house, an aquarium, a science museum, an IMAX theatre, a multipurpose covered plaza, and an outdoor art gallery.

It was designed by the world-famous Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava and is one of the 12 Treasures of Spain , right next to Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona .

The organic shapes of the buildings have an endless capacity to entertain and stimulate the mind. One looks like a giant eye. Another reminds me of a whale skeleton. Some are masterfully covered in shattered tile fragments and glitter in the sun.

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Valencia. You cannot leave without strolling around its blue pools of water. Maybe even hire a kayak, boat, or waterbike!

2. Visit Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe

Oceanogràfic is the jewel in the City of Arts and Sciences’ crown. It is the largest aquarium in Europe and has a mind-blowing array of sea creatures. Oceanogràfic ranks among the top places to see in Valencia and is one of the best places to visit in Valencia with kids.

You can walk through the longest underwater tunnel in Europe. Meet the only family of beluga whales on the continent. And watch the dolphins at play.

Every time I visited the fish looked happy and well cared for. So I actually felt good about being here. The aquariums are huge, clean, and faithfully reproduce each species’ habitat. So much so, that they even pump seawater from the nearby beach!

One of the most remarkable things you can do here is to join a shark sleepover. This activity is suitable for families and couples alike.

I recommend you plan 2+ hours for your visit so you can spend some quality time with the fish and the birdies.

If you want to elevate your experience to the next level, book a table at their in-house restaurant, Submarino. This underwater eatery serves modern and fusion cuisine with Mediterranean influences.

3. Walk through history in El Carmen

El Carmen is the atmospheric maze of cobblestone streets between Calle Quart and Calle de Serranos. It developed during medieval times between the Muslim and the Christian wall and is one of the six neighborhoods that form Valencia’s Old Town.

A stroll through El Carmen is like a trip into the past. Yet El Carmen is also bohemian and vibrant to the core and it brims with life regardless of the hour. Here you’ll find some of the best nightlife in Valencia . As well as some of the most interesting historical sites.

Look for Portal de Valldigna , the medieval arched door in the wall that used to separate the Arabs from the Christians. The first printing press in Spain was established right next to it back in the 1470s.

Climb the Serranos and Quart Towers , the only two city gates still standing. Relax in the shadow of a centenarian olive tree in Plaza del Árbol . Visit the Cats’ House , a curious monument to the thousands of street cats living in the city. Sample gourmet tapas inside Mossén Sorell Market . And wander around the peaceful cloisters of Centre del Carmen .

To learn more about El Carmen and Valencia’s Moorish past, check out this private walking tour led by a local. During the tour, you’ll visit some of the best places in Valencia and explore the medieval heart of the city.

4. Discover the glorious past of Valencia’s Silk Exchange

Between the 14th and 18th centuries, Valencia was a very important silk producer. This led to the Valencian Golden Age (15th and 16th centuries), a period of rapid economic growth.

During this time, Valencia was one of the most influential cities in the Mediterranean and even funded Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the Americas. Culture and arts flourished. The University of Valencia was founded. And La Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange) was built.

In its heyday, this imposing building was a splendid commercial emporium. The Main Hall, with its majestic palm-tree-shaped columns, was used to attract merchants from all over Europe.

Nowadays, La Lonja is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the main attractions in Valencia. Entrance is free with the Valencia Tourist Card.

If you’d like to learn more about the historical legacy of the silk trade in Valencia, I highly recommend joining a tour. Besides a visit to La Lonja, the tour also takes you inside the newly opened Silk Museum and around the old Velluters (now El Pilar) neighborhood.

This neighborhood is where the silk weavers guild was based during the 17th and 18th centuries. You can still find many shops selling gorgeous silk fabrics here, which you should really check out.

5. Learn about the intriguing history of the Holy Grail of Valencia

Several cities around the world claim to have the Holy Grail, the cup Jesus drank from at the Last Supper. But none of them seems to have a stronger claim than Valencia.

Valencia’s Holy Grail has been in the city ever since the 15th century and nowadays it is on display in one of the chapels inside the Cathedral.

Visiting the imposing Cathedral should be on your list of things to do in Valencia regardless, for it is a unique mix of architectural styles. Besides the Holy Grail, it hosts two Goya paintings and various religious relics, including the mummified arm of St. Vincent the Martyr, the patron saint of Valencia.

For the best panoramic views over Valencia, climb the spiral staircase inside the Gothic bell tower (affectionately called Miguelete). Just beware that there are 207 narrow steps up to the summit.

If you want to set out on a quest to learn about the contested history of the Holy Grail, there’s no better way to do so other than by joining a tour. The tour includes a visit to several places of worship and ends up with a paella lunch.

Hot tip: Other churches worth visiting are Iglesia del Patriarca for its baffling dragon; Basílica de la Virgen de Los Desamparados , a beautiful oval church connected to the cathedral; Iglesia de San Esteban for its extravagant blue vegetal patterns; Iglesia de San Nicolas for its incredibly ornate ceiling and Iglesia de San Juan del Hospital , Valencia’s oldest church.

6. Be amazed by the Palace of the Marques de Dos Aguas

The Palace of the Marques de Dos Aguas is one of the best places to visit in Valencia for Rococo architecture. It dates back to the 15th century and was originally built in the Gothic style. Later on, during the 18th century, the palace got a Rococo facelift at the hand of Hipólito Rovira.

The most notable feature of the palace is its ornate facade replete with symbolism. For example, the statues of the two naked men on each side of the entrance represent the largest rivers of the Valencian community — Turia and Júcar.

The second floor houses the most important ceramics museums in Spain. Here you can find painted tiles, plates, and other objects from different time periods. The most striking bit, however, is the painstakingly reconstructed traditional Valencian kitchen.

If ceramics aren’t your cup of tea, the palace is still worth visiting for its lavish interiors on the first floor. The rooms are a spectacular combination of rococo, neoclassical, and oriental elements. Think painted ceilings, period furniture, and a small collection of early 20th-century paintings by Pinazo.

Personally, I’m in love with both the porcelain room and the ballroom. But the two extravagant carriages on the ground floor are nothing short of amazing as well.

7. Hang out in Ruzafa

Ruzafa is Valencia’s most gentrified neighborhood. It is the place to be if you are into curiosity shops, nightlife, and good food.

A few years ago, this barrio was in such a state of decay that it wasn’t even worthy of a second look. Yet now it is a young and artsy place with colorful architecture, fun cafés, and a lively atmosphere.

Ruzafa is a neighborhood of family-owned businesses and Airbnbs. You’d be hard-pressed to find any coffeehouse chains or hotels here. What you’ll find instead, is a traditional local market with fresh, top-quality produce. An art deco building that looks like a wedding cake ( Casa Judía at 20 Calle Castellón ). And endless pavement cafés.

Stop by Ubik Café , the bookstore/café that kickstarted the whole movement of regeneration. Try some paella with a twist at Masusa Bar — their spicy paella is legendary! Have some local craft beer at Olhöps or Ruzanuvol . And dance the night away at one of the many dance clubs.

Ruzafa also has several great brunch spots, such as Café ArtySana , Bluebell Café, and Kea . And if you have a sweet tooth, La Más Bonita and Dulce de Leche are mandatory visits. For more ideas see the best brunch cafés in Valencia .

8. Soak up Valencia’s Art Nouveau architecture

If you’re an architecture lover looking for some free things to do in Valencia, you’re in luck. Valencia is a city of gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings, beautiful wrought-iron balconies, and elegant street lamps. All you have to do is walk around Pla del Remei and Gran Via neighborhoods in the Eixample district and you’ll find stylish buildings for days.

Valencia embraced Art Nouveau amid soaring urban growth. This art movement swept across Europe just decades after the demolition of Valencia’s city wall. So it caught the city in a moment when urban development and expansion were in full swing.

As a result, a great number of Art Nouveau buildings were built. And many are still standing today.

Among the most emblematic Art Nouveau buildings in the beautiful city of Valencia are the Central Market and Colon Market . The former still serves the role of a traditional food market. While the latter was refurbished and reimagined into an elegant gastro market.

Another dazzling Art Nouveau building is the Post Office in City Hall square. I encourage you to pop inside for a minute to see its impressive glass ceiling.

Last but not least, head to the North Train Station . This is an Art Nouveau jewel inside out and a must-visit place in Valencia. If you think the facade is impressive, wait until you step inside. The main hall still preserves the old wooden ticket desks, gorgeous stained glass windows, and tiled columns.

Besides these imposing structures, you’ll also find dozens of Art Nouveau residential buildings all around the city center. I particularly like the ones on Calle de Cirilo Amorós, Gran Via del Marquéz de Túria, and the nearby streets.

9. Witness cuteness overload at Bioparc

If you visit Valencia with kids or simply love to see cute animals, you’ll love Bioparc. Personally, I’m not a big zoo fan but heard so many great things about this one that in the end I had to see it with my own eyes.

At the core of Bioparc is the concept of zoo immersion and this is precisely what makes it unique and worth visiting. The natural habitat of the animals was painstakingly recreated and cages were banned so that animals have plenty of space to move around.

Groups of animals that normally coexist in the wild share the same space and socialize. While predatory species are kept separate, yet still present in the visual space.

Due to the clever design and high standards of animal welfare, Bioparc was voted one of the top 10 zoos in the world on Tripadvisor.

If you need some extra cuteness in your life, don’t hesitate to put Bioparc on your list of must-visit places in Valencia. This zoo park is one of the coolest parks in Valencia and the next best thing to a safari visit. Plus you’ll have the chance to get close and personal with nearly a thousand animals from 100+ species in a matter of hours.

Hot tip: The lemurs are everyone’s favorite but don’t miss the elephants’ bathing sessions either.

10. Chill out in the sun at Valencia’s beaches

Valencia has miles upon miles of fine golden sand beaches surprisingly accessible from the city center.

The best beaches in Valencia are Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de Cabanyal (also known as Playa de Las Arenas). They are both wide stretches of sand and rarely feel crowded, which makes them perfect for getting a nice tan or going for a swim.

Along the palm tree-lined promenade you’ll find some really good paella restaurants as well as a street market (summer months only). If you’re in need of last-minute stuff like beach towels, swimsuits, or toys, this is the place to go.

The nearby port with all its posh yachts is my favorite and the clubs here are some of the best in Valencia. Whether you want to relax with a mojito on a terrace or dance the night away, it hardly gets any better.

If you’re looking for some cool things to do in Valencia at the beach, you can take a stand-up paddleboarding lesson, go on a full-day sailing trip, or join a sunset catamaran cruise.

Hot tip: The nearby Fabrica de Hielo is a hipster space in an old refurbished ice factory where you can have a drink and listen to live music. For a quick informal bite, go to Mercabanyal , an open-air gastro space. You really need to try the pizza with pumpkin from Sorsi e Morsi!

Other Fun Things To Do in Valencia

The above might be the most important of Valencia’s attractions, but there’s still a lot more left to be explored. Valencia is packed with fun things to do and these activities are proof of it.

11. See a mind-blowing flamenco performance

Flamenco originated in the south of Spain. It’s a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and it fuses intense lyrics and passionate dance movements accompanied by a guitar.

While not typically from Valencia, seeing a flamenco show should still be on your list of things to do. The only trouble is that there aren’t many flamenco bars or tablaos flamencos in Valencia. However, the ones that do exist, put on high-quality shows that give Seville a run for its money.

If you want to enjoy a good flamenco show in Valencia, you must stop by either La Buleria or El Toro y La Luna. Both places offer authentic flamenco shows with dinner in a typical tablao . Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Now, the former is close to Ruzafa while the latter is close to El Cabanyal and the beach. Neither one is centrally located, but La Buleria is considerably closer to the Old Town. Whichever you choose, it’s likely you’ll have to return by cab. But don’t get discouraged, because cabs in Valencia are really inexpensive.

12. Explore Valencia on two wheels

Valencia is a very health-conscious city and has an extensive network of bike lanes that connect the city center with the neighborhoods. So one fun activity I highly recommend you to try in Valencia is biking.

The urban bike-sharing scheme in Valencia is called Valenbisi. But their bikes are a bit heavy and they all have the same size. If you are traveling with kids or you simply don’t want to hassle with a heavy bike, you should consider renting your bike from a specialized shop.

My favorite biking route is through Turia Park. There are over 8 km (5 miles) of bike lanes either way and the terrain, like anywhere else in Valencia, is blissfully flat.

If you want to transform this into a cultural experience, you can join a guided bike or Segway tour. This way you’ll have a knowledgeable guide explain to you all the sights you are passing by. Plus you’ll also get to meet new people.

13. Get your kitty fix at the Botanical Garden

If you’re looking for the purrfect thing to do in Valencia, head to the Botanical Garden, close to Torres de Quarts, on the fringe of the El Carmen neighborhood.

These gardens are home to 50+ street cats and are perfect for indulging in your petting urges. The cats are well cared for by volunteers who come and feed them daily and take them to the vet when needed. They are living their best life, snuggling with the visitors, keeping the mouse population down, and looking adorable in the sun.

The gardens are beautiful and well cared for as well. They were founded in the 16th century and for a while, they were used to cultivate medicinal plants.

During the 19th century, the gardens fell into neglect, until the University of Valencia undertook the restoration project. Currently, the gardens are a wonderful place for all, with meandering paths, beautiful tropical plants, and interesting-looking buildings.

I particularly love all the ginormous palm trees and the stunning collection of succulents and cacti.

14. Discover Valencia’s fascinating street art scene

If you’re looking for alternative things to do in Valencia, you should go for a stroll through Valencia’s Old Town. Take the narrow streets and look beyond the guidebook attractions and you’ll soon discover Valencia’s fervent street art scene.

You’ll find graffiti by Escif, also known as the Spanish Banksy. The gorgeous illustrations with Japanese influences and whimsical girls of Julieta XLF (my favorite Valencian street artist). And the thought-provoking works of Blu, Cere, Pichiavo, and Barbi & Hope XLF.

Most murals adorn crumbling old buildings that still abound in this part of the city. They infuse them with new life and transform the Old Town into a giant open-air museum.

If you want to see the best murals, join a street art tour and learn how Valencia has become one of Spain’s most important urban art hubs

15. Take a deep breath and relax in Valencia’s parks

Valencia’s parks and gardens are wonderful if you want to stretch your legs, take in some vitamin D, relax with a good book or have a picnic.

Turia Park is one of the most popular green spaces in Valencia and a glorious haven running through the heart of the city. This is the largest urban garden in Spain and it stretches along the former riverbed of the River Turia, now diverted to the outskirts of the city. Here you’ll find endless footpaths, bike lanes, jogging trails, sports facilities, pine woods, rose gardens, ponds, and a fun playground with a giant Gulliver in the middle.

Viveros Gardens , also known as the Royal Gardens, with their monumental trees, are another popular choice. As is the newly opened Central Park , a stunning landscaped garden with flower beds, vegetable plots, romantic vine-covered paths, fountains, and a meadow.

Lesser known are Monforte Gardens , smaller in size, but impossibly pretty. This lush enclave boasts a wealth of gorgeous marble statues, a fish pond, cypress hedges, and a bougainvillea-covered pergola. Once a vegetable garden, they are now some of the oldest gardens in Valencia dating back to mid 19th century.

Hot tip: Take advantage of the strong local cheese and sausage culture and pack some tasty treats along with a blanket. A picnic in the park is one of the most fun things to do in Valencia on a budget and is suitable for all ages.

16. Nose around the world’s largest miniature museum

Hosted inside a gorgeous 15th-century Gothic palace, L’Iber is the world’s largest museum of historical miniatures. Today, the museum exhibits to the public almost 100,000 tin soldiers. However, the entire collection is estimated at 1 million pieces.

Throughout the museum, there are countless replicas of famous battles that shaped the face of the earth from Prehistory to the present. On a lighter note, the museum has a whole room dedicated to fashion and even Star Wars related exhibits.

The visit can be fun for the whole family. L’Iber is a great place to visit in Valencia on a rainy day (not that it rains very often!) since it’ll keep you busy for a good couple of hours.

The museum is located in El Carmen, not far from the Cathedral. It’s a quirky attraction and a little different from everything else you’ll do in Valencia, so why not give it a try?

17. See the artist’s studio at the Benlliure House-Museum

It’s not often that you can visit a 19th-century household belonging to the local middle class. So if you’re curious in the slightest, you should really visit the Benlliure House Museum.

The Benlliures were a family of talented Valencian artists (painters and sculptors). Their former house, a short walk from the Serranos Towers, tells the fascinating tale of everyday life in the Benlliure home.

This is one of my favorite places to visit in Valencia, in part due to the gorgeous workshop of Jose Benlliure. The workshop is packed with paintings and objects he collected throughout his life and has an amazing atmosphere.

My second favorite thing to do here is to relax in the beautiful gardens, so skilfully concealed from the noise of the street. In a city where private gardens aren’t really a thing, this is quite a fascinating discovery.

The house is decorated with period furniture, as well as paintings and sculptures by the Benlliures. The upper floors host temporary exhibitions.

18. Step into the past at the Archaeological Museum

I know, I know, archaeological museums aren’t usually fun. But Almoina is not your average archaeological museum. You won’t find boring exhibits and broken pottery here. Instead, you’ll be allowed to wander the streets of Valencia as it was two millennia ago.

The whole museum is well below street level and the remains of the Roman city ( Valentia ) are still in situ.

You can see wells and fragments of the city’s first buildings, a temple, and the 2nd-century thermal baths. Plus you can stand at the crossroads of Via Augusta and Decumano Máximo. How cool is that!

One of the interesting (modern) features of the museum is the glass ceiling with a thin layer of water that casts interesting shadows over the ruins. Although the guided visits are in Spanish only, walking the streets of Roman Valencia can still be a lot of fun.

19. Browse some cool boutiques

Being Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia is, as you’d expect, a great shopping destination. And with an increasing number of pedestrian-only streets, it’s only getting better.

For clothes and accessories head to Calle Colón . This is Valencia’s main shopping artery with several El Corte Ingles department stores and many fast fashion brands. If, on the other hand, you’d like a bit more variety, Calle San Vicente (between Plaza de España and Plaza de la Reina) might be more down your alley.

Looking to make a difference? Then find your way to El Carmen or Ruzafa neighborhoods. Here you’ll find many small boutiques and up-and-coming Valencian designers, as well as thrift stores and souvenir shops run by local artists.

20. Witness the craziness of Las Fallas

From the 1st to the 19th of March, Valencia celebrates the Las Fallas festival. Attending it is one of the most fun, crazy and unusual things to do in Valencia.

Las Fallas is possibly the largest street party in Europe. It’s also a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It combines tradition, satire, music, creativity, and a whole lot o food.

During Las Fallas, time is measured in cups of hot chocolate, cones of churros , and other traditional Las Fallas foods. There are firecracker shows, fire parades, huge cardboard puppets, and a sea of locals in traditional attire.

As if all this wasn’t extravagant enough, 700+ bonfires are lit up on the last day of the festival at midnight throughout the city.

Yeah, I know, that’s a lot to wrap your head around. That’s why I wrote a separate post about Las Fallas festival. But seriously, the best you can do is just hop on a flight and see it for yourself.

If you visit Valencia at any other time of the year, you can check out the Fallas Museum and see some of the cardboard puppets that were spared throughout the years. This museum is close to the City of Arts and Sciences and while it’s not the same as experiencing Las Fallas in person, it will still give you an idea of the mastery involved.

And if you’d like to attend other fiestas as well, check out this list of the best festivals in Valencia .

Foodie Things To Do in Valencia

Valencia is not only the birthplace of the world-famous paella but also home to countless bars, coffee shops, and restaurants serving lesser-known delicacies. Besides visiting landmarks and relaxing on the beach, eating your way around the city can be equally fun.

21. Feast on paella and master the art of cooking it yourself

Paella is possibly the best-known Spanish dish in the world. Yet paella is not a staple food throughout Spain, but a regional dish from Valencia.

Obviously, this means paella should be at the top of your list of foods to eat in Valencia. So the million-dollar question is, where?

Sadly, exquisite paella isn’t that easy to find. But don’t fret. I’ve already put together a list of restaurants that serve the best paella in Valencia . As a rule of thumb, most beachside restaurants and eateries around Albufera know what they are doing.

Aside from feasting on paella and learning how to recognize one that is worthy of your time and money (see these paella fun facts to learn more) I also recommend taking a paella cooking class while in Valencia.

Cooking classes are always fun and a surefire way to impress friends and family upon your return home. But in this particular case, they are also an opportunity to demystify what is and what isn’t an authentic paella Valenciana .

Some paella cooking classes start with a visit to a local market in the company of a chef and is followed by a fun paella cooking class. At the end of the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

22. Go on a tapas tour

A night out in Valencia often involves tapas accompanied by local craft beer or wine. Tapas are small portions of food and anything can be served tapas-style. This means you can try various dishes in one meal and explore the local cuisine more. See what are tapas throughout Spain (the concept changes from one region to the next).

Ir de tapas is a custom embraced all over Spain and one of the best things to do in Valencia at night. However, while in Madrid and Seville , you’d normally order one tapa with each drink and then move to the next bar, in Valencia the locals like to order several tapas in one place. The tapas are then placed in the middle of the table and shared between all diners.

Tapas in Valencia can be anything from a ham and cheese platter to deep-fried cuttlefish and esgarraet (a cured cod dish). And from pimientos de Padrón (small, green peppers) to patatas bravas and croquettes.

Montaditos (or pintxos ), typical from the San Sebastian region in the north of Spain, have also taken Valencia by storm. And some restaurants even serve fusion tapas.

I do encourage you to try as many different tapas and tapas bars while visiting Valencia. However, if you’re pressed for time, I recommend you join a food tour. Food tours are the best way to indulge in the local cuisine, eliminate guessing and avoid tourist traps.

The best food tour in Valencia right now combines a guided visit to the City of Arts and Sciences with a 10-course meal and wine tasting on the highest terrace in Valencia.

23. Eat your way around Mercado Central

No Valencia travel guide is complete without a mention of Mercado Central (Central Market). This magnificent Art Nouveau building is foodie heaven and strolling along its alleys is a must for all food and architecture enthusiasts.

Stop by one of the many colorful stalls and grab some fresh fruits from the nearby orchards. Walk along rows of hanging hams and an ocean of fresh seafood. Stop by a bakery. And indulge in the great selection of aged cheeses and olives available.

Last but not least, have a coffee break at Retrogusto . And stop by Central Bar by Ricard Camarena (a Michelin-starred local chef) for delicious tapas and sandwiches.

The market is just perfect for people-watching. Take a moment to listen to the murmur of voices marking the rhythm of daily life. And let yourself be engulfed by the hustle and bustle of this thriving place.

Valencia’s Mercado Central is the largest covered food market in Europe and my favorite food market in Spain. Plus it’s super accessible and within walking distance from other must-visit places, like the Cathedral and the Silk Exchange.

24. Indulge in a glass of horchata at Mercado de Colon

Horchata is a refreshing local drink made with chufa aka tigernuts (a tuber with hints of almond and hazelnut that grows in the fields of Alboraya, north of Valencia). It is sweet, nutritious, vegan-friendly, and the perfect pick-me-up after a long day of sightseeing.

On a hot summer afternoon, you can spot many locals sipping horchata on a terrace and it’s safe to say that this drink is a bit of a local obsession.

Horchata can be enjoyed in cafés, specialist horchaterias , as well as small stands around the Old Town. But my favorite place is Mercado de Colon, a magnificent iron and brick building.

In terms of relaxing things to do in Valencia, the modernist Mercado de Colon ticks all the boxes.

This lively gastro market is packed with cozy cafés, bars, elegant terraces, and fancy restaurants. At the lower level, you can still find a small fresh food market while the upper level hosts temporary craft fairs.

Here you’ll find Suc de Lluna , one of the best horchaterías in Valencia. It’s also one of the few if not the only place that serves sugar-free horchata (you can add sugar to taste).

For fine-dinning, stop by Habitual by Ricard Camarena (one of Valencia’s most celebrated chefs).

25. Enjoy a refreshing agua de Valencia cocktail

The sweet Valencian oranges are famous worldwide but the locals really know how to make good use of them at any hour of the day.

In Valencia, oranges are used to prepare homemade salad dressings and cakes. Served as freshly squeezed juice for breakfast. And as one of the main ingredients in agua de Valencia .

Granted, none of the ingredients of this refreshing drink is agua (water), but it’s a catchy name that always makes me smile. Instead, this tasty cocktail is made with cava (local sparkling wine), orange juice, vodka, and gin.

My favorite places for sipping agua de Valencia are Café de las Horas , Café Madrid, and Café Infanta in the Old Town. But you’ll find it on the menu of many bars around the city and it’s a good excuse to relax on a terrace in the late afternoon.

You can also buy bottled agua de Valencia from select shops, many of which are located inside or around Mercado Central. This can be a great souvenir for somebody at home (see my favorite souvenir shops in Valencia ). But since you’re in Valencia, do yourself a favor and actually order it at the bar.

Things To Do Near Valencia

Looking for even more things to do while in Valencia? You can discover the area by renting a car, taking the train, or joining a tour. Here are a few ideas:

• Albufera. This is one of the largest wetlands on the Iberian peninsula and the birthplace of paella. You can plan your day around strolling through the rice fields, going on a boat ride, and eating delicious paella.
• Utiel-Requena wine country. These two inland towns are known for their millennia-old wine-making tradition and man-made underground caves. However, visiting them isn’t the easiest thing to do by public transport.
• Sierra Calderona mountains. Wanna escape into nature for a few hours? This natural park not far north is one of the most representative Valencian landscapes. The rough terrain might not be suited for a rental car.

Want even more ideas? Check out these fun day trips from Valencia .

What to do in Valencia when it rains?

Valencia has over 300 days of sunshine per year, but if you happen to visit on one of those rainy days, brace yourself, because in Valencia, when it rains, it pours. So the best thing to do is plan some indoor activities, such as:

• Visit some museums – Oceanographic, Museo de Bellas Artes (fine arts museum), IVAM (modern art museum), Museo de la Seda (silk museum, different from La Lonja), and Principe Felipe Science Museum are all large and great options for a rainy day
• Go shopping at the mall – Aqua, El Saler, and Novo Centro are all great options. El Corte Inglés has several department stores in Valencia as well.
• Watch a flamenco show – La Bulería, Palosanto (close to the beach), El Toro y La Luna, and La Linterna (most central) are all great options
• Catch a concert – options range from a classical music concert at Palau de la Musica or an opera at the Palau de Les Arts Reina Sofia to enjoying some live music in a bar
• Take a paella cooking class – check out this paella cooking class that includes a visit to a local market as well as a 3-course meal

What are the most popular things to do in Valencia with kids?

Valencia is a very kid-friendly city and you’ll have no trouble keeping the little ones entertained. Among the most popular things to do with kids are:

• A visit to the City of Arts and Sciences, especially the Oceanographic (the largest aquarium in Europe) and the Principe Felipe Science Museum (which is wonderfully educational with plenty of interactive exhibits)
• Spending the day at Bioparc, a zoo safari where animals are allowed to roam freely
• Check out Gulliver Park (in the old Turia riverbed). This one-of-a-kind playground features a large-scale Gulliver that kids can climb. It has recently undergone extensive renovations
• Older kids might enjoy exploring Valencia by segway or joining a bike tour
• Tired of lugging the kids around? Take the hop-on-hop-off bus tour and explore Valencia the easy way
• Visit L’Iber, the largest tin soldier museum in the world
• Spend the day at the beach

What are the best things to do in Valencia for free?

Valencia is quite budget-friendly when compared to other European cities and even with ever-popular Spanish cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. The top things to do in Valencia for free are:

• Discover the City of Arts and Sciences. This futuristic complex is free to walk around. You’ll only have to pay if you decide to enter the attractions.
• Stroll along the former Turia riverbed – this huge park crosses the whole city. All the other parks in Valencia, except for the Botanical Garden, are free to visit as well
• Visit Museo de Bellas Artes and Centre del Carmen – free entry year-round. Most other museums in Valencia are also free on Sunday morning
• Explore Barrio del Carmen and Barrio de Ruzafa, two of the most interesting neighborhoods in Valencia. El Carmen also has plenty of street art to see
• Wander around Valencia’s markets

What are the top attractions to visit in Valencia?

Valencia has some fantastic attractions, but some of them really hit it out of the ballpark! The top attractions in Valencia are:

• The City of Arts and Sciences – you really cannot miss this one
• La Lonja de la Seda – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Las Fallas – Valencia’s most popular festival and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
• The Cathedral – it’s believed to host the Holy Grail
• The Central Market – the largest covered food market in Europe hosted in a fantastic Art Nouveau building

What to do in Valencia in 1 day?

If you only have 1 day in Valencia (although I really recommend spending 3 days in Valencia ), here’s what I recommend you to do, eat and see:

• Morning – explore the Old Town, including the Central Market and La Lonja. To better understand the city, join an inexpensive guided walking tour of the historic center. Alternatively, you can book a custom tour with a local (it includes hotel pick-up) and create your own itinerary. If exploring a city on two wheels is more your thing, this super popular bike tour packs a lot of attractions, from the Old Town all the way to the modern City of Arts and Sciences
• Lunch – have paella in one of these restaurants
• Afternoon – visit the City of Arts and Sciences. The most popular attraction here is the Oceanographic. If you’d like to learn more about this complex, I highly recommend this City of Arts and Sciences tour because it ends up with a unique tapas and wine-tasting experience on one of the best rooftop terraces in Valencia, which can be a nice way to end your day in Valencia

Read more: 25 Valencia fun facts you probably didn’t know

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• 1.1 Visitor information
• 1.2 Climate
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.4 By boat
• 4.1 On foot
• 4.2.1 By metro
• 4.2.2 By bus
• 4.3 By tourist bus
• 4.4 By bicycle
• 5.1 Monuments and architecture
• 5.2 Museums
• 5.3 Art museums and galleries
• 5.4 Parks and gardens
• 5.5 Neighbourhoods
• 6.1.1 Key events and dates
• 6.1.2 Falles museums
• 6.2 Other festivals
• 6.3 Performing arts
• 6.4 Planetarium and cinemas
• 6.5 Beaches
• 6.6 Spectator sports
• 7.1 Spanish
• 7.2 Cooking
• 8.1 Food markets
• 8.2 Street markets
• 8.3 Bookshops
• 8.4 Shopping centres
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Traditional regional drinks
• 10.2 Cafés and horchaterías
• 10.3 Bars and bodegas
• 10.4 Nightclubs
• 11.1.1 Hostels
• 11.1.2 Hotels
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 13 Stay safe
• 15.1 Outskirts
• 15.2 Further afield

Valencia ( València in Catalan/Valencian) is a charming old city and the capital of the Valencian Community . With just over 830,000 inhabitants in 2023, it is Spain ’s third-largest city and, after Barcelona, the most significant cultural centre along the Spanish Mediterranean coast. It is the capital of the autonomous Valencian Community, and is known for tourism and cuisine. In March visitors flock to the city for the annual UNESCO-listed Falles celebration, but the city is worth visiting at other times of year for its paella, ultramodern architecture, and good beaches.

Understand [ edit ]

The Spanish name Valencia is pronounced [baˈlenθja] (bahl-EHN-thyah), while the Valencian pronunciation of València is [vaˈlensia] (vahl-EHN-see-ah).

Valentia Edetanorum was established as a Roman colony in the second century BCE. In the early 8th century CE the Moors invaded, and Balansiyya became the capital of the Muslim Taifa of Valencia, thriving as a trading centre for paper, silk, ceramics, glass, and silver. With a brief interlude of Christian control in the 11th century under El Cid, the city remained in Muslim hands until the Christian Reconquista led by King Jaime I of Aragon in 1238, and was incorporated as a kingdom under the Crown of Aragon.

Valencia experienced its golden age in the 15th century, with a growing population and flowering of Valencian culture and the arts. Significant monuments from this period include the cathedral’s Micalet , the UNESCO-listed Llotja de la Seda , and the Torres de Serrano ( Serrano Tower ). During this period it became one of the most influential cities of the Mediterranean, and helped to fund Christopher Columbus's first voyages to the Americas.

In 1609 the Spanish government ordered the expulsion of all Jews and Moriscos from the kingdom to north Africa. Muslim descendants made up about a third of the population of Valencia and the surrounding region, and their forced removal brought about a major economic downturn, and in some nearby communities, economic collapse. It was more than a century before the city began to recover.

In the 20th century, Valencia was the capital of Republican Spain from 1936 to 1939, and during the Spanish Civil War sustained heavy bombardment by Franco’s forces, both by air and sea. Franco retaliated for Valencia’s Republican past with cultural and ideological repression, and forbade the use of the Valencian language. In 1957 the Túria River overflowed its banks leading to catastrophic flooding of the old city centre with more than 80 dead. The river was consequently diverted to the south of the city, but it was not until the return of democracy that the original abandoned riverbed was finally converted into a park – now one of the city’s most outstanding features.

In the 21st century Valencia has continued to evolve. In 2007 and 2010 the city hosted the America’s Cup , and from 2008 to 2012 hosted the Formula One European Grand Prix . Architecturally, too, the city has changed, most notably with the construction of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències ( City of Arts and Sciences ) by internationally-renowned Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. The 2015 election of a new leftist coalition city council, after decades of control by the conservative Partido Popular (PP), brought renewed focus on expanding and improving existing infrastructure, including adding three new metro lines and expanding the city’s already extensive bicycle path network. This ongoing transformation has turned a once little-considered medium city into a meatier and more interesting destination.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• 39.47453 -0.37512 1 Tourist Info Valencia - Reina , Plaça de la Reina, 19 ( main office ), ☏ +34 963 153 931 , fax : +34 963 153 920 , [email protected] . M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; closed 25 Dec and 1-6 Jan . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.46957 -0.37599 2 Tourist Info Valencia - Ayuntamiento , Plaça de l'Ajuntament, s/n ( booth in the plaza by city hall ), ☏ +34 963 524 908 . M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; closed 25 Dec and 1-6 Jan . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• Tourist Info Valencia - Airport , Planta de Llegadas ( arrivals hall ), ☏ +34 961 530 229 , fax : +34 961 598 451 , [email protected] . Mar-Oct: M-F 08:30-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 09:30-17:30; Nov-Feb: M-F 08:30-20:30, Sa 09:30-17:30, Su and holidays 09:30-14:30; closed 25 Dec and 1-6 Jan . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.46012 -0.38058 3 Tourist Info Joaquín Sorolla , Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 171 ( in the Joaquín Sorolla train station ), ☏ +34 963 803 623 , [email protected] . M-F 10:00-17:50, Su and public holidays 10:00-14:50; closed 1-6 Jan, 25 Dec . ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 39.46759 -0.3241 4 Tourist Info El Cabanyal , Passeig de Neptú, 3 ( near the Hotel Balneario Las Arenas ), ☏ +34 628 789 837 , [email protected] . Mid-Jun to mid-Sep: Tu 10:00-13:50, W-Sa 10:00-13:50 14:50-16:50, Su and public holidays 10:00-13:50; closed M . ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 39.44387 -0.32839 5 Tourist Info Puerto , Moll de Ponent, s/n , ☏ +34 963 674 606 , [email protected] . Open only during cruise stopovers . ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 39.47275 -0.37087 6 Tourist Info Comunitat de València ( Tourist Info Valencian Community ), Carrer de la Pau, 48 , ☏ +34 96 398 6422 . M-Sa 09:00-18:50, Su and public holidays 10:00-13:50; closed 25 Dec, 1 Jan, 6 Jan . Can offer advice and information about other destinations within the Valencian Community , including day trips from the city. ( updated Jan 2018 )

Climate [ edit ]

• Summer — Like most European countries, August is a slow month as many of the residents are on vacation. At this time of year Valencia is hot and humid with temperatures averaging between 30-35°C (86-95°F) by day and 20-25°C (68-77°F) by night.
• Fall — September and October are more active months and the weather can permit beach outings as late as late-September. Important events take place during this season. November can be quite gloomy and does not receive a lot of sunshine.
• Winter — Average temperatures revolve around 10 °C and the weather is mostly cool and damp. Some sidewalk cafés remain open.
• Spring — The annual Falles festival unofficially marks the beginning of spring. Cafés and restaurants open their terraces and life spills out onto the street once again.

Talk [ edit ]

Valencia's official languages are Valencian , which is considered a dialect of Catalan by many linguists, and Spanish . Even though it is similar to the Catalan spoken in Catalonia, Valencians are very particular about their language being referred to as "Valencian", and often find it offensive when people refer to it as "Catalan". In the capital of Valencia, which is the third largest city in Spain, not many people speak Valencian, nor are they offended if addressed in Spanish. However, outside the capital, Valencian is often preferred. As in Barcelona with Catalan, it helps to be sensitive to this language dynamic. However, the linguistic issue is not as controversial as in Barcelona and most people in Valencia speak Spanish as their first and often their only language. Road directional signs are generally bilingual in Spanish and Valencian.

The English-speaking skills of the locals can be hit or miss. Most people under 50 speak some English and some quite a bit, but most would prefer being addressed at first in Spanish or Valencian. French is also spoken or understood by some.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Metro Valencia lines   3   and   5   go directly to the town centre and link the airport to the main train station, Estación del Norte (beside the Xàtiva metro stop), running every 8 minutes and taking about 21 minutes. A one-way ticket to the city centre costs €3.90, plus an additional €1 for the cardboard ticket with rechargeable chip; tickets can be purchased at a manned service counter (English spoken) and at vending machines which do accept credit cards - don't get confused, the paper tickets with magnetic strips are recharchable. There are no trains between the hours of midnight and 05:30.

Fernanbus operates bus line 150 [dead link] , with buses departing every 15 minutes and terminating at 39.46976 -0.38863 2 Àngel Guimerá, 48 , with a full schedule and route map online. Tickets cost €1.50 and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes.

A taxi stand is just outside the arrivals hall. A ride from the airport to Carrer de la Pau, in the heart of the historic city centre approximately 11 km away, costs around €20-23 with an additional 'airport supplement' of around €5 (Jan 2015). The tariffs are on display in the taxi in Valencian, Spanish and English but are difficult to see. The same journey back from Carrer de la Pau to the airport is half the price!

Book a taxi by calling a radio taxi company or book online at BookTaxiValencia .

• Direct Taxi Valencia , ☏ +34 960 077 705 , [email protected] . Reservations can be made online. ( updated Nov 2016 )
• Radio Taxi Manises , Carrer de Villafames, 56 ( Manises ), ☏ +34 961 521 155 , [email protected] . 24 hrs. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• Radio Taxi Valencia , Carrer dels Gremis, 8 , ☏ +34 963 703 333 . 24 hrs. Reservations can be made online , or via their smartphone app (iPhone and Android). ( updated Jan 2018 )
• Taxis de Valencia , ☏ +34 961 119 977 . Reservations can be made online . ( updated Nov 2016 )
• Taxi Valencia , ☏ +34 661 719 393 , [email protected] . Reservations can be made online . ( updated Nov 2016 )
• Andy offers transfers to Valencia city and other major cities around. Reservations and payment can be made online.

By train [ edit ]

The main train station is 39.46611 -0.37745 3 València - Estació del Nord ( Valencia - Estación del Norte / Valencia - North Station ), which is in the city centre, next to Plaza de Toros and near the Town Hall ( Ayuntamiento ). The main building is a well-preserved modernist structure dating from 1917, and had been declared a National Historical Building. This station is only used by suburban, commuter, regional and mid-distance trains. Facilities include a tourist information office, storage lockers, several cafés and a car rental office. The access to underground station Xàtiva , served by Metro València lines   3   ,   5   and   9   , is just in front of the main entrance of the train station. Being an important hub for the public transport network of the city, the location is served by several bus lines which allow connection to any district or neighbourhood of Valencia.

Long-distance and high-speed (TGV, Euromed) trains arrive at 39.45901 -0.38129 4 València - Joaquim Sorolla (Valencia - Joaquín Sorolla) train station, 800 m from the main station. Facilities at this station include storage lockers, a café and car rental office. A free shuttle bus connects the station to València - Estació del Nord with a departure every 10 minutes. This station is served by Metro València lines   1   ,   2   and   7   , using the underground station Jesús .

The national train company is Renfe . Tickets can be booked online on their website, where significant discounts ('Web' and 'Estrella' fares) are available for early bookings. Valencia is connected with Madrid by AVE high-speed trains, that run over the Madrid–Levante high-speed rail line. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. Other major cities, such as Barcelona , are connected with Valencia by Euromed , Alaris, or Talgo trains. The journey to Barcelona takes approximately 3 hours.

By bus [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ]

Get around [ edit ].

Streets in Valencia have two names, Valencian and Spanish, but most street signs are in Valencian only. Maps may list street names in Valencian or Spanish and rarely both, while addresses may be given in either language, which could create some confusion. Addresses in this guide are generally listed in Valencian.

The city has begun changing some Franco-era street names to those commemorating other figures, especially women. By late 2017, about 50 streets had been renamed, with more planned; online mapping services are largely up-to-date but printed maps will likely not be.

On foot [ edit ]

Aside from going to the beach and the City of Arts and Sciences, exploring the hub of the city requires no public transportation. Much of this city can be done walking, stopping for a coffee or a beer, and then walking more, all very leisurely. It's not necessary to have the mindset of mastering a complex public transportation system. However, for longer trips, see below for some pointers.

By public transportation [ edit ]

Travellers visiting for a short period may want to consider purchasing a Valencia Tourist Card , a one-, two- or three-day pass which allows for unlimited travel on all metro and bus lines, including to/from the airport, over a period of 24 hours (€15), 48 hours (€20), or 72 hours (€25). The card also includes free admission to public museums and monuments, discounted admission for other tourist attractions, and additional discounts at some shops and restaurants. The card can be purchased at any tourist office, including at the airport, or purchased online for a discount and picked up on arrival at a tourist office.

For travellers not interested in the package, or staying longer than three days, the rechargeable SUMA 10 card provides a flexible means of getting around. It is valid for both metro and bus travel. This card allows for ten journeys, including transfers begun within 90 minutes of commencing your journey. The included transfers comprise unlimited transfers between metro (or tram) lines, and a single transfer to or from bus lines (i.e. between buses or to/from the metro). Cards are not personalized, and a single card can be used by multiple people (deducting multiple journeys, of course).

The SUMA 10 cards are sold in ticket offices in metro stations, and as of 2022 cost €8 for a single zone. There is an additional fee of €1 for a cardboard cart and €2 for a plastic card. The cards can be recharged at any metro ticket machine. Since 2022, this ticket replaces the previous Bono transbordo and Bonometro cards, so guides still referencing these are outdated.

The public transport network is divided into zones A, B, and C (see map , remodeled in 2022). There is a significant overlap between zones A and B. Most tourist destinations, including the beach, are located in zone A. Zone C consists solely of the airport.

The EMT (bus) website has a very helpful route-planner [dead link] , useful for planning journeys not only by bus but also by metro, bicycle, and Valenbisi (see the bicycle section below).

By metro [ edit ]

The Metro Valencia [dead link] consists of nine lines (three of which are tramlines) and connects the suburbs with the city. This metro system is not extensive, but can get you to major points within the city. Maps and timetables can be downloaded here . As of 2018, the one-way fare for a single zone is €1.50. The ticket costs an additional €1 and contains a rechargeable chip.

Make sure to always keep your ticket, as you must present it when getting off as well. If you want to enter the tram, you must buy a ticket from the machine (at each tram stop), and then validate it before you get on.

If you use the metro a lot, you should consider getting a 10-fare SUMA 10 card (see above).

Standard bicycles are permitted during the workweek only on portions of the network which operate above ground. On Saturday, Sunday and holidays they are permitted throughout, while folding bicycles may be transported at any time. No bicycles are permitted at all during Fallas and the night of San Juan. Pets in carriers and guide or personal assistance dogs are also permitted.

EMT [dead link] runs buses to virtually every part of the city, both day and night. A single ticket costs €1.50 (no transfers), payable to the bus driver on entry.

For frequent travellers, a the rechargeable Bonobús card is available in kiosks and tobacco shops. It will allow you ten rides for €8.50 (as of early 2018). However, the SUMA 10 , which is also valid and metro and tram lines, usually is the cheaper and more convenient option (see above). Bonobús cards can be recharged at kiosks [dead link] or online.

For travellers with smartphones, there is a very helpful official EMT app (iPhone and Android), which has a route planner and a QRT reader.

Most bus stops now have digital displays listing the arrival times for the next bus. At those stops lacking the digital display it is still easy to find out the next arrival times, by using either a QRT reader (like the one built into the EMT app), or by sending a SMS with the unique number of the bus stop to a number displayed next to the posted route plan.

By tourist bus [ edit ]

39.47453 -0.3759 8 Valencia Bus Turistic , Plaça de la Reina, 10 , ☏ +34 699 982 514 , [email protected] . Daily 09:30-20:00 (office) . In cooperation with the city's official tourism office Valencia Bus Turistic operates a hop-on, hop-off bus service which covers two routes: the Historic Route , which covers most of the centre of the city (schedule available here ), and the Maritime Route , which visits the Royal Marina, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the beaches (schedule available here ). Each route includes a guided commentary in multiple languages, and the two routes intersect at three locations; it is permitted to combine both routes, if desired. Tickets can be purchased at any bus stop, tourist information centre, and in many hotels. 24/48 hour tickets: €17/19 (adults), €10/11 (children 7-16), free (children under 7); 12% discount with the Valencia Tourist Card (available at tourist information centres) . ( updated Jun 2017 )

By bicycle [ edit ]

Valencia is essentially flat, and cycling has become a popular way for visitors to get around. The city has established a comprehensive network of dedicated bicycle paths and lanes, and the Turia river park very conveniently cuts across the city, making it possible to get from one end to the other with minimal time in traffic. Drivers are now accustomed to interacting with cyclists in traffic, although pedestrians still occasionally wander into bike paths. Riding on sidewalks without demarcated bicycle paths is not permitted, but this is generally not enforced. At night lights are required, and a helmet and reflective vest are recommended. A bicycle route map can be downloaded here [dead link] .

The city operates Valenbisi , a popular bicycle sharing program, with 275 stations distributed throughout the city. No reservation is necessary – once you have a Valenbisi card, go to the interactive station terminal, follow the instructions in Valencian, Spanish or English, and choose a bicycle. You can return the bicycle to the same or any other station with available docks.

A short-term subscription costs €13.04 and gives you access to unlimited use of the bikes for 7 days; the first half-hour of any journey is free, then €1.04 is charged for the first two additional half-hours, with €3.12 charged for every additional hour. However, if you park the bicycle in an available dock before the first half-hour is up, you can take out a new bicycle and reset the clock for no additional fees.

Weekly cards can be purchased at any station terminal with a credit card. For periods longer than one week, an annual subscription is necessary and costs €27.12, with reduced tariffs for each additional half-hour. These cards must be purchased online and are sent by mail; however it is possible to bypass this hassle and attach your Valenbisi subscription to a valid Bonometro , Bonobús , or Bono transbordo card – see the website for details.

There are also many bicycle rental shops in town, with most charging around €10-15 a day, depending on season.

• 39.47382 -0.37401 9 DoYouBike , Carrer del Mar, 14 ( near the cathedral ), ☏ +34 963 155 551 , [email protected] . Daily 09:45-14:00, 17:00-20:15 . Rents bikes. Other locations at Carrer de la Sang, 9; Avinguda del Port, 141 €2/hour, or €9/day during the week, €12/day on weekends, helmet and pump €1 .  
• EcoBikeRent , Carrer d'Ercilla, 23 (near Central Market) , ☏ +34691773051 . Daily 09:30-20:00 . Also offers electric scooter rental. Other locations at Carrer de Roteros, 1; Carrer de les Avellanes, 6; Carrer de Quart, 9 from €5 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Bike in Mind Valencia , Calle Donoso Cortés 12 46005 Valencia , ☏ +34 684054683 , [email protected] . Every Day from 09:30 AM to 08:00 PM . Bikes and E-Bikes Rental in Valencia. from €6 / 4 hours, €9 / all day . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• valenciaGUiAS , ☏ +34 963 851 740 , fax : +34 963 850 827 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.47691 -0.39144 10 Valencia BIKES Pechina , Passeig de la Petxina, 32 . Daily 09:30-20:00 . Another location is at Carrer de la Tapineria. €5/hour, or €10/day . ( updated Dec 2015 )

By car [ edit ]

In the city, especially the centre, having a car is more of an impediment than an advantage, and visitors may well find it easier to just park it and walk.

See [ edit ]

Monuments and architecture [ edit ].

• 39.47516 -0.37503 8 Capella del Sant Calze ( Capilla del Santo Cáliz / Chapel of the Holy Chalice ). The focus of this side chapel is a chalice of agate, believed by the devout to be none other than the Holy Grail. Of the handful of similar chalices with the same claim, this is deemed by many scholars to be the most likely candidate as it has been dated by experts to the 1st century BCE. ( updated Aug 2015 )

• 39.47335 -0.37058 20 Casa de Sant Vicent Ferrer ( Casa Natalicia de San Vicente Ferrer / Home of San Vicente Ferrer ), Carrer del Pouet de Sant Vicent, 1 , ☏ +34 963 528 481 . M-F 11:00-13:00, 17:00-20:00 . Sant Vicent Ferrer, the principal patron saint of Valencia, was born in this house in 1350. The house was renovated numerous times, and has a chapel, well, and 18th-century ceramic tile panels depicting the life of the saint. Free . ( updated Nov 2015 )

Museums [ edit ]

• 39.472 -0.3617 29 Museo Histórico Militar de Valencia , Carrer del General Gil Dolz, 6 , ☏ +34 96 369 1904 , [email protected] . M-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 . Built in 1898 for an infantry regiment, the building now houses a collection of over 3,000 objects, most of them from the 19th and 20th centuries. Free . ( updated Sep 2015 )
• 39.463193 0.331897 30 Museo de l'Arròs ( Museo del Arroz / Museum of Rice ), Carrer del Rosari, 3 ( EMT bus 2/19: stop Dr Lluch-Armada Española; Metro line 5: stop Marítim-Serradora; Metro-Tram line 6: stop Grau-Canyamelar ). Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 . The Museum of Rice of the City of Valencia is in the refurbished and restored old Serra’s Mill. It tells the story of the industrial process of rice processing, a cereal whose growth goes deep into the wetlands of the City. €2 (adults), €1 (seniors, children, students, groups) . ( updated Apr 2019 )

Art museums and galleries [ edit ]

• 39.48076 -0.37894 37 Casa-Museu Benlliure ( Casa-Museo Benlliure ), Carrer de la Blanqueria, 23 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 963 911 662 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 . This was once home to two generations of the Benlliure family, headed by prominent Valencian artist José Benlliure. The early 20th-century residence has been maintained in three distinct sections, including the primary house with original furnishings and artworks, a lovely courtyard and garden, and a second building with a private study and more artworks. €2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 39.47362 -0.37018 38 Centre Cultural Bancaixa ( Centro Cultural de Bancaja ), Plaça de Tetuán, 23 , ☏ +34 96 064 5840 , fax : +34 96 387 5578 . Tu-Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 17:00-21:00, M 10:00-14:00 . The former 19th-century residence is a cultural centre which hosts excellent, well-curated temporary exhibits of contemporary art and photography, by Valencian, Spanish and international artists. Free . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• 39.47463 -0.38048 40 Fundación Chirivella Soriano ( Palau Joan de Valeriola ), Carrer de Valeriola, 13 , ☏ +34 96 338 1215 , fax : +34 96 338 1217 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Su 10:00-14:00 . This well-preserved 14th-century Gothic palace houses a permanent collection of contemporary Spanish art, with rotating exhibits. €4 (adults), €2 (concessions) . ( updated Oct 2015 )
• 39.47628 -0.38011 42 Galería del Tossal , Plaça del Tossal, s/n ( entrance in an above-ground glass structure in the middle of the square ), ☏ +34 963 981 803 . Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 . This unique underground gallery has been designed around the remains of a city wall from the Moorish period, complete with arches. The gallery is a venue for temporary exhibits of Spanish and international contemporary art. €2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free (children under 12); free on Su and holidays . ( updated Dec 2015 )

Parks and gardens [ edit ]

Neighbourhoods [ edit ]

Other [ edit ]

• 39.4709 -0.37621 59 Mirador Valencia ( El Mirador del Ateneo Mercantil / Ateneo Viewpoint ), Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 18 ( entrance between Café Rialto and Café & Tapas ), ☏ +34 963 520 488 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-20:30; last lift to the top at 20:00 . The viewpoint is on the rooftop of a private social club, and offers excellent 360° panoramic views of the city. €3 (adults), €2.5 (seniors, disabled, children 11-16), free (children under 10) . ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Street art . Valencia has become a magnet for street artists both homegrown and those hailing from abroad, many of them internationally-renowned. Works range in size from smaller stencils to giant murals, with the greatest concentration in el Carmen (Carme). There are also clusters of great art in Ruzafa, Benimaclet, Cabanyal, and other neighbourhoods. ( updated Aug 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

Falles [ edit ].

One of Spain’s most spectacular fire festivals, Falles (Spanish: Fallas ) can be best characterised as a fire-fireworks-gunpowder street party extravaganza. The festival draws up to two million visitors annually, and is listed as a UNESCO ‘intangible cultural heritage’.

Its origins date to the Middle Ages when the city’s carpenters burned piles of scraps in the streets and plazas near their workshops on 19 March, the eve of the day of San Josep (Spanish: San José , or St. Joseph ). In the 18th century, it became customary to fashion these piles of junk with papier mache into human figures and sculptures, called ninots (Valencian for 'dolls'), which were assembled to form larger fallas . Eventually these fallas began to take on a satirical nature.

Around 1870, Falles and Carnival were banned. In response to this, a popular movement arose to revive and preserve these traditions, resulting in a competition in 1885 for the best and most artistic falla. This prompted the development of casal fallers , neighbourhood associations which work year-round raising money and designing their fallas. Today there are about 400 casal fallers which each design an adult falla ( falla mayor ), and a smaller children’s falla ( falla infantil ); more than 400 of these fallas are burned on public streets every year. Many fallas reach 25-30 m in height – the best of these are in a special category Secció Especial (Spanish: Sección Especiál ) and compete for the top prize, awarded annually by the City Council.

A secondary feature of Falles are daily fireworks events, including gunpowder demonstrations ( mascletàs ) and large nightly fireworks displays ( castillos del fuego ). Along with these displays, people set off fireworks all day in the streets, beginning early in the morning and continuing throughout the day, making the city seem like a war zone and making it very difficult to catch any sleep.

Key events and dates [ edit ]

• La Despertà ( the 'wake-up call' ). Last Sunday of February . Beginning at 07:30, brass bands parade down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir to the Plaça de l'Ajuntament, followed by falleros and falleras throwing firecrackers. At noon more bands perform at the central square, and the season's first mascletà takes place at 14:00. ( updated Mar 2018 )
• 39.45984 -0.37553 3 Falla Cuba-Literat Azorín , intersection of Carrer de Cuba with Carrer del Literat Azorín ( Ruzafa ). ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.46035 -0.37434 4 Falla Sueca-Literat Azorín , intersection of Carrer del Literat Azorín with Carrer de Sueca ( Ruzafa ). ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.46107 -0.37639 5 Falla Cuba-Puerto Rico , intersection of Carrer de Cuba with Carrer de Puerto Rico ( Ruzafa ). ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.46645 -0.37952 6 Falla Convento Jerusalén-Matemático Marzal , intersection of Carrer del Convent de Jerusalem with Carrer del Matemàtic Marzal ( La Roqueta ). ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.45616 -0.35253 7 Exposición del Ninot ( Ninot exhibit ), Sala Arquerías, Museo Príncipe Felipe ( City of Arts and Sciences; venues can change ). 1-14 March . The current year's ninots are placed on display, with visitors voting for their favourite ninot. The winning ninot is spared the flames of the Cremà and added to the permanent collection of the Museu Faller de València (listed below). €3 (adults), €1.50 (children/seniors) . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• Els Castells ( fireworks displays ), Passeig de l'Albereda . 15-18 March . A nightly fireworks display between midnight and 01:30, with each night more impressive than the previous one, until culminating in the final display on the 18th, which is known as La Nit del Foc (the Night of Fire). This is also very crowded and you should arrive early to see it. The best location to view this is from pedestrian bridges crossing the Turía Park riverbed, or even better, from below the Palacio de la Musica. ( updated Aug 2016 )
• Cavalcada del Foc ( Cabalgata del Fuego / Fire Parade ), Route: Carrer de Russafa, Carrer de Colón, Porta de la Mar . 19 March, 19:00 . A parade featuring all types of spectacles involving fire. This parade may be canceled in inclement weather. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Falles museums [ edit ]

If you can't be in Valencia at the time of the festival, you can at least get an idea of what it's all about by visiting one or both the following museums.

• 39.50007 -0.3925 62 Museu de l'Artista Faller de València ( Museo del Gremio de Artistas Falleros / Museum of the Guild of Falles Artists ), Avda San José Artesano, 17 ( Benicalap ), ☏ +34 963 479 623 , [email protected] . M-F 10:00-14:00 16:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-14:00; closed in Aug . €3 (adults), €2.50 (students), €2 (seniors/disabled/children under 12) . ( updated Aug 2016 )

Other festivals [ edit ]

• 39.4759 -0.3236 9 [dead link] Festival Internacional del Viento ( International Kite Festival ), Platja de Malvarrosa ( Cabanyal ). April . Held annually since 1997, the two-day event includes exhibits, kite-making demonstrations, and competitions. Free . ( updated Sep 2016 )

• Els Focs de la Fira ( Correfoc: literally 'fire-running' ), last Friday before the Battala de Flors; parade begins at 23:00 . This energetic festival began in medieval Catalonia and is celebrated throughout the Catalán/Valencian-speaking region. Participants dress as devils with pitchforks and dance through the streets to drums, setting off fireworks and interacting with spectators. The route varies from year to year, but generally is in the area near the North Train Station and the Porta de la Mar. The many flying sparks can burn holes in clothing, so it's a good idea to wear older clothes or not get too close to the action. ( updated Jul 2017 )

Performing arts [ edit ]

• 39.47831 -0.38533 6 Café del Duende , Carrer del Túria, 62 ( Extramuros ), ☏ +34 630 455 289 , [email protected] . Th 22:00-02:30, F Sa 22:00-03:30, Su 17:00-23:00 . This café is an intimate venue for flamenco performances, with well-known dancers and musicians hailing not only from Valencia but from across Spain. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays performances begin at 23:00 and last for one hour; on Sunday they begin at 20:00. As shows are very popular, it is advisable to get there at least an hour before the show in order to secure a seat – getting to the door 15 minutes before opening is even better. €10 (includes drink) . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.44713 -0.39274 7 Espai Rambleta , Bulevar Sur, esq. Carrer Pío IX ( Sant Marceli, in the S of the city ), ☏ +34 960 011 511 , [email protected] . Exhibitions: Tu-Th 10:00-22:00, F-Su 10:00-23:30; box office: Tu-Su 10:00-14:00, 2 hrs before performance . The cultural centre is a venue for music, theatre and dance performances, and hosts rotating temporary exhibits. It also has an onsite restaurant. Tickets for events can be purchased online . ( updated Nov 2017 )

Planetarium and cinemas [ edit ]

• 39.47906 -0.35342 9 Albatexas Cinemes , Plaça de Fra Lluís Colomer, 4 ( near the university in Algirós ), ☏ +34 960 627 538 . Screens second-run films, all in original languages, with Spanish subtitles. All tickets €3 . ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.46971 -0.35702 10 Cines Babel , Carrer de Vicent Sancho Tello, 10 ( Mestalla ), ☏ +34 963 694 530 . An art-house cinema which screens films in their original languages, including many current releases. The cinema has an adjoining café, and offers mid-week deals of dinner plus a movie for a reduced ticket price. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 39.47734 -0.39538 11 Yelmo Cines , Avenida de Tirso de Molina, 16 ( Campanar ), ☏ +34 963 173 590 . A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions ( VOS : versión original subtitulada). ( updated Nov 2015 )

Beaches [ edit ]

There are two city beaches, and several major beaches outside of Valencia.

39.4661 -0.3217 12 Platja del Les Arenes ( Platja del Cabanyal / Playa de las Arenas ), just north of the port, has a pleasant promenade with a number of traditional (and expensive) restaurants, bars, and ice cream shops. The more northern 39.479 -0.3235 13 Platja de Malvarrosa begins where the promenade ends, and is the setting for volleyball tournaments, kite festivals, and windsurfing. In the summer both beaches have lifeguards and first aid stations, toilets, and snack vendors, and are very crowded especially in the afternoons. To get there, take the metro or tram to Eugenia Vines or Arenas station, or take the metro to Maritim Serreria and continue with the tram to Neptu (all on one ticket).

To the north of and immediately adjoining Malvarossa is 39.4887 -0.3241 14 Platja de la Patacona ( Playa de la Patacona ), which, although part of the municipality of Alboraya, is easily accessible from Valencia by public transport or foot. This beach is somewhat less crowded, and is also a good place to sample horchata, as Alboraya is a major producer of chufa, a key ingredient of the drink.

The beaches south of Valencia port are all part of Albufera Natural Park . They are generally well-maintained and far less crowded than the urban beaches, and easily reachable by public transport.

Spectator sports [ edit ]

• Valencia CF play in La Liga, Spain's top tier. 39.4746 -0.3582 16 Mestalla stadium (capacity 48,600) is 1 km northeast of the city centre. They are long overdue for moving to Nou Mestalla stadium to the northwest, but ran out of money and construction work has halted. Their women's team plays in Liga F (their top tier) at Paterna training ground 5 km northwest of the centre.
• Levante UD were relegated in 2022 and now play in Segunda División, the second tier. 39.4947 -0.3638 17 Ciutat de València Stadium (capacity 26,300) is 2 km north of the centre, near the Machado metro stop. Their women's team is in Liga F, playing at Buñol 40 km west of the city.

Learn [ edit ]

Spanish [ edit ].

• 39.47563 -0.37833 8 Don Quijote , Carrer dels Cadirers, 5 , ☏ +34 963 553 174 , [email protected] . Offers courses of 4–6 hours a day. All courses, including beginner courses, are taught entirely in Spanish. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 39.47194 -0.37136 9 Espanole ( International House Valencia ), Carrer de la Nau, 22 , ☏ +34 96 353 0404 , fax : +34 96 353 1929 , [email protected] . A member of International House, a network of language schools all over the world. The school provides the students with lots of leisure time activities and even housing can be arranged by the school, either in a studio, in a shared apartment or in a guest family. Even the beginner courses are taught entirely in Spanish, which makes it difficult to follow the lessons in the beginning. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 39.48007 -0.36481 10 Linguaschools Valencia , Carrer Bernat y Baldoví, 11 ( next to the Universidad de Valencia ), ☏ +34 93 176 1536 , [email protected] . Office hrs M-F 09:00-17:30 . Organizes Spanish courses for foreigners, using the immersion method. The school is based in a real Spanish villa close to the old town of Valencia. Here, you can enjoy your classes, lounge on one of the terraces or study in the garden. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 39.47091 -0.37557 11 Route 66 Idiomas , Carrer de Moratín, 15-4 , ☏ +34 96 342 7368 , [email protected] . Offers courses in both Spanish and Valencian (Catalan). Students can choose to study 10-20 hours a week, or choose a less intensive long-term option of 3-4 hours a week. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 39.477706 -0.347924 12 Enforex , Pg. de les Facultats, 3 , ☏ +34 963 69 36 96 . Spanish courses for all ages, intensive or private. Start any Monday of the year your Spanish course. ( updated Dec 2023 )

Cooking [ edit ]

• 39.47707 -0.377642 13 Escuela de Arroces y Paellas , Carrer del Bisbe En Jeroni, 8 ( Carme ), ☏ +34 961 043 540 . Daily . Offers cooking classes in English for several types of paella, including classic Valencian, seafood, and vegetarian. Morning classes on M-Sa also include a visit to the Mercat Central, and all classes include tapas, wine, paella and dessert, and a take-home paella pan with apron. €50-75 adults, €30-70 under 18 . ( updated Jan 2018 )

Buy [ edit ]

• The area around 39.4721 -0.37352 1 Plaça del Patriarca ( Plaza del Patriarca ) is a good place to look for the major national brands like Loewe, LLadró, Louis Vuitton, Dolores, and Farrutx.
• 39.47497 -0.37535 3 Mercat de l’Escuraeta ( Mercado de L’Escuraeta ), Plaça de la Reina ( just S of the cathedral ). Daily from the second Sunday of May until Corpus Christi, usually at the end of May or early June . This traditional market dates back to the 13th century and Jaume I, when vendors set up extra stalls by the cathedral to coincide with the annual Festividad de la Virgen (feast of the Virgin). Items sold here include crockery and traditional cooking utensils, as well as pottery and other arts and crafts. ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 39.47745 -0.382089 4 Frutos Secos del Carmen , Carrer de Dalt, 20 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 696 945 745 , [email protected] . A traditional local shop that sells all kinds of dried fruits and nuts. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Food markets [ edit ]

• 39.47786 -0.38052 7 Mercat de Mosén Sorell ( Mercado de Mosén Sorell ), Plaça de Mossén Sorell ( Carmen ). M-W 07:30-15:00, Th 17:00-20:00, F 17:30-21:00, Sa 07:30-15:00 . A smaller market, which was renovated in 2016, in the centre of the Carmen neighbourhood. ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 39.46204 -0.37139 8 Mercat de Russafa ( Mercado de Russafa ), Plaça del Baró de Cortés, 9 ( Ruzafa ), ☏ +34 963 744 025 , [email protected] . M-Sa 07:00-15:00 . Designed by Julio Bellot Senet and completed in 1957, the market is at the centre of the vibrant Ruzafa neighbourhood. Inside are more than 60 vendors of all types of food products, as well as a bar and café. ( updated Sep 2016 )

Street markets [ edit ]

• 39.47585 -0.35772 9 El Rastro ( Flea market ), Plaça de Lluís Casanova, s/n ( Mestalla: car park of the Valencia Football Club ), ☏ +34 962 084 736 , [email protected] . Su 08:00-13:30 . Valencia's enormous second-hand market is a good place to pick up all sorts of odds and ends, ranging from vintage toys to Valencian ceramics to bicycle parts. Vendors are licensed and there is a police presence, but do beware of pickpockets. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.46253 -0.37267 10 Mercadillo de Ruzafa ( several streets NW of the Mercat de Russafa and by the parish church ). M 09:00-14:00 . ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.46753 -0.3322 11 Mercadillo de Cabanyal ( Cabanyal street market ) ( several square blocks E of the Mercat del Cabanyal ). Th 09:00-14:00 . One of the larger and more colourful weekly street markets. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.48459 -0.35938 12 Mercadillo de Benimaclet ( Benimaclet street market ), Carrer de Juan Giner and Carrer del Reverend Rafael Tramoyeres . F 09:00-14:00 . ( updated Oct 2017 )

Bookshops [ edit ]

• 39.46771 -0.37498 13 Casa del Libro , Passeig Russafa, 11 ( centro ), ☏ +34 902 026 411 , [email protected] . M-Sa 09:30-21:30, Su and holidays 12:00-21:30 . Probably Valencia's largest bookshop and part of a national chain, it has four floors of new and used books, with a good selection of books in English and other languages. Pets are permitted. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 39.46822 -0.38062 14 fnac , Carrer de Guillem de Castro, 9-11 , ☏ +34 902 100 632 , [email protected] . M-Sa 10:00-21:30, Sa and holidays 11:00-21:00 . This branch of the French chain has a good selection of English books on the first floor, along with DVDs and computer accessories. ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 39.46786 -0.36612 15 Librería París , Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 74 ( Eixample ), ☏ +34 963 959 366 . M-Sa 10:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 . ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 39.4723 -0.37098 16 Librería París , Plaça d'Alfons el Magnànim, 13 ( centro ), ☏ +34 963 520 273 . M-F 10:00-14:00 16:30-20:30, Sa 10:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 . ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 39.46706 -0.3784 17 Librería París , Carrer de Pelai, 7 ( near the train station ), ☏ +34 963 525 440 . M-Sa 09:30-14:00 16:00-20:30 . ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 39.4769 -0.37502 18 Librería París , Carrer de Navellos, 8 ( centro, near the Plaça de la Verge ), ☏ +34 963 918 133 . M-F 10:00-14:00 16:30-20:30, Sa 17:00-21:00 . ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 39.47101 -0.38036 19 Librería Patagonia , Carrer de l'Hospital, 1 , ☏ +34 963 936 052 . M-Sa 09:30-14:00 16:30-20:00 . For visitors who read some Spanish, this travel bookshop is a good resource as it stocks a good range of Spanish and regional travel guides, maps, and other travel accessories. ( updated Nov 2017 )

Shopping centres [ edit ]

• 39.45664 -0.34577 20 Aqua Multispacio , Carrer de Menorca, 19 ( near the City of Arts and Science ), ☏ +34 963 308 429 , [email protected] . Shops: M-Sa 10:00-22:00, Su and holidays 11:00-21:00; restaurants: Su-Th 10:00-01:30, F Sa and holidays 10:00-04:00; gym: M-F 07:00-23:00, Sa Su and holidays 08:00-21:00 . Along with the usual chain shops and restaurants, this large complex has two hotels, a cinema, a bowling centre, and a large gym and pool. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside. ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.45283 -0.35548 21 Centro Comercial El Saler , Avda del Professor López Piñero, 16 ( near the City of Arts and Science ), ☏ +34 963 957 012 , [email protected] . Shops: M-Sa 10:00-22:00, Su 11:00-21:00; Carrefour: M-Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 10:00-21:00; restaurants: daily 10:00-24:00 . Has a full range of standard international chain stores as well as restaurants and a Carrefour hypermarket. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• 39.46839 -0.36852 23 La Galería Jorge Juan , Carrer de Jorge Juan, 21 ( across from Mercat de Colom ), ☏ +34 963 524 966 , [email protected] . Shops: M-Sa 10:00-21:00; restaurants: M-Sa 09:00-21:00 . Has 40 shops and a restaurant. Parking available. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ]

• 39.47486 -0.37766 1 Tasca Ángel , Carrer de la Puríssima, 1 ( behind the Llotja ), ☏ +34 963 917 835 . M-Sa 10:30-15:00 19:30-23:30 . This tiny but very popular tapas bar is known for its sardinas (grilled sardines), served with garlic infused olive oil and white bread. Other specialties include champiñones a la plancha (grilled mushrooms) and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). The place only has a handful of tables with additional seating at the bar, and tends to get very packed after 21:00. ( updated Jul 2016 )
• 39.46984 -0.32574 2 NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE La Pascuala , Carrer d'Eugenia Viñes, 177 ( Cabanyal ), ☏ +34 963 713 814 . M-Sa 09:00-15:30 . This is a very popular place for almuerzo (late breakfast or early lunch), and is especially known for its very large bocadillos. No reservations are accepted, but it's worth the wait for a table. €5 for bocadillo and drink (June 2016) . ( updated May 2022 )
• 39.4766 -0.36661 3 Kiosco La Pérgola , Passeig de l'Albereda, 1 ( near the Jardí de Montfort ), ☏ +34 963 699 079 . M-F 08:00-16:30, Sa 08:30-16:00; closed for the month of August . This is a very popular lunch spot for delicious and cheap bocadillos. Their signature bocadillo is the Super Bombon , piled high with steak, jamón, lettuce, dressing, and french fries. The Bombon , which omits the french fries, is a slightly lighter version. Getting a table requires some patience, or reservations. Drink + bocadillo €3-4 (Oct 2017) . ( updated May 2022 )
• 39.47822 -0.38199 4 La Lluna ( vegetarian ), Carrer de Sant Ramon, 23 ( at the Centre Cultural la Beneficència ), ☏ +34 963 922 146 . M-Sa 09:00-16:30, 20:00-24:00 . Lunch menu €8-11 (July 2015) . ( updated May 2022 )
• 39.4726 -0.35031 5 Andalus Dolç , Carrer de Yecla, 16 ( in L'Amistat ), ☏ +34 963 254 771 . M-Th 11:00-24:00, F Sa 11:00-00:30, Su 10:00-24:00 . This restaurant-coffeeshop is a favourite with the local Moroccan community and serves a range of traditional Moroccan dishes, some of them vegetarian. It also has an excellent onsite bakery. €9.50 set menu (Feb 2016) . ( updated May 2022 )
• 39.46719 -0.33107 6 Ca la Mar , Carrer de Just Vilar, 19 ( El Cabanyal ), ☏ +34 963 259 827 , [email protected] . Tu W 11:00-01:00, Th-Su 10:00-01:00 . This very small restaurant serves creative tapas, with a number of seafood as well as vegetarian options. Pleasant seating is both indoor and along a pedestrian-only street. They also have a decent selection of wine, as well as the local Turía beer. ( updated May 2022 )
• 39.4715 -0.38868 7 Cerveceria Alhambra , Carrer de Calixt III, 8 ( Extramurs ), ☏ +34 963 843 057 . M-F 07:00-18:30; closed for the month of August . This small sidewalk eatery is known throughout the city for its excellent tortillas de patatas in a number of flavours, many of them vegetarian. Tortillas can be eaten either with a fork ( pincho ) or in a sandwich ( bocadillo ). Meatballs ( albondigas ) are also served here, but main attraction are the tortillas. €5 for tortilla and drink (Nov 2015) . ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 39.47317 -0.37895 8 Central Bar , Plaça de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n ( by Puerta 3 in the Mercat Central ), ☏ +34 963 829 223 . M-Sa 06:30-15:30 . One of a trio of restaurants owned and operated by famed Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, this tapas bar is a good place to sample his food without breaking the bank. The menu changes daily depending on what's available in the market. Reservations are not accepted, so if you plan to visit for lunch be prepared to wait awhile for a seat. Tapas €4-9 (Feb 2016) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46702 -0.36494 10 Portland Ale House , Carrer de Salamanca, 10 ( Gran Via ), ☏ +34 96 381 0406 . Tu-Su 19:00-02:00 . Owned and operated by an American from Portland, Oregon, this place serves classic American bar food and burgers, along with a good range of local beers. For those looking to improve their Spanish (or English) there is an intercambio (language exchange) open to all Wednesday evenings beginning at 20:30. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46311 -0.39464 11 Yuk Mi , Carrer de Salabert, 24 ( Patraix ), ☏ +34 963 787 022 . M-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-22:30 . One of only two Korean restaurants in Valencia, this family-operated restaurant is highly-regarded in the Asian community for its authentic home-style Korean cooking. Dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarians, and diners can request how spicy (or not) they prefer their meal. Mains €8-12 (June 2017) . ( updated Jan 2023 )

• 39.45048 -0.35334 12 Alquería del Pou , Entrada Rico, 6 ( southern outskirts, near Centre Comercial El Saler and the City of Arts and Sciences ), ☏ +34 963 737 706 . Daily 13:00-17:00; closed every Su in Aug . A favourite with locals, this hidden gem specialises in all types of traditional Valencian rice dishes and seafood, served in a garden setting. Mains €12-20 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.47618 -0.39155 13 [dead link] Bar Ricardo , Carrer del Dr. Zamenhof, 16 ( near the Turía River Park ), ☏ +34 963 226 949 . Tu-Sa 08:00-24:00; closed public holidays . Operating since 1947, the restaurant serves traditional Valencian seafood, tapas, and sandwiches. It is also especially known for very good patatas bravas and ensalada rusa . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.47779 -0.38025 14 Bodega La Rentaora , Plaça del Mossén Sorell, 11 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 670 396 302 . M-F 20:00-01:00, Sa Su 12:00-17:00 20:00-01:00 . Serves simple, creative and high-quality tapas, along with a full range of drinks. €7-10 tapa + drink . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46364 -0.36997 15 Canalla Bistro , Carrer del Mestre Josep Serrano, 5 ( Ruzafa ), ☏ +34 963 740 509 , [email protected] . Daily 13:30-15:30, 20:30-23:30 . This is the second of a trio of restaurants owned by star Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, with an eclectic menu that varies seasonally. Reservations can be made online . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.47838 -0.37991 16 Refugio Restaurante , Carrer de Dalt, 42 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 690 617 018 , [email protected] . Daily 14:00-15:30 21:00-23:30 . Across the street from an air raid shelter from the civil war, it serves very innovative fusion cuisine. Reservations can be requested online. €12.50 (set menu M-F), €16 (set menu Sa and Su) . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.47778 -0.3479 17 Restaurante Balansiya , Passeig de les Facultats, 3 , ☏ +34 963 890 824 . Daily 13:30-17:00, 20:30-24:00 . A highly-regarded Moroccan restaurant which has been reviewed in the New York Times and has an extensive menu. Reservations can be made online . Set menu €10-12 (weekdays only), tasting menu €20-30 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46931 -0.37803 18 Restaurante Navarro , Carrer de l'Arquebisbe Mayoral, 5 , ☏ +34 963 529 623 . M-F 13:30-16:00, Sa 13:30-16:00 20:30-23:00; closed Su except for holidays . Serves classic Mediterranean dishes using ingredients from the Mercat Central and Mercat de Russafa, with a number of vegetarian options and a good wine selection. Paellas and other Valencian rice dishes must be reserved in advance. Reservations are required, and can be made online . Set menu €22 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46697 -0.365509 19 Swagat Valencia , Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 44 , ☏ +34 963 041 742 . Daily 12:30-16:30 20:00-24:00 . Probably the best and most authentic of the few Indian restaurants in the city, Swagat serves a range of dishes from both northern and southern India. Diners can request dishes be spiced for the Indian, rather than the blander Spanish, palate. Reservations strongly recommended, especially on weekends. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46335 -0.35779 20 Taberna Comer Beber Amar , Passeig de l'Albereda, 38 , ☏ +34 96 337 5237 , [email protected] . Daily 12:00-24:00 . Serves paella, fideuà, and meat and seafood. Does not serve tapas, but does have a good wine selection. Set menu €24 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.48015 -0.37985 21 La Tastaolletes , Carrer de Salvador Giner, 6 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 963 921 862 . Tu-Sa 14:00-16:00 21:00-24:00, Su 14:00-16:00 . Vegetarian. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.46973 -0.37445 22 El Poblet Restaurante , Carrer de Correus, 8 ( 1st floor, above Vuelve Carolina ), ☏ +34 961 111 106 , [email protected] . M 13:30-15:30 20:30-22:30, Tu 13:30-15:30, W-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-22:30 . Operated by star chef Quique Dacosta, the restaurant serves his most famous dishes from his eponymous three-starred Michelin restaurant in Dénia , but without the sky-high prices. This restaurant was awarded its own Michelin star in 2013. Reservations can be made online . Mains €21 . ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 39.4711 -0.391307 23 Taberna Kalixto , Calle Calixto III 29 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 39.48521 -0.32557 24 La Más Bonita Patacona , Passeig Marítim de la Patacona, 11 ( across from the beach in Alboraya ), ☏ +34 961 143 611 . Daily 08:00-01:30 . Good for breakfast, lunches, fresh juices, coffee and cocktails; this place is especially known for its cakes. There is seating in two areas: on the beach side with a view, or in an interior patio with garden. It is very popular, so if you don't have reservations be prepared to wait awhile. ( updated May 2022 )
• 39.46556 -0.33098 25 Bodega Casa Montaña , Carrer de Josep Benlliure, 69 ( Poblats Marítims ), ☏ +34 963 672 314 , [email protected] . M-F 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:30, Sa 12:30-16:00 20:00-23:30, Su and holidays 12:30-16:00 . Established in 1836, this is the oldest tapas bar in Valencia. All classic dishes here are prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, accompanied by an enormous selection of wines. The setting is informal and friendly. Reservations are recommended and can be made online . €27 for a set menu . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 39.46487 -0.36896 26 Casa Roberto , Carrer del Mestre Gozalbo, 19 ( Eixample ), ☏ +34 963 951 528 . Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:45-23:00, Su 13:00-16:00 . A favourite with Valencians and those wishing to avoid the tourist traps, it serves great traditional rice dishes with a focus on paella. The place is packed at lunch, so it's best to arrive early, or even better, to have a reservation. Mains €18-23; 10% gratuity included in the final bill . ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.4634 -0.32347 27 La Pepica , Passeig de Neptú, 6 ( Poblats Marítims ), ☏ +34 963 710 366 . M-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:30-21:00, Su 13:00-16:00 . Known for paella, this family-run restaurant has been open since 1898, and has served the likes of Ernest Hemingway as well as contemporary and modern celebrities. Reservations are recommended especially on weekends, and can be made online . ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 39.47489 -0.36962 28 Restaurante Lienzo ( Lienzo Gastrotapas ), Plaça de Tetuán, 18 ( La Xerea ), ☏ +34 963 521 081 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 13:30-16:00 20:30-23:00, Su 13:30-16:00 . This modern, creative avant garde restaurant is operated by chef Maria José Martinez, who formerly worked for Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta. Lunch set menu €20 (drink included), gastrotapas menu €30, tasting menu €60 (wine extra) . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.47175 -0.35588 29 Restaurante La Principal , Carrer de Polo y Peyrolón, 5 ( Mestalla ), ☏ +34 963 606 348 . M-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-23:30; closed for the month of August . The very popular restaurant is known primarily for traditional Valencian rice dishes, and is also a great place for tapas with a very good wine list and excellent service. It's especially busy at lunchtime – reservations recommended. Set menu €31-56 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47267 -0.34994 30 Restaurante La Salita , Carrer de Sèneca, 12 ( corner of Carrer Yecla ), ☏ +34 963 817 516 , [email protected] . M-Sa 14:00-15:30, 21:00-22:30 . Established nine years ago, the restaurant became famous when master chef Begoña Rodrigo won the first edition of Top Chef España in 2013. Reservations can be made by email or online . Tasting menu €60+, wine extra . ( updated Feb 2016 )
• 39.45607 -0.34587 31 Restaurante Vertical , Carrer de Luis García-Berlanga Martí, 19 ( top floor of Confortel Aqua 4 ), ☏ +34 963 303 800 , [email protected] . Daily 13:30-15:30 20:30-23:30 . Operated by chef Jorge de Andrés, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves innovative updates of traditional Valencian cuisine, in a setting with some of the best views of the city. Reservations can be made online ; free parking (3 hrs) available in Centro Comercial Aqua. Lunch set menu €55, dinner set menu €70; drinks extra . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.46611 -0.37416 32 [formerly dead link] Rías Gallegas , Carrer de Ciril Amorós, 4 ( El Pla del Remei ), ☏ +34 963 512 125 . Tu-Sa 12:00-14:30 18:30-22:30, Su-M 12:00-14:30 . Serves traditional cuisine from Galicia. Set menu €35 . ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 39.46349 -0.36953 33 Ricard Camarena Restaurant , Carrer del Dr. Sumsi, 4 ( Ruzafa ), ☏ +34 963 355 418 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 13:30-15:30, 20:30-22:30 . Ricard Camarena's flagship restaurant earned him his third Michelin star in 2012, just three months after opening. Dishes are wildly creative, and guests have a good view of the kitchen to watch the master in action. Reservations can be made by email or online . Tasting menu €75-105, wine extra . ( updated Feb 2016 )
• 39.46567 -0.36855 34 RiFF , Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 18 ( Eixample ), ☏ +34 963 335 353 , +34 671 875 975 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-23:00 . Internationally-renowned chef and owner Bernd Knöller earned a Michelin star in 2009. Reservations can be made by phone or online [dead link] . Occasional classes and cooking workshops are also offered. Tasting menu €49-65, wine extra . ( updated Jun 2015 )

Drink [ edit ]

Traditional regional drinks [ edit ].

• Cibada . An iced malt drink. ( updated Jun 2017 )
• Llima granizada . Iced lemonade. ( updated Jun 2017 )
• Blanc i negre ( blanco y negro ). Iced coffee with leche merengada, which is blend of milk, egg white, sugar, and cinnamon. ( updated Jun 2017 )

Cafés and horchaterías [ edit ]

• 39.49542 -0.35493 1 Horchatería Daniel , Avda l´Orchata, 41 ( Alboraia/Alboraya; metro line 3 ), ☏ +34 961 858 866 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-24:00 . Established in 1949, this is the largest and most well-known horchatería in Alboraia (Spanish: Alboraya ), a small agricultural town on the outskirts of Valencia whose primary crop is tiger nuts ( chufa ), the key ingredient in horchata. There is a second branch in the Mercat de Colóm (listed under 'Eat'). ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 39.49267 -0.35722 2 Horchatería Els Sariers , Carrer Sarcet, 6 ( Benimaclet ), ☏ +34 963 693 879 . M-Th 16:00-22:00, F Sa 11:00-02:30, Su 11:00-23:30 . A very large and popular horchatería with artisanal fartóns. Takeaway available. ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 39.46743 -0.366484 3 Horchatería Fabián , Carrer de Císcar, 5 ( El Ensanche ), ☏ +34 963 349 317 . Daily 13:30-24:00 . Serves hot chocolate with churros, horchata, granizada, ice cream, and pastries. This is one of the only places which sell bunyols (buñuelos) outside of the Fallas season, and in winter and during Fallas it is so popular the queues can stretch a block down the street. ( updated Mar 2017 )
• 39.48226 -0.37058 4 Horchatería Mari Toñi , Carrer d'Alboraia, 23 ( Benimaclet ), ☏ +34 963 601 249 . M-F 06:00-22:00, Sa Su 07:00-22:00 . Along with horchata, this classic Valencian place offers homemade hot chocolate and, during Fallas, bunyols (buñuelos). ( updated Mar 2017 )
• 39.47383 -0.37625 5 Horchatería Santa Catalina , Plaça de Santa Caterina, 6 ( El Mercat ), ☏ +34 963 912 379 . Daily 08:00-21:30 . The oldest horchatería in Valencia, this classic place serves not only horchata with fartons, but hot chocolate, churros, and ice cream. The interior has a cafeteria atmosphere, and is ornamented with Valencian tiles. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.47709 -0.37563 6 Café de las Horas , Carrer del Comte d'Almodóvar, 1 ( La Seu ), ☏ +34 963 917 336 . M-Sa 10:00-02:00, Su 11:00-02:00 . This popular café-bar is a good spot for coffee or cocktails with light snacks, in a Baroque-styled interior with eclectic music. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 39.47443 -0.37759 7 Café Lisboa , Plaça del Doctor Collado, 9 ( in El Mercat, around the corner from the Lonja ), ☏ +34 963 919 484 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-01:00 . In a charming square which was once the site of Valencia's Lonja del Aceite , or olive oil market. The primary draw is the expansive terrace seating by an olive tree, making this is a good spot for people-watching with a coffee or cocktail. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• 39.47594 -0.37739 8 Café Negrito , Plaça del Negret, 1 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 963 914 233 . Daily 16:00-03:30 . Relaxed café with outdoor seating. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.47098 -0.37626 9 [formerly dead link] Café Rialto , Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 17 , ☏ +34 963 940 877 , [email protected] . M-Th 08:00-20:00, F 08:00-02:00, Sa 16:00-02:00, Su 16:00-21:00 . A classic café-bar in the historic Rialto Theatre, with a small terrace. It also has a well-priced set lunch menu for €10.50. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.4738 -0.37513 10 Chocolatería Valor , Plaça de la Reina, 20 ( La Seu ), ☏ +34 963 152 198 . M-Th 08:30-21:30, F 09:00-01:00, Sa 09:00-01:30, Su 09:00-22:00 . One of two Valencia branches of the Villajoyosa -based chocolate company, this is a good place for hot chocolate with churros. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.475842 -0.383555 11 Mayan Coffees , Carrer de Murillo, 54 ( El Carme ), ☏ +34 722 788 433 . M-Sa 09:00-14:00 15:30-19:00 . The owner roasts his own coffee locally. Very friendly. Relaxed and calm environment in a nice neighborhood. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.46037 -0.37395 12 Ubik Café , Carrer del Literat Azorín, 13 ( Ruzafa ), ☏ +34 963 741 255 , [email protected] . M Tu 15:00-24:00, W 12:00-24:00, Th 12:00-00:30, F Sa 12:00-02:00, Su 12:00-24:00 . The combination bar-café-bookshop has become a favourite haunt in the neighbourhood, with a good selection of craft beers as well as tapas and other light fare. Also hold exhibits and sponsors other cultural events. ( updated Oct 2017 )

Bars and bodegas [ edit ]

There are many bodegas and tapas bars where you can get typical Spanish dinner for quite good prices. If you arrive early (the Spanish early) at about 20:00 they usually have special offers like tercio y tapa for about €1. To find them orient more to the parallel streets to Carrer de Doctor Manuel Candela . Later to drink something occupying the time between dinner and going out there are many bars with different kind of music present.

Turia , a toasted lager, is the best-known local beer. It was first made in 1935 but didn't go into full production until 1947, due to the Spanish Civil War.

• 39.47105 -0.34875 13 Bodega Fila 'El Labrador' , Carrer del Doctor Manuel Candela, 58 ( Algirós ), ☏ +34 963 727 530 . M-Sa 09:00-15:00 18:00-23:30; closed the month of Aug . This very casual, classic old-school tavern has been operating since 1973, and is popular with students. It is a good place to sample local wines accompanied by simple tapas including jamón, cheese, and sausages. It gets very popular especially later in the evening, so if you want a seat be sure to arrive before 19:30, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. ( updated Nov 2017 )

Nightclubs [ edit ]

Barrio del Carmen is a major nightlife destination in Valencia. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and dance joints, which tend to cater to a youngish crowd, in particular along Carrer dels Cavallers ( Calle Caballeros ). 39.47168 -0.34714 14 Plaça del Cedre ( Plaza del Cedro ) is a nice area where all possibilities are given to spend a night partly o complete in less touristic ambiance than in the centre. Additionally there is typical Spanish night-life feeling on the plaza. Different kind of people enjoying the mild Mediterranean clime to sit outside talking, drinking and playing guitar often until the sunrise. Other centres of are night-life are 39.46831 -0.36573 15 Plaça de Cánovas del Castillo (more upscale), along Carrer de Joan Llorenç (young also, less "alternative"), around the main campus of the University of Valencia (for students), and increasingly in the area near the beach and port.

If you feel like dancing there are four famous pubs where especially at the weekends a lot young people can be found. The entrance is normally for free and they are almost neighbors in Carrer de Campoamor . The music is more alternative (Rock, Indie, Pop) than general in Spain but it changes depending on the DJ. So just have a look to all of them to find the one you like most. They close at half past three in the morning and if you don't want to be alone maybe the best time to arrive is between half past one and half past two.

• 39.46425 -0.3674 16 Blue Iguana , Carrer del Almirante Cadarso, 30 ( Eixample ), ☏ +34 616 941 162 . F Sa 23:00-06:00 . This is one of the best nightclubs in Valencia. New and old good music all night offered by Dj Moisés. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.46957 -0.32506 17 La Fábrica de Hielo ( La Fàbrica de Gel ), Carrer de Pavia, 37 ( Cabanyal ), ☏ +34 963 682 619 . Tu W 17:00-24:00, Th 17:00-01:00, F 17:00-01:30, Sa 11:00-01:30, Su 11:00-24:00 . The once abandoned ice factory is home to a nightclub and cultural centre, and is a good place for drinks and tapas (some vegetarian). There are nightly concerts by mostly local musicians, with Sundays devoted to jazz. Dogs permitted. Many shows are free, or under €10 . ( updated Dec 2018 )
• 39.46291 -0.32103 18 Marina Beach Club , Carrer Marina Real Juan Carlos I, s/n , ☏ +34 961 150 007 , [email protected] . Daily 11:00-03:30 . Beach club and restaurant by day, this is a popular music hotspot at night with live performances and visiting international DJs. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 39.47094 -0.32816 19 [formerly dead link] No Hay Nada Mejor Que 27 Amigos , Carrer de la Reina, 186 ( Cabanyal ). Th-Sa 22:00-03:30, Su 19:30-24:00 . A classic old-school bar in a 1920s era house. Has nightly musical acts in a range of genres, with electronic music on Saturdays and jazz sessions on Sundays. ( updated Dec 2018 )
• 39.47464 -0.38138 20 Radio City , Carrer de Santa Teresa, 19-2 ( El Carme: 2 blocks off Plaça del Tossal ), ☏ +34 963 914 151 . 22:00-03:30 . A popular bar-cum-club with a crowded dance floor playing a variety of danceable world music. The crowd is mixed locals and travellers, mostly under 30. Aggressive bouncers. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.47069 -0.34655 21 Sala Matisse , Carrer de Campoamor, 60 ( Ciutat Jardí ), ☏ +34 963 555 444 . Tu-Su 20:00-03:00 . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.47116 -0.34801 22 El Tornillo , Carrer de Campoamor, 42 ( Ciutat Jardí ), ☏ +34 639 403 148 . W-Sa 22:00-03:30 . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.45523 -0.35376 23 L'Umbracle Terraza , Av del Saler, 5 ( City of Arts and Sciences ), ☏ +34 671 668 000 , [email protected] . Th-Sa 24:00-07:30 . No cover charge with the Valencia Tourist Card; drinks €10+ . ( updated Jun 2017 )
• 39.47079 -0.34693 24 Velvet Club ( Velvet Underground ), Carrer de Campoamor, 58 ( Ciutat Jardí ). F Sa 16:00-04:00 . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 39.47078 -0.34706 25 [dead link] Wah Wah Club , Carrer de Campoamor, 52 ( Ciutat Jardí ), ☏ +34 963 563 942 , [email protected] . Tu-Su 20:30-03:00 . ( updated Jan 2018 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Staying in or near Old Town means you will hardly need transport, unless you go to the beach.

Hostels [ edit ]

• 39.47696 -0.38096 1 Hôme Backpackers Hostel Valencia ( Feetup Home Backpackers Valencia ), Plaça de Vicent Iborra, s/n , ☏ +34 963 913 797 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00-24:00 , check-out: 12:00 . In town centre and specialised in backpackers and groups. The cheapest one in Valencia, and claims to be the 'best'. Free Wi-Fi and bed linens, wheelchair accessible, nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi. Towels €1. €14 (dorm bed), from €51 (room w/shared toilet) . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47827 -0.3787 2 Innsa Hostel , Carrer de Baix, 48 ( Carmen ), ☏ +34 963 917 751 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00-22:00 , check-out: 09:00-11:00 . Free Wi-Fi, has onsite bar/restaurant. From €38 (room w/shared toilet) . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47461 -0.37009 3 Purple Nest Hostel ( Hostels Valencia Spain ), Plaça de Tetuán, 5 , ☏ +34 963 532 561 , fax : +34 963 427 128 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00-24:00 , check-out: 05:00-11:00 . A good budget hostel in Valencia hostel in the city centre. Has free Wi-Fi, family room, rooftop terrace and barbecue, and bar. From €43 (dorm bed) . ( updated Jul 2023 )
• 39.47297 -0.37192 4 Red Nest Hostel ( Hostels Valencia Spain ), Carrer de la Pau, 36 , ☏ +34 963 427 168 , fax : +34 963 427 128 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 07:00-11:00 . A good budget hostel Valencia in the city centre. Has a large kitchen free lockers, free bed linen, and free Wi-Fi; towels €1. €40 (dorm bed) . ( updated Jul 2023 )
• 39.47606 -0.37069 5 The River Hostel , Plaça del Temple, 6 , ☏ +34 963 913 955 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:30 , check-out: 11:00 . Has nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hr front desk. €10-40 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• 39.475605 -0.378862 6 Valencia Lounge Hostel , Carrer dels Cadirers, 11 , ☏ +34 963 923 425 , [email protected] . 11 rooms (double, triple, quadruple) with balconies, aesthetically decorated, no en-suite bathrooms, in a quiet alleyway. Doubles €39+ . ( updated Feb 2017 )

Hotels [ edit ]

• 39.4751 -0.37969 7 [formerly dead link] Hospedería del Pilar , Plaça del Mercat, 19 ( Mercat ), ☏ +34 963 916 600 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Operating since 1886, the hostal has nonsmoking rooms with private baths, and a 24-hr desk. Free Wi-Fi. Doubles €36-40 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• 39.50059 -0.42525 8 Hotel Beleret , Carrer del Campament, 80 ( Benimàmet, near the Les Carolines metro stop ), ☏ +34 963 640 505 , fax : +34 963 640 303 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00-24:00 , check-out: 05:00-12:00 . On the northern outskirts of the city, the hotel has nonsmoking rooms, an onsite restaurant and bar, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request, free nearby parking. Doubles €44+, breakfast €6 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• 39.47496 -0.38044 9 [dead link] Pensión El Rincón ( Hostal al Rincon ), Carrer de la Carda, 11 ( Mercat ), ☏ +34 963 916 083 . Check-in: 14:00-22:00 , check-out: 07:00-12:30 . These guys claim to have been around for over 400 years! Free Wi-Fi, safe parking, nonsmoking, pets permitted (no extra charge). €25 (single room w/shared toilet), from €35 (room w/private toilet) . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47131 -0.37504 10 Ayre Hotel Astoria Palace , Plaça Rodrigo Botet, 5 , ☏ +34 963 981 000 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has an onsite fitness centre, bar and restaurant. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, no parking available. €77+, breakfast €12 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47605 -0.372515 11 Bed & Breakfast Almirante , Almirante, 3 , ☏ +34 963 916 551 , fax : +34 963 925 501 , [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . In a quiet area of the centre of Valencia, 2 minutes' walk from the cathedral.  
• 39.49161 -0.39827 12 Eurostars Gran Valencia ( formerly Hotel Ibis ), Carrer de la Vall d'Aiora, 3 ( Benicalap, near the Beniferri metro stop ), ☏ +34 963 050 800 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A modern hotel with gym, fitness centre, and rooftop pool, as well as onsite restaurant and bar. Free Wi-Fi available; private parking €12/day. From €75 including breakfast . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.48001 -0.39118 13 Expo Hotel Valencia , Avda Pío XII, 4 ( Nuevo Centro ), ☏ +34 963 033 600 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 07:00-12:00 . Has a roof-top swimming pool and onsite bar/restaurant, with free Wi-Fi. Private parking available for €19/day. €52+, breakfast €12 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.45124 -0.35834 14 Holiday Inn Express Valencia-Ciudad Las Ciencias , Carrer de l'Escritor Rafael Ferreres, 22 ( near the City of Arts and Sciences ), ☏ +34 963 162 530 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Limited service hotel part of the IHG family, with 100 rooms. Has a bar, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €14.50/day. From €55 including breakfast . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47461 -0.37723 15 Hostal Antigua Morellana , Carrer d'En Bou, 2 ( Ciutat Vella, near the Lonja and Mercat Central ), ☏ +34 963 915 773 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00-24:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A family-run operation with 18 rooms. Free Wi-Fi, paid public parking nearby. Doubles €50-85, depending on season . ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 39.47723 -0.372 16 Hotel Ad Hoc Monumental , Carrer de Boix, 4 , ☏ +34 963 919 140 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . In a tastefully decorated 19th-century mansion in a residential area. Free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle (by reservation), pets accepted; no parking available. €80+, breakfast €13 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.46832 -0.36495 17 Hotel Dimar , Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 80 ( Gran Via ), ☏ +34 963 951 030 , fax : +34 963 951 926 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A modern hotel with an onsite bar/restaurant, gym, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking nearby (€14/day). Pets permitted on request. €72+, breakfast €13 . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.46431 -0.32359 18 [dead link] Hotel Miramar , Passeig de Neptú, 32 ( Poblats Maritims ), ☏ +34 963 715 142 , fax : +34 963 559 181 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00-24:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has non-smoking rooms, an onsite restaurant, pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €20/day. €56+ . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 39.45566 -0.35741 19 Hotel NH Valencia Las Artes , Avinguda de l'Institut Obrer de Valèncià, 28 ( Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències ), ☏ +34 916 008 146 , fax : +34 963 351 310 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has non-smoking rooms, and onsite restaurant, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request; private parking €20/day. €68+, breakfast €19 . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 39.46656 -0.35528 20 [dead link] Hotel Villacarlos , Avinguda del Port, 60 ( Camins al Grau ), ☏ +34 963 375 025 , fax : +34 963 375 074 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has non-smoking rooms and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €16/day. €50+ . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.456 -0.34585 21 ILUNION Aqua 4 ( formerly Confortel Aqua 4 ), Carrer de Luis García-Berlanga Martí, 19-21 ( near the City of Arts and Sciences ), ☏ +34 963 187 100 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Has an onsite restaurant, fitness centre, non-smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking available (€14/day). €74+ . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.49457 -0.40083 22 Meliá Valencia ( formerly Hotel Hilton Valencia ), Avda de Les Corts Valencianes, 52 ( directly across from the Palacio de Congresos in Benicalap ), ☏ +34 963 030 000 , fax : +34 963 030 001 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 07:00-12:00 . In a modern building, facilities include a spa, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€17/day). €80+, breakfast included . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47398 -0.37277 23 [dead link] Orange Habitaciones , Carrer del Trinquet de Cavallers, 3 ( Xerea ), [email protected] . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . A nice boutique hotel 15 minutes' walk from the centre. Rooms are decorated in orange, which gives you the feeling of Valencia as soon as you check in. €50/single .  
• 39.45823 -0.37009 24 La Novieta Boutique Hotel ( La Novieta ), Carrer de Vicente Lleó, 25 , ☏ +34 962 62 56 78 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:00 . A retro-chic, intimate & adults-only boutique hotel. Situated in a modernist house that was built in 1924, the hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2023. It features four en-suite bedrooms, each equipped with free Wi-Fi and super king beds. From €140, breakfast included . ( updated Nov 2023 )

• 39.46085 -0.35273 25 Barceló Valencia , Avda de França, 11 ( Camins al Grau, near the City of Arts and Sciences ), ☏ +34 963 306 344 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00-24:00 , check-out: 05:00-12:00 . Has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, and non-smoking rooms as well as free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€16/day). From €95 including breakfast . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.46647 -0.32405 26 Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Resort , Carrer d'Eugènia Viñes, 22-24 , ☏ +34 963 120 600 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A five-star hotel facing the sea. Has two onsite restaurants, an outdoor pool, spa, and gym. Offers an airport shuttle (with surcharge), free Wi-Fi, and parking (€19/day). €216+ . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47085 -0.36662 27 Hotel Hospes Palau de la Mar , Avinguda de Navarro Reverter, 14 ( Eixample ), ☏ +34 963 162 884 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A restored 19th-century palace with non-smoking rooms, Turkish bath, fitness centre, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request. Private parking €26/day; electric car charger available. €135+, breakfast €24 . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 39.47342 -0.37763 28 MYR Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa , Plaça del Mercat, 45 ( Ciutat Vella, near the Lonja and Mercat Central ), ☏ +34 963 153 367 , fax : +34 963 931 824 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00-24:00 , check-out: 07:00-12:00 . A small hotel with suites. Has free Wi-Fi, nonsmoking rooms, and onsite restaurant. Private parking €20/day. Doubles €90+ . ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 39.47025 -0.37552 29 One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria 04 , Carrer de les Barques, 4 ( near the Plaça de l'Ajuntament ), ☏ +34 963 513 984 , fax : +34 961 284 782 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . In a building from the late 19th century, the hotel has 85 rooms and offers free Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant. Public parking is available (€24/day). €100, including breakfast . ( updated Sep 2016 )
• 39.47297 -0.36119 30 The Westin Valencia , Carrer d'Amadeu de Savoia, 16 ( Mestalla ), ☏ +34 963 625 900 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . This modernist building has been converted into an exclusive luxury hotel, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and art. Facilities include a spa, indoor pool and Turkish bath, fitness centre, two onsite restaurants, and a bar. Free Wi-Fi available throughout the building; pets permitted. Private parking available (€22/day). €209+ . ( updated Sep 2016 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of June 2022, Valencia has 4G from MasMovil/Yoigo, and 5G from Movistar, Orange and Vodafone. Wifi is widely available in public places.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Valencia is quite possibly among the safest cities in Spain and Europe. As with Madrid and Barcelona, streets are filled with people at all times, even deep into the night. Valencia also has a decent police presence.

The only neighborhoods that may warrant extra precaution are Ciutat Jardí , El Cabanyal, and Aiora, in the east of the city. They are mostly deserted at night, but muggings are not unheard of.

The city's railway stations and certain metro stations might attract beggars and drunkards, but simply saying no will be enough.

The Falles celebrations attract thousands of people every year. Watch out for pickpockets.

Cope [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ], outskirts [ edit ].

• Albufera Natural Park — A fresh water lake which is part of the protected natural space, composed of the lake and surrounding marshy areas, as well as the pinewood and sandy dunes and beaches of El Saler. Rice is cultivated in the surrounding area of the lake. The Albufera also hosts many interesting varieties of migratory birds. The village of El Palmar is also a good place, if not the best, to try some paella or other local dishes.
• Manises – 15 km northwest of Valencia, it is not only the site of Valencia's airport, but is also an important centre for pottery. The city can be easily reached by Valencia's metro lines 3 and 5.
• Paterna – This bedroom community 5 km to the northwest is known for its cave dwellings, Moorish tower, and Moors and Christians Festival.
• El Puig – 15 km north of Valencia, this village is best known for its impressive Gothic monastery, and is easily visited as a half-day trip from the city.
• Torrent – 9 km southwest of Valencia, the second largest city in Valencia province has a couple of interesting sights.

Further afield [ edit ]

• Rent a car and do a day trip to any number of picturesque villages or small cities in the region, including Chulilla , Sot de Chera , Xàtiva , and Sagunto , among others.
• La Tomatina , hosted by nearby Buñol on the last Wednesday of August. A festival that involves thousands of participants throwing ripe tomatoes at each other. Make sure you wear clothes that you can throw out after wards, as it gets very messy.
• Cullera , is the nearest beach resort from the city, apart from the more aimed at locals Pobla de Farnals, and worth a day visit from Valencia if you have time. It is settled down an isolated mountain (with a big white sign saying "Cullera" on it) beside a beautiful bay. It has crowded and quiet beaches. The most quiet ones are along the lighthouse road. There is also a naturist beach right North of Cullera, in Playa del Dossel, with a tricky road to access it. There is a castle on top of the mountain from which to enjoy stunning views.
• Gandia , 65 km south of Valencia and easily accessible by regional train, is the historical capital of the ancient Dukedom of Gandia, origin of the infamous Borgia (Borja) family, whose Ducal Palace is worth the visit, and birthplace of fideuà .
• Montanejos , with its scenic mountains, gorges, and hot springs.

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For many, Valencia’s enviable perch on the Mediterranean would be enough of a draw. Not so for the city itself: Valencia has been reinventing itself at a heady pace, and shows no signs of slowing down. Well on the way to equalling – indeed, eclipsing in some instances – the cosmopolitan vitality of Barcelona and the cultural variety of Madrid, Spain’s third-largest city has finally shaken off its slightly provincial former reputation. In the last decade and a half, a vast, iconic La Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias cultural complex has been established, the state-of-the-art metro has continued to expand and dozens of hip new bars, restaurants and boutiques have injected new life into the historic centre. Valencia has also fully redeveloped its beach and port area, in part sparked by its hosting of prestigious yachting jamboree, the America’s Cup. Nevertheless, despite its size and stylista cachet, Valencia retains an unpretentious if tangibly charged air.

Valencia and Murcia

Around valencia, north of valencia: the costa del alzahar, the golfo de mazarrón, lorca and around.

Always an important city, Valencia was fought over for the agricultural wealth of its surrounding huerta. After Romans and Visigoths, it was occupied by the Moors for over four centuries with only a brief interruption (1094–1101) when El Cid recaptured it. He died here in 1099, but his body, propped on a horse and led out through the gates, was still enough to cause the Moorish armies – previously encouraged by news of his death – to flee in terror. It wasn’t until 1238 that Jaime I of Aragón permanently wrested Valencia back. It has remained one of Spain’s largest and richest cities ever since.

Valencia has long boasted some of the best nightlife in mainland Spain. Vivir Sin Dormir (Live Without Sleep) is the name of one of its bars, and it could be taken as a Valencian mantra. The city is alive with noise and colour throughout the year, with explosions of gunpowder, fireworks and festivities punctuating the calendar. Valencia’s fiestas are some of the most riotous in Spain and the best is Las Fallas, March 12–19, which culminates in a massive bonfire where all the processional floats are burned.

The most atmospheric area of the city is undoubtedly the maze-like Barrio del Carmen (in Valenciano “de Carmé”), roughly north of the Mercado Central to the Río Turia, extending up to the Torres de Serranos and west to the Torres de Quart. This once-neglected quarter continues to undergo regeneration, as buildings are renovated and stylish cafés open up next to crumbling townhouses, all of which makes for an incredibly vibrant, alternative neighbourhood. The city walls, which, judging from the two surviving gates, must have been magnificent, were pulled down in 1871 to make way for a ring road, and the beautiful church of Santo Domingo, in Plaza de Tetuan, has been converted into a barracks – it was from here that General Milans del Bosch ordered his tanks onto the streets during the abortive coup of 1981. This incident, however, isn’t representative of the city’s political inclination, which has traditionally been to the left – Valencia was the seat of the Republican government during the Civil War after it fled Madrid, and was the last city to fall to Franco.

The oldest part of Valencia is almost entirely encircled by a great loop of the Río Turia, which is now a landscaped riverbed park. In 1956, after serious flooding damaged much of the old town, the river was diverted. The ancient stone bridges remain, but the riverbed now houses cycle ways, footpaths and football pitches, as well as the astonishing Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias, Europe’s largest cultural complex. As further proof that Valencia is ever inventing itself, the city is now getting its own Central Park. The 23-hectare Valencia Parque Central is currently being built on old rail lines, in the area of the new Sorolla train station, and is one of the city’s – if not Spain’s – largest redevelopment projects to date. The massive park will include plazas, promenades, children’s gardens, an art centre, an amphitheatre and more.

Valencia’s main beach is the Playa de la Malvarrosa to the east of the city centre, which becomes Playa de las Arenas at its southern end.

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Named “El Levante” after the rising sun, this lush region is the part of Spain that wakes up first. Valencia has the Mediterranean Sea as its front yard, while the inland huerta is one of the most fertile in Europe, crowded with orange and lemon groves, date-palm plantations and rice fields still irrigated by systems devised by the Moors. Paella originated in these parts, and a juicy orange is named after Valencia. Evidence of the lengthy Moorish occupation can be seen throughout, in the castles, crops and place names – Benidorm, Alicante and Alcoy are all derived from Arabic. The region also encompasses the historical Murcia, which offers a fascinating contrast to the sun-and-sand debauchery on the water. Explored from one end to the other, this is a land of ancient and modern, of beauty and beastliness.

The growing self-assurance of the region is evident in the increasing presence of Valenciano – a dialect of Catalan – which challenges Castilian as the main language of education and broadcasting in the area. There are even a few extreme trains of thought that challenge the dialect’s Catalan origins, but those beliefs have remained largely on the margins.

Murcia is quite distinct, a comunidad autónoma in its own right, and there could hardly be a more severe contrast with the richness of the Valencian huerta. This southeastern corner of Spain is virtually a desert and is some of the driest territory in Europe. It was fought over for centuries by Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans, but there survives almost no physical evidence of their presence – or of five hundred years of Moorish rule, beyond an Arabic feel to some of the small towns and the odd date-palm here and there. The province’s capital city of Murcia, with its lovely cathedral and terrace tapas bars, makes for a comfortable base for exploring the region.

Much of the coast is marred by heavy overdevelopment, with concrete apartment blocks and sprawling holiday complexes looming over many of the best beaches. However, away from the big resorts, particularly around Denia and Xàbia (Jávea) in Valencia, there are some attractive isolated coves, while the historic hilltop settlements of Altea and Peñíscola are undeniably picturesque, if touristy. In Murcia, the resorts of the Mar Menor are reasonably attractive and very popular with Spanish families in high season; the best beaches are in the extreme south, around Águilas, where you’ll find some dazzling unspoilt coves. The increasingly vibrant cities of Valencia and Alicante are the major urban centres, and there are several delightful historic small towns and villages a short way inland, such as Morella, Xàtiva and Lorca.

The Valencia area has a powerful tradition of fiestas, and there are a couple of elements unique to this part of the country. Above all, throughout the year and more or less wherever you go, there are mock battles between Muslims and Christians (Moros y Cristianos). Recalling the Christian Reconquest of the country – whether through symbolic processions or re-creations of specific battles – they’re some of the most elaborate and colourful festivities to be seen anywhere, above all in Alcoy. The other recurring feature is the fallas (bonfires) in which giant carnival floats and figures are paraded through the streets before being ceremoniously burned.

Getting around by public transport is relatively straightforward with frequent train and bus services, though you’ll need your own transport to really explore the area. The motorway network is excellent, but tolls are quite pricey.

Valencian cuisine

Gastronomy is of great cultural importance to the Valencians. Rice is the dominant ingredient in dishes of the region, grown locally in paddy fields still irrigated by the Moorish canal system (acequias). Gourmets tend to agree that the best paellas are to be found around (but not in) Valencia, the city where the dish originated. The genuine version doesn’t mix fish and meat – it typically contains chicken, rabbit, green beans, garrofón (large butter beans), snails, artichokes and saffron – and should be prepared fresh and cooked over wood (leña), not scooped from some vast, sticky vat; most places will make it for a minimum of two people, with advance notice.

Other rice-based dishes vary around the region: arroz negro is rice cooked with squid complete with ink, which gives the dish its colour, and served with all i oli, a powerful garlic mayonnaise. Arroz al horno is drier, baked with chickpeas. Fideuà is seafood and noodles cooked paella-style. The most famous, arroz a banda, is found on the south coast around Denia – it’s rice cooked with seafood, served as two separate dishes: soup, then rice. Around Alicante, you can try arroz con costra, which is a meat-based paella topped with a baked egg crust. Apart from rice, vegetables (best a la plancha, brushed with olive oil and garlic) are always fresh and plentiful.

The sweet-toothed should try turrón, a nuts-and-honey nougat, which you could follow with a horchata (or orxata), a rich drink made from tiger nuts (chufas) or almonds (almendras).

Book a seafood paella cooking class and Ruzafa market visit

La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

More than any other project, the breathtaking Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences, or CAC), rising from the riverbed, symbolizes the autonomous government’s vision for Valencia and its quest to establish the city as a prime tourist destination. The giant complex – Europe’s largest cultural centre – consists of a series of futuristic edifices designed mainly by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava.

The architecture itself is simply stunning. Even if you only have a day or two in the city, it’s well worth the effort getting here to take in the eye-catching buildings surrounded by huge, shallow pools. Calatrava’s designs adopt an organic form, his technical and engineering brilliance providing the basis for his pioneering concrete, steel and glass creations. However, despite near-universal acclaim for its architecture, the complex has not completely escaped criticism. Some feel that the vast cost of constructing it should have been used to tackle the city’s pressing social issues, while others have been less than overwhelmed by some of the content inside the Ciudad’s startling structures.

In your explorations, stroll through the Umbracle, a series of eighteen-metre-high arches towering over a landscaped walkway shaded with vegetation from throughout the region, including palms, honeysuckle, bougainvillea and, of course, orange trees.

The Hemisfèric, one of the more astonishing buildings of the complex, is a striking eye-shaped concrete structure – complete with lashes, and an eyeball that forms a huge concave screen used to project IMAX movies, laser shows, nature documentaries and more.

Museo de las Ciencias

The colossal Museo de las Ciencias (Science Museum), whose protruding supports make the building resemble a giant sun-bleached carcass, is crammed with interactive exhibits about science, sport and the human body that are sure to appeal to children, from a colourful 3D representation of DNA to a Foucault Pendulum, which at 34m is one of the longest in the world.

Parque Oceanográfico

The Parque Oceanográfico, designed by Félix Candela, is one of the world’s largest aquariums. It’s divided into multiple zones, with beluga whales in the Arctic area, Japanese spider crabs in the temperate zone and a kaleidoscopic collection of reef fish, sharks and turtles in the seventy-metre tunnel that forms the tropical zone. The park also has all manner of splashy events, including the thrilling (though pricey) Encuentro con Tiburones (Shark Encounter), where you can scuba-dive with sharks; and a penguin visit, popular with kids, where you can feed Humboldt penguins and view their hatchery and rearing area. In the summer, the aquarium sometimes opens for night visits, while the restaurant is a sleek underwater space where you dine with fish darting past your table.

Book your fast-track tickets to the Parque Oceanográfico

Palacio de les Arts Reina Sofía and L’Ágora

The majestic pistachio-nut-shaped Palacio de las Artes is a high-tech performing arts palace, with renowned musical director Lorin Maazel at the helm. Stages and halls of varying sizes – all with splendid acoustics – host ballet, opera and classical-music concerts, among others. Performances are staged throughout the year, and it’s well worth snagging a ticket to see one. The equally impressive 80m L’Àgora (open for events only), is a multifunctional space inaugurated in November 2009 to host the Valencia 500 Open tennis tournament, and now features various events, from sports meets to the glittering annual Valencia Fashion Week.

Book a guided tour to the Palacio de les Arts Reina Sofía and L'Ágora

The port and the playas

Barcelona famously transformed its waterfront from drab to dazzling, and Valencia has done something similar to its city coastline, having significantly spruced up its beaches and boardwalk over the last decade. In 2007, Valencia became the first European port since 1851 to host the America’s Cup (which was staged here again in 2010), and to celebrate the event, parts of the forgotten waterfront were redeveloped, with a gleaming new marina and the eye-catching Veles e Vents (“Sails and Winds”) structure designed by British architect David Chipperfield helping to transform the area. The Valencia Street Circuit was also constructed in the port area as the race site of the 2008 Formula One European Grand Prix, which will continue to be held here until 2014.

As for beaches, you can catch some rays on the soft sand of the broad and breezy playas Malvarrosa and Las Arenas, which are backed by the Paseo Marítimo and extend along the waterfront. The outdoor cafés, bars and clubs here are particularly popular in the summer months. There are a number of ways to get to Malvarrosa and Las Arenas, but one easy route is to take the #5 metro at the central Colón station to Marítim Serrería, and switch to the #6 line to Neptú, from where you can walk north along the boardwalk to the sands. You can also catch buses from Plaza del Ayuntamiento, often supplemented during the summer by buses from various points in the centre; ask at the tourist office.

Fallas: Valencia on Fire

Valencia erupts in a blaze of colour and noise for the Fiesta de las Fallas, March 12 to 19. During the year, each barrio or neighbourhood builds satirical caricatures or fallas, some as tall as buildings. These begin to appear in the plazas at the beginning of March and are judged and awarded prizes before being set alight at midnight on March 19, the Nit de Foc – traditionally, carpenters celebrated the beginning of spring by decorating the torches (foc in Valenciano) they used over winter and adding them to a ritual bonfire. The fallas are ignited in succession – and the last to go up are the prize winners. Each falla has a small model or ninot beside it, usually created by the children of the barrio. These are exhibited in La Lonja before the fiesta begins, and the best displayed in the Museu Fallero; the rest are burned with the fallas.

During the fiesta, processions of falleros, dressed in traditional costume and accompanied by bands, carry flowers to the Plaza de la Virgen, where they are massed to create the skirt of a huge statue of La Virgen. The daily Las Mascaletas firecracker display (2pm in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento) sees the whole city racing to this central square for a ten-minute series of body-shuddering explosions. There are also nightly fireworks, bullfights, paella contests in the streets and chocolate y buñuelos stalls. Finally, around 1am on March 19, the falla of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento goes up in flames, followed by the last thunderous firework display of the Nit de Foc.

Valencia is known for its horchata – a drink made from chufas (tiger nuts) served either liquid or granizada (slightly frozen), and accompanied by long, thin cakes called fartons. Legend has it that the name horchata was coined by Jaume I, shortly after he conquered Valencia. He was admiring the huerta one hot afternoon, and an Arab girl offered him a drink so refreshing that he exclaimed, “Aixó es or, xata” (this is gold, girl).

There are horchaterías all over the city: the two oldest are Santa Catalina (daily 8am–9pm; t963 912 379) and El Siglo (daily generally 8am–9pm; t963 918 466), both in Plaza Santa Catalina. One of the better-known spots to cool your throat is Daniel, Avda. de la Horchata 41 (daily 10am–1am; closed mid-Dec to Feb; t961 858 866, w horchateria-daniel.es ; mPalmaret), where you can sit on the breezy terrace. In the historic Mercado de Colón, try the excellent La Casa de l’Orxata (daily Mon–Fri 7.30am–10.30pm, Sat & Sun until 2am; t963 527 307, w www.casadelaorxata.com ), who make their smooth horchata with traditional methods and organic ingredients, and sell it from street carts around town.

Traditionally, however, the best horchata comes from Alboraya, formerly a village in the Valencian suburbs, now absorbed into the city – take metro line #3. One old-time spot is Subies, Carretera de Barcelona in the Almássera neighborhood of Alboraya (daily 8.30am–11pm; t961 854 673), where three generations have been honing their craft.

Week before Lent: Carnaval

Águilas’ carnaval is one of the wildest in the country. Vinaròs also has good carnaval celebrations.

March/April

12–19 March: Las Fallas de San José

Valencia’s Las Fallas is by far the biggest of the bonfire festivals, and indeed one of the most important fiestas in all Spain. The whole thing costs over €1 million, most of which goes up in smoke (literally) on the final Nit de Foc when the grotesque caricatures, fashioned from papier-mâché and wood, are burned. Throughout, there are bullfights, music and stupendous fireworks.

19 March: Día de San José

Smaller fallas festivals in Xàtiva, Benidorm and Denia.

Third Sun of Lent: Fiesta de la Magdalena

Castellón de la Plana celebrates the end of Moorish rule with pilgrimages and processions of huge floats.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

In Elche, there are, naturally, big Palm Sunday celebrations making use of the local palms, while throughout the week there are also religious processions in Cartagena, Lorca, Orihuela and Valencia. The Easter processions in Murcia are particularly famous, and they continue into the following week with, on the Tuesday, the Bando de la Huerta, a huge parade of floats celebrating local agriculture, and, on the Saturday evening, the riotous “Burial of the Sardine” which marks the end of these spring festivals.

April 22–24: Moros y Cristianos

After a colourful procession in Alcoy, a huge battle commences between the two sides in the main square.

1–5: Fiestas de los Mayos

Fiesta in Alhama de Murcia, and Moros y Cristianos in Caravaca de la Cruz.

Second Sun: La Virgen de los Desamparados

The climax of this celebration in Valencia is when the statue of the Virgin is transferred from her basilica to the cathedral.

Third Sun: Moros y Cristianos

23–24: Noche de San Juan

Magnificent hogueras festival in Alicante (and San Juan de Alicante) with processions and fireworks, culminating as huge effigies and bonfires are burnt in the streets at midnight. It’s celebrated on a smaller scale on the beaches of Valencia (Malvarossa, Cabanyal and Aloboraya) with bonfire-jumping. Altea also celebrates with a popular tree-bearing procession and a bonfire in the old town.

Early July: Fiestas de la Santísima Sangre

Dancing in the streets of Denia, plus music and mock battles.

15–20: Moros y Cristianos

In Orihuela.

Second week: Feria de Julio

Valencia hosts music, bullfights and above all fireworks, ending with the Battle of the Flowers in the Alameda.

Penultimate weekend: FIB

Benicàssim’s international music festival, a massive party bringing together the major names in alternative and electronic music.

25–31: Moros y Cristianos

Villajoyosa sees battles by both land and sea.

4: Festa del Cristo de la Salut

Festival in El Palmar with processions by boat into the lake.

Mid-Aug: Misteri d’Eix

Elche presents a mystery play, based on a drama dating back to medieval times.

14–20: Feria de Agosto

Xàtiva’s fair has a very extensive cultural dimension including concerts, plays and exhibitions, plus bullfights and barrages of fireworks.

Local festivities in Denia.

Last week: La Tomatina

A riotous free-for-all of tomato-throwing takes place in Buñol on the last Wednesday of the month. There’s also a music festival in Morella.

Local fiesta in Sagunto, and at the same time the great Moros y Cristianos festival and a mystery play in Elche.

4–9: Moros y Cristianos

In Villena.

Second week:

Bull-running through Segorbe’s streets.

8–9: Les Danses

Celebrations in Peñíscola’s old quarter include a human tower construction.

22: Fiesta de Santo Tomás

In Benicàssim with bands and a “blazing bull”.

Second Sun: La Virgen de Suffrage

Benidorm celebrates its patron saint’s day.

Fashion forward

Move over Madrid and Barcelona, and make room for fashion diva Valencia. The city has a rich and vibrant fashion culture, and twice a year, in spring and autumn, the glossy Valencia Fashion Week (w www.valenciafashionweek.com ) sees catwalk shows from all the latest and greatest local and national designers. Valencia’s home-grown designers have made a splash in the international scene: look out for the flamboyant, gypsy-inspired pieces of Francis Montesinos; the sexy styles of Alex Vida; the urban look of Alejandro Sáez de la Torre; bold, geometric swimwear from Dolores Cortés; Higinio Mateu’s frisky dresses; and the avant-garde, flouncy threads of Tonuca. Shoes and accessories rival the clothes, with such renowned designers as jeweller Vicente Gracia, whose reinvented antique brooches have been worn by the Queen of Spain herself.

Where to shop? You can find both local and international designs throughout Valencia, from small boutiques to big department stores, particularly around the old town and city centre, including the Eixample (Ensanche) district, between Calle Colón and Gran Vía del Marqués del Turia; and Calle Jorge Juan by Mercado Colón.

There are a number of good day-trips to be made from Valencia, including a visit to the monastery at El Puig or a meal at some of the region’s very best paella restaurants at El Palmar, El Perelló or El Perellonet.

La Albufera, just 12km south from Valencia, is a vast lagoon separated from the sea by a sandbank and surrounded by rice fields. Being one of the largest bodies of fresh water in Spain, it constitutes an important wetland, and attracts tens of thousands of migratory birds – a throng composed of 250 species, of which ninety breed here regularly. In the Middle Ages, it was ten times its present size but the surrounding paddies have gradually reduced it. After growing contamination by industrial waste, domestic sewage and insecticide, the area was turned into a natural park. Whether you’re into birdwatching or not, the lagoon area makes a relaxing change from the city.

It’s possible to “hop on, hop off” the Valencia Bus Turístic and tuck into a lunch of paella, or eels with all i pebre (piquant sauce), in the lakeside village of El Palmar, which is packed with restaurants. On August 4, El Palmar celebrates its fiesta; the image of Christ on the Cross is taken out onto the lake in a procession of boats to the illuent, or centre, of the lake, where hymns are sung. Another 2km farther along the road to El Perelló is the tiny village of El Perellonet, where you can also sample some of the best paella in Spain.

All pulped out: La Tomatina

La Tomatina – the tomato-throwing festival of Buñol – is about as wild and excessive as Spanish fiestas get. Picture this: 30,000 people descend on a small provincial town, at the same time as a fleet of municipal trucks, carrying 120,000 tonnes of tomatoes. Tension builds. “To-ma-te, to-ma-te” yell the crowds. And then the truckers let them have it, hurling the ripe, pulpy fruit at everyone present. And everyone goes crazy, hurling the pulp back at the trucks, at each other, in the air … for an hour. It’s a fantasy battle made flesh: exhausting, not pretty and not to everyone’s taste. But it is Buñol’s contribution to fiesta culture, and most participants will tell you that it is just about as much fun as it is possible to have with your clothes on. Not that you should wear a great deal.

La Tomatina has been going since 1944 but has got a lot bigger in recent years, following a string of articles in the press in Spain and abroad. The novelist Louis de Bernières was one of the first foreign writers to cover the event: he wrote a superb account that is reprinted in Spain: Travelers’ Tales, and concluded that, if he planned his life well and kept his health, he could attend another nineteen Tomatinas, before he would be too enfeebled for the occasion.

If the idea appeals, then you’ll need to visit Buñol on the last Wednesday of August (but call the Valencia tourist office just to check, as some years it takes place a week early). You can get there from the city by train or bus in around an hour, but try to arrive early, with a spare set of clothing that you should leave at a bar. The tomato trucks appear on the central Plaza del Ayuntamiento at around noon, and then the battle commences: this is no spectator sport – everyone is considered fair game. At 1pm, an explosion signals the end of the battle and nobody hurls another speck of tomato for the next twelve months. Instead, the local fire brigade arrives to hose down the combatants, buildings and streets, and a lull comes over the town. And then, miraculously, within the hour, everyone arrives back on the street, perfectly turned out, to enjoy the rest of the fiesta, which, oddly enough, includes such refined pursuits as orchestral concerts in the town’s open-air auditorium. For more information, check out the festival website w tomatina.es , or try the town’s own website w bunyol.es .

Most of the Costa del Alzahar north of Valencia is dotted with beach resorts, with some of the best sands around Benicàssim, north of the provincial capital, Castellón de la Plana. Farther north still, the historic walled city of Peñíscola commands a spectacular cliff-top location, while Vinaròs is more port than resort. Apart from the appeal of the coastline, there are fine Roman ruins at Sagunto, sweeping mountain scenery and good hiking around Segorbe and Montanejos, while the fortified town of Morella is definitely worth a visit for its castle and Gothic architecture.

There’s not much else along the stretch of coast north of Benicàssim until you reach PEÑÍSCOLA, 60km away. The setting is one of Spain’s most stunning: a heavily fortified promontory jutting out into the Mediterranean, zealously shielding its warren of alleys and lanes with perfectly preserved medieval walls. Yet it’s also one of the starkest – immediately below the old walls, the requisite line of eyesore high-rises snakes out along the seafront like a besieging army.

The breezy Paseo Marítimo is a pleasant place from which to take in views of the sea, and the resort’s slender beach is well kept, if busy. The farther north you get from the castle, the quieter it becomes. There’s also a smaller cove beach, Playa Sur, 200m west of the old town.

MORELLA, 62km inland on the road from the coast to Zaragoza, is one of the most attractive – and possibly most friendly – towns in the Castellón province. A medieval fortress town, it rises from the plain around a small hill crowned by a tall, rocky spur and a virtually impregnable castle that dominates the surrounding countryside. A perfectly preserved ring of ancient walls defends its lower reaches. The city was recovered from the Moors in the thirteenth century by the steward of Jaime I. He was reluctant to hand it over to the Crown, and it’s said that the king came to blows with him over possession of the town. Today, Morella hosts an annual festival of classical music in the first two weeks of August.

Festival Internacional de Benicàssim

The annual Festival Internacional de Benicàssim (FIB; w fiberfib.com ) in late July draws tens of thousands to hear the world’s biggest names in alternative pop and rock. Over the years, it has pulled in everyone from Depeche Mode to Oasis and, more recently, The Strokes and Arctic Monkeys. The dance tents are generally just as buzzing as the live-music stages, with DJs playing all night long. A four-day festival ticket is €165, or €240 with free camping for eight days around the event at the massive campsite.

South of Cartagena, much of the scenic coastline down to the border with Andalucia is undeveloped, with a succession of fine coves lying beneath a backdrop of arid, serrated hills. The region’s main resorts, El Puerto de Mazarrón and Águilas, are both fairly small scale and easy going, mainly attracting Spanish families. Public transport is limited, however, so you’ll need your own vehicle to get to the better beaches.

ÁGUILAS, 47km from Mazarrón and almost on the border with Andalucia, is hemmed in by the parched hills of the Sierra del Contar. Along with the cultivation of tomatoes – one of the few things that can grow in this arid region – fishing is the mainstay of the economy here, and a fish auction is held at around 5pm every day in the port’s large warehouse. Carnaval is especially wild in Águilas, and for three days and nights in February, the entire population lets its hair down with processions, floats and general fancy-dress mayhem.

Águilas is also popular for its plentiful beaches, and the area has a superb year-round climate. The town itself has managed to escape the worst excesses of tourism, and retains much of its rural charm and character.

The beaches

You’ll find sandy beaches, and over thirty small calas (coves) in the vicinity – those to the north are rockier and more often backed by low cliffs, while the best are the wonderful, fairly undeveloped cuatro calas south of town. You’ll need your own wheels to reach these beaches, which get better the farther you get away from Águilas, but all are signposted. The first two, Calarreona and La Higuérica, have fine sands and are backed by dunes and the odd villa, but 6km south of Águilas where the coast is completely wild, the ravishing back-to-back sandy coves of Cala Carolina and Cala Cocedores are simply superb.

If you don’t have your own transport, you’re better heading for the chain of beaches north of Águilas served by regular buses (generally mid-July to end of Aug only). Playa Hornillo is a nice beach with a couple of bars (and you could actually reach it by walking from the train station), while Playa Amarillo is decent but in a built-up area. The bus also passes playas Arroz, La Cola and finally Calabardina (7km from town). If you feel energetic, you could head across Cabo Cope to yet another chain of beaches beginning at Ruinas Torre Cope

Many of the historic villages of inland Murcia are accessible only with your own transport, but one place you can reach easily is LORCA, an attractive former frontier town whose historic centre, on the hill between c/López Gisbert and the castle, still has a distinct aura of the past. For a time, it was part of the Córdoba caliphate, but it was retaken by the Christians in 1243, after which Muslim raids were a feature of life until the fall of Granada, the last Muslim stronghold. Most of the town’s notable buildings – churches and ancestral homes – date from the sixteenth century onwards.

Today, Lorca is famed for its Semana Santa celebrations, which outdo those of both Murcia and Cartagena, the next best in the region. There’s a distinctly operatic splendour about the dramatization of the triumph of Christianity, with characters such as Cleopatra, Julius Caesar and the royalty of Persia and Babylon attired in embroidered costumes of velvet and silk. The high point is the afternoon and evening of Good Friday.

Earthquake in Lorca

On May 11, 2011, Lorca was shaken by a 5.2-magnitude earthquake, said to be the most serious tremor to hit Spain in fifty years. Parts of town – particularly the old quarter – were levelled, and ten people were killed. While some tourist sights have reopened, a number are still being repaired, and you may encounter construction as the town rebuilds.

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• The Ultimate Valencia Travel Guide: 20+ Awesome Things to Do in Valencia, Spain

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Like I mentioned in my last post , I didn’t spend as much time working in Valencia like I’d originally planned . In fact, if you had seen me digital nomading in the month of August, you would have laughed at the absurdity of my work life. But those stories are for another post.

I knew that two months in Valencia would go by quickly, especially since I spent three of those weeks traveling outside the city. I had to make my time in Valencia count, and looking back at my photos – my roommate Tiffany and I did an amazing job. I did, I kid you not, 99% of all the activities I set out to do in Valencia. I went on a food tour , a street art tour , day trips and even several local events. Therefore, with all my Valencian “expertise,” I present to you the ultimate Valencia travel guide– fondly known as almost everything to do in the city.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Valencia Spain

Check out the street art in el carmen.

If you’re a street art lover , you’re in luck. Valencia has a thriving street art scene, with murals, graffiti, and paintings dotting the city. Although El Carmen is home to a huge number of pieces, the best way to gain a deep understanding of the artwork and respective artists is by taking the Street Art in Old Valencia Tour . Lenny is a dynamic and knowledgeable guide and her obsession with street art means you’re guaranteed to leave armed with knowledge about Valencia. She also hosts a food tour  too!

Valencia travel tip: Consider getting a 1-3 day tourist pass or a 7 day tourist pass to save on entrance fees!

Get your tan on at the beach

Spaniards love to hate their city beaches, but as an Angeleno, I can honestly say the Valencia city beaches are quite nice . The most popular (and easiest to access) is Malvarrosa . The city center empties out in the summer, but you can find all the Valencians are at the beach. For a slightly quieter and cleaner beach with fewer tourists, head to Patacona . No matter which you pick, you’re in for a good beach day.

Picnic at Turia Gardens

Once upon a time, Turia was a river that ran through the entire city of Valencia. After it flooded, the water was diverted to dams and the remaining land was turned into a park. At 9km long, Turia runs throughout the entire city , from the Bioparc all the way to the City of Arts and Sciences . It is an excellent place to have a picnic, take a stroll or segway through . No matter what time of day, it’s always filled with people walking dogs, exercising or just hanging out. During the summer, you can find live concerts, outdoor movies, and other cool events as well. I suggest grabbing some fresh eats from Mercado Central or Mercado de Russafa and making a lazy afternoon of it.

Eat your way through the Mercado Central

I probably ended up at the Mercado Central at least once a week over the summer, whether or not I needed groceries. The Mercado is essentially a giant farmer’s market that sells every food item your heart could desire. They have everything from foodie souvenirs (hello, olive oil!) to fresh veggies to cured meats to specialty olives. Plus, they also have some bakeries and ready-to-eat meals, so you can eat while you shop. With rows and rows of stores, it’s a foodie’s paradise, and you could easily spend an hour here. Special shout out goes to Mercado de Russafa  – a much smaller version of Mercado Central, but easier to shop in since it’s far less crowded. Note that both markets are closed on Sundays. P.S. Check out the awesome food tour  that includes a visit to both!

Marvel at the Museum of Toy Soldiers ( L’iber )

I’m not a huge museum person, but I couldn’t resist visiting this somewhat strange and enchanting museum. Home to the largest collection of toy soldiers in the world (yes that’s a thing), this privately owned museum is guaranteed to wow you. Its recreations of famous historical events and people bring a whole new meaning to making history come alive.

Visit the jaw-dropping Parroquia de San Nicolas

Every guidebook will tell you to visit the Cathedral of Valencia, but Parroquia de San Nicolas is where it’s at. The “ Sistine Chapel of Valencia ” has incredibly intricate murals and carvings; the entire interior is a giant piece of art. Special thanks to the Urban Adventures team for suggesting it to me!

Go on a free walking tour

Free walking tours are AWESOME because 1) they’re free and 2) the guides are extremely knowledgeable about the city. I try to do them in every city I go visit because it’s a great introduction to a new place. The Valencia Free Walking Tour is pretty lengthy (nearly 4 hours), but covers a good chunk of the city. Here’s a brief overview of some of the things you’ll see:

• La Lonja Silk Exchange : Once upon a time, the Silk Exchange was it exactly what it sounds like..a silk exchange. It then evolved into a center for local trading and commerce before it stopped being used. Nowadays, you can still find people outside the Silk Exchange on Sundays, selling and bartering their collectible items.
• Cathedral of Valencia : This Mosque turned Cathedral has quite the interesting history, both architecturally and as a symbol of the evolution of religion in Valencia.
• Plaza de la Virgen : This was our meeting spot for the tour and is one of the largest plazas in the Old Town. Here, we learned about the historical significance of the Water Court, Turia Fountain, and Basilica de la Virgen.
• Plaza de la Reina : this is the main square of Valencia and really the heart of the city. Here you’ll find a multitude of shops and restaurants, as well as the entry point into the Old Town.
• The Old Town (Ciutat Vella) : There is so much to see in the Old Town, and this tour gives you an excellent taste. You’ll see La Estrecha (the thinnest building in the city), Plaza Redona (a round plaza) and the Central Market.

As you head deeper into the old town, you’ll get even more information about Valencia, stopping by the Market Square and Government Palace. Basically, even if you’re only in Valencia for a few days, I highly recommend this tour to get a taste of the city!

Climb the Torres del Serrano (and Torres de Quart)

Old Valencia (Ciutat Vella) is sandwiched in between two towers: Torres del Serrano and Torres de Quart , both of which were part of the original city walls. I only visited Torres del Serrano, located at the edge of the El Carmen neighborhood and known as the largest Gothic city gateway in Europe . Fun fact: Torres del Serrano operated as a prison for nobles and knights for 300 years. It has amazing architecture (#Instagram) and for €2, you can huff and puff your way up the stairs for some spectacular views of El Carmen, Turia, and the rest of Valencia.

Wander (or bike) through hipster Russafa

Before renting my summer apartment, I asked several people about their favorite neighborhoods in Valencia. The unanimous answer was Russafa , and I completely understand why. Russafa is the trendy meets hipster neighborhood . It’s affordable and has a local feel, but still caters to the “cool kids” with good ethnic food, well-designed cafes, and quirky boutique shops. If you have the time just wander through this area and see what you find! Note: one of the best ways to explore the different neighborhoods of Valencia is by bike ! 

Escape the city and visit Denia

Remember how I mentioned that Spaniards love to poo-poo at their city beaches? Valencians are no different and when one local realized I hadn’t been to any non-city beaches, she immediately insisted I take a day trip to Denia . So, when a couple of our girlfriends were in town, that’s what Tiffany and I did. Besides being clean and well equipped with amenities , the water in Denia was perfection. Plus, it’s not as popular to visit as some of the larger beach towns, so it wasn’t overcrowded at all. I recommend staying overnight as it’s about a 2-hour bus ride from Valencia.

Take a peek into the future at the City of Arts and Sciences

This futuristic area is the new part of Valencia, and the architecture is truly mind boggling. This “city” is made up of a science museum, opera house, IMAX theater, garden / nightclub, events venue, and aquarium . Although it’s a long walk from the Old Town, it’s definitely worth the visit.  I suggest coming to this area around sunset for some beautiful views. Did I mention you can do a mini boat ride in the pool? If you want to go inside some of the buildings, I highly recommend getting a combined ticket to the science museum and IMAX ahead of time here.  Alternatively, you can do that combined with a guided tour or even tour the area by segway (it’s pretty large to do on foot).

Get inspired at L’Oceanografic

The main building worth exploring at the City of Arts and Sciences is L’Oceanografic , Europe’s largest aquarium . Tiffany I went during a special evening series they were running during the summer, which included live classical orchestras playing throughout the aquarium. We also watched a really dramatic and classy dolphin show, complete with lights and classical music. It surpassed my expectations and is  totally worth the entrance fee (psst, skip the line and get your ticket online instead).

Discover your inner chef at La Escuela de Paella y Arroces

I wrote an entire post   about how I became a paella “chef.” La Escuela de Paella y Arroces manages to make cooking a two-hour dish both fun and educational . It’s a great way to learn how to cook the national dish of Valencia and get a better understanding of the history of paella. Check out the class I did and book your own here .

Drink ALL the Orxata

Orxata is easily the national drink of Valencia, and Tiffany and I were enthusiastic consumers. This tiger nut drink tastes like a better and refreshing version of almond milk and is best consumed alongside a fartón, a slightly sweet and light breadstick. The best place to get it is Casa de l’Orxata , although the most famous version is from Santa Catalina . Try both and thank me later. Tip: Casa de l’Orxata is located in Mercado Colón , which is an excellent location to spend a lazy afternoon.

Visit the birthplace of Paella (La Albufera)

While Valencia is known for its delicious Paella Valenciana, what most people don’t know is that the true birthplace of paella is La Albufera, a small town just outside the Valencia city center. It’s easy to do a half-day tour from Valencia , which includes a peaceful boat ride, transport to and from the town, and a 3-course paella lunch. Yum! You can also take the city bus and book the bus and lunches separately if you want to go on your own schedule. Even though it’s not far from the city at all, La Albufera feels like another world with its expansive green fields and quaint town center. This is by no means a must-do in Valencia but if you have some extra time and are interested in seeing the small town where paella was born, it’s a chill way to spend half a day.

Party all night at L’Umbracle

For those of you who know me, you know that I am so NOT a clubbing person. I love to dance but clubs are just…no. Usually, anyway. However, every single person I spoke to said I HAD to go to L’Umbracle at least once and let me just say, it did not disappoint. First of all, it’s an outdoor club so the ambiance is a lot more relaxed and classy. There are two levels , with the indoor basement level playing the real clubby music, while the main floor evoking a lounge vibe. So fun! If you want to party with actual Spaniards, don’t bother showing up until 3 am – that’s when the party really starts. That explains why I only went once. I so cannot hang with the Spanish schedule.

Experience Las Fallas at the Museo Fallero

Valencia is well-known internationally for the Las Fallas Festival – the Festival of Fire. It takes place every March to commemorate Saint Joseph. Although it officially lasts 5 days, I’m told the festivities and shenanigans last a month, with people launching fireworks and partying all night long. During Las Fallas, every Valencian neighborhood has an organizing committee (casal faller) who is tasked with uniting workers and designers to make paper maché and cardboard structures (ninots) representing a designated theme. On the last day of Las Fallas, all the ninots (except the “best” one) are burned to the ground in conjunction with fireworks. The Museo Fallero is where you can see the best ninots from all the Fallas since the early 1930s . It’s fascinating to see their evolution over time, both in terms of materials used and the winning themes. Some of them are seriously so strange…

Catch the train to Alicante

We spent most of our summer enjoying a fairly empty Valencia city center. When I asked where everyone was the answer was “the beach!” Since one of the closest beach towns is Alicante , it made total sense that it was where all the hustle and bustle was. Alicante is a smallish beach town about an hour and a half from Valencia and is the epitome of #summervibes . Warm nights, crowded beaches, cool waters and al fresco dining – Alicante is the cool place to be. It’s a little pricey to stay here during peak season, but it’s a fun getaway from Valencia. Luckily, it’s super easy to get to using Omio .

Pay homage to the House of Cats

When I was first introduced to the House of Cats , I knew I would love Valencia. This house used to belong to an elderly lady who loves cats. When she died, she left her house to the cats of Valencia, and it has since turned into a cat sanctuary. Apparently, nobody is allowed onto the actual grounds, but the cat entrance was built to resemble a miniature house . How cute is that?

Attend awesome events by Love Valencia

Want to know what cool events are going on in Valencia at any given time? Love Valencia is the ultimate resource for anything and everything happening in the city. Tiffany and I were enthusiastic followers of Love Valencia and attended our fair share of summer events. Valencia hosts an impressive amount of events (and manages crowds really well), so I highly recommend checking out Love Valencia for the days you’re in town.

Even MORE Things to Do in Valencia

There are always more things to see! These are a few of the popular activities that I didn’t do. I’m sure there are more than I can think of!

• Go to a bullfight at Plaza del Toros : I purposely skipped this. I’m all for cultural experiences but I’m not sure I could stomach a bull fight (nor do I want to). If you’re into that sort of thing (no judgments), Valencia is one of the few cities that still hosts fights. You can also opt to do a tour of the bullring. I did it during my visit to Seville   and it was fascinating.
• Go inside the Cathedral of Valencia : I know, I know, I should have done this. I did walk around the entire outside during a walking tour, though so that counts, right? Anyway, one of the most interesting things about this Cathedral is that it used to be a mosque before the Inquisition. Instead of destroying it completely, it was turned into a church. You can still see remnants of Moorish and religious architecture here although I did hear the inside is not as impressive as the outside. Who knows?
• Walk on water at the waterballs : I am SO SAD I didn’t do this. I honestly just ran out of time and was a bit lazy. This activity runs all summer long through October 31st, so if you’re in Valencia during summer or fall, go make a fool of yourself on my behalf.
• Climb Torres de Quart : I mentioned this earlier in the post, but these towers are the entry point into the old city. I’m super lazy and it was hot, so I went to one pair of towers and deemed it enough. These ones are free if you want to save yourself a €2 entry fee.
• Hang with animals at Bioparc : I often get a bit wary of visiting zoos and safari parks because I’m concerned about the state of animal care in these places. However, Bioparc is exceptional and clearly cares for its animals. Not only has it rebuilt wildlife habitats for these animals (no caged animals here), but it’s government managed as well. Plus, there’s even a Bioparc foundation to support wildlife conservation. It’s a bit outside of the main city, but can easily be reached by bike, bus, or cab.

Still need more ideas? Get inspired below!

Despite being the third largest city in Spain, people often overlook Valencia as a tourist destination. Those that do visit only pass through quickly (unless they’re there for Las Fallas). However, as you can see, Valencia is chock-full of cool places to go, amazing food to eat , and fun activities. It has a Spanish cultural vibe that you won’t find in some other cities and is definitely worth at least a few days of your trip. You can easily reach Valencia by bus, train , or flight from most major cities in Europe. Check out Rome2Rio for more details.

More Spain Resources

• Spain Travel Guide
• The Budget Guide to Barcelona
• The Foodie Guide to the Best Restaurants in Valencia Spain
• The Best Paella Cooking Class in Valencia Spain: Escuela de Arroces
• Valencia Food Tour: Treats and Tastes with Valencia Urban Adventures
• Exploring Street Art in Valencia, Spain
• Budget Guide to Madrid
• The Solo Traveler Guide to Andalusia, Spain
• Tapas and Taverns with Madrid Food Tours
• A Weekend Guide to Bilbao
• The Art of Finding and Ordering the Best Pintxos in San Sebastian
• 24 Hours in Valencia: A Tale of Enchantment
• Why I’m Spending Summer in Valencia, Spain
• Sleeping and Socializing: Cats Hostel Madrid Lavapiés Review
• EatWith Review: Dining with Locals and Spain in Beyond

Tell me: have you ever been to Valencia? If so, did I miss any hot spots on this list? Share in the comments below!

Like this post? Pin it for later!

33 thoughts on “ The Ultimate Valencia Travel Guide: 20+ Awesome Things to Do in Valencia, Spain ”

Wow, Valencia has so much to offer. It’s a shame it’s often overlooked. I love that there are so many food and cultural options. I would definitely be hitting up those museums and taking a cooking class, and eating paella, and so much more.

It really does! I hope you get a chance to visit someday and experience all its offerings for yourself 🙂

This is a city that has never appealed to me but it looks fab. I especially love the city of arts and science. How awesome are those buildings?

I ended up there on a whim but ended up loving it! The city of arts and sciences is BEYOND cool. I never got tired of visiting! Hope you get a chance to visit sometime 🙂

OMG I love the house for cats! How amazing! We are thinking of doing Spain next year, possibly living there. I would love to visit Valencia, you have also sold it to me well! I love all the futuristic architecture and street art as well!

Riiight? Such a cute concept. Ah, I want to move to Spain SO badly. I’m hoping to do so sometime in 2017. Definitely check out my blog though – I have quite the extensive collection on a bunch of cities in Spain. You will love it and want to stay forever 🙂

Ok! Thank you for making me bad for choosing to visit Northern Portugal the other day, instead of following my original Spain itinerary that included Valencia! 😀 Seriously though, you did a great job with all those suggestions! So many, some very very interesting and without trying to compile a list out of nowhere!

Haha tsk tsk! Although I hear all of Portugal is amazing, so I don’t think you can go wrong there. I hope you get a chance to visit Valencia one day!

Fabulous post. Your page is amazing!! I literally want to visit EVERYWHERE!! I used to live in Spain, so have visited many of the cities you have too. However, reading your guides to each place makes me want to go back and do them all again and experience the parts I missed first time round! https://lajuaniblog.wordpress.com/2016/03/24/a-whole-lot-of-bang/ Have you experienced Las Fallas in Valencia? 🙂

That’s awesome that you used to live in Spain! I never tire of visiting and hope to stay longish term next year. I hope you get a chance to go back soon! Haven’t been to Las Fallas yet but hopefully in the next couple of years!

As a drink lover this is what I understand: I have to try Orxata! I`m still confused by the comparison of beer with the feeling of milk which only makes me want to try it even more! On a more serious note, I like walking tours and I`m trying to do one, along with a street art tour where possible, as often as I can. Lots of the time I see some places that are not touristic and I wouldn`t have seen them otherwise. PS: walking on water???

Orxata is amazing! I became a bit of an addict. And yes, I love street art tours because they take you to parts of the city you never knew about. “Walking on water” because you can walk inside on those waterballs. So cool, huh?

Valencia is one of the cities I completely missed going to when I lived in Spain, and it’s the top of my list! I’d love to relax on the beaches, and every time I see that futuristic architecture, I want to go more and more!

It took me three visits to Spain until I finally went, so I totally understand. I hope you get a chance to visit sometime soon!

There is so much to do that looks incredible, I’m not sure where I’d start! I’d love to see the future city, but I’m also drawn to the history and artistry of Parroquia de San Nicolas. I think walking tours are a great way to get an overview of a place, so that would be a must. And, of course, I’d be tasting my way through that huge market.

I know, it’s crazy how much there is to do, right? If you get a chance, I recommend going for at least a week so you can cover some of the highlights 🙂

The City of Arts and Sciences building looks so beautiful! And the paella… yum! Valencia might need to be somewhere we visit!

Seriously such amazingly impressive architecture! And paella is always a good idea. Hope you get a chance to go soon!

Wow! This is definitely an ultimate guide! The house of cats looks so adorable! There are loads of things on this list I’ll definitely have to keep in mind when I finally get to Spain. I keep hearing about this Orxata – it’s at the top of the list!

Thanks Paige! I figured I should write something extensive since I spent so much time there :). I hope you get a chance to go soon! Definitely stop by Valencia for some orxata – I haven’t seen it anywhere else in Spain! Happy travels!

I LOVE free walking tours! I went on a private one today and would do it again in a heartbeat!

They’re SO great, aren’t they? The guides always know so much, it’s impressive!

Oh wow that’s a lot of things to do I’m sure I’m not going to get bored. And I also didn’t know that they are one of the largest toy soldier. This post is so informative that I even think I’m also with you. Yay!

Thanks Ferna! It’s really a vibrant and amazing city 🙂

As a Finn turned into Valenciano I would say that you missed out on the most vibrant and genuine parts of Valencia El Cabanyal and Benimaclet. Especially the architecture in Cabanyal is super cute. Shabby chick is maybe the best way to describe it 😀 The tip for the free walking tours couldn’t have been timed any better. We just got visitor from back home and we just loved the tours.

I briefly went to Benimaclet for dinner and walked through El Cabanyal once but didn’t really spend an extensive time in either place, sadly! I lived in Pla del Remei so I didn’t find myself in those areas often. I’ll keep them in mind for whenever I go back :).

Yes the free walking tours are amazing! I also really recommend the street art tour, even if you’re a local. It’s truly fascinating to learn about local culture through art, and you visit some less touristy parts of town too 🙂

This is a fantastic guide! The cat house is adorable and I’m loving the sound of the Tiger nut drink. I’m hoping to make it to Valencia next September with the girls so definitely pinning this for future reference 🙂

Thank you! Yes orxata is amazinggggg and who doesn’t love a house for kitties? I hope you consider going. It’s seriously amazing! Be sure to check out my restaurant guide as well because food is just as important as things to do, right? 😀 https://passportandplates.com/enticing-eats/ultimate-guide-best-restaurants-valencia-spain/

Happy travels!

Thank you for sharing this great guide as you mentioned some activities that I love doing when vising a different city. Will definitely keep this post in mind when I visit this town 😉 Alessandra

Thanks for checking it out Alessandra! Valencia is truly a lovely city and I hope you get a chance to visit soon 🙂

I am so going to this funky papier mache museum! Loved the post. I made a good choice going there.

DO IT! It’s so much fun haha. And yay I’m glad you’re going to visit!

This is such a great article about Valencia! I think I hit all the beaches except Malvarrosa, but Patacona was awesome!! One tip for your next trip, make sure to check out the bridge of flowers. It’s so jaw-droppingly beautiful during the summertime.

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33 Best Valencia Travel Tips: Visit the Birthplace of Paella

• Post author: Naddya and Svet
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: December 15, 2021

One of the top jewels of Spain’s crown is its third-largest city – Valencia.

Although sometimes overshadowed by Barcelona and Madrid, Valencia is definitely worth visiting , too.

From dazzling beaches and bustling nightlife to mouth-watering traditional dishes and unique local culture, there’s a myriad of reasons to visit the city.

And to make every minute of your time count, we’ve prepared 33 Valencia travel tips for you.

In this guide, you’ll find things to do before you leave home, budget and weather tips, and the most delicious dishes to order while exploring the best neighborhoods of Valencia.

Ready to discover this overlooked Spanish gem?

Then, use the navigation below and happy browsing.

Start Planning Your Trip to Valencia with Our BEST Recommendations:

⭐ Top Tours in Valencia ⭐

📍 Tuk-Tuk Tour Around the City – discover Valencia in an entertaining and comfy way.

📍 Wine & Tapas in a Historic Building – a guided walk through the Old Town and delectable wines and tapas in an 11th-century building.

⭐ Best Accommodations in Valencia ⭐

🏨 Caro Hotel – the best luxurious experience in the heart of Valencia’s Old Town.

🏨 Amazinn Places EVIapartments – funky, modern apartments with great amenities.

⭐ Easiest Transportation Options in Valencia ⭐

🚍 Valencia Tourist Card – enjoy discounts, free travel, and entrances to museums.

🚍 Discover Cars – compare and find the best rates for car rentals.

Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

Preparation – Things to Do Before You Go to Valencia

As with all tourist places, it’s a good idea to prepare a bit before going to Valencia . The following Valencia travel tips will save you headaches when you reach your destination.

• Visa requirements. As Spain is a part of the European Union, a visa is not necessary for all citizens of the EU and for US citizens with a passport valid for at least another 6 months. For a complete list of visa requirements, visit the official website of the EU.
• Official language. Downtown or at the beach, you’ll most probably do fine only speaking English. However, outside of the most touristic areas, you might need to use some of that slightly forgotten high-school Spanish. On top of that, Valencia is a proud speaker of its own dialect, called Valenciano . Don’t worry if you don’t understand a word of it, though, as everything is bilingual and also written in traditional Spanish.
• Mind the heat! If you decide to visit Valencia amidst the summer months, prepare yourself for scorching hot temperatures. It’s not a good idea to explore the stone streets of the Old Town during midday hours, as the heat is almost intolerable. Hydrate as much as possible and treat yourself to a scoop or two of ice cream .
• Observe the siesta hours. It might be an unpleasant surprise that some businesses and stores close for a good chunk of the day for the traditional Spanish siesta. It usually takes place between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, but hours may vary slightly. Check in advance whether that small family shop you’d love to buy a souvenir from is open during afternoon hours.
• If you’re going to visit the Cathedral or other churches, mind the dress code. In spite of the high temperatures during the summer, church officials will not show understanding for your tank top or hot pants. Be sure to cover your shoulders – even a light silk scarf will do the trick – and wear below-knee-length skirts for women. Men are not allowed in with shorts.

Weather – When Is the Best Time to Visit Valencia

Valencia’s climate is a dream. It consists of hot summers, mild winters, and over 300 sunny days annually. Even during the coldest months, the average temperature is around 63°F (17°C), so a visit to Valencia is a good idea in every season. Check out the best Valencia travel tips for each time of the year below.

• Spring can be rainy but quite warm, with an average temperature of 66°F (19°C).  Several events are worth  visiting in Valencia in that period. As in many other European cities, a traditional Carnival is the February highlight. It is a great chance to dress up, take part in wild street parties, and enjoy the fireworks. Another interesting celebration is Las Fallas, a 5-day festival in March. Spectators can watch the parade of huge papier-mâché puppets that are burned at the end of the festivities.
• The hot summer in Valencia is the perfect time to enjoy sandy beaches and a refreshing swim. June, July, and August offer an average high of 82.4°F (28°C), almost no rainfall, and lots of sunshine. The city gets quite crowded. Picnics, gatherings, and open-air events take place almost everywhere. The blooming student population in Valencia lends vitality and energy to its nightlife. Countless bars offer the delicious local drink Agua Valenciana – a mix of cava, orange juice, gin, and vodka. Be sure to relish a glass in one of the lively bars in the El Carmen neighborhood, or get a classy cocktail in the trendy cafes of Ruzafa . Finish the hot night with a dance marathon in Valencia’s discos.
• Fall is the best time to discover nature in and outside the city. During September, October, and November, Valencia breathes differently with its summer tourists gone. This is the perfect time to appreciate amazing views over the autumn sea. You could also enjoy the sunset at Albufera National Park situated a mere 6 mi (10 km) from the city. The world-class Valencian marathon also takes place during the fall months. The city’s flat streets are great for running. So, if you do have the ambition to finish a marathon, the prestigious Valencian race is a fantastic opportunity.
• During the mild winter, the Christmas spirit dominates the Valencian city landscape. Spend time wandering around the beautifully decorated streets. Don’t pack your thickest coat since daily temperatures rarely drop below 53.6°F (12°C). You’ll find the most popular Christmas markets in front of the cathedral and around the Central Market. Try the scrumptious typical winter foods, such as the traditional turrón , and gawk at the hand-crafted souvenirs.

Money-Saving Travel Tips: How to Stretch Your Bucks in Valencia

It’s not necessary to deplete your pockets in order to enjoy Valencia. In this section, we’ll unveil a few tips on how to spend quality time and save some money .

• Many of Valencia’s museums are free to enter. Enjoy the works of Velázquez and Goya in one of Spain’s largest art collections at the Museo de Bellas Artes . Another option is the Museo de Historia de Valencia with an exhibition that displays 2,000 years of city history. You can make use of a free entry for the bullfighting museum – Museo Taurino – on Sundays and public holidays. The Ceramics Museum is also open for a free visit on Saturday evenings and on Sundays.
• Valencian tap water is perfectly safe to drink. If you decide to travel to Valencia during the hot summer days, you’ll need to hydrate yourself often. The cost of buying bottled water quickly adds up. Avoid this unnecessary expenditure by bringing your own water bottle. You can refill it at one of the many water fountains throughout the city since the water is safe to consume.
• Rent a bike for an easy and budget-friendly way to sightsee. The ex-capital has over 93 mi (150 km) of bike lanes. Offers are galore. The most popular bike rental service is called Valenbisi . Other companies are more costly but with a wider variety of options, such as Doyoubike Rental or BIKES and ROLL . By hopping on a bike, you’ll be able to enjoy the city in a much more personal manner than any touristic bus can ever offer.
• Save up on ATM withdrawal fees. Be aware that most banks in Spain charge for money withdrawals. A bullet-proof way to avoid their fees is to pay by card, which is possible almost anywhere in Valencia. If you do need cash, the following banks don’t charge: Eurocaja Rural, CajaSur, and Deutsche Bank. Regardless of the bank, the ATM will display the charge price prior to withdrawing. If it seems high to you, you can always terminate the action.
• Participate in a free walking tour. As with most major cities, free walking tours are also a thing in Valencia. They’re a great way to get to know the city on foot and only spend a symbolic amount to compensate the friendly guides. One option is Free Tour Valencia which offers a tour every day and will show you the main tourist sights.
• Spend the day in the marvelous Turia park. A magnet for locals and tourists alike, this park is a wonderful place to have a picnic, do some sports, or spend a peaceful afternoon in the tree shades. Turia is quite interesting, as it is built inside a dried-out riverbed. City authorities cleverly decided to turn it into a green area running through a large part of town.
• Some of the metro stations in Valencia are worth a visit. Even if you don’t ride the metro, it is worth going underground, just to feast your eyes on the beautiful Alameda Metro Station , for example. Its design is the work of Santiago Calatrava – an internationally renowned Valencian architect. Another station that attracts tourists is Colón Station featuring Sala Lametro – a cultural exhibition space.

Food & Drinks in Valencia: The Mediterranean Delicacies You Should Try

Spoil yourself with the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. Below, we’ve listed the most scrumptious Valencian foods and drinks that you must try.

• The Valencian paella is to die for. The famous Spanish dish originated in the Valencian region. The classic paella features fried chicken and rabbit meat, tomatoes, local beans and, of course, rice. Your discerning palate might also like the other variants that epitomize seafood or other meats.
• Try fideuà, a popular dish with seafood. This Valencian treat closely resembles paella but is made with vermicelli noodles instead of rice. The noodles assist in bringing out the rich taste of the seafood, as they absorb a large amount of the broth while cooking.
• For a non-touristy taste, order Arroz al Horno. Valencianos seem to love the combo between rice and meat. Arroz al Horno will please all meat lovers as it combines blood sausage, pork ribs, and bacon with veggies, chickpeas, and rice.
• If you like pizza, you’ll fall in love with cocas . These flatbreads can be sweet or savory, and toppings vary. There are vegetarian and vegan options, varieties with fish or meat, and all flavors imaginable. Valencian people might spend a good amount of time trying to persuade you that the local coca precedes and ultimately beats pizza in the race for the most delicious topped dough. We personally won’t dare disagree!
• Love spicy food? Then, all-i-pebre is for you. The dish could be quite hot, so ask the waiter before ordering it. As a typical Valencian food, all-i-pebre is a scrumptious eel stew with paprika and chili smothered in a rich sauce that will call for bread. Beer goes great with it, too.
• Enjoy esmorzaret, the Valencian brunch. The esmorzaret is an ancient custom born out of necessity. Work in the fields had to start early in order to avoid the heat. So, sometime between morning and lunch, workers were already starving. They replenished their strength with a mid-morning snack of olives, pickled vegetables, and lupin beans, followed by a sandwich. Nowadays, the best places to treat yourself to esmorzaret in Valencia are Bar Marvi, La Pascuala, and Casa Guillermo.
• Turrón – a celebration for those who have a sweet tooth. The typical Christmas candy originated in Arab cuisine and is still widely sold today. There are plenty of different flavors and textures, so make sure to try as many as you can and bring some back home. It will be highly appreciated!
• One of the most popular local drinks is called Agua Valenciana , meaning Valencian water. Made with vodka, gin, cava, and orange juice, this cocktail was invented in 1959 in the bar Cafe Madrid de Valencia and has not lost its popularity since.

Transport: The Best Options to Get Around Valencia

Given the relatively small size of Valencia and the mild dry weather, riding a bike is one of the best ways to get around town. However, there are several other transport options you should consider. Read on!

• Manises Airport serves Valencia and is situated 5 mi (8 km) away from the city. With one single terminal, the rather small Manises Airport is the closest one to Valencia. It offers connections to about 20 European countries. The transfer to and from the city is easy. Metro lines 3 and 5 need about 15 minutes to reach the center.
• You can also use Alicante Airport when traveling to Valencia . Situated 99 mi (160 km) away, it might seem somewhat far, but there are convenient transport options. The bus company Alsa offers shuttles between Valencia and Alicante with ticket prices starting at €5.35 ($6.05).
• Combine the metro and the tram networks to get around fast. The metro lines are a great way to visit more remote areas, and combining it with the tram lets you travel all around Valencia effortlessly. A single ticket costs between €1.40 ($1.60) for one zone and  €3.60 ($4.05) for four zones. You can also get a 10-journey card available for €10.00 ($11.30), called bono transbordo . On weekdays, the metro and tram run between 4:00 AM and 11:30 PM, and on weekends – between 5:00 AM and 12:30 AM.
• The bus network in Valencia is quite convenient, too. Riding the city bus offers a chance to enjoy some of the tourist sights without having to pay the high prices of the Bus Turistico. A single ticket costs €1.50 ($1.70). Alternatively, you can buy a bonobus – a combined 10-journeys ticket for €10.50 ($10.70), of which €2.00 ($2.25) is for the card. The buses run between 4:00 AM and 10:30 PM on a weekday. There is a night bus service until 2:00 AM on weekdays and 3:30 AM on the weekend. Download the EMT València app for useful information such as waiting times, bus schedules, and a city bus map.

Where to Stay – The Best Neighborhoods in Valencia

The neighborhoods of Valencia mix modern innovation with ancient austerity. The city’s unique atmosphere is quite versatile. In the following section, you’ll find our Valencia travel tips to help you select the best area for your stay depending on your interests and preferences.

• Book your stay in Ciutat Vella if you’re a history buff. If it’s your first time in the city, and you’re wondering where to stay in Valencia , the Old Town is your best pick. To get a good feeling of what Valencia looked like a millennium or two ago, wander around the ancient stone buildings of Ciutat Vella . The Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline and proudly holds a chalice that locals will convincingly tell you is the Holy Grail itself. Take a picture at La Plaza de la Reina, get a quick churro on the go, and be on your way to explore further.
• El Carmenis a favorite among the neighborhoods of the Ciutat Vella. The Old Town in Valencia consists of five small neighborhoods called barrios in Spanish. The most popular one is El Carmen. Countless bars, restaurants, small shops, street art, and vibrant nightlife are what make this barrio a favorite among tourists and locals alike. We’re sure you’ll love it, too!
• Ruzafa is without a doubt the “cool-kid” area in Valencia. Home to a vibrant nightlife, slick bars, vegan restaurants, and amazing cupcake bakeries, it draws the city’s youngsters like a magnet. Among other things, it’s also famous for the colorful building of the Ruzafa Market . Should you get hungry from the bustling social life around you, rest assured that fine dining is right there. Famous Valencian chefs have opened their restaurants in the barrio . Our recommendations include Canalla Bistró by Ricard Camarena and Quique Dacosta’s Mercatbar .
• If you’re in Valencia for the beach, rent a room in El Cabanyal district . Situated right behind the lovely beach of Las Arenas , El Cabanyal has a unique atmosphere. It was a separate fishermen’s town until recently and is still a great place to taste the famous seafood paella. The charming small houses, the beach proximity, and a good connection to the city center via metro or tram make it an excellent choice to stay while in Valencia.
• For a quiet stay, choose Benimaclet . Similar to El Cabanyal , Benimaclet was a separate municipality until 1972. It has therefore retained a much more relaxed and cozy atmosphere compared to other parts of Valencia. This is the type of place where everyone knows their neighbor. Several universities built their campuses here, so plenty of local and international students live in the area. It’s well connected both to the Valencian airport and the city center.

Which Is Your Favorite Valencia Travel Tip?

There you have it – the top 33 Valencia travel tips for your visit .

As a place full of history and traditions, heart-stopping art and architecture, divine local cuisine, and breathtaking nature, it’d be a shame to miss this town on your Spanish itinerary.

Madrid and Barcelona might be more famous than the birthplace of paella. But don’t let that stop you from traveling to Valencia, especially if you’re seeking unforgettable adventures.

We hope this Valencia travel guide will help you organize your trip, so you can have a total blast.

Now, it’s your turn:

What’s your favorite Valencia travel tip?

Share with your tribe in the comments below!

Naddya and Svet

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Valencia travel guide

Things to do and information about Valencia

Best neighborhoods of Valencia for travelers

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. Here are some of the best neighborhoods for travelers: Ciutat Vella This is the city’s old town and a historical treasure trove. If you’re a history lover or enjoy exploring narrow medieval lanes, charming squares, and old buildings, this is a… Continue reading Best neighborhoods of Valencia for travelers

5 Transportation Options from Valencia Airport to City Center of Valencia

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Explore the Beauty and Outdoor Adventures of Albufera Park in Valencia

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Discover the Best Beaches in Valencia Spain

Valencia, Spain is known for its stunning beaches that offer visitors a chance to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. Here are four of the best beaches in Valencia: Playa de la Patacona (Platja de la Patacona) This beach is located in the north east of Valencia, Spain and is a… Continue reading Discover the Best Beaches in Valencia Spain

A Guide to Valencia Cathedral: A Must-Visit Religious Site in Spain

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Serranos Towers in Valencia: An Iconic Landmark and a Must-Visit Attraction

Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is famous for its charming old town, stunning architecture, and rich history. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Serranos Towers, Gothic-style towers that has stood for centuries as a symbol of Valencia’s heritage and resilience. If you’re planning a trip to Valencia, visiting the Serranos Towers… Continue reading Serranos Towers in Valencia: An Iconic Landmark and a Must-Visit Attraction

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia: A Guide to the Ultimate Cultural Experience

Valencia is a city of rich cultural heritage, and there is no better place to experience this than the City of Arts and Sciences. This magnificent complex is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, and it’s not hard to see why. From its futuristic architecture to its fascinating exhibits and attractions, the… Continue reading The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia: A Guide to the Ultimate Cultural Experience

A Comprehensive Guide to Valencia’s Central Market for Tourists

The Central Market of Valencia, also known as Mercado Central, is a historic market located in the heart of the city. It was built in 1914 and is considered to be one of the largest markets in Europe. The market has over 300 stalls selling everything from fresh seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, to local delicacies,… Continue reading A Comprehensive Guide to Valencia’s Central Market for Tourists

The Iron Estate: an ideal place to appreciate Valencia from the heights

It forms part of the Ciutat Vella district, being its tallest building, and is located in the Sant Francesc neighborhood, specifically in the Plaza de San Agustín, near the Estación del Norte. It is 22 stories high and its total height is 85 meters. It was built by the architects Vicente Figuerola Benavent and Vicente… Continue reading The Iron Estate: an ideal place to appreciate Valencia from the heights

Valencia, Spain – A Romantic Getaway: 5 Beautiful Plazas to Visit

Valencia, Spain is a city that oozes romance and charm at every turn. With its stunning architecture, picturesque plazas, and delicious cuisine, it’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway. In this blog post, we’ll explore 5 of the most beautiful plazas in Valencia, where you can spend time with your loved one and enjoy… Continue reading Valencia, Spain – A Romantic Getaway: 5 Beautiful Plazas to Visit

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A local’s guide to Valencia: home of paella, one of Europe’s best food markets and a unique green space

Architect and graphic artist Juan Suay on the city’s rainbow-coloured market, bistros, bars and its unifying riverbed greenbelt

The Valencia region is well known for its citrus fruit, seafood and rice, but “gastronomy” has grown fast here in recent years. Compared with my girlfriend’s home town in France, though, a great meal isn’t madly expensive. A huge shellfish fideuà – a Valencian paella made with pasta instead of rice – costs €10.50 at Restaurante Yuso in the old city.

More often, we’ll go for tapas on the terraces in the Benimaclet district, near the university. La Negri opened two years ago and does Valencian specialities such as ham croquetas and truffled eggs, but the cooking isn’t all orthodox: they also experiment with red-shrimp gyoza and hoisin-beef bao .

Mid-morning, people stop for almuerzo , our version of brunch, dating from when workers needed a break from the fields. I usually have a pastry with a rum-spiked coffee we call cremaet .

Inspiration

Music has an emotional hold over Valencians, and everyone can appreciate it as it’s affordable. On Sunday mornings new bands will play free live shows at bandstands in parks such as Viveros/Jardins del Real and at La Pérgola at the marina. And a lot of bars host jam sessions: on Monday nights La Vitti invites instructors from the Valencia campus of Boston’s Berklee College of Music on stage (the €5 entry includes a beer).

Another of my favourite venues is Festinar , a cafe in El Cabanyal, an old fishermen’s district by the beach, known for colourful tiles on its buildings. Festinar puts on Thursday-night jazz concerts with pizza and beer: book on Instagram .

Neighbourhood

Valencia is a great city for cycling, so hire a bike and visit Ruzafa, a barrio just south of the neoclassical bullring . You will probably recognise Ruzafa from photographs of the covered produce market, with its rainbow-coloured window louvres , though it’s better known for its small bistros and bars, and for the vintage shops on Carrer de Cadis. There’s a calmer vibe around here than in the centre, which can get chaotic, and it has become so cool since it started gentrifying 15 years ago. The cafes seem to compete for Instagrammers, and every corner has a terrace for after-work cocktails – I like Cafe Tula for its ginebra (gin) list.

Green space

After floods practically destroyed Valencia in 1957, the city diverted the course of the Turia River, leaving the old riverbed that ran through the centre of the city empty and derelict. At one point the government wanted to turn it into a highway, but the community protested – it was amazing to see the power for change.

In the 1980s a massive landscaping effort began, and now the entire city centre is united by this green belt. Keep your hire bike and follow a route through the gardens , which run for six miles. At their eastern end is the famous City of Arts and Sciences , a complex of ultra-modern concert halls and museums designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava .

Valencians divide their nights into three parts: a post-work drink, then dinner, then serious drinking. It’s easy to dip into any of these, but I usually go out after work and stay out. We do have a late-night scene, though the clubs play mostly commercial European dance music and mediocre techno. The best venue by a mile is Barraca in Sueca, a small town 20 miles away in Albufera natural park . It’s reachable by bus, train or taxi, with beachy nightlife nearby before you head to the club – well worth the journey for a Berlin-style techno night.

Hotel Marqués House (doubles from €125) is in a restored manor in a central location. The bar – designed by local ceramic maker Lladró – makes a powerful agua de Valéncia , the city cocktail, with gin, vodka, cava and fresh orange juice.

Juan Suay moved to Valencia five years ago . His computer graphics practice, Quatre Caps , contributed to Valencia 360 – an exhibition to launch the city as World Design Capital 2022

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Travel Guide to Valencia: What to See & Do

Valencia is a city located on the east coast of Spain . In this guide, we will provide you with useful information to help you make the most of your visit to this fascinating city.

What to See and Do in Valencia

The city of arts and sciences.

This architectural complex is one of Valencia's main attractions. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, it houses several emblematic buildings, including the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, the Oceanogràfic and the Hemisfèric.

The Old Town

The Valencia Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and squares full of history and charm. Here you will find the Cathedral of Valencia, with its famous bell tower, the Miguelete, and the Lonja de la Seda, an impressive Gothic building.

La Malvarrosa Beach

This urban beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and sea. With a wide stretch of golden sand and a variety of restaurants and bars along the promenade, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The Central Market

This covered market is one of the largest in Europe and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, from fruit and vegetables to fish and meat. It is an ideal place to experience local life and enjoy Valencian gastronomy.

How to Get to Valencia

The main airport serving Valencia is Valencia Airport (VLC), located about 8 kilometers west of the city center. From the airport, you can reach the center by cab, bus or metro.

Valencia has one main train station, Estación del Norte, located in the city center. From here, you can take high-speed trains (AVE) and regional trains that connect Valencia with other cities in Spain.

It also has good road connections, with highways connecting it with other major cities in Spain. It can be reached by car from Madrid in about 3 hours and from Barcelona in about 3.5 hours.

How to Get around Valencia

Public transportation.

The city has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and metro. Valencia's metro is fast and easy to use, with several lines connecting the main points of the city.

Cabs are a convenient option for getting around, especially at night or if you need direct transportation to a specific destination. Taxi ranks can be found throughout the city, and can also be requested by phone or through mobile apps.

Valencia is a bicycle-friendly city, with bike lanes and a public bike rental system called Valenbisi. It is an environmentally friendly and economical way to explore the city, especially in areas such as the old town and the Turia riverbed.

Where to Eat in Valencia

Traditional restaurants.

Valencia is known for its delicious gastronomy, which includes traditional dishes such as paella valenciana, arroz a banda and fideuà. There are numerous restaurants throughout the city serving authentic Valencian cuisine, from family-run establishments to fine dining restaurants.

Gastronomic Markets

Gastronomic markets are a popular choice for sampling a variety of local dishes in an informal and lively setting. Places like Mercado de Colón and Mercado de Tapinería offer a wide selection of food stalls, serving everything from tapas to international dishes.

Horchaterias

Horchata is a refreshing and traditional drink from Valencia, made from tiger nuts. In the city you will find numerous horchaterías where you can enjoy this drink accompanied by fartons, a typical sweet of the region.

Packages and Tours to Valencia

We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Valencia.

With its unique blend of history, culture and gastronomy, this city has something to offer for everyone - enjoy your stay in Valencia !

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Valencia, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than during the summer.

Yes, public transportation in Valencia is generally safe and reliable. However, as in any city, it is important to be aware of your belongings and be careful in crowded areas.

Yes, most restaurants and stores in Valencia accept credit cards, although it is always advisable to carry some cash just in case.

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Valencia Tourist Travel Guide

Valencia Travel Guide

Essential Tourist Information for Valencia…

With so many lovely hotels to choose from in the center of town , near the City of Arts and Sciences , Turia Gardens and next to the beach,  you can check out the map below to see where they are.

The city is overflowing with mouth-watering tapas bars  and clubs, so whatever you decide to do, you’ll have fun!

The  city of Valencia is a mixture of old and new, with a magical old quarter , the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and the  wide sandy beaches .

Year round sunshine and a buzzing city make Valencia a popular destination for those who enjoy city life next to the Mediterranean sea.

Or you can take a ride on a tourist bus from Plaza de la Reina or from one of the many bus stops along the way. The city hosts many festivals throughout the year and is a cultural hot spot full of theaters, art galleries and museums .

Valencia Attractions  >>

Valencia has many districts , and each district has a variety of neighborhoods (barrios). Those in the center of town are the most popular to visit.

Read More  >>

Between Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgin, in the area known as the Seu-Xerea, is the historic Cathedral of Valencia where the Holy Grail is housed.

The floods of 1957 resulted in the Turia river being diverted south of the city.

They transformed the dried out riverbed into the Turia Gardens, which are popular with joggers, cyclists, sports enthusiasts and those enjoying a stroll. Enjoy op events and concerts in the gardens throughout the year, and if you don’t feel like walking in the park, you can take a tour of the gardens on the small train which runs to the City of Arts and Sciences.

Read More >>

At the end of the Turia Gardens is the stunning City of Arts and Sciences .

Designed by Valencian architect  Santiago Calatrava, the  complex houses a science museum, opera house and the largest aquarium in Europe.

Just a  tram or bus ride from the center of town  is Valencia City Beach.

With stunning sea views, you can relax and enjoy the local cuisine at one of the lovely restaurants.

As well as being a very busy commercial port,  the port of Valencia is the largest port in Spain and the 5th largest port in Europe.

Cruise ships arrive from all over the world and  ferry ships leave for the nearby Balearic Islands . Not far away is the new marina where the America’s Cup was held.

The Valencia: Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion tour is designed for cruise ship passengers, with round-trip taxi transfers from the port on request.

The cities of Madrid and Barcelona are easy to reach by train from the center of the city.

The new bullet train from Madrid only takes 95 minutes to Valencia and Barcelona is just a few hours away.

Plan your travel ahead and take advantage of the many cheap flights and special deals on trains , hotels and other accommodation .

Valencia Region of Spain

The city of Alicante is the second largest city in the region of Valencia and it is the gateway to popular resorts such as Benidorm , Moraira , Altea , Javea , Calpe and Denia .

Booking.com has an enormous variety of hotels, B&Bs, apartments and villas to suit everyone’s taste, in the city and  surrounding areas of Valencia  — just book online and pay when you get here.

4 thoughts on “ Valencia Travel Guide ”

I’ve been living in Valencia for 3 months and I think it’s a very sunny place.

Couldn’t agree more Julie 😉 Due to its location, Valencia has one of the best climates in Europe.

Great website! Found the information about hotels particularly useful. Do you have any other sites about Spain?

Thanks Linda, so glad you enjoyed the website and yes I do have another website about Spain on Barcelona.

Here it is http:///www.barcelona-tourist-travel-guide.com

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The Ultimate Guide to La Jolla

Make the most of La Jolla, known for its natural beauty in an upscale setting, with our all-encompassing guide.

Where to Stay

ESTANCIA LA JOLLA HOTEL & SPA

This ranch-inspired retreat features a luxury full-service spa, apiary, meditation garden, butterfly sanctuary and a secret speakeasy. Be sure to book reservations at both onsite restaurants, Greenfinch Restaurant & Bar and the Baja-inspired Mustangs & Burros.

HOTEL LA JOLLA

The Hotel La Jolla, a Curio Collection property by Hilton, exhibits refined elegance in a coastal setting thanks to a multimillion-dollar design renovation by Hirsch Bedner Associates. Don't miss the soon-to-open fine dining spot, Sea & Sky, helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Anthony Wells.

LA VALENCIA HOTEL

California's very own pink palace is home to painted murals, pink golf carts and outstanding seafood at the on-site restaurant, the Mediterranean Room. Grab a classic cocktail in the Hollywood-inspired La Sala Lounge or the recently reopened Whaling Bar before unwinding in a suite complete with lavish amenities, from plush La Valencia robes to C.O. Bigelow bath products.

ORLI LA JOLLA

This chic boutique hotel, founded by brother-sister duo Hailey and Maxwell Waitt, operates out of a former private residence designed by Irving Gill. The property charms guests with an entry library lounge, a courtyard filled with olive trees and complimentary kombucha on tap-with only 13 guest rooms on-site.

THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES

This cozy yet luxurious getaway is the perfect place to unwind at the spa, play a round of 18 holes, and dine on locally sourced cuisine at A.R. Valentien or The Grill at Torrey Pines. The Lodge is amply suited for children and families, with nature walks, croquet and a heated pool overlooking the fairway and ocean.

Where to Dine

This seaside Michelin Guide-approved gem serves fresh fare such as crispy octopus and artfully plated local tuna crudo topped with beet puree and blood orange. But the housemade pasta and pizza-made on a 5,000-pound wood-burning oven-are not to miss.

GEORGE'S AT THE COVE

The stunning ocean view on each of the restaurant's three levels is just one of the calling cards of this seaside eatery, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Operating partner Trey Foshee, general manager Mike Grave, executive chef Masa Kojima and pastry chef Aly Land allow for smooth sailing in the kitchen, serving fresh, locally sourced seafood alongside an extensive wine list.

Chef Mitsu Aihara brings Japanese culture and cuisine to this intimate San Diego setting-with only nine seats at the bar and 20 on the patio. Indulge in specialty sushi, sashimi, bento boxes and sake upon request.

MARISI LA JOLLA

Marisi La Jolla is known for its outstanding Italian hearth cooking plus homemade limoncello and pasta, plating up delicacies such as decadent Burgundy black truffle and double cream gnocchi by newly appointed executive chef Cameron Ingle.

With a prestigious 2023 Michelin Guide distinction, NINE-TEN offers top-tier food, service and atmosphere off the shores of La Jolla. Enjoy globally inspired, locally sourced dishes such as Jamaican jerk pork belly and pan-roasted Colorado lamb loin topped with citrus pistachio relish.

Paradisaea, a new addition to the 2023 Michelin Guide, thrives on letting natural flavors do the work. Executive chef Jeff Armstrong recently launched an updated menu featuring rich lamb neck tortellini en brodo and amberjack crudo, made from one of the only California seafood markets to sell dry-aged fish.

Puesto offers a feast of Mexican favorites, from shared plates of chilaquiles to an assortment of tacos wrapped in fresh corn tortillas. Margaritas-in coconut, mango and spicy serrano chili flavors-are a must to kick off a great meal or keep the party going.

QUEENSTOWN VILLAGE

This fresh New Zealand-inspired eatery offers plates of gourmet comfort food, wines by the glass and a bevy of regionally influenced cocktails. Sip on a coconut rum-based Wild Kiwi while waiting for your order of NZ onion dip, seasoned fatty fries and parlor pot pie.

THE MARINE ROOM

As waves dramatically splash over the front windows, dine on freshly prepared seafood while sipping a signature cocktail like the St-Germain-focused Shore Spritz. Booking a reservation during sunset offers a special treat of cotton-candy skies and sparkling waters, making this one of the dreamiest dining spots in La Jolla.

Where to Explore

LA JOLLA BEACH & TENNIS CLUB

At La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, spending time outdoors ranges from a quick game of tennis to surf lessons, kayaking and scuba diving. After a day of fun in the sun, reserve a beach barbecue grill and table for an unforgettable cookout on the sand.

TORREY PINES STATE NATURAL RESERVE

Wander along Torrey Pines-one of only 16 natural reserves in California-through scenic trails offering a wide variety of wildlife and stunning views of the Pacific coastline. Stop by the Visitor's Center beforehand for more information on the area's natural and cultural history.

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From Baja to British Columbia, these are the 101 best West Coast experiences

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Walk the vast salt flats of Death Valley. Enter a den of magic and mystery on a Hollywood hilltop. Sidle up to a whale in a Baja lagoon. Tiptoe above a misty forest in Vancouver. Page through rare books under an open sky in Ojai. Though it rises, falls and sprawls for thousands of miles, this is our backyard. We’ll help you explore it. Here in these stories, find out what makes the West Coast, well, the absolute best coast.

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Adventurers, it’s your turn. Along the thousands of miles of towns, beaches, rivers, mountains and deserts, share the wonders you cherish most.

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This Is the Sunniest City in Europe — and It's the Birthplace of Pablo Picasso

Here's what you need to know to plan a perfect trip to Málaga, Spain.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Neighborhoods to visit, best time to visit, how to get there.

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Alberto Manuel Urosa Toledano/Getty Images

Málaga, Spain is a sun-seeker's paradise. The city along the nation's southern coast is the sunniest place in Europe , getting more than 280 sunshine hours a month, which works out to more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. Málaga sits on the aptly named Costa del Sol, or the "sun coast," but this city has a lot more going for it than just the sun. It's also a cultural paradise and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. 

"Málaga is a fantastic destination because it has a Mediterranean climate. Its winters are mild, and the summers are nice and warm. It has a sometimes-overlooked history rich in Roman history and Moorish influence. There are many cultural activities to do, such as the Picasso Museum and flamenco shows," Kristin Espinar, founder of Must See Spain , shared. And, as with the rest of Spain,  Espinar added, "Málaga has fantastic cuisine — especially fresh local seafood and tapas. Don't miss local chiringuitos , which are seaside seafood restaurants that locals flock to." 

Ready to explore this fantastic city? Here's what you need to know about visiting Málaga, Spain. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at Finca Cortesín, voted the top hotel in Spain and Portugal by our readers. 
• Pablo Picasso was born here — visit the Picasso Museum to learn more about the artist’s life.
• Spend a day on beautiful La Malagueta Beach. 
• Stroll around the historic center of the city. 
• Visit during the spring or fall to enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds. 

Courtesy of Finca Cortesi­n Hotel, Golf & Spa

Best Hotels & Resorts

Gran hotel miramar.

Spend a few days in the lap of luxury with a stay at the Gran Hotel Miramar . The historic palace has been turned into a five-star hotel that looks out onto the Mediterranean. Each of its rooms is decked out with plush furnishings in a soothing natural palette, making the panoramic views the star of the show. The hotel's spa is equally alluring and uses local ingredients for a unique Andalusian touch. 

Finca Cortesín

In 2023, Finca Cortesín was named the top hotel in Spain and Portugal by Travel + Leisure readers in the World's Best Awards . Readers fell hard for its white-washed walls, colorful rooms, and gorgeous sea views — not to mention its fantastic Cabell B. Robinson–designed golf course. Here, guests can play a full 18 and then unwind in the spa, which comes with science-forward treatments like oxygenated facials. 

Palacio Solecio

Have one more regal stay at the Palacio Solecio , an 18th-century palace-turned-hotel. The hotel is as glamorous as you'd imagine, with four-poster beds, floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that open to spacious patios, and deep soaking tubs in the bathrooms. The hotel's central location makes for easy access to some of the city's most sought-after sites, including Santiago Church, just a few feet away. 

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Picasso Museum

Explore Pablo Picasso's past and his artistic genius, and discover a few other fantastic artists, at the Picasso Museum inside the Buenavista Palace. Here, guests can explore Picasso's life through his 144 works on rotation and check out the museum's exhibitions, including works by María Blanchard and Joel Meyerowitz. 

Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle

Surround yourself with Málaga's history during a visit to the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle . The historic castle is a Moorish fortress that takes up an astonishing 21,310 square meters.  "Must-see attractions really come down to the preferences of the visitors, but the Alcazaba — and nearby Gibralfaro Castle and Roman Theatre — are some of the most highly visited attractions for good reason," Jess Rodley, the bookings director at Andorra Escapes who also travels to Málaga for her summer vacations, shared. "Filled with history, these sites are exceptionally well-preserved."

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Sample some of Málaga's best flavors with a visit to the Mercado Central de Atarazanas . The market, now located inside a 19th-century building, dates back to the 14th century. Here, travelers and locals alike can mix and mingle over the local meats, cheeses, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. The market is open every Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Carmen Thyssen Museum

Málaga is absolutely spoiled with culture, so make sure to visit at least two museums. Once you hit the Picasso Museum, make your way to the Carmen Thyssen Museum , housed in a restored 16th-century palace. Here, guests can gaze upon 19th-century Spanish paintings, with a special focus on Andalusian art.

La Malagueta Beach

After looking at all the gorgeous human-made art, it's time to look at some created by Mother Nature with a visit to La Malagueta Beach . The beach is just 10 minutes from the city center, making it easy to stop by or spend an entire day. There are also plenty of beachside bars and restaurants to enjoy while you're there.

Centro Histórico

Centro Histórico is the heart of the city. Here, travelers can weave their way through the bustling, narrow streets, check out the historic plazas, and shop in local stores. It's also where you'll find the Málaga Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum — all within a few blocks. 

La Malagueta

Make your way to La Malagueta, the city’s beachside neighborhood, for a little surf and sand with a splash of culture. While here, visit the Pompidou Centre for a colorful afternoon filled with modern art.

La Victoria

Get a local perspective with a visit to La Victoria , one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Located just north of the city center at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro, this area is well-known for its beauty, traditional homes, local tapas bars, and street art. 

The best time to visit Málaga is over the summer season. However, here, the summer extends from late spring into autumn (from May through October). This is when the weather is at its prime and when everyone is out and about enjoying all that fantastic sun. Travelers can also expect plenty of fun summer festivals too, including the Málaga Fair in August, a week-long party that honors all the best parts of Andalusian culture. That said, even if you can't come during the summer, there are plenty of other times worth a visit. 

"The shoulder seasons are a great time to visit Málaga. I recommend traveling in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November)," Espinar said. "The temperatures will be mild, you’ll find smaller crowds, and you’ll have more energy for exploring the city and sights."

Rodley also advocates for the shoulder seasons in April and May and late September: "Visiting during the springtime, you can catch the gorgeous blossoms and flowering jacarandas of the parks and gardens while enjoying the moderate temperatures and fewer crowds when exploring the city and surrounding areas," Rodley explained. "Align your trip with Easter and you'll be able to experience the color, culture, and festivities of Holy Week parades. A visit in September is perfect for wine tours and sightseeing with fewer tourists. At this time of year, it may still be warm enough to enjoy the beach without having to contend for a space on the sand." And, as Espinar added, "If you choose to go in the winter (December to February), you’ll find the benefits of having milder and warmer weather than the rest of Spain. There will be fewer tourists and you’ll enjoy the city. Málaga also has stunning Christmas lights displays, which makes it a great December destination." 

Darren Robb/Getty Images

To visit this sunny destination, you can fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport , one of the largest airports in Spain. The airport offers plenty of direct flights to cities around Europe and connections to cities around the world via airlines like LATAM, Air France, Easy Jet, and Emirates. The airport is also just a few miles outside of the city center, making it a convenient jumping-off point. 

Visitors coming from spots like Madrid and Barcelona may decide to drive — and that's a fantastic idea, as you can drive along the Mediterranean on the AP-7 for a scenic journey. 

Travelers can also get to Málaga by taking the train to the María Zambrano station . Trains run regularly from Madrid; the trip takes about three hours and costs around $75. 

Getting Around 

Renting a car is a great option for those who want to get out and explore beyond the city's bounds and see more of the Costa del Sol region. Car rentals are available at the airport and numerous locations in the city with major operators like Avis, Budget, and Dollar Car Rental. 

Málaga also has a robust public transit system that guests can take advantage of during their stay, including both buses and a metro line, which covers most of the city. Travelers can get a single ticket or travel passes, which are easy to recharge online . There are plentiful taxis and Ubers available throughout Málaga, too.

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A first-timer's guide to Gran Canaria, Spain

May 13, 2024 • 9 min read

Get to know Gran Canaria, the third-largest Canary Island, with this first-timer's guide © Maremagnum / Getty Images

Ross Clarke has recently returned from Gran Canaria where he was researching for the upcoming Canary Islands guidebook (publishing November 2024). Here he creates the ultimate guide to help you start planning your vacation to the Canaries' third-largest island.

When you fly into Gran Canaria or traverse its coastline by boat to dock at one of its ports, you instantly understand why this island has captivated and intrigued people for centuries.

It’s been given the nickname of "the continent in miniature" due to its diverse terrain, and "the land of eternal spring" for its climate. The original inhabitants before the Spanish named it "Tamaran," and their legacy can be seen across the island in remains of their cave dwellings and artefacts.

Gran Canaria is the middle child of the archipelago, having sprung up from the ocean floor about 14 million years ago. It is often compared to its neighbor, Tenerife , but each of the islands has its own merits.

Most people will know Gran Canaria for its beaches and resorts, particularly Maspalomas in the south that encompasses the popular spot of Playa del Inglés . And while the beaches and sunny weather are spectacular, there’s much more to this beautiful island than sand, sun and sea, from incredible history and culture, magnificent sights and natural wonders, to outstanding food and wine.

When should I go to Gran Canaria?

For many years, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria held the title for the city with the best climate in the world. This is because the capital enjoys a temperate year-round climate with little rain and rarely scorching temperatures. Interestingly, Gran Canaria has its own microclimate, meaning that it can have hot, dry, sunny weather in the arid south, chilly, crisp and fresh temperatures in its mountainous center, and humid, hazy vibes in the north.

Gran Canaria is incredibly popular for winter sun, and beaches can be busy with tourists even in January – although you’re unlikely to spot a Canarian sunbathing until after April. Winter also plays host to several celebrations, including one of the world’s largest carnivals in February. These more-than-week-long celebrations take over the whole island and there are parties, parades and plenty of costumes and fun. 

Summer also gets busy when the mercury can hit 30°C (86°F), however, with more than 60km (37 miles) of beaches around the island’s coast, you can usually find a spot on the sand to soak up some rays. Autumn and spring can be good times to visit, and prices tend to be a little lower, places less busy and temperatures ideal for exploring and sightseeing.

How much time should I spend in Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria is both ideal for an exciting city break over a long weekend, a week-long beach holiday or an extended stay. In fact, it’s one of the most popular places for remote workers looking to balance work with the laid-back island lifestyle.

If you’re here for a week, you’re probably going to want to hit the beach (and I can’t blame you). While the dunes of Maspalomas are a sight to behold, try one of the quieter beaches such as Melenara near Telde or the remote Playa Güigüí – it’s a bit of a hike but well worth it for unspoilt sand and an all-over tan if that’s your thing! Once you’re suitably bronzed, consider hiring a car and visiting the center of the island. You’ll find fragrant and fire-resistant Canarian pine trees, family-run vineyards, and soaring volcanic monoliths such as Roque Bentayga , which were worshipped by the island’s original pre-Hispanic inhabitants.

If you’re hopping off a cruise ship or here for a city break, the capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – to give it its full name – is Spain’s eighth largest city and exudes a cool cosmopolitan vibe. It’s incredibly foodie and it’s worth indulging in the restaurant scene, from cool Canarian dishes by the beach in Mar Gastrotasca , to fine dining at Muxgo – the island’s first Green Michelin Star restaurant thanks to its 0km (0 mile) food philosophy. Don’t miss the beautiful Las Canteras beach with its natural barrier reef that protects the shore and makes the seawater almost swimming-pool like. The old town of Vegueta and Triana is also worth a visit to wander the historic streets and museums.

Is it easy to get in and around Gran Canaria?

The island has one major airport, Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), located about halfway down the east coast, which covers both international and domestic flights. It’s easy to get from the airport to all major resorts by bus, taxi or hire car. 

The bus network is extensive and reaches all parts of the island. Buses are inexpensive and reliable and run by Guaguas Global . In the capital, you’ll see yellow buses. These run the length and breadth of the city and are operated by Guaguas Municipales . Single journeys start at €1.40.

Car hire is a great way to explore the island. Prices are generally good value although can peak during busy periods so it’s advisable to book ahead. Try using a local company if you can such as Cicar or Tirma . You could easily drive the circumference of the island in a single day, it is so compact, but it’s worth taking your time and planning journeys in advance so you don’t miss anything. Make sure to fill up with fuel before heading inland, as the steep, winding mountain roads can deplete reserves quicker than you think.

From the ports in Las Palmas and Agaete, you can catch ferries and high-speed catamarans to neighboring islands including Tenerife.

3 of the best things to do in Gran Canaria

1. see the waves of sand.

The rolling, shapeshifting, undulating dunes of Maspalomas should be on anyone’s must-visit list. These mountains of golden sand were here long before any development started in the resorts that now surround the protected space. Over the last few years, the Canarian government has brought in strict regulations for the dunes in order to preserve and protect them. There are several dedicated routes that you can walk that’ll take you to various parts including oases and La Charca nature reserve, a home to migratory birds. For your own bird's-eye views, head to the panoramic Atelier Cocktail Bar on the top of the Bohemia Suites hotel.

2. Climb the the Roques

There are two very famous monoliths in the center of the island, both of which are worth a visit. The Roque Nublo is the more famous, standing at a height of 80m (262ft) and soaring nearly 2000m (6561ft) above sea level. The trek to the rock is relatively easy and takes about 30–40 minutes.

Alternatively, try climbing to the Roque Bentayga . This was the last point of defence for the island’s original inhabitants, and it’s easy to see why as it stands on a plinth with views of the surrounding sunken volcanic crater. Check out the ground at the top, there are carvings and holes in the stone that are still a mystery to historians.

3. Wander the old town of Las Palmas

No visit to the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is complete without a stroll around the beautiful historic streets of Vegueta. Take a trip up the bell towers of the imposing Catedral Metropolitana de Santa Ana de Canarias to get views over the city, sea and surrounding rooftops. Nearby, stop at the Museo Canario to learn all about the island’s original inhabitants and visit the rather creepy skeleton room containing many real examples of their mummified and skeletal remains. Finish with a visit to Terraza Belvédère to enjoy a local wine on the rooftop overlooking the Santa Ana Square.

My favourite thing to do in Gran Canaria

I’m a sucker for a good market, and in Gran Canaria you’re spoilt for choice, from craft and artisan pop-ups to food and agriculture. One of my favorites, that I used to go to regularly when I lived in Las Palmas, is the weekend market in Vega de San Mateo. There are two giant warehouses that are full to the brim with stall holders. One is for crafts and but the other (which is my favorite) is the agricultural one. I love nosing at the stalls and chatting to the stallholders who often give you little taster of their baked goods or let you sniff spices. There is usually a stall selling truchas de batata – sweet potato pasties – that I devour in an instant. It’s also a good place to pick up non-touristy souvenirs such as seeds, herbs and sauces.

My other favorite is the weekend market at Teror. This town is famous for two things: the church dedicated to the island’s patron saint, Virgen del Pino; and chorizo de Teror , a sort of spreadable chorizo paste. You’ll find countless stalls selling bocadillos (rolls as big as your head) slathered in chorizo de Teror and fresh cheese.

How much money do I need for Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria can be relatively cheap if you avoid the obvious tourist traps. The currency is the Euro (€) and most places take credit and debit cards. Over recent years cash has been on a decline, but it’s worth carrying some Euros in case you need them, especially in less touristic and developed areas.

• Hotel room: €50–250 per night
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €75–100 per night
• Bus ticket: €2.50
• Coffee: €1.50
• Tapas for two: €25–40
• Beer/glass of wine: €3
• Bottle of local wine: €15–30

Is this a family-friendly destination?

Canarian people adore children, and you’ll find families socialize together from grandparents to babies until all hours. And don’t be surprised if Canarios talk to your children before they speak to you – the island is extremely family friendly.

Is Gran Canaria good for gay travelers?

Gran Canaria is one of the most popular destinations for the LGBTIQ+ community. The island and islanders are incredibly open, and it is a safe environment to be yourself. Each year there is a famous Winter Pride in Playa del Inglés, centered around the Yumbo Centrum – the world’s only LGBTIQ+ shopping center – where you’ll find bars, shops, restaurants and clubs.

What is the calima ?

Some days in Gran Canaria, you might find that the air is very hot and yet it’s foggy or misty. This is known as the calima – the hot winds that blow over from the nearby Sahara Desert carrying sand dust in the air. While it won’t hurt you, it can make temperatures and being outside unpleasant.

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10 top london attractions.

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Westminster Abbey is but one of London’s must-see spots.

London is a vibrant city teeming with attractions and pastimes. If you’re a first-time visitor, just walking around will introduce you to the multicultural charm that makes England’s capital city a creative hub. History and innovation seamlessly intertwine; you’ll find centuries-old architectural marvels just moments away from a thriving arts scene and mouth-watering food markets.

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Westminster Abbey

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See the city from new heights.

Standing tall on the banks of the River Thames, the London Eye is an iconic symbol of the city’s skyline. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of London, this giant observation wheel provides you with a unique perspective of the capital’s landmarks, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s beautiful any time of day. Just make sure you bring some patience; the queue can get long.

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Portobello Road

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A towering sight.

Tower of London

With a history stretching back more than a thousand years, the formidable Tower of London has served as a royal residence, prison and treasury, earning it a reputation as one of the most haunted places in England. You can delve into the darker chapters of British history with guided tours led by Yeoman Warders, known as Beefeaters, and marvel at the sparkling Crown Jewels housed within its walls. Be sure to dedicate at least half a day to your visit.

Check out amazing art.

The National Gallery

The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square displays an unparalleled collection of European masterpieces spanning more than seven centuries. The cultural institution houses works by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt, making it a mecca for art lovers. Entry is free, and temporary exhibitions are available for an additional charge. Post-visit, you can stroll up to one of Covent Garden’s many restaurants for a bite to eat.

Stop by a historic market.

Borough Market

Tucked beneath the soaring arches of London Bridge, Borough Market is a culinary paradise for ready-to-eat gourmet delights and artisanal produce. From freshly baked bread to exotic spices, the market’s bustling stalls put out a feast for food lovers seeking to indulge in the finest flavors from across the globe. Home to some of the U.K.’s most esteemed producers, the market may even have a famous chef picking up some ingredients while you’re there.

The Changing of the Guard.

Buckingham Palace

No trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. With its iconic balcony overlooking the vast expanse of the Mall, the palace is a must-see and a fantastic photo opportunity. Take a stroll through St. James’s Park before or after, and, if you’re lucky, you might even time your visit with the Changing of the Guard.

Where London relaxes.

Retreat into the tranquil oasis of Hyde Park, one of London’s most beloved green spaces. Encompassing more than 350 acres, this expansive Royal Park has lakes, lush gardens, sprawling meadows, cafés and a modern art gallery. Score a city bicycle to ride through the tree-lined avenues, enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water’s edge or take a boat ride across the Serpentine Lake — just keep your fingers crossed that the weather permits .

One of the world’s top museums for art and design.

Victoria & Albert Museum

The Victoria & Albert Museum’s decorative arts and design collection spans some 5,000 years of human history. From exquisite textiles and fashion to stunning ceramics and sculpture, the museum highlights the ingenuity and craftsmanship of cultures from around the world. Check which exhibitions are on display before you visit, as some may require you to purchase a ticket beforehand.

An iconic luxury department store.

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

• A Ssensible Guide to the Ssense Home Ssale

It’s that time again: Ssense’s big sale is in full swing, and thousands of designer items are discounted, including a bunch of goods for the home . Some of our favorite European design brands are on sale, including Tekla, Sabre, Flos, and Alessi, just to name a few, so if you’ve been waiting to refresh your towels , get new flatware , or invest in a lamp , now’s your chance. There’s a lot to wade through, but as Strategist’s resident home writer, I’ve clicked through dozens of pages to bring you the best deals — including on many of our best-in-class picks. I’ve organized them into categories to help you navigate more easily.

Bedding and towels

This three-piece bundle from Tekla, one of my personal favorites for sophisticated striped towels , is already cheaper by $10 if you buy each one separately, but an additional 25 percent off brings the price down even further. It includes a bath, hand, and guest towel.

Tekla’s colors are always very much on point, and I love this pink bath mat as a fun bathroom accent.

And a boldly striped beach towel to take with you on your summer escapades.

No one does a checkered pattern quite like Baina.

I also love the raised pattern of this bath towel from the Australia-based brand.

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This color-blocked blanket from Vitra is knit from Peruvian highland virgin wool.

These pillow-sham covers from Dusen Dusen have a cool quilt-y feel to them.

And this striped number would look great on a couch or accent chair.

As would this retro-y one.

The black piping around the edge of this cushion from Hay is a nice touch and would look great on a Mags sofa .

Or throw this on the sofa for a splash of color.

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Just a really fun doormat.

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