12 Fabulous Things to Do in Valencia

Things to do in Valencia

The beauty of Valencia

Valencia managed to exceed all my expectations.

It was more beautiful than I had imagined, more cultural than I had anticipated, more food-obsessed than my stomach was prepared for, and with the exception of Berlin, had more street art than was possible to see in one trip.

There’s truly something for everyone in Spain’s 3rd largest city. It’s a place where historical buildings merge beautifully with modern architecture, and where the heart of the city truly lies in its appetite for good food.

If you’re looking to learn more about Valencia, I’ve put together a highlight of attractions which will hopefully inspire you to visit.

Enjoy!

1. Marvel at the City of Arts and Sciences

City of Art and Sciences in Valencia

My jaw fell to the ground as soon as I clapped eyes on the spectacularly modern City of Arts and Sciences. A futuristic architectural delight comprising of an opera house, museums, an aquarium and much more.

It was designed by local boy and celebrated Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava who was also responsible for the famed Turning Torso in Malmo

Top attractions in Valencia - The City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is Valencia’s most emblematic attractions. In 2007 it was voted one of the 12 Treasures of Spain along with other cultural complexes such as the Alhambra and the Mosque–Cathedral of CórdobaNeedless to say, you really cannot visit Valencia without exploring this imaginative feat of design and culture.

2. Potter Through the Old Town

Main Square in Valencia's Old Town.

In contrast to the City of Arts and Sciences is the Old Town situated in Ciutat Vella. The main square, Plaza de la Reina, is incredibly well preserved, and looks something like an open air museum with impressive monuments and intricate facades. All the cobbled streets, narrow alleyways and eclectic architectural shapes tell the story of bygone years.

You will surely visit the main square, Plaza de la Virgen, made notable with the Fountain of Turia in the middle.  When the crowds aren’t too big, this is a great place to come for photo opportunities since it encompasses the fountain and many of the city’s most iconic buildings: the Valencia Cathedral, the Miguelete Tower and the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados.

Further reading: 17 Most Beautiful Squares in Europe

3. Get a taste of local life at Central Market

Central Food Market in Valencia - Things to see and do.

What better way is there to get an impression of local life than at the local food market?

Upon entering the building, the first thing you’ll notice is its the sheer scale, size and grandeur. Comprised of ornate iron vaulted beams, hand painted patterned tiles of all hues, and a beautiful stained glass-dome ceiling depicting Valencian fruit.

Gastronomic tour of Valencia with Suzie - highly recommended!

In the market you’ll find traditional produce hailing from all corners of Spain, as well as and international exports.

Central Market is the perfect place to come for lunch to try the archetypal flavours of Valencia, and while you’re there, a great place to buy artisanal gifts.

4. Step inside some churches

Iglesia de San Nicolas - things to see and do in Valencia

The Old Town has an incredible number of places of worship, or simply to marvel at world-class architecture.

My personal favourite is the majestic Baroque building of Iglesia de San Nicolas, commonly regarded as the Valencian Sistine Chapel. Perhaps it doesn’t quite reach those lofty heights, but it’s definitely a vision to behold. You’ll find it hard to peel your eyes away from the opulent ceiling.

5. Discover Street Art

Discover street art by BLU in Valencia

The street art in Valencia is easily among the best in Europe. Sure, some are nothing more vandalism, but on the other spectrum you’ll find stunning wall murals from the likes of BLU, Erica Il Cane and local boy, Escif.
Street art in Valencia

For a high concentration of street art head to El Carmen. You’ll find some of the most interesting examples too, especially by Plaça de Tossal and many of the nearby streets.

For more tips and recommendation on where to find the best street art in Valencia read: Exploring Street art in Valencia

6. Enjoy the Green Spaces!

L'Umbracle garden in Valencia inside the City of Arts and Sciences

You could say the lungs of the city lie in the parks, that weave through the city outside from the Old Town.

For the best of the best, head to the Botanical gardens, The Royal Gardens and the Turia Gardens which spread all the way to the City of Art and Sciences. Also home in this futuristic culture complex is L’Umbracle, a striking 320m long and 60m wide landscaped walk with plant species indigenous to Valencia. Right next to this place you’ll also find The Walk of Sculptures, an outdoor gallery showing off contemporary sculptures by local and international artists including – the one and only – Yoko Ono.

7. Explore the Coastline

Valencia beach - travel guide

If you’re heading to Valencia in summer, make sure you pack your swimwear and the book you’ve been meaning to read all year. It’s time to work on your tan and enjoy a good book with cocktails by the beach.

I can think of few combinations that beat city life and beach life. Just like Lisbon and Barcelona, what’s not to love about a big city located by the beach?

8. Join a Gastronomic Tour with Suzie!

Enjoy a gastronomic tour of Valencia with Suzie!

Valencia is pure pleasure on the taste buds! Experience the flavours of Valencia on a guided food-tour with Susie.

Not only did I try some of Valencia’s most famous specialities, I also learnt about the city’s history and how its culinary scene has evolved into what it is today.

Enjoy a food tour in Valencia with Suzie!

There are many, but one highlight of the tour includes a visit to Horchateria De Santa Catalina for Valencia’s most famous drink – Horchata – a deliciously refreshing drink made from tiger nuts.

For further information about Suzie’s food tours, check out her website in the meanwhile: www.toursinvalencia.com

9. Hire a Bike!

After foot, the best way to explore the city is by bike, and it’s certainly easy for you to do in Valencia. Bike rental shops seem to be the second most popular type of business after restaurants!

If you really want to get to know the city, Suzie from Tours in Valencia also holds cycling tours for a truly personalised and entertaining way of seeing the sights and sounds.

10. Visit during Las Falles or La Tomatina!

Las Fallas - Things to see and do in Valencia

The word ‘quirky’ describes both of these festivals but sadly I wasn’t in Valencia at the time of these festivals so I have a very good reason to return!

Las Fallas literally means “the fires” in Valencian. The focus of this four-day festival which finishes on 19 March is the creation and burning of ninots (“puppets” or “dolls”), made from huge cardboard, wood, paper-machè and plaster statues. The ninots are extremely lifelike and tongue-in-cheek, usually depict bawdy, satirical scenes and current events.

I’ve been wanting to go to Tomatina since my brother went a few years ago and I saw the photos of him covered head to toe in bright red juice after being pummelled mercilessly by tomatoes. Taking place in the small town of Buñol, just outside of Valencia during the month of August, the world’s largest tomato fight is all in the name of good, harmless fun!

11. Explore Nearby Sagunto

Visit Sagunto on a day trip from Valencia

There’s a lot to like about Sagunto, a small town 30km north of Valencia.

The main attraction is the remains of the castle that sits from the domineering position atop the hill. Heading up to the castle affords some breath-taking views. I suspect during warmer months it provides a superb area for hiking as you’ll find lots of walking paths.

Even walking along the houses, you’ll spot quirky little things including a flight of rainbow stairs, which needless to stay became a backdrop for a mini-photoshoot – even in the rain!

12. Drive to Denia and Playa de la Granadella

Things to do in Valencia - day trip to Denia

The great thing about hiring a car in Valencia is the ability to explore a little further afield if time permits.

Why not spend a day exploring the pretty town of Denia? It’s known for its ruined castle and picturesque marina. Afterwards, hop back in your car and drive to Playa de la Granadella, a stunningly beautiful cove beach that appears after driving through winding roads and pine forests. When we arrived it was reaching dark, so we had this place to ourselves. However, we really wished we had arrived earlier for the chance of going on a boat trip. During the summer months you can go snorkelling.

Tip: Make note of the beautiful views granted from Calle Virgen de los Angeles, one of the roads between Denia and Playa de la Granadella which also has several very precarious hairpin bends!

Accommodation in Valencia

There’s a wide variety of accommodation to choose from in Valencia depending on on your taste, preferences and budget.

If your priority is location, you can’t beat Only YOU Hotel Valencia which is located just steps away from the main square. You’ll have an endless supply on restaurants and attractions all within walking distance.

If you’d prefer to be out of the city centre and closer to Botanical Gardens and the City of Art and Sciences, Hotel Malcom and Barrett has a very good reputation with famously comfortable beds! It also offers good value for money.

If you’re looking to fully indulge, Vincci Mercat is situated just steps away from the Central Market in the historical old town, and comes complete with a rooftop swimming pool and terrace.

Best things to do in Valencia - travel guide

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Hi, I'm Shing

Welcome to The Culture Map, a place where I share my travel guides, adventurous tales, and capture the inspiring diversity of our world.

6 Responses

  1. I was in Valencia couple of years ago (6, I think) but I don’t remember the city to be that cool! You just made me want to revisit it! 🙂

    1. I imagine so much has changed over the last 6 years Kami! Valencia totally exceeded my expectations, I’ve got so much time the city that I think I could happily live there for a while! I know how much you love street art so you should definitely revisit!

  2. You know me well, girl. I’m a big foodie so visiting the local market would be a great idea for me. I would love to taste some local food in Valencia. Any recommendations when it comes to breakfasts and lunches?

    1. Hey Agness, I hope you’re well! Yes, for breakfast you should definitely go to to Horchateria De Santa Catalina for Hortchata and something else light. For lunch you could try ‘Central Bar’ inside the Central Market. It’s special because it’s owned by a famous Valencian chef called Ricard Camarena who owns a Michelin Star restaurant in the city, but his stall inside the market is more accessible and affordable!

  3. Valencia’s Cathedral and The Holy Grail is a beautiful place and well worth visiting. You can actually climb to the top of the Miguelete bell tower and admire great views of the city. The historic central market of Valencia is quite unique and affordable.

  4. Hi Shing, thank you for the information on the Twelve things to do in Valencia. We are going to be in Valencia briefly and would love to see all that you have listed. We won’t be hiring a car, we are relying on walking or using public transport. Are all the points of interest within walking distance, excluding Sagunto. We are fit 70 year olds, could we manage this!

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