Valencia, Spain: 27 Best Things to Do and See

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, yet it feels like home. You’ll fall in love with this city on the country’s east coast at first sight, mainly due to its diversity. Its beautiful historic center, full of palm trees, coexists with the futuristic complex of the City of Arts and Sciences, traditional markets, and lively neighborhoods full of tapas bars and pitchers of sangria.

Valencia is also home to authentic paella and horchata, a local drink made from chufa nuts. The city is also known for its healthy lifestyle – locals reportedly live to an average age of 83.5 years, which is certainly no coincidence. The sun shines here over 300 days a year, the air is clean, and the Mediterranean cuisine (and plenty of sangria 🤭) benefits health, heart, and soul. Let’s explore 27 tips on what to see and do in Valencia.

Summary for those Short on Time

• Top Sights: City of Arts and Sciences with the largest aquarium in Europe, historic cathedral with the Holy Grail, Torres de Serranos, and the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange.
• Ideal Time to Visit: May to September for swimming, March to November for exploring the city without large tourist crowds.
• Accommodation Recommendations: In the historic center of Ciutat Vella or in the modern Ruzafa district with an excellent culinary scene.
• Transport: The Valencia Tourist Card includes unlimited public transport and entry to attractions, and the metro from the airport costs 4.80 EUR.
• Local Specialties: Authentic Valencian paella, horchata with fartons, and the Agua de Valencia cocktail with fresh orange juice.

Valencia Weather – when to Go to Spain

Valencia has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city is ideal for visiting practically any time of year, but each season has its unique characteristics.

• Spring (March–May) is one of the most pleasant times of the year. Temperatures range between 18–25 °C, flowers bloom, and a fresh atmosphere prevails everywhere. In March, the famous Las Fallas festival takes place, when the entire city transforms into a huge celebration full of fireworks, processions, and traditional cardboard sculptures.
• Summer (June–August) is ideal for sun and sea lovers. Temperatures reach 28–35 °C, and the sea is a pleasant 24–26 °C. This period is the liveliest, but also the most expensive and busiest. Beaches are full of life, and evenings stretch long into the night.
• Autumn (September–November) offers a happy medium. September is still warm with temperatures around 25 °C, but tourist numbers are already decreasing. October and November are ideal for sightseeing with temperatures around 20 °C and significantly fewer tourist crowds.
• Winter (December–February) is the calmest period with temperatures around 15 °C. The sun often shines, so you can enjoy pleasant walks through the city. Prices are lowest, and attractions are almost empty.

💡You might be interested: Malaga Vacation

Where to Stay in Valencia

Valencia offers diverse accommodation options for every traveler. However, choosing the right neighborhood will significantly impact your experience of the city. I recommend staying near the center:

• Soho Boutique Turia,
• Valentia Apartments,
• Calma Beach Apartments.

💡TIP: Where to Go on Vacation in Spain

Valencia and Public Transport

Getting around Valencia is quite easy and convenient thanks to its well-developed public transport system. The city has a modern network of metro, trams, buses, and city bikes. But beware, public transport in Valencia does not work like in Prague. You need a different ticket for each mode of transport.

• Metro and Trams form the backbone of Valencia’s transport. Six metro lines and four tram lines will get you practically anywhere. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR for zone A, but multi-day passes are more advantageous. From the airport to the city center, the metro costs 4.80 EUR, and the journey takes 25 minutes.
• Valencia Tourist Card is the best investment for tourists. A 24-hour card for 15 EUR includes unlimited transport throughout the city, including the journey from the airport, and discounts or free entry to most attractions. There are also 48-hour (20 EUR) and 72-hour (25 EUR) options.
• Valenbisi is a bike-sharing system with 275 stations throughout the city. Weekly use costs 13 EUR, and you can use bikes unlimitedly for 30-minute intervals. Valencia is ideal for cycling thanks to its flat terrain and dense network of bike paths.
• EMT Buses complement the metro and trams. Red buses operate throughout the city; a ticket from the driver costs 1.50 EUR. Night buses (CorreNIT) run from 10:30 PM to 2:30 AM.

For getting around the historic center, walking is best. All main attractions are within walking distance, and you’ll discover hidden corners of the city you might otherwise miss.

💡See also: What to See in Seville

Valencia Sights: 27 Things to See and Do in Valencia

If you’re planning a trip to Valencia, then I’ve put together 27 tips on what to see and do there.

City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad De Las Artes Y Las Ciencias)

The futuristic complex by architect Santiago Calatrava is a symbol of modern Valencia. Its white sculptural buildings surrounded by water features have an atmosphere straight out of a science fiction film. The complex includes the Hemisfèric planetarium with an IMAX cinema, an interactive science museum, the Umbracle botanical garden, an opera house, and the largest aquarium in Europe.

Definitely plan your visit for a full day, and feel free to return in the evening when the buildings are beautifully lit. Admission varies by attraction; combined tickets are more advantageous.

Oceanogràfic

The largest aquarium in Europe is home to over 500 species of marine animals. You’ll explore the Arctic with beluga whales, tropical waters with sharks, Antarctica with penguins, and the Mediterranean with its typical fish.

The main attraction is the underwater tunnel, where huge sharks and rays swim above you. Don’t miss the dolphin show in Europe’s largest dolphinarium. Admission is around 34–40 EUR depending on the season, and a visit takes 3-4 hours.

Valencia Cathedral

The Gothic cathedral is home to the most famous relic of the Christian world – the Holy Grail. The agate chalice in the Santo Cáliz chapel is, according to tradition, the actual cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. The interior is adorned with magnificent frescoes and a Baroque altar.

The cathedral’s architecture combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements, developed over more than 200 years of construction. Admission is 9 EUR, reduced 6 EUR.

El Miguelete Bell Tower

The cathedral’s octagonal bell tower, 51 meters high, offers the most beautiful view of Valencia. The climb up 207 steps is challenging, but the reward is a panoramic view of the entire city, the sea, and the surrounding mountains.

The bell tower was originally a separate structure and was later connected to the cathedral. Admission is 2.50 EUR, and opening hours vary by season.

Plaza De La Virgen

The main square of the historic center is the heart of Valencian life. It is dominated by the Turia Fountain with Neptune surrounded by eight maidens symbolizing the river and its irrigation channels. The Basilica of Our Lady stands on the square, and vehicle access is prohibited here.

The square is the center of all major festivities, especially during the Las Fallas festival, when the traditional ofrenda de flores – the offering of flowers to the giant statue of the Virgin Mary – takes place here.

Torres De Serranos

The majestic 14th-century Gothic gate was the main entrance to the city. Its massive towers also served as a prison for nobles. Today, it offers an excellent view of the historic center and Turia Park.

The gate is one of the last preserved sections of the city’s medieval fortifications. Admission is 2 EUR, free on Sundays and holidays.

Silk Exchange (Lonja De La Seda)

This Late Gothic building, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most beautiful civil constructions in Europe. It served as the center for silk trade, which brought immense wealth to Valencia.

The main hall with its twisted columns and richly decorated ceiling is an example of architectural perfection. The courtyard with orange trees is also beautiful. Admission is only 2 EUR, and it’s free on Sundays.

Central Market (Mercado Central)

One of the largest covered markets in Europe is housed in a beautiful modernist building of glass and iron. Here you’ll find the freshest fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties like horchata or fartons. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

Turia Gardens (Jardí Del Túria)

The largest urban park in Spain was created in the former riverbed of the Túria River. Nearly 10 kilometers of greenery stretches through the entire city from the zoo to the City of Arts and Sciences.

The park offers bike paths, running tracks, playgrounds, a botanical garden, and the unique Gulliver Park with a giant statue of Gulliver serving as a slide for children. The Bridge of Flowers (Pont de les Flors) is one of the most beautiful bridges in the city.

Bioparc Valencia

This modern zoo, focusing on African fauna, offers animals an environment as similar as possible to their natural habitat. You won’t see cages here, but open enclosures where multiple species live together, just as in the wild.

You’ll see elephants, giraffes, lions, gorillas, and penguins here. Bioparc actively participates in conservation programs. Admission starts from 28.90 EUR, and a visit takes at least half a day.

Plaza Del Ayuntamiento

The main city square, with its impressive City Hall and fountain, is the center of Valencia’s life. The City Hall can be visited for free, including the balcony with a view of the square. The square is the epicenter of the Las Fallas festival, where the Mascletà fireworks display takes place daily. Surrounding buildings like the Palacio de Correos with its beautiful dome are worth admiring.

Malvarrosa and Patacona Beaches

The kilometer-long sandy Malvarrosa Beach is the most popular in the city. A wide promenade with palm trees, chiringuitos (beach bars), and excellent paella restaurants create a typical Spanish atmosphere.

The smaller Patacona Beach is a quieter alternative, just a few minutes by tram from the center. Both beaches have all amenities, including sunbed and umbrella rentals.

Mercat De Colón

This modernist market has transformed into a gastronomic paradise with selected restaurants and cafes. Its beautiful architecture with ceramic tiles is worth a visit in itself. You’ll find both traditional Valencian cuisine and international specialties here. It’s an ideal spot for horchata with fartons or an evening cocktail.

Torres De Quart

The second preserved city gate, in the style of Naples’ Castel Nuovo, served to defend the city. Traces of cannonballs from the Wars of Independence are still visible on the towers. A climb to the towers will reward you with views of the western part of the city. Admission is 2 EUR, free on Sundays.

Church of San Nicolás

The Church of San Nicolás in Valencia is a kind of “Sistine Chapel of Valencia” which will amaze you with magnificent frescoes covering the entire interior. From the outside, this unassuming church hides one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical interiors in Spain.

The 17th-century frescoes depict the lives of Saint Nicholas and Saint Peter Martyr. Admission is 11 EUR, including an audio guide.

National Ceramics Museum

The Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas is a work of art in itself, with a richly decorated Baroque facade. Inside the museum, you’ll find the largest collection of Valencian ceramics and applied arts. Admission is only 3 EUR, and it’s free on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.

Plaza De Toros

The bullring, inspired by the Roman Colosseum, is an important part of Valencian tradition. Although corridas are no longer regularly held here, you can visit the museum and explore the arena. This 19th-century neoclassical building can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators. Admission costs 2 euros.

Institut Valencià d’Art Modern (IVAM)

One of the most important modern art museums in Spain is housed in an impressive modernist building. Its collections include works from Picasso to contemporary Valencian artists.

Regular exhibitions showcase contemporary Spanish and international art. The museum is located in a cultural district near other galleries.

El Carmen Neighborhood

This bohemian neighborhood in the historic center is full of narrow streets, street art, alternative bars, and galleries. The combination of medieval architecture with modern art creates a unique atmosphere. A stroll through this district is a small adventure full of discoveries. You’ll find the Portal de Valldigna, remnants of medieval walls, and the city’s liveliest nightlife here.

Estació Del Nord

The main train station is one of the most beautiful in Europe thanks to its modernist style. Its facade is adorned with mosaics featuring Valencian oranges and orange blossoms.

Even if you’re not traveling anywhere, the building is worth a visit for its architectural beauty. The station is right next to the city center.

Plaza De La Reina

One of the city’s liveliest squares, surrounded by cafes and shops. In the center of the square is a small park with orange trees, where you can relax in the shade. The square is an excellent starting point for walks through the historic center, and street artists perform here regularly.

L’Eixample District

This elegant part of the city, with its wide boulevards and modernist architecture, resembles Barcelona’s Eixample. You’ll find luxury shops, design hotels, and excellent restaurants here.

The area is ideal for leisurely strolls and shopping in large malls as well as boutique stores.

Palau De La Generalitat

This Gothic palace, the seat of the Valencian government, can be visited during special tours. Its interiors, adorned with frescoes and tapestries, showcase the best of Valencian art.

The building combines Gothic and Renaissance elements and is among the city’s most important civil constructions. Tours must be reserved in advance.

Albufera Natural Park

The “little sea” south of the city is Spain’s largest freshwater lake. The wetlands are home to hundreds of bird species and rice fields where rice for paella is grown.

A boat trip on the lake at sunset is one of the most romantic experiences. You can get here by bus no. 25 in 40 minutes.

Assut De l’Or Bridge

This bridge by architect Calatrava resembles a giant harp and has become an icon of modern Valencia. Its white pylon, 125 meters high, is visible from a great distance. The bridge connects different parts of the city and offers beautiful views of the City of Arts and Sciences.

Port Saplaya

“Little Venice,” eight kilometers from the center, is a small town built around canals. Colorful houses, restaurants, and a peaceful atmosphere offer a pleasant excursion away from the city’s hustle and bustle. You can get here by bus no. 32 or by walking along the beach from Malvarrosa.

The Narrowest House in Valencia

One of Valencia’s most curious attractions is hidden at Plaça de Lope de Vega 6, right next to the popular Tasquita La Estrecha bar. It is a house just 107 centimeters wide, which long held the title of the narrowest house in Europe. Although it was later connected to the adjacent building and thus lost its independence, its characteristic narrow facade has been preserved.

Frequently Asked Questions