Mar
Sunshine, palm trees, delicious food, impressive architecture, and a vast sandy beach: Valencia in Spain has everything you need for a varied city break. This vibrant city on the Spanish coast offers the best of both worlds. Wander through charming streets lined with historic buildings, discover striking futuristic architecture and trendy hotspots, and when you need a break from sightseeing, the beach is just a short distance away. In this blog, I’ll take you along the best things to do in Valencia and share my top tips to help you make the most of your visit.
** Disclaimer: This blog post contains interesting affiliate links. This means that if you purchase something through my recommendations, I receive a small reward. The best part? It doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps my blog continue to grow. A win-win situation, so thank you! **
During our holiday on the Costa Blanca, we stayed in the charming coastal town of Calpe. From there, we headed to Valencia for a weekend, a city that immediately surprised me with its incredible variety. One moment, you’re surrounded by the spectacular futuristic buildings of the City of Arts and Sciences, and the next, you’re wandering through the historic city centre, soaking up the authentic Spanish atmosphere. Add lively squares, colourful markets, delicious paella and palm-lined streets, and you have all the ingredients for a perfect city break.
Is Valencia worth visiting?
Valencia honestly wasn’t on my bucket list for a long time. I mainly knew the city for its futuristic buildings, so I expected a modern destination with little charm. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Valencia really took me by surprise during my visit. The city is lively, atmospheric and, above all, incredibly diverse. You’ll find culture, history, modern architecture and charming neighbourhoods all in one place. Plus, the beach is just a short distance away, making it perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with some relaxation. If you’re planning your itinerary for Spain, Valencia is definitely worth adding to your route.
Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain, after Madrid and Barcelona. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it is also home to an important port. But it’s precisely this seaside location that makes Valencia such an appealing city break destination. After a morning of sightseeing, you can simply head to the beach. What more could you want?
What surprised me most was the variety the city has to offer. In the historic centre, you can wander past centuries-old buildings and picturesque squares, while just a little further away, you’ll find yourself surrounded by striking futuristic architecture. The City of Arts and Sciences in particular creates a fascinating contrast.
And I haven’t even mentioned the food yet. Valencia is, after all, the birthplace of paella, which means this is the perfect place to try an authentic paella Valenciana. I’ll tell you more about that later in this guide.
So, is Valencia worth visiting? In my opinion, absolutely. Especially if you’re looking for a city break that combines culture, delicious food, sunshine and the beach.
How to travel to Valencia?
The fastest way to travel from Belgium to Valencia is by plane. There are direct flights from Brussels and Charleroi, so you can find yourself soaking up the Spanish sunshine in Valencia in just a few hours.
Valencia Airport is located around eight kilometres from the city centre. From the airport, you can easily reach the centre by bus or metro. Google Maps is useful for finding the most convenient route. Of course, you can also take a taxi or book a private transfer.
Want to explore more of the region? Then I recommend renting a car. This gives you the freedom to combine Valencia with the Costa Blanca or explore the Spanish countryside.
Valencia is also easy to combine with other destinations in Spain. The city has two main train stations, offering convenient connections to destinations throughout Spain.
There are also several connections by sea. Ferries depart from the port of Valencia to the Balearic Islands and Italy, and cruise ships regularly stop here as well.
Prefer driving from Belgium? It’s a journey of around 1,700 kilometres, so why not turn it into a longer road trip? The Route du Soleil is a popular option, with plenty of opportunities to stop along the way, including Paris, the Loire Valley and Barcelona. Keep in mind that this route can get very busy during the summer holidays, so be prepared for possible traffic jams and delays.
Best time to visit Valencia?
The great thing about Valencia? There’s hardly a bad time to visit. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, the city enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year. Even during the winter months, it rarely gets truly cold.
If you’re looking for plenty of sunshine and as little rain as possible, the best time to visit Valencia is between May and October. Keep in mind that temperatures can get quite high in July and August. Luckily, the beach is just a short distance away, making it easy to combine sightseeing with a refreshing swim in the sea.
Spring also seems like a wonderful time to explore Valencia. This is when the city’s many orange trees are in full bloom, filling the streets with the sweet scent of orange blossom. It’s easy to see why Valencia is often associated with oranges.
Want to experience Valencia at its most vibrant? Visit in March during Las Fallas. This colourful festival is one of the best-known traditions in Spain. The main festivities take place from March 15 to 19. Throughout the city, enormous artistic creations known as fallas appear in the streets. Each neighbourhood creates its own spectacular sculptures from wood and papier-mâché. Expect music, parades, celebrations and, above all, lots of fireworks.
The grand finale takes place during La Cremà on the final evening, when almost all the fallas are set on fire. For one unforgettable night, the entire city is quite literally ablaze.
We visited Valencia in October ourselves. Apart from one day of less-than-perfect weather, we enjoyed pleasant temperatures throughout our stay. Personally, I found October a wonderful time for a city break.
Where to stay in Valencia?
Choosing the right neighbourhood can make your visit to Valencia even more enjoyable. My personal favourites are Ciutat Vella, Ruzafa and El Cabanyal.
Want to stay close to the best things to do in Valencia? Then Ciutat Vella is a great choice. Located in the heart of the historic centre, it puts many of the city’s main attractions within walking distance.
Love trendy coffee bars, great restaurants and unique shops? Ruzafa is a fantastic base. This colourful neighbourhood has a lively, creative atmosphere and is one of the city’s trendiest areas.
Want to combine the city with the beach? Have a look at El Cabanyal. This authentic neighbourhood is located close to the sea and is perfect if you want the best of both worlds.
If, like me, you love stylish hotels with plenty of character, these three are definitely worth checking out.
Palacio Vallier by MYR Hotels is all about elegance. I love the combination of historic charm and luxurious interiors. Plus, it’s located right in the heart of the old town.
Room Mate Collection Helen Berger has a warm and stylish boutique interior. It feels sophisticated yet wonderfully inviting, and its central location makes it a great base for exploring Valencia.
Caro Hote is my favourite for those who appreciate unique design. Set in a historic palace, the hotel beautifully combines original architectural features with contemporary details.
Still looking for a great place to stay? In my blog post ‘Where to stay in Valencia‘, I’ve rounded up the best neighbourhoods and hotels in the city.
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Browse more places to stay using the map below.
19 best things to do in Valencia you can’t miss
Valencia has so much to offer. That’s why I’ve gathered the best things to do in Valencia on the map below, so you can immediately see where everything is located. It’s a handy way to plan your own itinerary and make the most of your time in the city.
To keep things easy to navigate, I’ve divided my recommendations into several categories below, including famous landmarks, museums and charming neighbourhoods. This way, you can easily choose the sights and experiences that best suit your Valencia city break.
Planning to visit several attractions and museums during your stay? Then the Valencia Tourist Card might be worth considering. It includes free public transport and admission to several museums and monuments, as well as discounts on attractions, tours, shops and restaurants. It can be a great way to save some money while exploring Valencia.
Iconic landmarks in Valencia
1 – Soak up the atmosphere of Valencia at Mercado Central
Right in the heart of the historic centre, you’ll find one of my favourite things to do in Valencia: visiting Mercado Central. And trust me, this market is worth visiting for much more than just the food.
The history of trade at this location goes back centuries. The current market hall was designed by Alejandro Soler March and Francisco Guardia Vial and, after years of construction, Mercado Central officially opened in 1928. Covering more than 8,000 m², it is one of the largest covered fresh food markets in Europe.
What impressed me most was the beautiful Modernist architecture. Everywhere you look, you’ll see iron, glass, colourful ceramics and stained-glass details, making the building incredibly photogenic. And don’t forget to look up! The central dome rises to an impressive height of 30 metres. The natural light pouring in from above makes the interior even more beautiful.
Of course, the market itself is another reason to visit. Wander past stalls overflowing with vegetables, fruit, fresh fish, meat, cheeses and local delicacies. It’s a wonderful place to get a taste of Valencia’s food culture.
Feeling hungry? Stop by Central Bar by Ricard Camarena, where you can enjoy tapas, sandwiches and other dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the market.
Practical information: Mercado Central is open Monday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Entrance to the market hall is free. I recommend visiting in the morning, when the market is at its liveliest and you can experience the atmosphere at its best.
2 – Step into Valencia’s Golden Age at La Lonja de la Seda
Directly opposite Mercado Central, you’ll find La Lonja de la Seda. This former silk exchange is one of the most impressive sights in Valencia. The building is already beautiful from the outside, but just wait until you step inside.
La Lonja was built between 1482 and 1533, during Valencia’s economic and cultural Golden Age. At the time, the city was an important trading centre on the Mediterranean, with the silk trade in particular bringing great prosperity to Valencia. In 1996, La Lonja was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For me, the highlight was the Sala de Contratación. This enormous trading hall is supported by impressive twisted columns that seem to grow towards the ceiling like palm trees. Standing among them made me feel incredibly small. Take your time here and really soak up the grandeur of the space.
Afterwards, continue to the Consulado del Mar. It’s especially beautiful when sunlight streams through the colourful stained-glass windows, projecting vibrant colours onto the walls and floor. The effect is almost magical. It’s also a fantastic place for photography, especially if you position someone within the colourful patches of light.
Make sure to visit El Torreón, the imposing tower of the complex, as well. A chapel was once located on the ground floor, while the upper floors were used as a prison.
End your visit in the Patio de los Naranjos. Filled with orange trees, this peaceful courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment in the middle of the city.
Practical information: La Lonja is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. On Sundays and public holidays, it is open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Tickets cost just a few euros, while admission is free on Sundays and public holidays.
3 – Visit Valencia Cathedral and climb El Miguelete
Right in the heart of the historic centre stands the impressive Valencia Cathedral, also known as La Seu. You’ll find it just a short walk from the lively Plaça de la Reina.
Construction of the current cathedral began in the 13th century. Before that, the site was home to a Roman temple and later a mosque. Over the centuries, the cathedral was expanded several times, which explains its fascinating mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural elements.
Inside, you’ll also find a remarkable religious relic. One of the chapels houses the Holy Grail, a chalice that, according to tradition, was used by Jesus during the Last Supper.
However, there’s one thing I remember most from my visit: El Miguelete. This octagonal bell tower was definitely one of the highlights for me.
Reaching the top requires a little effort, though. A total of 207 steps will take you all the way up. Just consider it your workout for the day! Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view over Valencia.
From here, you can look out over the rooftops of the historic centre, with the surrounding church towers and squares stretching out below you. So, make sure to bring your camera!
Practical information: Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete have different visiting hours, which may also change due to religious services and public holidays. I therefore recommend checking the latest opening hours before your visit. It’s also best to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
4 – Admire Plaza de la Virgen
Visiting Valencia Cathedral? Make sure to continue to Plaza de la Virgen, a beautiful square located just behind the cathedral. The two sights are right next to each other, making them easy to combine during your visit.
Plaza de la Virgen is located on a site that was already important during Roman times. Today, the square is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, including the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados. The rear façade of Valencia Cathedral also overlooks the square.
The centrepiece of the square is the impressive Turia Fountain. The central figure represents the Turia River, while the eight women surrounding it symbolise the main irrigation channels around Valencia.
Personally, what I loved most about this square was its atmosphere. It’s one of those places where you naturally want to linger a little longer. Find a spot at one of the terraces and simply enjoy everything happening around you.
It’s also a fantastic spot for photography. The fountain, historic façades and church towers offer plenty of beautiful compositions. The square is especially photogenic during golden hour and in the evening.
5 – Step inside the ‘Sistine Chapel of Valencia’
Hidden among the narrow streets of Ciutat Vella, you’ll find the Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir. From the outside, the church looks fairly modest, but once you step inside, a completely different world awaits.
The church was founded in the 13th century following the Christian reconquest of Valencia. The building later took on a Gothic appearance, while in the 17th century, the interior was completely redecorated in the Baroque style.
The ceiling in particular is spectacular. Almost every inch is covered in colourful frescoes, elaborate ornaments and gilded details. It’s easy to see why San Nicolás is often referred to as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Valencia’.
The Baroque frescoes were designed by Antonio Palomino and painted by Dionís Vidal. They depict scenes from the lives of Saint Nicholas and Saint Peter Martyr.
Even if you don’t usually visit churches while travelling, I think this one is well worth adding to your itinerary. The spectacular interior alone makes it worth stepping inside. And don’t forget to look up: the beautifully painted vaulted ceiling is without a doubt the main highlight.
Practical information: You’ll need an entrance ticket to visit the church. An audio guide and the immersive La Luz de San Nicolás experience are included. You can book your tickets online in advance to save time when you arrive. I also recommend checking the latest opening hours beforehand, as they may change due to religious services.
6 – Walk through the medieval Torres de Serranos
Another impressive historic landmark in Valencia is the Torres de Serranos. This monumental city gate stands on the edge of the historic centre, right next to the green Turia Gardens.
The towers were built at the end of the 14th century as part of the medieval city walls surrounding Valencia. They also served as one of the main gateways into the city.
Take some time to admire the impressive Gothic architecture. The two imposing towers offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval Valencia. Fortunately, they were preserved when most of the city walls were demolished in the 19th century.
Throughout their history, the Torres de Serranos have served several different purposes. From the 16th century onwards, for example, they were used for many years as a prison for members of the nobility.
Today, you can climb the towers and explore their different levels. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views over Valencia’s historic centre. On the other side, you can look out over the former riverbed of the Turia.
Personally, I found the exterior especially photogenic. Make sure to walk around the towers to capture them from different perspectives. From across the street, you can get a great view of the entire city gate.
Practical information: The Torres de Serranos are open to visitors every day except Monday. Admission is free on Sundays and public holidays. I recommend checking the latest opening hours before your visit.
7 – Admire the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences
To be completely honest, this was the image I had of Valencia for years: futuristic white buildings and very little historic charm. That’s exactly why Valencia never really appealed to me as a city break destination before.
But once I stood here myself, I had to change my mind. Modern architecture still isn’t entirely my thing, but I found the City of Arts and Sciences incredibly impressive. This place definitely deserves a spot among the best things to do in Valencia.
The enormous complex was designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. It consists of several striking buildings surrounded by large, bright blue reflecting pools. This combination makes the entire complex even more spectacular and incredibly photogenic.
Here you’ll find several attractions, including the interactive Museu de les Ciències, the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía opera house and L’Hemisfèric. The latter is instantly recognisable by its distinctive eye-shaped design. Inside, you’ll find an IMAX cinema and a planetarium, among other attractions.
L’Oceanogràfic, Valencia’s famous aquarium, is also part of the complex. Then there’s L’Umbracle, an open-air promenade lined with palm trees and Mediterranean plants.
Even if you don’t plan on visiting any of the museums, I would definitely recommend taking some time to walk around the complex. The sheer scale and architecture alone make it worth visiting. And don’t forget your camera: the white buildings, blue reflecting pools and unusual shapes create endless opportunities for beautiful compositions.
Discover Valencia’s most beautiful green spaces
8 – Relax in a green oasis at Jardí Botànic
Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while? Visit Jardí Botànic, the botanical garden of the University of Valencia.
The garden’s history dates back to the 16th century, when it was originally used mainly to study medicinal plants. In 1802, the botanical garden moved to its current location, giving this peaceful place a remarkably long history.
Today, you can wander among thousands of plants from different parts of the world. You’ll find everything from palm trees and cacti to tropical plants. The historic greenhouses are also worth exploring.
What I particularly loved about this place was the sense of tranquillity. As soon as you enter the garden, the busy streets of Valencia suddenly seem far away. Small paths and peaceful green corners invite you to slow down and simply wander around.
Make sure to bring your camera as well. The combination of exotic plants, ancient trees and historic greenhouses is incredibly photogenic. Especially when sunlight filters through the leaves, you can capture some beautiful compositions.
You don’t need to set aside hours for your visit. Jardí Botànic is easy to combine with other things to do in Valencia and makes a lovely stop when you feel like escaping into nature for a while.
Practical information: Jardí Botànic is open daily, although opening hours vary depending on the season. There is a small entrance fee. I recommend checking the latest opening hours and admission prices before your visit.
9 – Walk or cycle through Jardí del Túria
A former riverbed transformed into a huge urban park? That alone made Jardí del Túria stand out to me. Today, it’s one of the best places to explore Valencia at a slower pace.
The Túria River once flowed right through the city. After a devastating flood in 1957, Valencia decided to divert the river, leaving the old riverbed free to be completely transformed.
The result is a green oasis stretching for around nine kilometres through the city. Along the way, you’ll find palm trees, gardens, fountains and large lawns. At times, it almost feels as though you’ve left the city behind entirely.
I really enjoyed simply walking through part of the park, but renting a bike is another great way to explore it. The flat paths take you past several of Valencia’s main attractions.
Along the way, you’ll pass historic bridges, modern architecture and plenty of lovely spots to take a break. You’ll also find the Palau de la Música and the unique Gulliver Park here. Eventually, the park leads you all the way to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
The park is also very popular with locals. You’ll see people jogging, cycling, exercising or simply enjoying a picnic. If you’re visiting Valencia with children, the large lawns and playgrounds make it an ideal place to spend some time outdoors.
Soak up some culture at Valencia’s best museums
10 – Walk among the fish at L’Oceanogràfic
I have to admit that L’Oceanogràfic wasn’t exactly at the top of my list. I’m personally not a big fan of seeing animals in captivity, but my partner really wanted to visit. And on a city trip, you have to keep everyone happy, right?
In the end, I was still impressed by the place. L’Oceanogràfic is part of the City of Arts and Sciences and is also the largest aquarium in Europe.
The complex is enormous and divided into several different zones, each representing a different marine ecosystem. You can explore environments inspired by the Mediterranean Sea, tropical waters and polar regions, among others. Hundreds of different animal species live throughout the aquarium.
What I found most impressive were the enormous underwater tunnels. You literally walk among the fish, with sharks and other marine animals swimming above and alongside you. It certainly makes for an impressive experience.
Make sure to allow plenty of time for your visit. Because of the sheer size of the complex, you can easily spend several hours exploring it.
Travelling to Valencia with children? Then L’Oceanogràfic can be a great family activity. It’s also a good option for a rainy or cloudy day, as a large part of the experience takes place indoors.
Practical information: Ticket prices and opening hours vary throughout the year. It’s best to book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting during weekends or holiday periods, when it can get quite busy.
11 – Experiment and explore at the Science Museum
Another striking building within the City of Arts and Sciences is the Science Museum, officially known as the Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe. I didn’t visit it myself, but it’s especially interesting if you enjoy learning in an interactive way.
Don’t expect a traditional museum where you simply walk past display cases. Here, it’s all about experimenting, touching and discovering things for yourself. The exhibitions cover topics such as science, technology, the human body and space.
The building itself is also quite spectacular. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, its architecture resembles the skeleton of a gigantic animal. So even if you don’t go inside, the exterior alone is worth taking a closer look at.
The museum is an especially good option if you’re visiting Valencia with children. Thanks to its many interactive exhibits, there’s plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. It’s also a great activity for a rainy or particularly hot day.
I had other priorities during my own visit, but I still wanted to include the museum in this guide, as it’s one of the best-known attractions within the City of Arts and Sciences.
Planning to visit both the Science Museum and L’Oceanogràfic? Make sure to check out the available combination tickets. You can often book several attractions together, which can be more convenient than buying separate tickets.
Practical information: Exhibitions and opening hours may change throughout the year. Check the current programme before your visit and make sure to allow enough time to explore the museum.
12 – Admire Spanish masters at the Museu de Belles Arts
Love art? Then the Museu de Belles Arts de València deserves a spot on your list. I didn’t visit the museum myself, but it is one of the most important art museums in Spain and particularly worth visiting if you’re interested in classical Spanish art.
The museum is housed in the beautiful Colegio de San Pío V, a historic building located close to Jardí del Túria. Its elegant architecture and courtyard alone make it worth a stop.
Inside, you’ll discover an extensive collection of paintings dating from the 14th to the 20th century. The collection of Valencian art is particularly impressive, with works by renowned artists such as Joaquín Sorolla, Francisco de Goya and Diego Velázquez.
Sorolla is especially interesting in the context of a visit to Valencia, as the famous Impressionist painter was born here. His colourful paintings are particularly known for their beautiful use of light.
Another bonus is that you can visit the permanent collection for free. This makes it easy to pop in for a shorter visit without having to set aside several hours.
The museum is also located close to Jardí del Túria, so you can easily combine both attractions while exploring Valencia.
Practical information: The museum is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. Make sure to check the latest opening hours before your visit.
13 – Dive into the tradition of Las Fallas at the Museo Fallero
Can’t visit Valencia during Las Fallas? You can still experience a little of this unique Spanish tradition at the Museo Fallero. I didn’t visit the museum myself, but it seems like a great addition to your itinerary if you want to learn more about this famous festival.
During Las Fallas, enormous colourful sculptures appear all over Valencia. These fallas are made up of different figures, known as ninots, which often portray current events and social issues in a humorous or satirical way.
At the end of the festival, almost all of these spectacular creations are burned. However, every year, one ninot is saved from the flames. A public vote determines the favourite, which is then preserved.
And it’s precisely this fascinating collection that you can admire at the Museo Fallero. As you walk through the museum, you’ll see ninots from different years and discover how their styles and techniques have evolved over time.
The museum also tells you more about the history of Las Fallas. You’ll learn how the sculptures are created and how the festival has evolved over the years. Since 2016, the Fallas tradition has been included on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The museum is located close to the City of Arts and Sciences, so you can easily combine both places on the same day.
Practical tip: The Museo Fallero is a relatively small museum, so you don’t need to set aside half a day for your visit. It’s an ideal extra stop while exploring this part of Valencia.
14 – Visit the National Ceramics Museum
Love art, architecture and beautiful interiors? Then add the Museo Nacional de Cerámica y Artes Suntuarias González Martí to your list. The museum is housed in the impressive Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas.
Your visit actually begins before you even step inside. The palace boasts a spectacular 18th-century Rococo façade, with its richly decorated alabaster entrance as the absolute showstopper. So make sure to take some time to admire the exterior first.
Inside, you’ll discover one of the most important ceramics collections in Spain, featuring pieces from different periods and regions. Naturally, there is plenty of attention devoted to Valencia’s famous ceramic tradition.
But honestly? I wouldn’t visit just for the ceramics. You can also explore the former rooms of the palace, filled with lavishly decorated salons, chandeliers, painted ceilings and historic furniture. The interiors alone make this museum well worth visiting.
It’s also a fascinating place for photography. Make sure to look up regularly, as the combination of art, architecture and intricate decorative details offers plenty of beautiful compositions.
The museum is located right in the heart of Ciutat Vella, close to several other museums in Valencia and some of the city’s most famous historic attractions.
Practical information: The museum is closed on Mondays. Admission is free on Saturdays from 4:00 PM onwards and on Sundays.
Explore Valencia’s most charming neighbourhoods
15 – Get lost in the streets of Ciutat Vella
This is the Valencia I personally love most. Ciutat Vella, the historic centre, is a wonderful maze of narrow streets and charming squares. I could easily spend hours wandering around here without any particular plan.
There’s something new waiting around every corner. Think colourful façades, small boutiques, tapas bars and hidden squares. For me, though, it was the beautiful historic architecture that really stood out. Give me old façades and narrow streets and I’m happy.
With a camera in hand, exploring Ciutat Vella is even more enjoyable. The neighbourhood is incredibly photogenic. Don’t just look straight ahead; remember to look up as well. Balconies, architectural details and church towers provide endless opportunities for beautiful compositions.
The history of this part of Valencia goes back centuries. Romans, Moors and later Christian rulers all left their mark on the city. Valencia particularly flourished during the 15th century, a period often referred to as its Golden Age. La Lonja de la Seda, for example, dates back to this prosperous era.
Within Ciutat Vella, you’ll also find Barrio del Carmen, one of the liveliest and most charming neighbourhoods in the historic centre. Here, centuries-old buildings and traditional taverns sit alongside trendy bars and restaurants. It’s also a popular area to experience the nightlife in Valencia, making it a great place to return to in the evening.
My advice? Don’t plan too much. Put Google Maps away for a while and simply get lost in the streets. For me, that’s the best way to experience Ciutat Vella.
16 – Experience Valencia’s trendy side in Ruzafa
Looking for a completely different atmosphere? Head to Ruzafa, also known as Russafa. This lively neighbourhood lies just south of the historic centre and is now one of the trendiest areas in Valencia.
Ruzafa was once an independent village outside the city walls. From the 19th century onwards, it gradually became part of the expanding city of Valencia. In recent years, the neighbourhood has undergone a creative transformation.
Today, you’ll find colourful façades and plenty of trendy hotspots. Think vintage shops, small boutiques, coffee bars and cosy restaurants. It’s the perfect place to escape the city’s classic tourist attractions for a while.
Personally, I loved simply wandering through Ruzafa without a plan. Its colourful streets and local atmosphere also make the neighbourhood incredibly photogenic. Plus, it feels a little less touristy than Valencia’s historic centre.
During the day, stop by Mercado de Ruzafa, the neighbourhood’s local food market. But it’s especially in the evening that Ruzafa really comes to life. Around Carrer de Sueca and Carrer de Cadis, you’ll find plenty of great places to eat and drink.
If you continue a little further towards Pla del Remei, make sure to stop at Mercado de Colón. This beautiful Modernist market hall was designed by Francisco Mora Berenguer in the early 20th century. Look out for the colourful ceramics, mosaics and ornate façades. The former food market is now home to inviting cafés, restaurants and terraces. For me, the architecture alone made it worth a visit.
Come to Ruzafa in the late afternoon. Start by exploring its colourful streets and boutiques, then make your way towards Mercado de Colón and end your evening with some tapas and a drink.
17 – Admire the colourful fishermen’s houses of El Cabanyal
Another neighbourhood that pleasantly surprised me was El Cabanyal. This former fishing district is located close to Valencia’s beaches, and for its unique architecture alone, I found it well worth a visit.
The best way to explore El Cabanyal is simply to wander around without a plan. You’ll discover colourful fishermen’s houses with tiled façades, mosaics and eye-catching details. Some have been beautifully restored, while others still retain their original character. For me, it’s exactly this mix that makes El Cabanyal so photogenic.
The neighbourhood also has quite a turbulent history. At one point, part of El Cabanyal was at risk of being demolished to make way for a major urban development extending towards the sea. Local residents fought against these plans for years. Eventually, the project was abandoned, allowing much of the neighbourhood’s historic character to be preserved.
Today, El Cabanyal is undergoing quite a transformation. Alongside its traditional houses, more and more creative hotspots, coffee bars and restaurants are popping up. Yet the neighbourhood still feels more authentic and local than Valencia’s historic centre.
While exploring the neighbourhood, make sure to stop by Mercado del Cabanyal. At this local market, you’ll find fresh fish, vegetables and other regional products.
For tapas, Casa Montaña is a true institution in the neighbourhood. This historic bodega has been around since 1836 and is a great place to enjoy traditional tapas paired with a wide selection of wines.
Combine El Cabanyal with a visit to the beach. Start by wandering through its colourful streets before making your way towards the sea. That way, you can experience two completely different sides of Valencia in a single day.
Relax on Valencia’s most beautiful beaches
18 – Go beach hopping in Valencia
Another major highlight of Valencia is, of course, its beaches. From the city centre, you can have your feet in the sand surprisingly quickly.
Close to the city, you’ll find Las Arenas, Malvarrosa and La Patacona. The first two almost seamlessly blend into one another, together forming a long stretch of wide sandy beaches.
A lively promenade runs alongside Las Arenas and Malvarrosa, lined with restaurants, bars and terraces. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.
Craving paella? Near Malvarrosa, you’ll find Casa Carmela. This restaurant has been around since 1922 and is known for its traditional paella, making it a great place to try the famous paella Valenciana.
Continue along the coast and you’ll reach La Patacona, where the atmosphere feels a little trendier and more relaxed. You’ll find some lovely beach bars as well as great spots for breakfast or lunch.
Looking for somewhere even quieter? Head towards L’Arbre del Gos or El Saler. Here, the urban landscape gives way to dunes and Mediterranean vegetation. You can easily reach these beaches by bike or public transport.
Want to discover even more beautiful beaches? You can rent a car and continue exploring the coast. For example, you could extend your trip towards the Costa Blanca.
And that’s exactly what makes Valencia so appealing to me. You can spend the morning exploring the city and the afternoon with your feet in the sand. It really gives you the best of both a city break and a beach holiday in one trip.
Must-try specialities in Valencia
19 – Taste the flavours of Valencia
A visit to Valencia wouldn’t be complete without trying the local cuisine. And trust me, there’s plenty to taste. Valencia is, of course, the birthplace of paella. Interestingly, traditional paella Valenciana doesn’t contain seafood. Instead, it’s typically prepared with ingredients such as chicken, rabbit and local beans. Want to eat like the locals? Order your paella for lunch. Some great places to try it are La Pepica, Casa Carmela and Alqueria del Pou.
Make sure to try horchata de chufa as well. This refreshing drink is made from tiger nuts, water and sugar. At Horchatería Santa Catalina, you can sample this Valencian classic. Order a few fartons to go with it. These soft, elongated pastries are traditionally dipped into horchata, just like the locals do.
Fancy something a little stronger afterwards? Order an Agua de Valencia. This typical Valencian cocktail combines fresh orange juice with cava, gin and vodka. You can try it at places such as Café Madrid or Café de las Horas.
Want to discover even more local flavours? A food tour through Valencia is a delicious way to round off your visit.
Valencia honestly wasn’t on my bucket list for a long time, but I’m so glad I decided to visit. The historic streets, impressive architecture, lively neighbourhoods and delicious local cuisine really surprised me. Add plenty of sunshine and the Mediterranean Sea, and you have all the ingredients for a wonderfully varied city break. I hope this guide to the best things to do in Valencia helps you plan your own visit and make the most of your time in the city. Is Valencia not on your bucket list yet? Maybe it’s time to change that!
Read more about Spain?
- 10 travel tips for Spain you need to know before you go
- 15 iconic things Spain is known for
- 10 Valencia travel tips you need to know before you go
- Where to stay in Valencia? The best neighborhoods and hotels
- 19 best things to do in Costa Blanca
- A mini road trip through the inland of Costa Blanca
- 13 amazing things to do in Calpe
- Staying in La Muralla Roja: worth it or not?
- 10 Seville travel tips you need to know before you go
- Where to stay in Seville: the best neighborhoods and hotels
- 33 best things to do in Seville for an unforgettable city trip
- The perfect 3 days Seville itinerary
- A wine trip to the Ribera del Duero in Spain
- 10 travel tips for Catalonia you need to know before you go
- 20 fascinating things to do in Catalonia for culture lovers
- 10 amazing things to do in Reus
- Discover the murals of Penelles, Catalonia’s most colourful village
- 11 amazing things to do in La Vall de Boí, a hidden gem in the Catalan Pyrenees
- 12 unique things to do in Cerdanya, Spain
- 11 amazing things to do in and around Solsona, Spain
Thanks for reading.
Your truly,
Sarah
Pin it for later
