travel to valencia

Spain’s third-largest city is a magnificent place, content for Madrid and Barcelona to grab the headlines while it gets on with being a wonderfully liveable city with thriving cultural, eating and nightlife scenes. Never afraid to innovate, Valencia diverted its flood-prone river to the outskirts and converted the former riverbed into a glorious green ribbon of park winding right through the city. On it are the strikingly futuristic buildings of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, designed by local boy Santiago Calatrava. Other brilliant contemporary buildings grace the city, which also has a fistful of fabulous Modernista buildings, great museums, a long stretch of beach and a large, characterful old quarter. Valencia, surrounded by its huerta, a fertile zone of market gardens, is famous as the home of rice dishes such as paella, but its buzzy dining scene offers plenty more besides; it's a superb spot for eating.

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Experience the real Valencia. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

L'Eixample & Southern Valencia

This aesthetically stunning complex occupies a massive 350,000-sq-metre swath of the old Turia riverbed. It’s occupied by a series of spectacular…

Catedral de Valencia

Valencia’s cathedral was built over a mosque after the 1238 reconquest. Its low, wide, brick-vaulted triple nave is mostly Gothic, with neoclassical side…

Iglesia de San Nicolás

Recently reopened to the public after a magnificent restoration, this single-naved church down a passageway is a striking sight. Over the original Gothic…

Museo del Patriarca

This seminary was founded in the late 16th century by San Juan de Ribera, a towering Counter-Reformation figure who wielded enormous spiritual and…

This splendid building, a Unesco World Heritage Site, was originally Valencia’s silk and commodity exchange, built in the late 15th century when the city…

Western Valencia

This zoo devoted solely to African animals has an educational and conservationist remit and an unusual approach. Though, as always, the confinement of…

Museo de Bellas Artes

Bright and spacious, this gallery ranks among Spain’s best. Highlights include a collection of magnificent late-medieval altarpieces, and works by several…

Mercado Central

Valencia’s vast Modernista covered market, constructed in 1928, is a swirl of smells, movement and colour. Spectacular seafood counters display…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 best things to do in valencia: art, culture, and nightlife.

Horchatería de Santa Catalina

Horchata is a sweet, opaque, very Valencian drink made from pressed chufas (tiger nuts), into which you dip large finger-shaped buns called fartóns…

Jardines del Turia

Stretching the length of Río Turia’s former course, this 9km-long lung of green is a fabulous mix of playing fields, cycling, jogging and walking paths,…

It's worth heading to this unusual spot for quality portions of pasta, rices or other creations that employ succulent sauces and ingredients with genuine…

Ricard Camarena

Valencia's most highly rated current chef showcases the range of his abilities here, in a new location in the Bombas Gens factory-turned-art-centre. A…

El Carabasser

A very worthwhile eating option in Benimaclet is this little tapas place. It packs out – get there early – and no wonder, for the creations coming out of…

El Miguelete

Turn left as you enter the main portal of the cathedral for the climb up to El Miguelete, the emblematic octagonal tower. It's apparently 51m high,…

The 12 top free things to do in Valencia

Bombas Gens

This conversion of a handsome art deco factory that once made hydraulic pumps has created an intriguing space for modern art. There's a particularly good…

The diverted Río Turia’s former riverbed is a great playground year-round. Of its formal playgrounds, the giant Gulliver, in the Jardines del Turia, just…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

Whether you’re after Modernista edifices, terrific museums, Spain’s best rice dishes or medieval cathedrals, our neighborhood guide highlights the best that…

Valencia’s best beaches offer water sports, warm seas, paella, secret spots and sand dunes, all within easy reach of the city center.

Transportation

Valencia may be Spain’s third-largest city, but it’s essentially very compact and walkable, and a lot easier to explore on foot than Madrid. Here's how to find…

Free Things to Do

Valencia is ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Eating out, accommodation and transportation costs are significantly lower than they are in Barcelona and…

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Latest stories from Valencia

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Jan 9, 2024 • 7 min read

Learn about the sinister history of Valencia's Plaza del Mercado, the former site of executions and bullfighting.

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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

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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

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

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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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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.

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

1. the best things to do in valencia.

When you are 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 to where you want to go isn’t too difficult. Deciding which ticket to get gets a little bit 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 card , 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

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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

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

(1551 reviews)

from $ 82.83

San Jose Caves Guided Tour from Valencia

(345 reviews)

from $ 76.20

Valencian paella workshop and visit to the Algiros market

(192 reviews)

from $ 70.68

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.

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# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in March 2024

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This Spanish City Is the Birthplace of Paella — and It Gets 300 Days of Sunshine a Year

Here’s how to plan the perfect trip to Valencia.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Often overshadowed by Barcelona and Madrid , Valencia has a ton to offer visitors in the way of history, gastronomy, and recreation. Arguably best known as the birthplace of paella and home to a striking cultural center, this palm-lined port on the southeastern coast of Spain is one of those rare destinations that celebrates old and new in equal measure. It boasts a wealth of interesting museums and emblematic landmarks, and the city buzzes with creative energy and was named the World Design Capital in 2022. And, of course, the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias ranks among the most beautiful places to visit in Spain . 

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

As foodies will attest, the local cuisine and availability of fresh ingredients — including vine-ripened tomatoes, juicy oranges, and rice — is outstanding. With a massive central market and many excellent restaurants around the city, you certainly won’t go hungry. And because Valencia enjoys 300 days of sunshine annually and has both lovely parks and beaches, it’s also ideal for travelers who like to spend time outdoors between sightseeing and eating. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer trip to the aptly nicknamed “City of Joy,” scroll on for our suggestions to maximize your time in Valencia. 

Vladone/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit Valencia 

Valencia is a fantastic city to visit at any time of year. Sure, picture-perfect summer weather brings more beachgoers in the warmer months, but the treasure trove of cultural attractions, delicious food, and mild climate sustains tourism throughout the year.

Best Things to Do in Valencia 

Valencia brims with historic attractions. Luckily, it’s also super walkable, making it easy to hit many of the must-see spots in a relatively short time. Kick things off in the medieval old town, a warren of cobbled streets with cafés, artisan shops, and eye-catching architecture. La Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange), Valencia Cathedral, and Mercado Central are some of the most iconic buildings in the area. Travelers interested in the past should also visit San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir, Plaza de la Virgen, and Torres de Quart. 

Alessandra Amodio/Travel+Leisure

Voted one of the 12 Treasures of Spain, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias tops the list of must-see modern sights. Designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava, the striking complex features a ship-shaped opera house, IMAX dome theater, interactive science museum, open-air art gallery, and the largest aquarium in Europe.  

The magnificent Turia Gardens — an expansive park on the former riverbanks — covers grassy lawns, gardens, fountains, bridges, playgrounds, and multi-use pedestrian pathways. It’s also a short car or bus ride to Playa de la Malvarrosa. Locals and visitors pack the sandy stretch during the summer. Though, you’ll notice folks working on their tan, sipping drinks, and playing volleyball anytime the weather is nice (so, basically always). Bioparc Valencia recreates different natural habitats, so parkgoers get to witness what it would be like to see animals in the wild versus a normal zoo setting. 

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Best Places to Eat and Drink in Valencia 

Paella was born in Valencia. While there’s certainly no shortage of places to savor Spain’s national dish, a handful of names stand out from the rest. A 100-year-old institution across the street from Playa de la Malvarrosa, Casa Carmela continues to draw crowds with its adherence to a traditional recipe passed down through generations. Don’t miss the typical Valencian paella with chicken, rabbit, and peas at Restaurante Canela . Navarro and Arrocería Maribel are other favored establishments for sampling sizzling socarrat-crusted rice dishes. The city also has plenty of tapas bars. Founded in 1836, Casa Montaña serves seasonal share plates alongside an impressive selection of wine. 

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One of the largest markets in Europe and an impressive example of art nouveau, Mercado Central is a sprawling, ornate venue that’s filled with vendors selling poultry, fish, meat, snails, produce, herbs, dried fruit, nuts, olive oils, and baked goods. It’s a great spot to sample local products and regional specialties. After browsing the stalls, snag a seat at Central Bar by Ricard Camarena for Valencian tomato salad, cod fritters, and flan. 

Best Places to Stay in Valencia 

Valencia’s artistic zeal and design pedigree very much come through in the accommodation options. Hotel Helen Berger , a stylish boutique stay in the old town, reflects the creative spirit of its environs. It’s vibrant yet relaxed with a crisp palette, sleek furnishings, and curated art. The penthouse suite flaunts a rooftop terrace that beckons guests to hang out for a while and soak up the sun. Even if Cosmo Hotel & Bar wasn’t such a design-driven standout, people would probably still check in for the location alone. But the fact that this chic, modern bolthole wows aesthetically and feels so genuinely welcoming just gives travelers even more reasons to book. The Lázaro Rosa-Violán-designed Only You Hotel Valencia glimmers with gold details and plush velvet, while a DJ spins tunes in the lobby restaurant. Hospes Palau de la Mar , a member of Design Hotels, is a refined base to unwind for a few days with sleek rooms and a spa. There’s also the independently operated and minimally minded Caro Hotel that’s set inside a 19th-century palace.

Valencia Travel Guide

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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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33 Top Reasons to Visit Valencia: Why See the Spanish City

• Post author: Naddya
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: February 8, 2023

If you’re wondering whether to put the Mediterranean city on your itinerary, let us tell you this:

Valencia is worth visiting for its incredible historical, cultural, and culinary surprises. Architecture buffs will love the mind-bending City of Arts and Sciences ; nature lovers – the gorgeous Turia Park ; food aficionados – the traditional cuisine; and culture vultures – the diverse museums.

On top of that, Valencia is cheaper than Barcelona.

In this article, you’ll find the top 33 reasons to visit Valencia, Spain . By the end of the article, you’ll understand why people go to the third-largest Spanish city.

Buckle up and let’s discover!

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Visit Valencia for the Incredible Foods and Drinks

The coastal town is the birthplace of some of the most famous traditional dishes in the country. Get a napkin now, because the following section enlists the foods and drinks that make Valencia worth visiting.

• Paella . Spain’s most popular meal originates from Valencia. The classic paella features fried chicken, rabbit, tomatoes, beans, and rice. Our favorite version is paella de mariscos , which epitomizes seafood. If you’d like to taste the original, head to Albufera Natural Park. The birthplace of paella is the small village of El Palmar, about 16 mi (25.5 km) from Valencia. We recommend joining this excursion .
• Fideuà . This pasta dish hails from the small Valencian town Gandía. Fideuà is very similar to paella, but instead of rice, it combines noodles and seafood. The rice noodles in the fideuà soak up the broth and tomato-pepper sauce while cooking, which brings out the rich seafood flavors. Enjoy it with a generous splash of lemon.
• All-i-pebre . The fiery stew all-i-pebre is only for the most adventurous travelers. It brings together eel, potatoes, almonds, garlic, and chili peppers to redefine the term scrumptiousness. If you love spicy food, order this amazing combo. Our best advice is to get lots of bread and beer on the table, too – to be able to put out the fire in your mouth.
• Cocas . If you like pizza, you’ll love cocas ! You can eat these diverse flatbreads with a variety of toppings, either sweet or salty. The options include vegan, vegetarian, fish, meat, and every other imaginable combination. Valencianos love cocas a lot and prefer them over pizza. They might even try to convince you their dish is tastier than the Italian one. We’ll leave it to you to decide which one’s your favorite.

• Turrón . The mouthwatering sweet seduction from Valencia is a nougat confection made of sugar, honey, and egg whites. It’s toasted with almonds or other nuts, and its purpose is to send your taste buds into culinary heaven.  Turrón  comes in a huge variety of flavors and textures, so make sure to try as many as you can. It makes a perfect souvenir to bring home, too.
• Bunyols . Usually associated with the colorful Las Fallas festival in March, these sweet, deep-fried donuts will give you plenty of energy to enjoy the parade to the fullest. The yeast dough is often flavored with anise and pumpkin. For the ultimate foodgasm, dip your buñuelos (or  bunyols ) into a cup of thick hot chocolate.
• Horchata . Popular not only in Valencia but everywhere in Spain,  horchata  is a beverage that looks like a milkshake. However, the refreshing drink is made of tiger nuts (“chufas” in Spanish). You can enjoy it hot or cold, and add a ton of different flavors to it. Naddya’s favorite is the lemon horchata. The beverage is so popular there’s even a museum dedicated to it. Visiting Alquería El Machistre is one of the most  peculiar things to do in Valencia .
• Agua Valenciana . Invented in 1959 in Cafe Madrid de Valencia, this staple cocktail hasn’t lost its popularity since. Valencian Water, as the name translates, has nothing to do with water, though. The cocktail brings together gin, vodka, and orange juice, which join forces with cava, the Spanish sparkling wine, for a powerful punch.
• Oranges . The sweet citrus fruits farmed in the Valencian region are famous for their extraordinary flavor and sweetness. They’re harvested at their optimum ripeness, which means there’s no better place to order a glass of  zumo de naranja  (freshly squeezed orange juice) than the cafés of Valencia. If you want to stock up on vitamin C, visiting Valencia and devouring locally-produced oranges is a must.

Go to Valencia for the Jaw-dropping Attractions

Valencia is worth visiting for its diverse landmarks . Medieval structures, eclectic museums, vibrant marketplaces, and lush parks all await you in the gorgeous Spanish city. Let’s explore them below.

• City of Arts and Sciences . The slick, surprising curves of the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias have earned the landmark a spot among the so-called 12 Treasures of Spain. It’s also among the things Valencia is most famous for . The mind-boggling complex consists of several attractions, such as:
• Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe  – an interactive science museum.
• L’Oceanogràfic  – the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe.
• L’Hemisfèric  – an IMAX cinema, laserium, and planetarium.
• Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia  – an opera house and a performing arts center.
• L’Umbracle  – a sculpture garden and a trail featuring indigenous plants.
• L’Àgora  – a covered plaza, which hosts music concerts and sporting events.
• Valencia’s Old Town . Ciutat Vella (the Old Town) offers a walk through history . It consists of five neighborhoods and is perfect for soaking up the city’s lively vibe. The most notable spots in Valencia’s historic center include the bustling Plaza de la Reina , the Gothic Valencia Cathedral , the Modernist Central Market , and the medieval Torres de Quart . You should also explore the intricate collections at the National Ceramics Museum and the fascinating history of the Silk Exchange .
• Turia Gardens . If you decide to take a break from sightseeing, head to the gorgeous Túria Park . The extraordinary recreational area spans the city. In the 1960s, the authorities diverted the Turia River as it was often flooding Valencia. They then turned the dried riverbed into one of the best green spaces in Europe. The park invites for a picnic, exercising, strolling, or relaxing in the shade. Several historic bridges, charming ponds, and quirky sculptures make it even more exciting to visit.
• Valencia Cathedral . The 13 th -century Valencia Cathedral embodies Gothic-style architectural elements. The temple dominates the skyline of the Old Town. The stunning church is dedicated to Saint Mary and contains several priceless 15 th -century paintings. Hidden in one of the chapels, it holds a chalice that locals insist is the Holy Grail itself.

• Estacio del Nord . When  traveling from Barcelona to Valencia , your train will arrive at Estacio del Nord . Valencia’s central railway station is not only a major transportation hub but also a magnificent example of the Valencian Art Nouveau style. The building was inaugurated in 1852. The lavishly decorated façade will capture your eyes, but the interior is equally stunning. It features mind-blowing decorations including intricate tiles, mosaics, and stained-glass windows.
• Central Market . Another magnificent Valencian Art Nouveau structure is Mercado Central. The marketplace from the beginning of the 20 th century pays respect to its older neighbors by incorporating architectural elements from their styles. You can see Gothic and Baroque influences in the domes at the crossings of the wrought-iron roof. The stunning covered market is also one of the largest in Europe. Stroll between the countless colorful stalls, where you’ll find fresh fish, fruits, and veggies.
• Silk Exchange . La Lonja de la Seda integrates the late Valencian Gothic style. In the 17 th and 18 th centuries, silk and textile trading was a viral part of the Valencian economy. The Silk Exchange is where most of the business occurred. The complex consists of three structures. The most important one is The Contract Hall. As the name suggests, merchants worked out the details of their deals inside. Two large twisted columns hold the roof over the intricate space. Don’t skip the other structures and learn their peculiar history as well.
• Jardí Botànic . The Botanical Garden is one of the green lungs of the city. It’s part of the University of Valencia. The historic garden opened its doors in 1802 and remains a center for study, education, and public use. Inside, you’ll discover several ecosystems. Endemic and endangered Mediterranean species coexist with rare exotic succulents and gigantic palm trees from around the world.
• Playa de Malvarrosa . You can’t go to Valencia and not visit its beaches. Malvarrosa Beach is not only the city’s most famous stretch of sand. It’s also its longest. Here, you can entertain yourself with beach volleyball, outdoor fitness equipment, and kids’ playgrounds. Don’t miss sampling local delicacies and cool refreshments at Playa del Malvarrosa’s funky restaurants.
• Las Arenas Beach . Another very popular sand stretch in the Spanish city is Playa del Cabanyal , also known as Playa de las Arenas . Unfortunately, it’s also the busiest, especially in summer. If you don’t mind the crowds, finding it is easy. Las Arenas is the first beach north of the massive Port of Valencia.
• Playa de la Patacona . Also known as Alboraya , you’ll find this fantastic sandy beach next to Playa de Malvarrosa. The azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the unique vibe of the beach, and its clean bright sand make this a wonderful spot to relax. When you grow tired of sunbathing and swimming, take a stroll under the canopy of tall palm trees that dot Playa de la Patacona ’s boardwalk.

Go to Valencia for the Astonishing Museums

Spain’s third-largest city boasts a ton of stunning exhibitions. In the following section, you’ll discover the museums and galleries Valencia is worth visiting for. Let’s dive into the world of science and art!

• Science Museum . Part of the mind-boggling City of Arts and Sciences complex, Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe is worth checking out even if science is not your thing. It’s housed in a building shaped like a whale skeleton. Inside the interactive museum, you can admire anything from explosions to groundbreaking technologies. Check out Foucault’s Pendulum to see the proof of Earth’s motion in action. Visit the museum’s website to catch some of the fun events it organizes.
• Museu de Belles Arts de València . With its nearly 2,000 pieces, The Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia is a true hidden gem for culture vultures. The art on display dates from medieval times to the modern age, and includes works mainly from Valencian and Spanish artists. Don’t miss the highlights of the exposition: the self-portrait of Diego Velázquez, the “Altarpiece of Arts” by Gonzalo Pérez, Goya’s “Playing Children”, and El Greco’s “St. John the Baptist”.
• Museo Nacional de Cerámica y Artes Suntuarias González Martí . The exhibition contains ceramics, pottery, and decorative arts covering periods from ancient Roman to contemporary times. Glassware, metalwork, textiles, costumes, and furniture have also made it into the collection of the National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts . One of the highlights is the world’s largest Valencian ceramics exhibit. The items date back to the 16 th century. The palace, which houses the museum, reflects 18 th -century Valencian Baroque architecture and is worth exploring for its design.
• Museo del Arroz . As we’ve established in the foods and drinks section, rice plays a huge role in Spanish cuisine. So, when you visit Valencia, don’t skip this unusual museum near the port. At Museo Del Arroz , you’ll explore the history of farming and the mechanics of processing the staple food. You’ll also discover more about rice cultivation and the central role it plays in the cuisine of Valencia.

• Museo Taurino . Despite its controversy, bullfighting is a huge topic in Spain. If you want to explore the history of this dangerous yet traditional activity, head to Museo Taurino . Its exhibition shows you tools from the 18 th , 19 th , and 20 th centuries, and showcases the history and features of this Spanish practice. The museum is adjacent to Plaza del Toro, a bullfighting arena that’s still functioning today.
• L’Iber . Valencia boasts many unconventional museums, but L’Iber Museo de Los Soldaditos de Plomo  might be the most unusual of them.  L’Iber hosts the world’s biggest collection of historical miniatures. Inside its exhibition rooms, you can see nearly 100,000 pieces. The miniatures tell the history of Valencia and Spain, from the prehistoric and ancient eras until today. Note that the museum is open only on weekends.
• L’Almoina . Almoina Archaeological Museum brings together a huge collection of archaeological pieces from the history of Valencia and the region. You’ll discover artifacts from the city’s foundation by the Romans in the 2 nd century BC till the Middle Ages. L’Almoina is next to the Valencia Cathedral and covers 27,000 sq. ft. (2,500 sq. m). Ruins from several periods of the city’s development will transport you back in time.
• L’Oceanogràfic . The gigantic Oceanographic is another place in the City of Arts and Sciences complex that you should pay a visit to while in Valencia. It’s the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe, housing 45,000 animals from 500 species. The attraction features several sections, each representing a different marine ecosystem. You can see Mediterranean, tropical, temperate, and polar creatures in the oceanarium’s waters. Don’t miss observing the dolphin show, the beluga family, and the penguins. Check out the submarine restaurant, too.

Travel to Valencia for the Peculiar Festivals

Following Spain’s tradition in organizing bizarre fests, the birthplace of paella adds a specific layer to the country’s quirkiness. In this section, you’ll discover the festivals worth seeing in Valencia.

• Las Fallas . Taking part in this wild festival is among the craziest reasons to visit Valencia. Las Fallas celebrates the beginning of spring and the fest reaches its peak on March 15 and 16. That’s when the “falleros” have just one night to build the gigantic Ninot Fallas. The fallas are massive figures from wood and paper-mâché that reach up to 49 ft. (15 m). They parade on the streets of Valencia in front of spectators and judges. The jury then chooses the best figure, and the rest gets burned.
• Carnaval . If you travel to the Spanish city in February, don’t skip the chance to take part in the carnival festivities. Even though the local carnaval is not as extravagant as the ones in Cádiz and Tenerife, it’s still one of the reasons people visit Valencia. The celebrations include funky street parades, extravagant costumes, and lively music.
• Fiesta de San Vicente Ferrer . Visiting Valencia in April? You can join the festival in honor of San Vicente Ferrer. Locals have been celebrating the patron saint of the community of Valencia since the Middle Ages. The most important day of the Fiesta de San Vicente Ferrer is April 5, when a grand procession overtakes the streets of Valencia. The participants dress in traditional Valencian costumes and carry candles, making the sight a visual feast.
• Feria de Valencia . This fall festival reveals the distinctive culture and vibe of Valencia. An array of events featuring performing arts, film, opera, theater, and concerts entertain the crowds. The culmination of Feria de Valencia is the spectacular firework display that lights up the night sky.
• La Tomatina . Just 24 mi (39 km) west of Valencia, the small town of Buñol hosts the largest tomato fight in the world. During La Tomatina , Participants throw more than 125 tons of ripe tomatoes at each other for two hours straight. The crazy tradition began in 1945, and has gained huge popularity throughout the world. Personally, we don’t approve of the insane waste of fruit, but if you’ve ever wanted to smash tomatoes in other people’s faces, travel to Buñol in August.

Now You Know Why You Should Visit Valencia, Spain

There you have it – the best 33 reasons to visit Valencia .

The birthplace of paella will steal your heart with its gorgeous beaches, extravagant attractions, fun festivals, and peculiar museums.

To best prepare for your trip, don’t miss our top Valencia travel tips .

Now, we’re wondering:

Do you think Valencia is worth seeing?

Share your view in the comments below.

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This post has 2 comments.

Gosh! Valencia looks lusciously lovely. I want to go there. Now! Arthur, book the flights!

Hey Connie,

Valencia is absolutely gorgeous! You and Arthur will definitely have a blast 🙂

Let us know if you need help planning your trip 😉

Cheers, Naddya and Svet

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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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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Home > Spain > Is Valencia Worth Visiting?

Is Valencia, Spain Worth Visiting?

Valencia Is Not for Everyone

Valencia may be Spain's third-largest city, but most tourists barely give it a second chance. Rick Steves, whose European travel guides are read by millions, doesn't even mention it in his 1,000-plus page guidebook on Spain .

Is Valencia worth visiting—a secret stud of a city that's being unfairly overlooked? Or is it a dud of a destination?

Here's what we've learned from living there for three months and how to decide for yourself.

Do you want to visit quintessential Spain?

If so, don't visit Valencia .

Valencia is more practical, modern, and livable than it is dreamy, stylish, and historical.

Sure, Valencia has a bullfighting ring in the center of the city, some beautiful old buildings and squares, and lots of tapas bars, but its streets don't have the same level of charm and character as other Spanish cities.

If you want to add some quintessential, non-touristy destinations to your trip, see our post on How We Stumbled Off the Beaten Path in Spain for inspiration.

Are you looking for a beach holiday?

As underrated as Valencia may be as an overall tourist destination, its beaches are overrated.

The beaches are just ok. They're expansive, blue flag status, and the water's warm. But they're not beautiful and, most importantly, they're not conveniently-located.

Getting to Valencia's beaches from the city center takes a good 15 minutes by car or 40-plus minutes by bike or tram. The beachside restaurants aren't worth their inflated prices and the neighborhoods behind the beach, notably Cabanyal, are worth a wander for maybe an hour but not much more.

Are you looking to escape from tourists?

Keep looking because tourist swarms have found Valencia.

Valencianos aren't telling foreigners to, "Go home!" like Barcelonans are, and tourists don't outnumber locals like in central Seville or San Sebastian, but the city center is already chock-a-block with inauthentic paella restaurants, bike rental outfits, and souvenir shops. It's not an off-the-beaten path Spanish destination anymore.

That said, it's not hard to get away from tourists, as we explain in our Off the Beaten Path Valencia City Guide .

Do you like eating cheap meals?

Valencia's worth visiting for its menu del dias.

These bang-for-your-buck lunch deals are available from 1:30 to 4 p.m. and usually include your choice of drink (wine, beer, water, or soda), bread, a hearty starter (sometimes more than one), an entree, and dessert or coffee (sometimes both). And you get it all for 10 to 15 euros.

You'll find menu del dias all over Spain, but pay more for them. And in some cities, like Seville, very few restaurants offer them anymore.

We list our favorite menu del dias on our Where to Eat in Valencia guide, but here are a few to whet your appetite:

• 64 Restaurant : Our easy #1 pick. For €10.90 you get three starters to share between two people, a main course, a drink, coffee, bread, and dessert. The experimental menu changes weekly.
• El Trovador : The working-class favorite. Watch out for the waiters as they fly around dealing with the hungry hordes who come in every day for their filling €10 menu del dia.
• Forastera : For something a bit fancier, but still casual. La Forastera's €15 menu (drinks not included) serves creative market-to-table dishes that changes daily.

Are you looking for a base to explore Spain from?

If so, don't pick Valencia .

The day trip options from Valencia underwhelm compared to day trips from other cities in Spain you could base yourself in. The towns aren't as historically interesting as elsewhere in Spain, the beaches are over-developed, and natural areas are few and far between.

But that's not to say there's nothing. We found some beautiful places outside Valencia and shared the details in our blog post on our 7 Favorite Day Trips from Valencia .

Do you love rice?

If so, Valencia's worth visiting .

Word is Valencia's locally-grown rice, which comes from the Albufera rice fields 20km south of the city, is exceptionally tasty because of the unique minerality in the water here. Whatever it is that makes the tap water gross to drink also makes rice that's grown and cooked in it delicious to eat.

Paella is the obvious go-to rice dish in Valencia because it was invented here. But if you're nuts about rice you'll want to try other dishes like arroz caldoso , meloso, al horno , and a banda too.

Speaking of nuts…

Do you love almond milk?

I doubt anybody loves almond milk so much that they'd plan a trip around it. But if someone's out there, Valencia's worth visiting to try its almond-milk-like horchata.

Valencian horchata has nothing to do with the typical sweet, cinnamon rice drink from Mexico.

Here, horchata is made from ground tiger nuts, "chufa" in Spanish. (FYI: They aren't actually nuts but tubers.)

Most horchata sold in Valencia is very sugary, but if you go to an actual horchateria— Vida is our favorite —you have the option to try natural, sugar-free stuff that's truly healthy and tastes like an exotic version of almond milk .

Are you a street art aficionado?

If Banksy is your hero and Exit Through the Gift Shop is your favorite movie ever, visiting Valencia is worth it .

Banksy may not have visited Valencia, but he's left his mark on the city's walls all the same. His influence on local artists like Escif, David de Limon, and Julieta XLF is evident in their colorful, creative, and sometimes provocative art that spices up the city's streets, especially around the central El Carmen district.

Valencia street art tours run daily between April and September.

Do you know someone who lives in Valencia?

Then visit Valencia !

This one may seem obvious, but we have to mention it out of frustration at all our friends who made plans to visit nearby Spain or Portugal but didn't feel visiting Valencia was worth including in their itineraries even though we invited them.

Mistake! We could have shown them a way better time than they had getting lost amongst the hordes in Barcelona or Lisbon.

Your friends can do the same for you, too. So don't even think twice about visiting Valencia if you have a host.

Are you visiting Spain in mid-March?

Valencia's worth visiting for Las Fallas.

From the March 15-19, the city explodes into parties, parades, surreal paper mache statues, fireworks, and flames for this UNESCO cultural heritage festival.

Ask anyone who's experienced Las Fallas and they'll give the same response: they'll shake their heads, chuckle, and say, "it's crazy."

Here's the most comprehensive guide on Las Fallas we've seen.

Do you enjoy working out outside or running while traveling?

If so, then Turia Park makes Valencia a must-visit .

The park occupies the 9-kilometer-long, 175-meter-wide strip where the Turia River flowed until 1957, when it was diverted to protect the city from future flooding.

It's an unbroken, 100% car-free park with running and biking paths, outdoor workout areas, open grass, fountains, sports facilities, and playgrounds. It may just be the best urban park we've ever been to.

And why not try an outdoor workout while you're there? Maybe even these partner exercises we filmed at Turia Park.

Are you concerned about safety?

Don't worry because Valencia is super safe.

The petty crime virus that plagues Barcelona has yet to spread south to Valencia. There's got to be some crime in the city but neither we nor anyone we've asked about it has heard about it.

Are you traveling with younger kids?

Visit Valencia .

Valencia's full of kid-friendly things to do and see:

• The crazy architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences will stimulate their imagination.
• Gulliver Park will blow their minds.
• The Valencia Bioparc Zoo is a surefire hit.
• Turia Park is full of kid-friendly parks and bike paths.
• There seems to be a different parade every week .
• The beach is near enough for a fun and easy half-day trip.

Do you like exploring cities by bike?

Valencia's worth visiting because it's very bike-friendly:

• It's as flat as a paella pan. The only "hills" in Valencia are the ramps down to the Turia Park.
• Turia Park is a dream for biking because it is car-free and cuts through the whole city.
• A web of dedicated bike lanes blankets the city's streets.
• Traffic is relaxed and drivers respect cyclists.
• Not as many people steal bikes as in Barcelona, for example.

Tip: Rent a bike for the day ( Rent Bike Virgen 's our go-to) rather than deal with the frustratingly inefficient bikes of the Valenbisi bike-share program.

Do you like being close to nature?

If so, then don't visit Valencia .

Whichever direction you head out of central Valencia you'll have to get past kilometer-after-kilometer of six-to-eight story apartment buildings before seeing open sky. And even then you'll either be amidst tightly-packed farms or at the well-developed beach.

The closest pure nature to Valencia are the short trails and small protected beaches of Albufera Natural Park , which aren't particularly interesting or beautiful.

But if you venture a bit further, you can find some spectacular natural sights. Check out these posts for some recommendations:

The Best Hikes Around Valencia, According to A Local Guide

Valencia Day Trips: Ranking Our 7 Favorite Getaways

Final Verdict

Here's our final answer to the "Is Valencia worth visiting?" question:

If you visit Valencia, you won't regret it.

In every other blog post and forum questioning, "Is Valencia worth visiting?" the consensus is a clear, "YES!"

So evidently just about everyone who visits Valencia enjoys it. And if you go, you probably will too.

If you don't visit Valencia, you won't regret it either.

Few (if any) of those who've visited Valencia will pick it as their favorite in all of Spain. And those who skipped it don't regret it. The country's got A LOT to see.

So if you give Valencia a pass, you won't regret it either.

So that means…

Good news: Whether or not you decide to visit Valencia, you can't go wrong!

Related Guides

Where to Eat in Valencia: Our Favorite Restaurants, Bars, and Cafés

How We Stumbled Off the Beaten Path in Spain

Valencia Off the Beaten Path City Guide

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

29 thoughts on “Is Valencia, Spain Worth Visiting?”

Seems like an odd way to position a travel article…. I’ve traveled all over Europe and valencia is easily one of the coolest cities. And anyone I know whose visited feels the same. You can come up with reasons to not visit any city…uh.. don’t go to San Francisco if you don’t like hills.. don’t go to NY if you don’t like skyscrapers…but seems like an odd angle to take. Oh well. Good luck.

Right. Every city has its pros and cons. My experience is most blogs and guides only list the pros, which they also tend to exaggerate. And most people can't go everywhere, so we've listed our perceived pros and cons to help people with limited time decide whether or not Valencia's a fit for them and their itinerary.

The article is excellent. There's nothing odd at all about it, and it is way more helpful than "I’ve traveled all over Europe and valencia is easily one of the coolest cities".

I was thinking about spending half the year there and this has totally put me off. Apart from the occasional cheap meal, it seems to come with no recommendations!

Hey Jaci. If you can, check it out for yourself to give it a fair shot. We were thinking of living there longer, but changed our mind after 3 months. But some people love we met love it. A lot depends on who you meet.

Maybe this is too late: Valencia maybe not a good place to visit, I agree, it is not over-amazing. But, Valencia is a wonderful place to LIVE. If you're considering spend half a year living in Spain, you probably will live more confortably in Valencia than in Barcelona, Madrid or Seville. It has been ranked in first position among all the cities of the world in expat rankings (The expat insider survey 2020). Note also that the author of this article decided to LIVE in Valencia.

Totally agree! I live about an hour away from Valencia & love it; a day trip is good but overnight is better.

> Do you like being close to nature? If so, then don’t visit Valencia. > Whichever direction you head out of central Valencia you’ll have to get past kilometer-after-kilometer of six-to-eight story apartment buildings before seeing open sky. And even then you’ll either be amidst tightly-packed farms or at the well-developed beach.

Excuse me? 🙂 Valencia has a beautiful Turia park (almost 8 miles), it has a beatiful zoo, and the sky is always seen, have you ever been there? And Valencia is so close to nature like no other major Spanish city, come on…

Hi Nadia, yeah, we love the Turia, too. Mentioned it 7 times in the post. I'm referring not to urban, manicured parks, but more "pure" nature. Level-2 worthy nature from The Nature Pyramid .

I like your approach. It's very hard to find a critical evaluation of places. As you said, every blog or guidebook merely deals with the attractions of a place – the cathedral, the museum, the gallery, blah, blah. You haven't said Valencia is crap – just not a major priority as a destination. I might still go for a change of scene as it's not too far.

OMG I stumbled across this article as I was googling "is Valencia Boring?".

Me and my husband are scouting European cities for our upcoming retirements – and Valencia was high up in our list. I am writing this review while I am sitting at the kitchen table of our downtown airbnb eating manchego and boquerones in olive oil (what a treat!)

We already spent a week here while working remotely and our vacation starts next week. A full week. And I feel we have already seen most of what was worth visiting. Hence my google search….which led me to this article which totally resonated with my experience

The beach – which was described as STUNNING – in many travel guides is just meh and the city feels a tad sedated with a level of energy and excitement certainly below what I would expect from a large Spanish city. It has the feel more of a large town rather than a true metropolitan area. Also day trips seem limited.

This said – the city seems to be very well managed. It is super clean, people are very friendly and go out of their way to help. The Turia gardens are possibly the most beautiful metropolitan park known on earth (certainly better than central park in NYC), downtown is refurbished charming and historical and The ciudad de las artes y de las ciencias architecture is simply mind blowing. I won't even talk about the food with ingredients of incredible quality

All in all we are happy we are visiting. But honestly if we had not we would have been fine. The beach for us was a big let down as we were planning to spend a good chunk of our time roasting on the sand.

Your perspective is much appreciated! Thanks, David. I'd love to hear which city ends up the winner at the end of your scouting tour.

Ridiculous. I lived there. It's a lovely and historical place to visit. A very superficial assessment.

Ha, I'd say your comment is a "very superficial assessment," too! It would help me and other readers if you could you specify what part of what I wrote is ridiculous.

BTW I really like Malaga and think it has loads to offer. How does Valencia compare with Malaga?

I haven't been to Malaga recently enough to say. But now you make me want to go!

I went to Valencia once and i reallly enjoyed the city specially, it was summer time as i remember,food was really good in valencia and they have Tapas really nice and delicous also there is an ageny who rent bikes passed a day with my friends in the city centre it was really nice day and they have cheap prices.

My wife and I just came back from Valencia and had a wonderful time. Our two great friends are moving there and knew the city well , so as you wrote we had a great insider look at the city.

With regards to crime, my wife got her purse stolen off of her chair at one of the beach restaurants in the middle of the day. We chased after the couple and they had already passed the bag to someone else … the waiter said that it happens often at the beach restaurants …

We have been fortunate to have traveled all over the world from Hungary to China, Israel, India and all over Europe, and I found your review on València to be 100% spot on. Nicely done.

I am very fortunate to live very near the city of Valencia and can understand your assessment but like to add for the ones that think reading such a report is the be all guidance and assure you that truly any city in any part of the world is worthy of a visit as its solely down to ones own experience and expectations perceived or not. We are all excited for new experiences and sometimes these are not as high as ones expectations of the journey of getting there.

2023 Update: Valencia has changed (post covid) its no longer a small city with local ideas its outlook has expanded I think not for the good, but I am not the one for chain restaurants or cheap fast food type place's looking to gain the loss of the past years!! . Local independent shops are gone, some due to the way the world has changed, now your’ll find a ‘too many food outlets’ pulling in now many a tourist with the post covid adventure bug – it’s there we feel it. The roads with the bike lanes are/were encouraging for all to pleasantly move round the city but now the ‘scooter’ kids use them without the road sense and courteous obligations that other road user had that seems to go with this new generation of transport. The historical sites are still there the transport system still operates exceptionally, peak times of the day still exists and could quite easily be avoided by finding one of the many quite ‘resting’ places to reflect the day. Come to Valencia with a open mind, its great to read such assessments but this and what you just read is mine or someone else experience, not yours to have…

Thanks, Phil, for the perspective and updates. Sorry to hear scooters are taking over and independent business are struggling. I agree that every city is worth visiting and that we should always visit with an open mind and open expectations. If only we all had the time to visit every city! That's why I wrote this, to help people plan the cities to visit on their trips.

I've got to say, I actually enjoy everything that Valencia has to offer, especially when you consider how packed places like Barcelona and Madrid can get. It feels spacious and more laid-back. But yeah, if it's a full-on beach holiday you're after (or nature for that matter), Spain has better options to offer. All in all, Valencia easily ranks as one of my favorite cities in Spain. Definitely worth visiting!

Thanks for chiming in, Timon! I suppose "is Barcolona/Madrid worth visiting" posts would be worth writing, too. Gotta spend more time there, first. Unless you want to write something for me!

I have 8 hours to spend with my family: Valencia or Tarragona or Salou Anyone can advice where to go?

Harm Done, so I will not waste time in a long review trying to counter review since the effect would be just inexistent., so this is just for you Chris. Valencia is a historic, friendly, sunny and welcoming city that didn´t intend to like you and it definitely does not deserve your superficial, crappy, overpaid and coming-from-the-racist-north tourists like you. Keep yourself at your cloudy dark place and enjoy TV 🙂 and try not to keep drinking that much!

Ouch! I thought you said you're my "Spanish friend from Valencia"? Not very friendly! Well, aside from the suggestion to not drink too much. Not an issue for me, but I appreciate the concern.

Is Rick Steves retarded? I will stop considering anything from him from now on. That's the only possible thing to do.

This felt a bit harsh, it is changing for the better quickly as well. The beaches and boardwalks are so open, large and I think not inaccessible at all. The subway and then tram go right past the sand. The bike paths and electric scooters make it about 15 minutes from Colon and town center to the sand for us. Valencia is perfect because it doesn't try to hard, has open spaces and beaches without fanfair, just well kept.

Fair enough! Most blogs tend to exaggerate the positives and round down the travel times between places. I tried to share my experience as accurately as possible, but everyone's experience differs, so I could very well be an outlier.

I just stumbled onto this while a friend is texting me from Valencia as the guest of a soon to be expat. Just as you suggested one should visit . She waxes poetic. Me, I have over a million airline miles. Grain of salt.

I loved your straight forward opinions, understood the this but not that and the not quites you presented.

What I extrapolated from your post is Valencia would be too white, wholesome, and civilized, with a soupçon of saffron for me. Exactly what so many others are looking for. The qualities one looks for in places to live versus going on holiday are so vastly different, as are the things one looks for at the various different stages of life. Travel blogs are like a box of chocolates …

What do you think? (Leave a Comment.) Cancel reply

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Travel guide to Valencia: Where to stay and what to do in Spain’s laid-back coastal city

Visitors to this city in eastern spain will be charmed within minutes by an endearing blend of picture-perfect coastline, a juxtaposition of historic and futuristic architecture, and food that calls for feasting. chris wilson reveals how best to spend time in this understated hub of coastal cool, article bookmarked.

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S itting on a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coast and bisected by a winding six-mile park that follows the old river, Valencia is a city that has seamlessly combined historic features and architectural elegance with the natural features it was blessed with.

Long overlooked in favour of the sprawling capital Madrid or perennially popular Barcelona , Valencia is beginning to show up more on the tourism radar. The city is happy for others to remain the dominant destinations, avoiding the overtourism that has plagued its Iberian neighbours and retaining its delightful balance of nature and city life.

A mix of palm-lined boulevards and tight-knit alleyways dominate its lively Old Town and the surrounding laid-back barrios . Gothic and modernist buildings add to an already abundant sense of Spanish charm, with the City of Arts and Sciences providing a dash of futuristic creativity.

Add in a refreshing lack of crowds, year-round sun and a gastronomic scene that belies its modest size, and Valencia has the ideal recipe for a weekend break (or longer). Discover the best of the city, but be sure to take some time exploring aimlessly, as you never know what you might find here.

Get to know the neighbourhoods

The Old Town, known as Ciutat Vella, is the heart of the city, linked by three squares. Start at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the largest square in the city and home to the striking 18th-century City Hall, a vast post office featuring an intricate stained-glass ceiling and a daily flower market that has been operating from here since the 20th century.

From here, head north, firstly to Plaza de la Reina – the most scenic square in the city and a great place for a lunch, whether you fancy Italian, tapas or just sandwiches and crepes – and then to Plaza de la Virgen, which looks onto the cathedral and links the Old Town with the Carmen neighbourhood.

Carmen and hipster, international Ruzafa leave behind large plazas and well-known brands in favour of independent shops and hole-in-the-wall bars, hidden among a network of narrow alleys and cobbled streets. These are two of the main nightlife areas, though in the day they serve locals gathering for a quick coffee, a family lunch or a simple perusal of new stock.

Read more on Spain travel :

• Why Spain makes for the perfect flight-free destination
• How to plan the perfect pintxos crawl in Bilbao
• Barcelona city guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in the Catalan capital

Explore by bike

Cycling is the most efficient way to see Valencia, helped by a proliferation of bike rental shops such as Hola! Rent a Bike and Ruzafa Bike Rent (prices from €7 (£6) per day).

Head to Turia Gardens, a park that runs along the bed of the old Turia River, which was diverted after a serious flood in the 1950s. It is now a winding route lined with palm trees, ponds and plant beds, with paths that lead down to the City of Arts and Sciences , the modern-day symbol of the city.

Head to the beach

Valencia’s golden sands and wide promenades are ideal for days spent by the sea, where visitors can rent seats and umbrellas for around €15 (£13) per day. Las Arenas and Malvarrosa are closest to the city centre and contain the majority of beach bars and restaurants, and the wide promenade directly links with Patacona, the quietest and least spoiled stretch, where locals enjoy colourful sunsets at a series of laid-back beach bars.

Wander galleries and landmarks

Valencia is home to an eclectic mix of landmarks. The Gothic cathedral guards the Holy Grail that purportedly Jesus sipped from during the Last Supper, while the Museum of Fine Arts, the second largest gallery in Spain, houses works from some of the country’s most famous artists, including Goya, Velasquez and Valencia’s own Joaquin Sorolla.

The 15th-century Silk Exchange, a large Gothic complex, is one of the most important historic monuments in the city. Made a Unesco World Heritage site in 1996, it is designated a “masterpiece of late Gothic architecture”, seen in its spiralling pillars, cross-vaulted ceilings and marble paving, and harks back to Valencia’s medieval importance as a major mercantile city on the Mediterranean.

Experience Las Fallas

The Fallas festival is the biggest event in the calendar, taking place annually in March. It celebrates Saint Joseph and old carpenters’ traditions between 1 and 19 March, where the daily  mascleta  show of gunpowder and fireworks takes place at 2pm. On 19 March, the Fallas figures – intricate, often satirical plaster monuments that can reach up to 80ft tall – are burned, having been on show across the city in the days leading up to the event. Visit during this time to see the city at its energetic best. 

Where to stay

For easy access to the main station and a short walk to the city centre, Hotel Zenit is a good option, with comfortable, contemporary rooms and a great buffet breakfast.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

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Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing.

The Melia Plaza is located close to most of Valencia’s main attractions, with a rooftop terrace that gives great views over the plaza. Rooms are stylish and modern, making for a pleasant stay.

The Vincci Palace hotel sits just off Plaza de la Reina. This Spanish chain specialises in elegant hotels and this outpost is no different, with opulent decor throughout and spacious, on-trend rooms. For price-quality ratio, this is one of the best places to stay in the city.

The Las Arenas Balneario is up there with Valencia’s most luxurious hotels. Sitting just a few metres from the beach, this glitzy hotel contains indoor and outdoor swimming pools, top-of-the-range spa facilities and large, elegant rooms with terraces.

Casual Vintage has rooms that are spacious considering the price, with decor inspired by pop culture of years gone by. Air-conditioning and a welcoming policy towards pets are a bonus, as is the superb Old Town location.

Where to eat

For breakfast and brunch, choose the delicious cakes and pastries of Dulce de Leche or a dish from Eggcellent , an independent cafe where the quality of the eggs benedict is second to none. Cafes such as Federal offer brunches featuring smashed avocado on toast.

For homemade tapas dishes and Spanish specialties, try Portolito , which serves exquisite tapas and more substantial dishes.

Central Bar is a local favourite, run by a Michelin-starred chef and shrewdly positioned in the middle of the Central Market, with a pared-back menu of around a dozen classic dishes, from blood sausage sandwiches to chicken croquettes.

Locals and tourists alike love the exceptional meats, mixed platters and homemade accompaniments at El Porteno . Alternatively, sample the deep flavours of the pinxtos at Sagardi , or the excellent mix of Spanish and international tapas dishes, from padron peppers to duck samosas, at the eccentric Cafe Infanta . If you’re looking for a wider selection, the stalls at Mercado de la Imprenta sell anything from bao buns to Lebanese cuisine.

Dozens of restaurants and cafes line the mile or so stretch of sand between Las Arenas and Patacona, including the famed La Pepica , where authentic paella – which contains chicken, rabbit and vegetables, not fish – is the highlight, and beach bars such as Destino 56 , which offer a wider range of international dishes washed down with delicious cocktails.

Where to drink

The standard of coffee in Valencia is excellent, from the quick takeaways of  Panaria  to the various independent cafes.  Horchata , a local tiger nut milk delicacy, can be sampled at the long-standing  Horchateria de Santa Catalina , in the centre of the city, for an authentic Valencian experience.

Several of the city’s best watering holes are a fusion of morning cafe and late-night bar, best showcased in the quirky, old-fashioned  Cafe de las Horas , where sangria is served until the early hours of the morning in a glamorous 19th-century setting.

Valencia has a slew of great rooftop bars too, from the panoramic vistas over the Turia Gardens at Blanq Carmen to the summer parties on the terrace at L’Umbracle, another part of the City of Arts.

The two tapas chains of Cien Montaditos and La Surena provide amazing drink and food deals, such as “everything on the menu for €1” on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Where to shop

The city’s main thoroughfare is the Calle Colon, which is home to international brands and Spanish favourite El Corte Ingles , a large department store. Nearby Calle del Poeta Carol is the place to find high-end brands.

The winding streets of Carmen and Ruzafa are the destination for vintage shops, small boutiques and Spanish favourites such as Natura , a chain that sells a range of clothing, home decor and everyday items. In Carmen, Calle Caballeros is home to clothing stores such as Solea and Luna Nera, while Ruzafa – where you’ll find a vast range of second-hand stores – is the place to go to find quirky souvenirs, whether it’s Sixties posters at Novedades Casino or handmade jewellery at Gnomo .

To live like a local, buy fresh produce at the Central Market . Billed as the largest fresh produce market in Europe, its modernist structure and patterned ceramic tiles have become a symbol of the city. A staple in the life of many valencianos , its stalls welcome hundreds every morning, hunting anything from the catch of the day to deli meats.

Architectural highlight

The avant-garde structure of the City of Arts and Sciences is the modern symbol of Valencia. A collection of buildings that houses Europe’s largest aquarium, the Palau de les Arts cultural centre and several other features, it was inaugurated in 1998, but its design and complexity remain years ahead of its time.

The local architect in charge of the project, Santiago Contralto, often creates works that resemble living organisms. The Hemispheric, which contains a cinema and planetarium, is designed to resemble a human eye, while the Science Museum resembles the skeleton of a whale. The complex is open daily from 10am until 9pm in high season.

What currency do I need?

What language do they speak.

Spanish, but many people speak English.

Should I tip?

Service charges are rarely included, and a tip of 10 per cent is appreciated.

How should I get around?

Getting around the centre is best on foot, though the beaches are an hour away. Many people use bikes, while the metro is well-developed and efficient for longer journeys.

What’s the best view?

The Miguelete is the bell tower of the city’s cathedral, with a terrace around 50 metres up (it costs €2 to access). For a drink with a view, the Atenea Sky bar has sweeping views over Ayuntamiento. 

Insider tip

While the siesta tradition has become less prevalent in Madrid and Barcelona, hundreds of businesses throughout Valencia will close for an hour or two in the early afternoon. Avoid doing the bulk of your shopping between 2pm and 4pm.

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Travel Guide To Valencia

Spain's third city has experienced a fresh sense of glamour and modernity in recent years thanks to millions of dollars worth of architectural investment and it being the host to several cultural events, including the America's Cup in 2007. Back in town the Palau de les Arts opera house, the final part of Calatrava's City of Arts and Sciences, is newly restored and the IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art) has been transformed by Japanese duo SANAA. Happily, flights to the city are also more reasonable than ever before.

Where to stay in Valencia

BARCELO VALENCIA

Avenida de Francia 11, off Plaza de Europa (00 34 963 306 344; www.barcelo.com ). On a roundabout with a view of local architect Santiago Calatrava's City of Arts and Sciences. The minimalist black-and-white décor has coloured glass dividers and there are 187 rooms on 10 floors (including 12 suites), all with large bathrooms. Breakfast is buffet-style and Mediterranean cuisine is served in the restaurant. The Balneria spa offers hydrotherapy and chocotherapy. £

HOTEL AD HOC

Calle Boix 4 (00 34 96 391 9140; www.adhoteles.com ). The name makes it sound like it was built on a shoestring in a couple of weeks. In fact the Ad Hoc - 28 rooms in a converted 19th-century town house, is a comfortable and well-appointed small hotel, one of surprisingly few in the old town. £

HOTEL ASTORIA PALACE

Plaza de Rodrigo Bolet 5 (00 34 96 398 1000; www.hotelastoriapalace.com ). This is Valencia's smartest traditional hotel: its décor may be too chintzy for some tastes, but it has an excellent central location, on a quiet little square with trees and a fountain.

HOTEL LAS ARENAS BALNEARIO RESORT

Eugenia Vines 22-24 (00 34 963 120 600; www.hotel-balneariolasarenas.es ). Dominating Malvarrosa beach; the Louis Vuitton America's Cup regattas are visible from the terrace. The décor is contemporary neoclassical, with a vast, L-shaped pool. There are 253 rooms on four floors: go for one of the eight spacious junior suites, which have large seafront terraces. Drink Martinis by the pool and gaze across softly lit fountains and formal gardens to the sea. ££

HOTEL NEPTUNO

Paseo de Neptuno 2 (00 34 963 567 777; www.hotelneptunovalencia.com). Overlooking Valencia's new harbour and the America's Cup pavilion by David Chipperfield Architects. The hotel is full of young, trendy Euro couples and families. There are 50 rooms and suites (all with hydro baths, Philippe Starck sinks and Etro amenities). Two suites have outdoor hot tubs. Snacks are served in the library and sophisticated seafood at Trident. The rooms are verging on small and the paintings by local artist Antonio Ripollés are an acquired taste. £

MELIA CONFORT INGLES

C/Marqués de Dos Aguas 6 (00 34 96 351 6426). Stylish, smallish three-star opposite the Ceramics Museum. Newly refurbished and furnished with reproduction antiques. £

MELIA PLAZA

Plaza del Ayuntamiento 4 (00 34 96 352 0612). A well-designed four-star hotel in a modernised early-20th-century building, centrally situated on the main square. ££

MELIA VALENCIA PALACE

Paseo Alameda 32 (00 34 96 337 5037). The only five-star in the city itself - although not right in the centre - with great views over the City of Arts and Sciences. ££

PALAU DE LA MAR

Navarro Reverter 14 (00 34 963 162 884; www.hospes.es ). A short walk from the old town, Turia gardens and the Calatrava-designed bridge and City of Arts and Sciences. The hotel is made up of two adjoining 19th-century townhouses with modern interiors: a glamorous mix of glorious period features and contemporary furnishings. There are 66 rooms (18 arranged around a teak-and-bamboo patio at the back), plus five junior suites and one presidential suite. Senzone restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine. ££

Where to eat out in Valencia

BODEGA MONTANA Calle Jose Benlliure 69 (00 34 96 367 2314; www.emilianobodega.com ). A light in the dark of the run-down former fisherman's district of El Cabanyal, this tapas bar has been selling wine by the barrel since 1836. Today it's the most authentic tapas bar in town. Don't miss the anchovies and michirones (cooked fava beans).

CA'N BERMELL Calle de Santo Tomás 18 (00 34 96 391 0228). Situated in a 17th-century building in the heart of the Barrio del Carmen, this is run by the ebullient Emili Bermell, who specialises in top-quality local produce (ask for daily recommendations).

CASA CARMINA Calle Embarcadero 4, El Saler (00 34 96 183 0254). When it comes to restaurants that serve good rice dishes, Carmina - about a 20-minute taxi ride from the centre of town - is renowned as one of the best in the business.

CA'SENTO Calle Méndez Núñez 17. A family-run restaurant in the working-class suburb of El Grau, down by the harbour, Ca'Sento has achieved great things thanks to a combination of first-class raw materials and a fierce loyalty to the local cuisine. Put yourself in Sento's hands and sit back for a sumptuous meal of Valencian specialties. Classics like fideua (like paella, but with pasta instead of rice) is unbeatable.

EL ALTO DE COLON Mercado Colón (00 34 96 353 0900; www.elaltocatering.com ). Housed upstairs in the (over-) restored Mercado de Colon, El Alto de Colon restaurant is the picture of modern elegance. Go for lunch (try the sticky rice with seafood) when light streams onto the Modernist ceramics on the vaulted ceilings.

HORCHATERIA CHOCOLATERIA SANTA CATALINA Plaza Santa Catalina 6 (00 34 963 912 379). Horchata, served in long glasses and drunk through straws, is a local speciality made from the chufas root (also known as the tiger nut). You'll either love it or hate it, but at least here you are trying the best.

JOAQUIN SCHMIDT Calle de la Visitación 7 (00 34 96 340 1710). Senor Schmidt has spent a decade building up this whimsically decorated little dining room into an outpost of the New Spanish Cooking. Dishes emerge in quickfire succession from the tiny kitchen, some a teasing mouthful, others more ambitious.

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LAFULOP Calle del Literato Azorín 7 (00 34 96 333 0370; www.lafulop.com ). Located in the slowly gentrifying district of Russafa, Lafulop is a popular lounge-bar/restaurant with a retro-futuristic interior in mulberry, olive and white. The menu includes creations such as prawns and sweetbreads in saffron and fennel; the supremely cool bar area features white Panton chairs.

LA PEPICA Avenida de Neptuno 6 (00 34 96 371 0366). Massive paella restaurant that has been open for more than a century. As well as Hemingway, scores of film stars, bull-fighters, artists and writers have eater here. Ask for a table on the terrace on the beach.

LA SUCURSAL Calle Guillem de Castro 118 (00 34 96 374 6665). Every modern art museum worth its salt should have its own cutting-edge gourmet restaurant. La Sucursal at the IVAM serves modern Mediterranean cooking and is one of the most glamorous places to eat in the city.

SAN NICOLAS Plaza Horno de San Nicolás 8, Bajo (00 34 96 391 5984). A rather smart restaurant where you choose your fish from a wide range that includes unusual local varieties, then decide from a separate part of the menu how you would like it prepared and which vegetables to have.

SEU-XEREA Calle del Conde de Almodóvar 4 (00 34 96 392 4000). Creative cuisine in an informal setting.

TABERNAS A FUEGO LENTO Calle de Caballeros 47 (00 34 96 392 1827). A pleasant contemporary wine bar serving quality tapas and good wines.

TASCA ANGEL Calle de la Purisima 1 (00 34 96 391 7835). The classic choice for a midday beer or glass of wine, this busy stand-up bar behind the Lonja (established 1946) also serves seasonal tapas such as snails, artichokes a la plancha and all i pebre , a Valencian dish of eel chunks in garlic and pepper sauce. The filleted and fried sardines are among the best in town.

The best nightlife in Valencia

After midnight, trawl Calle Caballeros, which leads west from the cathedral, for bars and cubs situated in grand 15th- and 16th- century mansions, most of which have outside tables. The Carmen Sui Generis Club, C/Caballeros 38, is a lively venue that stands on the site of one of the towers of the city wall, bits of which still exist in the basement. At Café Infanta, Plaza del Tossal 3, the remains of the wall have been incorporated into the décor. Go to Johnny Maracas, C/Caballeros 39, for a mojito at the bar or join the seething mass of salsa dancers on the floor. Café del Negrito, Plaza del Negrito 1, attracts an arty crowd and has plenty of tables both inside and out. A good place to sit back and people-watch.

Things to do in Valencia

CITY OF ARTS & SCIENCES The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (00 34 902 100 031) houses a science museum, opera house and a planetarium, as well as the largest aquarium in Europe.

VALENCIAN INSTITUTE OF MODERN ART IVAM, C/Guillem de Castro 118 and C/Museo 2 (00 34 96 386 3000; www.ivam.es/ ), has two adjacent sites which host major temporary shows, as well as a permanent exhibit by the sculptor Julio González.

MUSEO DE BELLAS ARTES C/San Pío V 9 (00 34 96 369 3088). Situated in a recently restored 17th-century building, one of the most important museums in Spain. Strong collection of 15th-century Primitives, as well as Goya portraits and a Velázquez self-portrait.

MUSEO NACIONAL DE CERAMICA C/Poeta Queról 2 (00 34 96 351 6392). Housed within the 18th-century Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, which has an elaborate marble façade. Contains exhibits from various centres of ceramic production in the Valencia region, as well as pieces from all over the world.

MUSEO FALLERO Plaza del Monteolivete 4 (00 34 963 510 387). Collection of figures from the Fallas, Valencia's most important festival, held every March, when giant papier-mâché effigies of politicians and celebrities are paraded through the streets and later burnt. Also commemorative posters by famous artists and photographs of the event.

Where to shop in Valencia

ABANICOS CARBONELL Castellón 21 (00 34 963 415395). Stocks exquisite hand-made fans.

FRANCIS MONTESINOS Calle del Conde Salvatierra de Alava 25 (00 34 963 940 612; www.francismontesinos.com ). The designs of Valencian fashion maestro Francis Montesinos are the catwalk equivalent of the mascleta (firecracker): a riot of ruffles and ruches, florals and flounces.

LAS ANADAS DE ESPAÑA C/Xátiva, 3 (00 34 963 533 845). A great delicatessen that stocks all local specialities and a good range of wines.

PURIFICACION GARCIA Calle de Cristóbal Colón, 17 (00 34 963 523 606). For understated elegance in sensual fabrics.

SONIA SERRANO Gran Vía del Marqués del Turia 45 (00 34 96 351 1371). A boutique of funky, retro-inspired footwear, plus the odd beaded choker. Most of the brands are Spanish, many from Alicante: established favourites include Otto et Moi and Paco Gil.

The best way to get around Valencia

The best way of getting around Valencia is by bus. Maps and timetables are available from the Tourist Office (00 34 96 351 0417) on Plaza del Ayuntamiento, from where many of the buses also leave. If you want to hire a car, there are various car-rental firms in Valencia, including several international companies with offices at the airport. Furgo, Avenida del Primado Reig, 48 (0034 963 692 000), is a local car-rental business which can be found in the city centre.

A Solo Woman Traveling

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Ultimate Guide for Solo Travel in Valencia Spain

If you are here for tips on solo travel in Valencia , you have come to the right place! I spent 3 weeks traveling alone in Spain, one week exclusively in Valencia!

In this post, I will share all the crucial information for solo travelers (especially, the ladies) in Valencia and surrounding areas of Southeastern Spain!

Get ready for an all-inclusive summary of my visit to one of my all-time favorite cities in Spain!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy for more info.

Feeling Hestiant to Travel Alone to Spain?

If this is your first solo trip or first time to Spain alone you could be feeling a bit anxious. I know I did when I made my way over the Atlantic by myself.

It is totally normal to feel a little uneasy about making such a big trip solo.

I want to assure you that there are so many benefits to going solo that you might not even be thinking of. My advice is to take it one day at a time and go with the flow.

Still have questions? Contact me !

What I Experienced Alone in Valencia

I really enjoyed my time solo in Valencia, Spain. Even if for just a day trip, you need to visit. Of course, I will argue you need much more than just one day here .

Valencia makes such a great solo destination as it is action-packed with so many things to do!

I spent an entire week in Valencia and I was able to see quite a bit of the city.

Alternatively, you could come for 3 nights and see a lot of the city.

For this guide, I will include all the must-see attractions and travel tips in order of importance.

Female Solo Travel in Valencia Essentials

🚗 Best rental car company in Valencia Spain is Discover Cars !

❤︎ Save money and free entrance to museums, public transport, and discounts at shops and restaurants with the Valencia Tourist Card !

🚲 See all of historic Valencia solo on this 3-hour small group Bike Tour !

🚶‍♀️Explore Valencia by joining a small group Walking Tour !

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What Is Valencia Known For?

I was thoroughly impressed when I visited Valencia. This coastal city is known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.

It’s home to the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of architectural masterpieces designed by Santiago Calatrava that includes an opera house, a science museum, and more.

The city has a variety of restaurants and bars that serve up traditional Valencian cuisine such as paella.

For art lovers, there are several museums and galleries displaying works of renowned Spanish artists like El Greco and Picasso.

Valencia is also known for its festivals such as Las Fallas or the annual celebration of fire that takes place in March.

❤︎ SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL TIP TO SAVE MONEY : Get The Valencia Tourist Card

Where is Valencia Located?

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain and is located on the east coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Nearby islands include Ibiza and my favorite for solo travel, Mallorca !

It lies on the Mediterranean Sea, about 200 kilometres (120 mi) south of Barcelona and 330 km (210 mi) north of Madrid.

Valencia’s location makes it a great destination for beach-going , as well as exploring the vibrant city and its culture.

Its proximity to other major cities, such as Alicante, Madrid, and Barcelona makes it the perfect place for a day trip or weekend getaway.

With its sunny climate, which I love, and stunning beaches, Valencia is one of Spain’s most popular destinations for female solo travellers.

📲 Downloadable Map of Valencia

📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!

My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Is Safety a Concern for Solo Travelers in Valencia?

Valencia is generally a safe destination for female solo travelers . I never felt uncomfortable or unsafe.

However, as with any city, it’s important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding walking alone at night.

I always do my research when booking my accommodations and make sure to stay in a central location in the historic centre.

In new places, it is also smart not to overdo it when drinking alcohol, especially on a solo trip. When dining in Valencia I would limit myself to two drinks max.

To stay safe in Valencia, it’s best to carry only the necessary items. I recommend leaving at least one of your credit cards at the hotel safe along with your passport. I always just have a picture of my passport in my phone if should ever need it.

Additionally, make sure to dress appropriately and avoid flaunting expensive items. In other words, leave the fancy handbags at home!

I much rather travel basic and not worry about any of my belonging being a target or something I have to worry about.

Pro Safety Tip: Don’t let your cell phone battery die when traveling. Always have an external battery charger with you! Google Maps will suck your battery dry fastest than you are expecting!

What is the Best Way to Get Around Valencia?

I primarily got around the historic old town of Valencia on foot . However, Valencia has a clean and efficient public transportation system which includes buses, trams, and metro lines.

The city also has a bike-sharing system called Valenbisi with over 300 stations throughout the city.

Public Transport Valencia

If you have an iPhone, I recommend you download the free EMT Valencia Transit App .

This app has all the information you need to use public transportation in Valencia.

You can use the app to plan out your trip and track where the bus is at any given time.

Valencia Solo Travel Tip: Download Offline Google Maps before your trip!

What are Some TIPS for Solo Travelers in Valencia?

• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts when it comes to safety.
• Dress appropriately and avoid flaunting expensive items.
• Carry only the necessary items such as your phone, a little cash, one credit card, and a photocopy of your passport .
• Use public transportation or opt to walk around the city instead of taking taxis alone .
• Research restaurants and cafes before visiting to ensure that they are in safe neighborhoods for female solo travelers .
• If possible, try to stay in a hotel or hostel in a safe area close to the city center .
• When visiting attractions, try to go with a group and avoid going alone at night .

Solo Female Travel Safety Gear

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Portable Safe

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Portable Wifi

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Travel Insurance

I don’t care how safe the city is, things happen. I always get travel insurance anytime I travel!

Travel Apps for Women

Download 13 must-have travel apps for women

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Number in Europe : Dial 112 & Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911

How Many Days Do You Need in Valencia?

Valencia is a charming and vibrant Spanish city that you can easily explore within 3-4 days .

Since it’s relatively small in size compared to other Spanish cities, such as Madrid or Barcelona, it won’t take up too much of your time.

On the other hand, if you want to really get to know Valencia fully and immerse yourself in the culture, you may need up to a week or more .

I found that there are so many amazing things to see and do in Valencia that it was difficult to narrow down my itinerary to less than a week.

The city is full of incredible architecture, museums, art galleries, markets, and festivals throughout the year.

Depending on your interests, you can also spend time lounging on the beach, exploring nearby towns, or going on a hiking trip into the mountains.

Best Time to Visit Valencia

The absolute ideal time to visit Valencia, Spain is between March and June.

Not to say it is the only time to book a solo trip, but it is the best time. I find that Valencia truly comes alive during the springtime.

It’s the perfect time to see the cherry trees bloom and enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of extreme overheating.

The temperature is mild and the days are long with plenty of sunshine. The nights may get cooler so it’s recommended to pack a light jacket or shawl for those evenings out.

Valencia is also known for festivals during this time of year including the Fallas Festival in March. The festival celebrates the arrival of spring with parades, fireworks, and beautiful art displays throughout the city.

Valencia’s Top Attractions To Do Alone

Join a Walking Tour of Old Town Valencia

Exploring the old town of Valencia solo is a must-do activity when visiting the city. This vibrant area is full of sights and sounds, making it a great place to wander around for hours.

Here you will find the stunning Cathedral de Valencia and its towering bell tower, as well as a variety of interesting shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.

After a day of exploring, you can relax in the Plaça de la Reina, where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy some tapas and drinks with friends.

Be sure to take your time in old town Valencia, as there is plenty to discover in this lively area of the city.

When I visited I decided to join a walking tour so that I could meet new people and tour the city with a local guide.

It is a good idea to book your tour at least a couple of days ahead to ensure you get a spot.

The best walking tour to join for solo females is the Valencia Old Town Tour, Wine & Tapas in an 11th-century Monument !

Visit the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia

One of the many things to do in Valencia is visit the most beautiful historical landmarks. The Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady was quite impressive.

Also referred to as Valencia Cathedral , it is located near Plaza de la Virgen. Built-in 1238 and has been an important site for worship since then.

The building itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with tall towers and an impressive bell tower at its entrance.

Shop At The Valencia Central Market

When solo in the exciting city of Valencia, a visit to the Central Market is an absolute must! This iconic market holds over 1000 of years history, and Spanish culture and has been preserved in its current form.

Located near La Seu, it features two floors of colorful stalls overflowing with fresh produce from the region. If you have a kitchen at your accommodation it’s the perfect spot to pick up some local delicacies and have a taste of Valencia.

You can find anything from seafood, vegetables, fruits, meat, and cheeses to olives, nuts, and local beverages like horchata or even wine.

This market is the perfect example of Valencian culture at its best. The atmosphere is always lively with locals bargaining for their products while visitors take in the sights and sounds.

Don’t hesitate to interact with the local stall owners, as many of them are more than happy to share their knowledge about the products they offer. Not everyone will speak English as Spanish is the language of the county, but it’s worth a try.

I also found lots of souvenirs and plenty of unique items like traditional pottery, jewelry, and handcrafted items.

Check Out the Mercado de Colón

Visiting the Mercado de Colón is a great opportunity for female solo travelers to immerse themselves in an authentic Spanish experience.

The friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and wide range of offerings make it a great place to find souvenirs and sample some local cuisine.

Make sure to check out the Mercado de Colón’s annual food festival for a taste of what Valencia has to offer.

Visit the Modern City of Arts & Sciences

No Valencia travel guide is complete without a mention of The City of Arts & City Center.

Visitors to Valencia should definitely explore the City of Arts and Sciences which features impressive architecture, a 3D planetarium, an IMAX theatre, and more.

This architectural masterpiece, located on the old Turia riverbed of the Turia River, was designed by Valencian architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. It spans an area of 350,000 m², making it one of the largest complexes of its kind in Europe.

The City of Arts and Sciences is divided into six impressive attractions, each offering a unique experience:

• Hemisfèric ( IMAX Cinema )
• Umbracle ( landscaped terrace garden with plants and sculptures from around the world )
• Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe ( the science museum with interactive exhibitions and activities )
• Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia ( performing arts center for operas, ballets, and concerts )
• L’Oceanogràfic ( Europe’s largest oceanarium )
• Agora ( a large rectangular open-air space for cultural events )

🎟️ Tickets for Oceanografic, the largest sea life center in Europe: Check Availability

Climb a Tower for A Great View

If you are looking for a great view of Valencia you can climb either the Miguelete Bell Tower or the Quart Towers.

Miguelete Bell Tower

The El Micalet “Miguelete Tower” is the bell tower of the Valencia Cathedral. To climb to the top you will need to pay 2 euros. It is worth the small fare for the sweeping views of the city of Valencia!

Hours of Operation: Summer from April to October, daily from 10:00 to 19:30. Winter from November to March, Monday to Friday 10:00 to 18:30, Saturdays from 10:00 to 19:00, and Sundays from 10:00 to 13:00 and 17:30 to 19:00.

Quart Towers

The Quart Towers of Valencia is a must-see for any female solo traveler visiting the city. The towers, built in the 12th century, were once part of the old city and are now two of the most visited tourist attractions in Valencia. From their imposing height, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the city and out to sea.

The towers also have a rich history. Originally built as part of the defensive wall of Valencia, they were used to guard the city and protect it from attack. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the towers and learn more about their past.

Visitors who climb to the top can also enjoy stunning views over the old city and out to the Mediterranean Sea. The experience is unforgettable and a great way to take in all that Valencia has to offer.

Hours of Operation: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10:00 to 19:00 and Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 14:00.

Visit Museums of Valencia

Museum of fine arts valencia.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Valencia is located in the historic center of the city. This museum houses some of Spain’s finest collections from artists like El Greco and Goya.

Spend a day checking out the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, ceramics, and other artworks representing the best of Spanish art.

The building itself is also a stunning sight, with its beautiful neo-classical facade and stunning interior details. Located in Plaza del Museo, it’s easy to get to by bus or walking.

As you approach the museum, you’ll notice its lush gardens, and once inside, explore the massive collection of artworks on display.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Valencia also hosts several special exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works from international artists that are sure to delight with their beauty and creativity.

With its impressive collections, stunning architecture, and special exhibitions, this museum is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for any female solo traveler.

Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 to 20:00, closed Mondays.

Boutique Museo Lladro

This unique museum is located directly in the heart of the city, making it an ideal spot to learn about local culture and art. Here you can explore a vast collection of hand-crafted porcelain figures from Spanish artist brothers Juan, Jose, and Vicente Lladro.

The museum offers guided tours of both the main building and its exhibition rooms, where you can see over 3,000 pieces from the brothers’ extensive catalog.

You’ll also be able to purchase your own porcelain figures from the gift shop onsite. In addition, the museum provides educational programs for visitors, such as special activities for children and family-friendly workshops.

Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 9:00 to 16:00.

Ceramic Museum

Valencia is home to many museums, but one of the most interesting for any female solo traveler is El Museo Nacional de Ceramica y de las Artes Suntuarias Gonzalez Marti .

This museum houses a collection of ceramics from various periods and locations in Spain. It features works by famous Valencian potters such as Juan de Larrea, Francisco Cabezas, and Vicente Acero.

Many of the pieces in the collection are decorated with traditional Valencian motifs and colors, making this museum a must-visit for any art enthusiast or anyone interested in learning more about Valencian culture and history.

The permanent exhibition includes pieces from all over the Mediterranean, and visitors can also take part in educational workshops to learn about the techniques used to create them.

Hours of operation: 9 am-3 pm Tuesday – Saturday and admission is free for anyone under 25 or over 65.

This makes it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly day trip during your solo travels in Valencia.

Spend Solo Time At The Beautiful Beaches

My solo trip to the incredible city of Valencia included some time enjoying the sun! If relaxing on the fine golden sands of the city beach sounds fun, I would highly recommend checking out La Malvarrosa Beach!

From the historic old town, the beach is roughly a one-hour walk! That is a bit far of a walk for most, so you can consider taking public transport.

On the bus, you can reach La Malvarrosa Beach in just 20 minutes. If you don’t feel like sunbathing, enjoy the palm tree-lined promenade and boutique-lined avenues.

✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!

Join a Bike Tour to See Valencia

If you are looking to make new friends on this tip, the best way to do it is by joining a tour ! I had a great time on this affordable bike tour that takes you around the city centre.

The tour is around 3 hours, so you don’t have to commit your whole day. Visit the most popular site’s truly fantastical collection of buildings , such as the Valencia Cathedral.

Other highlights include the Turia River and the beautiful garden, Palau de la Musica, and the gigantic playground of Gulliver. You will also make a stop at the City of Arts and Sciences.

❤︎ BIKE TOUR: Check Rates & Availability

Top Rated Spain Solo Tours To Book

• Valencia Old Town Tour with Wine & Tapas in 11th Century Historic Monument
• Tuk Tuk Valencia – Complete Tour (Center – Arts – Marina – Beach)
• Discover Valencia Bike Tour

Where to Eat Solo in Valencia

When I first started solo traveling I used to be uncomfortable eating alone. But now, eating delicious food by myself is one of my favorite things about traveling alone.

I love the freedom of ordering whatever I want and either spending a long time or a short time dining.

Valencia Spain is also the birthplace of Paella, so it’s a must try in my opinion! It was actually the first place I have ever had Paella, and I have been dreaming of it ever since.

Overall, Spanish cuisine is my favorite, so dining alone in a city such as Valencia was a real treat.

Below are some of the best wine and tapas bars I found in Valencia!

Best Restaurants for Solo Dining in Valencia

Karak is a great place to enjoy an upscale meal on your own. This restaurant has creative European cuisine with tasting menus. I highly recommend you get a reservation if you plan to dine here.

Navarro is where I had my first-ever Paella! Sadly I do not have photos since my phone battery failed me after I got seated.

I would fly back to Valencia just to eat here again. You can get reservations by booking online, which I highly recommend.

Casa Montaña

If you are looking for great food and a traditional tapas restaurant , then you should make a stop at Casa Montaña. It is one of the oldest restaurants in Valencia.

I am a huge fan of Patatas Bravas, and Casa Montana did not disappoint!

Best Wine Bars in Valencia

On my solo trip to Valencia, I found the best wine bars! There are too many to list, but my top three favorites are listed below:

Vinostrum Bodega

I had the best time at Vinostrum Bodega , located in Plaça de Mossén Sorell. You can beat their selection of Spanish red wines and tapas.

Taberna La Sénia

If you are looking for a cozy little wine bar, Taberna La Sénia is the place for you. A charming wine bar I just happened to stumble upon by accident.

The section of wines changes often, or else I would recommend something. It is a very small place, but worth putting on your itinerary!

Bodega Albarizas

Bodega Albarizas boasts a casual and laid-back atmosphere and some of the best wines I had in Valencia!

A must-visit if you are looking for a wine bar in the city center of Valencia!

Where to Stay Solo in Valencia

I have a lot of thoughts when it comes to where to stay in Valencia and booking hotels and hostels when traveling alone as a woman.

My biggest piece of advice is to spend the money to stay somewhere comfortable and safe . If this means you have to save a little bit longer than normal, that’s ok.

People will tell you that it’s just where you are sleeping, you don’t spend much time there, so it doesn’t need to be fancy. In my solo travel experience, it needs to be a little fancy , as well as quiet and comfortable.

If your accommodations are less than great, it can impact your time at a destination.

For this reason, I am going to recommend the boutique hotels in Valencia I personally stayed at and checked out.

Pro Tip:  Even though I found Valencia to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting   travel insurance  to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

MYR Marqués House

The rooms at the MYR Marques House are perfect for the solo traveling lady. These rooms are modern, and clean, and are in a great neighborhood in Valencia.

Located in the city center, this hotel and spa are highly rated among guests. Check rates & availability

If you are looking for a boutique hotel with a pool in Valencia, look no further! The Caro Hotel is pure luxury, and has the most incredible mattress! Is this hotel expensive? Yeah, a little bit, but it’s so worth it!

Located a 4-minute walk from the Valencia Cathedral, it is the perfect place to stay solo. Check rates & availability

Cosmo Hotel Boutique

In the heart of Valencia is the Cosmo Hotel Boutique ! A perfectly located hotel just 700 metres from Norte Train Station.

It is a 3-star hotel that features private rooms, a terrace, a bar, and an onsite restaurant! A great hotel for any solo female traveler! Check rates & availability

Where to Travel Solo From Valencia?

If you are solo in Spain and are looking for smaller cities to travel to from Valencia, you should consider Granada! Granada is located in southeastern Spain, approximately 5 hours away by car .

When I visited Granada from Valencia I decided to save time and fly. There is also a train to Granada, but the journey is around 8 hours.

So the choice of how to get to Granada is up to you! Be sure to research and plan your time in Granada ahead.

Seville, Spain is also a great place for solo female travel from Valencia! If you find yourself in Seville you can do a tour to Granada easily.

If visiting Seville in the summer months, I suggest you find a hotel with a pool . Seville gets incredibly warm!

Conclusion: Spain Solo Travel Valencia

In conclusion, Valencia is an amazing destination for female solo travelers . With its vibrant culture, stunning historical attractions, and vibrant nightlife scene, there’s never a dull moment in Valencia.

I found it to be a very safe city with plenty of activities and transportation options tailored to solo women travelers .

Whether you are looking for some adventurous activities or want to just relax, Valencia is the perfect destination for your solo female travels.

I hope you enjoy this wonderful city as I did and may you come home with unforgettable memories and experiences!

FAQs Valencia Solo Travel

Yes. It is safe for solo females to take the bus or metro from Valencia Airport to the city center. The travel time should be around 25-30 minutes on both.

If you are traveling alone to Valencia with a lot of luggage, you should plan to take a taxi to the city center. The cost is around 21 euros and takes around 20 minutes.

The best time for a solo trip to visit Valencia is in the late spring to early fall. The weather will be warm and the city will be buzzing with excitement. The most popular festivals in Valencia happen in the summer months.

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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Travel to Valencia: 5 Best Attractions, Food & Activities

The author of today's article is Valeria Barquet, she is a Marketing graduate from the University of Navarra in Spain. Valeria is an expat from Ecuador who has been in Spain since 2018 and now lives in Madrid. She has traveled throughout Spain and Portugal and now shares her experiences with us!* *This article has been reviewed by our editorial board and has been approved for publication in accordance to the editorial policies.

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Do you know where apella comes from? Valencia is the birthplace of the famous dish paella. Historians had traced the use of rice in Valencia back more than 1300 years, when the Moors brought the seed to Eastern Spain.

However, the tradition of paella began in the mid-19th century alongside the field workers in Valencia. They would cook rice with whatever ingredients they had on hand over an open fire and eat it directly from the pan, called paella. As rice became more widely available, Valencians developed and perfected their paella recipe into the international dish we know today.

If you’re feeling hungry, visiting Valencia is a great idea. It’s a beautiful port city with a rich history and modern attractions you’ll love.

In this article, I’ll provide all the essential information you need to visit Valencia on your next trip to Spain.

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

What is Valencia in Spain?

Valencia, which forms part of the autonomous community of Valencia, has a population of more than 790,000 residents. It is the third-largest city in Spain and has the second-biggest commercial port in the country.

 Valencia, just like Andalusia, enjoys wonderful Mediterranean weather that attracts people from all over the world.

The city’s history dates back to the Romans when they founded the city as Valentia Edetanorum in the year 138 before Christ. The territory was occupied by Germanics and Moorish people, which makes Valencia beautiful and historic.

Nowadays, it is widely known for its City of Arts and Sciences and stunning coast.

Best Things to Do in Valencia

1. city of arts and sciences .

The City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic architectural complex built by the architect Santiago Calatrava in between 1998 and 2009. The City of the Arts and Sciences houses several attractions, including a science museum, an opera house, and Europe’s largest aquarium.

The complex is closer to the beach and is 40 minutes away from the Beach Cabanyal and the restaurant La Pepica.

2. The Central Market 

The Central Market, also known as the Mercado Central, was inaugurated on January 23, 1928, after seven years of construction work. The market’s construction was an ambitious project to modernize the city’s food supply system. Today, the market remains a significant historical landmark and a hub for food lovers, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The architecture belongs to the Art Noveau movement in Valencia, and today, it houses several delicious restaurants to stay in and dine in. 

Another option for dinning is the Colon Market with great restaurants!

3. Lonja de la Seda

La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built between 1482 and 1548 and is in front of the Central Market. It was originally used as a silk exchange market and as a meeting point for merchants and traders. La Lonja showcases Valencia’s Gothic architecture and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. 

La Lonja symbolizes Valencia’s economic and cultural prosperity during the Middle Ages, making it an important historical landmark.

4. Turia Gardens 

If you open Google Maps on Valencia, you will notice a long green band representing Turia Park. It is 9 km long, stretching through the city, providing great space for outdoor activities such as strolls, cycling, and fun-filled playgrounds. What makes this park even more unique is its history. 

The park’s gardens were developed in the former bed of the Turia River, which was rerouted after a catastrophic flood in the 1950s that caused widespread damage and claimed many lives. So, the city council was like, “Let’s change the river’s course and make a park there instead”. That way, people can have a nice green space to chill in.

Today, Turia Park serves as Valencia’s lungs, providing fresh air and a tranquil environment to its inhabitants.

5. Valencia Cathedral 

The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Valencia, also known as Valencia Cathedral, is a stunning example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, with renovations and additions made in the 17th and 18th centuries. Next to it is the impressive Miguelete Tower, where you will get panoramic city views. 

The Holy Grail, believed to be the cup used by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper, is housed in this cathedral, making it a significant pilgrimage site.

How to Get to Valencia

The autonomous community of Valencia is situated between Catalonia and Murcia. Flights from Barcelona to Valencia city take only one hour and cost around €100 for a round trip. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from BNC-VLC, which lasts almost four hours and costs €50 for a roundtrip.

For travel between Madrid and Valencia, you can take a one-hour flight for around €80 or a two-hour train trip for as little as €50 round trip.

Best Time to Visit Valencia

Due to its wonderful location in the Mediterranean, Valencia usually enjoys wonderful weather during the colder seasons of Autumn and Winter. In both seasons, maximum temperatures are 25 and 15 degrees, respectively, while the weather in Madrid reaches a temperature of 20 degrees. 

The favorite seasons by tourists are Spring and Summer because those offer the perfect conditions for a great time at the beach, exploring the city center, and, of course, all the stunning beaches. 

However, I visited Valencia in the middle of October. Hence, during Autumn, and for me that, Autumn was the right reason to explore Valencia for a city trip (not a beach holiday). I could even wear some shorts when the days were warm and the nights were fresh and cool. 

I visited the city with my family, and we could dine out in the Valencian terraces during the middle of October.  

Where to Eat in Valencia

Coffee & Brunch

BlackBird is a specialty cafe in the neighborhood of Ruzafa (C/ de la Reina Na Maria, 7) with the BEST PASTRIES, coffee, and brunch you will ever taste. Everything is 10/10, including the staff, who are very welcoming and nice.

La Pepica is a traditional paella restaurant in Valencia. It was founded in 1898, and it is located on the beach side of the city (Passeig de Neptú, 6); if you want to experience the original flavors of the paella, that is your place to go!

For dinner, I will recommend another great Valencia restaurant, named el Rodamon de Russafa (Carrer de Sueca, 47), where contemporary mixes with traditional Valencian dishes. 

In the Rodamon de Russafa I ate croquetas and paella, and it was delicious! 

Where to Stay in Valencia

Located in South Ciutat Vella, Caro Hotel is housed in a 19th-century palace and seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary design. Each of its uniquely decorated rooms offers guests a truly special experience.

For around 200 euros per night, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations in Valencia, complete with an incredible restaurant and stunning amenities – don’t miss the pool!

One Shot Colón 46, located at Carrer de Colón 46, is a chic hotel with a modern design and cozy rooms. It boasts a prime location near the Colón Metro station, which provides convenient access to Valencia’s popular attractions. For instance, you can reach the Cathedral of Valencia in just 13 minutes either by metro or on foot.

For approximately 100 euros per night, you can enjoy a comfortable bedroom, breakfast, and a range of amenities that will make your stay in Valencia more than perfect.

**SOM Hostel Boutique (**Carrer del Mestre Racional, 4), located in the neighborhood of Gran Via, offers a more affordable stay in Valencia for around 80 euros per night.  

Valencia has many great hotels, but are generally expensive, so book your tickets ahead of time to avoid overpaying or losing a good spot.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Valencia?

Request information:  [email protected]

How much money you need for your trip to Valencia depends on many things, such as how many people are traveling, the type of activities you want to do, accommodation, the duration of your stay, restaurants, and most importantly, the time of year.

To help you more accurately, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email! Share the details of your desired trip to Spain, and we will provide you with a price estimate and offer local advice for all your travel needs.

Choose your Spain Itinerary

1 Day in Spain? 10 Best Things to Do in 24 Hours!

2 Days in Spain: Trip Ideas & Itineraries to Enjoy Your 48h

3 Days in Spain: What’s the Best Itinerary for Your Trip?

4 Days in Spain - Best Travel Itineraries for Short Trips

5 Days in Spain: Itineraries to See (almost) Everything!

6 Days in Spain: The 3 Best Itineraries for Your Trip!

7 Days in Spain: The 3 Best Itineraries for Your Trip!

Map of Valencia

Now you have all the essential information yuo need before traveling to Valencia! It is a beautiful, highly underrated city where you can perfectly get an international crowd assembling for some Spanish experience.

If you have any doubts, let us know! We are happy to help you with your trip (:

Happy travels!

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Hey Valeria! Great post! Planning my trip and can't miss out on the local cuisine! Any suggestions for food and gastronomy tours that allowed you to savor the true flavors of Valencia? I really want to try the paella dish but don't know many places. Can you please help? Sarah

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Find cheap flights to Valencia from $190

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to valencia departing on 9/21. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to valencia.

Save 20% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Cheap flight deals to Valencia

Flights to valencia - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to valencia to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest day to fly to valencia, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to valencia is wednesday where tickets can be as cheap as $907. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is saturday, where prices are $1,100 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to valencia, the cheapest month for flights to valencia is february, where tickets cost $540 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are june and december, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $1,190 and $1,077 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is january with an average price of $557., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to valencia, the cheapest time of day to fly to valencia is generally in the afternoon, when flights cost $694 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to valencia is generally at night, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $828., how far in advance should i book a flight to valencia, to get a below average price, you should book around 0 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 69 days before departure., how long is the flight to valencia, the duration of your flight to valencia depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to valencia on kayak are from boston , which takes 11h 10m, miami , which takes 12h 00m, new york , which takes 12h 15m, and san francisco , which takes 17h 15m., how many long-haul flights are there to valencia each week, each week, there are 17 medium-haul flights (3-6 hour flight duration) and 783 short-haul flights (up to 3 hour flight duration) to valencia. there aren't any long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration)., good to know, when to book flights to valencia, faqs - booking valencia flights, what are some of the rules for car seats at valencia airport.

All kids under 12 must ride in a child safety seat or booster when in a car, according to Valencia (VLC). The child's age, weight, and height must be considered when choosing a safety seat or booster. Additionally, the child must always be securely fastened.  Whenever a car is moving, a seatbelt must be worn.

What accessible services are offered at Valencia Airport?

The accessible services include handicapped parking and transportation, specially designed restrooms, elevators, ramps, and a committed customer service crew. There are wheelchair ramps and lifts in every public building and area of the airport, and there is also particular help available for people who are deaf or have vision or hearing difficulties.

What are the passport and visa requirements for flying from the U.S. to Valencia Airport?

All travelers flying from the United States to Valencia Airport must possess a current passport and a Schengen visa. Citizens of the United States are qualified to apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate in their nation of residence. A minimum of three months must pass from the scheduled departure date from the Schengen region for the visa to be valid.

Are there car rentals at Valencia Airport?

Yes, you may rent a car at the Valencia Airport. The airport's Arrivals Hall is home to the automobile rental desks. When picking up the car, customers must be above 21 and present a valid driver's license. Additionally, a legitimate credit card and identification documentation are required. Additional forms of identification can be needed in some circumstances.

What dining options does Valencia Airport have?

La Pausa is a casual dining option that is located on Floor 1 of the Departures wing and offers both basic meals and take away food options. The Mahou Sports Bar is also located on Floor 1 of the Departures wing and offers full meals as well as alcoholic beverages.

Does Valencia Airport have any stores to shop at?

If you would like to buy some souvenirs or treat yourself to a new gift, make sure to browse through the different stores located in Valencia Airport. The Las Lilas boutique offers handmade gifts from Bali, while ALE-HOP sells a variety of accessories and jewelry.

Does Valencia Airport have any private lounges?

To have a particularly relaxing experience in Valencia Airport, purchase an access ticket to the Joan Olivert VIP Lounge that is located on Floor 1 of the Departures wing. This lounge provides guests with a private children’s play area, comfortable furniture, televisions, and unlimited access to snacks and drinks.

How far is the City of Arts and Sciences from Valencia Airport?

The City of Arts and Sciences is less than 15 miles from the Valencia Airport. The easiest way to travel between these two destinations is by car or taxi, a taxi ride generally takes approximately 25 minutes without any additional traffic. If you would rather use public transportation, you can take bus 95 to metro line 9 and arrive at the destination in slightly less than 1.5 hours.

How far is Valencia from central Valencia?

You’ll need to travel 6 miles to reach the Valencia city center from Valencia.

What is the name of Valencia’s airport?

There is only 1 airport in Valencia, called Valencia (VLC). It can also be referred to as Valencia.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Valencia?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Valencia.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Valencia?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Valencia is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Valencia?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Valencia with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Valencia?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Valencia up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Which airline offers the most flights to Valencia?

Of the 5 airlines that fly to Valencia, Iberia offers the most flights, with around 92 per week, followed by Ryanair with 75 flights per week.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Valencia

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Valencia flight deals.
• Within a 2-hour drive, the Valencia Airport (VLC) provides service to numerous places, including Teruel, Cuenca, Valencia, Castellón de la Plana, Sagunto, Albacete, and Zaragoza. All of these cities are found in the Spanish province of Valencia.
• Travelers from the United States can fly to Valencia Airport year-round from several cities, including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The airport is well-connected to many significant cities across the world.
• If you’re planning on booking a flight to Valencia, you most likely will be flying into Valencia Airport, known for being one of the busiest airports in Spain and located less than 10 miles from the city center. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, the Valencia Airport provides many flight options.
• For those that are traveling to Valencia for business-related reasons, make sure to take advantage of Valencia Airport’s business center. The center contains a variety of different meeting rooms that are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and are able to host up to 50 people.
• Thinking about making any big shopping purchases during your trip to Valencia? If so, make sure to file for your VAT refund in the Valencia Airport. If non-EU residents spend over a certain amount of money while shopping in Valencia, they are able to receive refunds for some of the taxes they paid.
• If you are traveling with your furry friend, make sure that you keep them in their crate while you are waiting for your flight, as animals are not allowed to roam free in the Valencia Airport, unless they are a service animal. However, the airport does provide animal relief areas, so keep your eye out for them while you are walking to your gate.
• To speed up your passage through security, either after your flight to Valencia has landed, or before your flight takes off, consider purchasing a “Fast Pass”. The “Fast Pass” allows you to quickly travel throughout security checkpoints, including customs both when arriving and exiting the airport.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Valencia?

Find which airlines fly direct to Valencia, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Valencia

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Cairo, +48 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +49 more

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +41 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +42 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Aeromexico, +47 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +48 more

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +45 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +46 more

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +50 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +51 more

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +43 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +44 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Aeromexico, +49 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +50 more

Nonstop returns

Valencia to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to valencia.

Seats in first class on the E175 recline too far back. I was in 2A, and the man in 1A fully reclined almost the entire flight. It took 6-7 inches of space away from me and made it very difficult to work on my laptop.

On 2 different flights the wifi was horrible and there was no drink or snack service.

Wifi wasn’t working well so we couldn't view any media.

Flight was late. Club was full. Experience is exactly what I expected.

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Medíocre. The food wasn't good (although not bad, bad) and the staff wasn't kind. I asked for n extra blanket, the steward never came back, serving us roughly.

They wanted to close counter although they did not provide the wheelchair requested which ended by going alone to transit security and lost long time and they did not want to wait .

Business class in the second leg - CDG-EVN was a disaster.

Everything went smoothly with Air France. There was a delay in departure which seemed to relate to the immigration services being short staffed.

worst experience ever i choose my seat in advance and also have my seat selected in my boarding and the they told me that my seat has been changed without notify me

Food could have been better especially the breakfast. Overall it was a good flight

No bording was given for next trip on same carrier, food was very moderate.

No birding was given for next trip on same carrier, food was very moderate.

We transited through Chad and what was supposed to be a 1hr 20 minutes transit time lasted over 4hrs. We didn't get regular updates until we complained. After a 10hr flight from Paris no form of refreshment given and finally arrived Abuja over 6hrs later and none of my bags came

The line at boarding was not well organized and managed

An average flight experience. For our transatlantic portion, they provided a main meal and two snacks. However, the food was not very tasty and the drinks far too small and infrequent for such a long flight. The regrettable part of the flight was that the toilets were extremely filthy. I feel this is unacceptable.

Both flights were delayed. I lost my connection on the way back. No voucher or anything was givenx I had business ticket and no support to make it on time. I got to the door running 5 min after they close. Food really bad. Breakfast in business was worst that I what I remember in economy. Even though I have accumulated many miles, I don’t think Inwill keep buying Iberia. I am a frequent business traveler.

The food is really eco only level. Breakfast was shameful. I am considering to stop flying with Iberia. Business prices are as expensive as other companies with much better service.

Why no entertainment? Also water should be free, it is basic human right.

Late boarding. Delayed departure leading to rushed connection at Madrid Barajas. Not necessarily Iberia's fault but delay loading cargo didn't help.

I can’t comment on food as it was necessary to buy it. No entertainment.

Took too long to tak off but besides that it was good

They made my flight a disaster they had me pay for bags that I already paid for through Iberia airlines and the hostesses were super mean and racist they just turned my vacation to a total nightmare and disappointment in fact they even had me rethink even no to go to morroco ever again even if my whole stay at the country was so nice and fun and perfect but anything at the airport and with the airline was a disaster do not recommend will never take a flight with them

All went smoothly, no problems; friendly crew. I would have appreciated a head pillow ;)

Staff not so nice, very dirty bathrooms, things in the hallways, food was not very nice.

Used to love Lufthansa, but Rowe are too close together in Economy and passengers are allowed to recline their seats so far back it is impossible for those behind them to even reach for carry-on essentials during flight - except for meal service when flight attendants ask for seat backs to be raised, we can’t sleep on planes so this flight was most uncomfortable ever! Rod Rose

So far so good. I missed my flight because of the Lufthansa diversion. United helped me to figure out how to get accommodations from Lufthansa for my long layover. They help me book appropriate onward flight.

This flight space was way better than our international flight. Efficient boarding and comfortable

Horrible crowding on the seats, headphones provided did not fit or work in the entertainment center, seriously the most uncomfortable flight I have taken in a LONG time. The people in front of me were literally 5 inches from my face the entire flight. Did they change their seats recently? I remember it being tight but wow this was a whole new level. Also I am a 5'3" small woman so I can't even imagine a larger person dealing with that for 11 hrs.

Seat controls of lights were broken, and only 1 of the 2 seat TVs ever worked on the long flight. On the short flight there were no USB connections, on the long one they were difficult to access. Part of my meal was frozen, though the hot portion was good.

Lufthansa fails at mentioning no luggage when booking through points. We had to pay added fees to take checked bags to Europe for 2 weeks. The staff at check in were not helpful at all. told us "if we don't like it, then book another flight". Food was bad, they ran out of half the options. Vegetarian was terrible. The flight crew was nice, and tried to make it work ok.

Always a pleasure to deal with United's helpful and knowledgeable staff

Always a pleasure to deal with United's helpful and knowledgeable saff

My school age daughter was not sat near me. We left almost an hour late. Therefore arriving late and missing another flight. Since it was not a connecting flight there was nothing Lufthansa could do about it. After the selay in take off and arrival we waited almost an hour for baggage claim. There was zero concern for my inconvenience. I asked if we could insure being seated together on the return. They stated no because we booked through Kayak. I typically love Lufthansa. This was very disappointing.

This flight is always a cramped bus. The gate area was inadequate and announcements were hard to hear. The flight was delayed 45 minutes to an hour by a broken aircraft door, making our total delay from Vilnius 5 hours.

As expected for a BA long haul flight in economy - you get what you pay for. Good leg space, in flight entertainment and food and drink provided. Staff on the return flight (overnight) we're a bit brisk and just wanted to get everyone fed and watered before turning the lights down. We're vegetarian so ordered it separately through the booking, although when we were in flight we realised there was a normal and vegetarian option anyway, and we were given vegan. This is fine, however on the return trip we were told there were no more specially ordered meals left, so be aware in case you have specific dietary requirements.

Fare was much lower with a layover in London as I was able avoid numerous landing fees that would have been added to the ticket price had I booked a direct flight to Amsterdam.

We have business class seats from Los Angeles to London. The crew is friendly and provided great service. The flight was very comfortable and very smooth. Will use this airlines again in the future.

The flight was delayed numerous times with inconsistent updates and very ambiguous information. When it was finally cancelled the logistics of handing out vouchers and rebooking was extremely chaotic. Meal vouchers were completely inadequate for the airport restaurants, and not even accepted at some. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience.

Terrible. The flight from Islamabad to London took 3 hours more then previously planned, I missed my connection to Chicago, and instead had to go New York, spend an extra day before arriving at my final destination. The return leg of the journey was similar. The connection time in Qatar was shrinked to less then an hour unannounced, I had to scramble to barely make it to my flight to Islamabad. Terrible experience, never using British airways again.

The crew on this flight were attentive, efficient and friendly. It really made for an enjoyable flight.

The crew on this flight were excellent. They were friendly and attentive. It really made the flight more enjoyable.

They canceled my flight , they put me on a different flight that was delayed and the connection was lost . They lost my luggage. And now I’m stuck with any of my belongings.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Seat layout, flight/club attendant service, food variety and quality could have been better. Business class Standard is visibly low compared with 6 other airlines that we have traveled for the past two years.

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The Design Tourist

Top Things to Do in Valencia, Spain

Posted: April 4, 2024 | Last updated: April 4, 2024

Valencia is Spain's third largest city, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, where modern architecture mixes with ancient art and culture tied to the Silk Road. Explore this fascinating city, home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites. To learn more visit <a href="http://www.TheDesignTourist.com">www.TheDesignTourist.com</a>

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COVID19 Information

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End of covid-19 restrictions and checks

There are no longer any Covid-19 health checks at any point of entry in Spain, nor is the use of masks mandatory in any situation.

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Valencia Subway Map 4+

Valencia metro map, yaroslav mykolaienko, designed for ipad, screenshots, description.

Effortlessly navigate Valencia metro: Get quick route planning, station details, and fare information all in one convenient app Introducing the innovative "Explore Valencia Metro" app, your indispensable companion for navigating Valencia's public transportation system. This app is designed to meet the needs of both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of features and capabilities for convenient and comfortable travel in the dynamic city of Valencia. We understand that both residents and tourists have unique needs when it comes to public transportation, and our app caters to them all. For locals, it offers a reliable source of real-time information, helping you streamline your daily commute and save time. For tourists, it provides a tourist-friendly interface, highlighting nearby attractions and ensuring that you make the most of your visit to Valencia. "Valencia Metro Map" is not just an app; it's your dedicated travel companion, ensuring that your metro experience is seamless, efficient, and enjoyable. Whether you're heading to work, exploring the city's cultural landmarks, or visiting friends, our app will be there to guide you every step of the way. Key Features: - Detailed Station Information: Get all the details about metro stations, including accessibility for mobile devices, the presence of elevators, nearby attractions, and much more. This is useful for both local residents and newcomers to the city. - Schedules and Fares: Access the full train schedule and up-to-date fare information. You can find out the cost of your trip and the exact departure time of the train. - City Map Integration: Seamlessly switch between the metro map and the city map. Understand how the metro lines connect with the streets and neighborhoods of Valencia, making it easier to plan your overall journey and explore the city. - Tourist-Friendly Interface: If you're a tourist, the app offers special features to meet your needs. You can quickly find tourist attractions and interesting places conveniently located near metro stations. Why Choose "Explore Valencia Metro"? - Ease of Use: Our app features an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it accessible to everyone. - Reliability and Accuracy: We provide reliable and up-to-date data, so you'll always stay informed. - For Everyone: Whether you're a local resident or a tourist, our app provides you with the necessary information for comfortable travel. - Offline Use: After downloading data, the app can work offline, making it available everywhere and at all times. - Time and Money Savings: Travel more efficiently and effectively manage your expenses.

App Privacy

The developer, Yaroslav Mykolaienko , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Collected

The developer does not collect any data from this app.

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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Molly & Peyton

Molly McGee

Peyton valencia, december 14, 2024.

We met our freshman year of college at a classmate's party and didn't think much of it. We had a lot of mutual friends and quickly our friendship blossomed. We felt that we knew each other our whole lives in the small amount of time we had known each other. While Molly was the last to realize that she actually had feels for Peyton, Peyton took Molly on their first date, where he won her over, and the rest is history!

The Proposal

While on vacation in Puerto Rico, little did Molly know the surprise Peyton had in store for her. While Molly was absolutely clueless, Peyton for months was planning the perfect proposal for them. While walking through the historical Castillo San Felipe de Morro in San Juan Puerto Rico, he got down on one knee and, surprise, she said yes!