Things To Do
in Valencia
Valencia is a laid-back town in Colombia's coffee region, set among rolling hills and fertile valleys. The center buzzes with colorfully painted facades, a lively market scene, and friendly locals who welcome visitors with a warm smile. Its location makes it a convenient base for day trips to farms, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can easily blend city strolls with outdoor adventures to experience both culture and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the historic center of Valencia, where colorful colonial architecture greets you at every turn. Take a leisurely stroll through Plaza de la Independencia, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and street performers. Stop by the local café for a delicious Colombian breakfast of arepas and freshly brewed coffee.
After soaking in the morning sights, visit the impressive Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, which showcases stunning artwork and historical significance. Spend your afternoon browsing the nearby artisan shops and markets, where you can find handmade crafts and local goods. Grab a light lunch at a quaint bistro, featuring traditional dishes that reflect the richness of Colombian cuisine.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the plaza, savoring dishes made with local ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk to the bustling square to experience the vibrant nightlife, filled with music and dance. Engage with locals and enjoy impromptu performances that capture the joyous spirit of Valencia.
Set out early for a day of adventure in the breathtaking La Sierra Nevada, where the stunning landscapes are sure to leave you in awe. Begin your morning with a guided hike through the lush trails, taking in the diverse flora and fauna along the way. Expect to spot some endemic wildlife and capture breathtaking photographs of the striking vistas.
After a hearty picnic lunch amidst the trees, attempt more challenging hiking routes that lead you to stunning viewpoints overlooking the valleys. Alternatively, you may choose to participate in local activities such as bird watching or exploring nearby waterfalls. Feel invigorated by the adrenaline rush and the sheer beauty that surrounds you.
Return to Valencia where you can unwind in a local hot spring to relax your sore muscles after an exhilarating day in nature. Enjoy dinner at a cozy eatery, sampling typical local fish dishes while reflecting on your day in the mountains. As night falls, take a quiet walk to enjoy the twinkling lights of the town, soaking in the tranquil evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1-3 |
| 🥙Street snack or arepa | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (city) | $3-6 |
| 🧭Museum or local attraction | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming small-town atmosphere
- Affordable travel with a strong food scene
- Easy access to nature, coffee farms, and rural landscapes
- Compact center that is pleasant to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife beyond plazas and small bars
- Infrastructure and service levels can vary, especially in markets
- Language barrier may be challenging outside tourist areas
- Distances to larger cities require longer drives
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Valencia
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial buildings around the main square provide classic photo backdrops, especially in the early morning light.
Hilltop viewpoints overlooking the valley offer sweeping sunset shots and silhouettes of the town against green hills.
A scenic riverside stretch with reeds, small boats, and reflections that make for tranquil nature photography.
An alley lined with vibrant street art and murals that showcase local culture and creativity.
Food in Valencia
Valencia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken or beef stew with plantains, yucca, corn, and herbs; best enjoyed at family-run eateries near the market.
Must-Try!
A large platter featuring rice, beans, plantain, avocado, eggs, and a choice of meat; a quintessential Colombian comfort dish.
Golden corn flatbreads served with cheese or as a side; found everywhere from mercados to casual cafés.
Sweet corn arepa often paired with queso campesino; popular at street stalls and breakfast spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh fruit, regional snacks, tamales, empanadas, and natural juices from morning to late afternoon.
Chuzos (skewers), patacones, arepas, and fresh fruit cups offered by small vendors around the plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly “hola” or a handshake; use polite language like por favor and gracias. Avoid discussing sensitive topics in initial encounters and observe local queuing and dining customs.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or more formal venues; casual but neat attire is typical for daily activities.
Safety
Tipping in Valencia
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 10% service tip is customary if not already included. In casual places, rounding up is common. For tour guides or drivers, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, and credit/debit cards are common in many shops and restaurants. ATMs are plentiful in town. Mobile payments and bank transfers are increasingly popular among locals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days and clear skies; ideal for outdoor exploring, hillside viewpoints, and day trips. Pack lightweight clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings are often drier and cooler. Carry a light rain jacket or poncho and plan flexible itineraries.
Humidity can be high year-round; mornings are good for walking tours and market visits before the heat rises.
Valencia at Night
Hiking in Valencia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An accessible hillside trail offering city views, a moderate climb, and photo opportunities at the summit.
A scenic nature reserve with shaded paths, birdlife, and coffee-farm scenery suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Valencia by plane.
Main international hub serving the region; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road depending on traffic.
Regional gateway to the coffee region; typically a 2.5–3.5 hour drive.
Smaller regional airport serving the central Vallies; drive time around 3.5–4.5 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, students, and professionals who live and work in the town center.
People involved in agriculture and coffee production in the surrounding valleys.
Visitors drawn to markets, coffee culture, and nearby nature spots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local leagues and informal matches common in plazas and parks.
A popular activity given the surrounding hills and scenic routes.
Casual games are common in community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valencia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants, with veggie stews, corn arepas, salads, and sautéed vegetables. When ordering, ask for 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne' and request dishes without lard or meat stock.