Things To Do
in Valencia
Valencia is a sun-drenched port city on Spain's eastern coast, renowned for its blend of medieval lanes, futuristic architecture, and lively street life. It sits at the heart of the Valencian Community, where citrus-scented air meets a modern waterfront and sandy beaches. The city is famous for its rice dishes, especially paella Valenciana, and for hosting vibrant festivals that fill the streets with color and sound.
With a Mediterranean climate, walkable streets, and a laid-back yet cosmopolitan vibe, Valencia invites daydreaming afternoons and memorable evenings along its riverbed and coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in Valencia's Historic Center by visiting the stunning Valencia Cathedral, where you can climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city. Stroll through the charming streets and admire the intricate architecture of buildings like the Llotja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't forget to stop by the Mercado Central, one of the largest markets in Europe, to sample some local delicacies.
After a delightful lunch at one of the nearby tapas bars, continue your exploration by visiting the vibrant Plaza de la Reina. Here, you can enjoy people-watching while sipping on a refreshing horchata, a traditional Valencian drink. Make your way to the Central Park of Valencia for a leisurely walk through its landscaped gardens and fountains.
As the sun sets, head to the Turia Gardens for a relaxing bike ride or a peaceful walk along the riverbed that was once a river. For dinner, indulge in a traditional paella at a local restaurant that specializes in this iconic dish. Wrap up your evening with a visit to the lively Ruzafa neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and cozy bars.
Begin your day at the City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural marvel that houses several cultural attractions. Start with the interactive science museum, where you can engage with various exhibits that make learning fun. Take a moment to appreciate the futuristic designs of the surrounding structures, including the Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe.
After a morning filled with discovery, enjoy lunch at the Oceanogràfic's restaurant, where you can dine surrounded by marine life. Spend your afternoon exploring the aquarium, marveling at the diverse ecosystems and impressive marine species. Don’t miss the dolphin show, which is both entertaining and educational.
As evening approaches, take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and pools surrounding the City of Arts and Sciences. Consider having dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers a view of the stunning architecture illuminated at night. End your day with a visit to the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, where you might catch a live performance or simply enjoy the venue's striking design.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-60 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $90-160 |
| 🚆1 ride on public transit | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical core and vibrant markets
- World-class seafood and rice dishes
- Walkable city with excellent bike paths
- Big draw of beaches and near-natural parks
- Strong cultural calendar (Fallas, festivals)
- Summer can be very hot and crowded near the coast
- Paella can be pricey in tourist spots
- Some areas can be busy and touristy, especially in peak season
- Vehicle traffic around tourist hubs can be dense
- "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?
- "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
- "Me puede ayudar" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Valencia
Visit one of these nice places.
Futuristic architectural silhouettes and reflective water features lend dramatic daytime and blue-hour photography.
Gothic silk exchange with intricate stonework and a sense of history—great for moody night or daytime shots.
Colorful stalls and tiled arches provide a lively, textured backdrop.
Medieval city gates with panoramic views of the old town and sky.
Water, reeds, and boat silhouettes create tranquil landscape photography.
Art Deco train station interior with elegant lines and vintage light.
Food in Valencia
Valencia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic saffron-tinted rice dish with rabbit, chicken, and sometimes green beans. Best found at traditional paella houses along the coast, such as La Pepica or Casa Roberto.
Must-Try!
Noodles instead of rice, cooked with seafood and a crisp edge; a must-try near the seafront or in seafood restaurants.
A hearty eel stew with potatoes and paprika—classic Valencia fare often found in traditional taverns near the old town.
Oven-baked rice with tomatoes, chickpeas, and meat; a comforting option in meal houses across the city.
A refreshing drink made from tiger nut milk served with sweet almond pastries (fartons); iconic in Horchaterías like Santa Catalina.
Pumpkin fritters often enjoyed as a seasonal treat during festivals and autumn markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant, art-nouveau market where locals and visitors browse fresh produce, meats, fish, and ready-to-eat bites.
A stylish, restored market hall perfect for a light bite, coffee, and designer tapas in a refined setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buenos días' or 'Hola'; use basic courtesy phrases. Keep voice level in public spaces and avoid loud conversations in shops.
Tapas culture is common; wait to be seated in many restaurants; meals often start late in the evening; modest dress is typical for most venues.
Spanish is widely spoken; Valencian (a variety of Catalan) is common in the region; asking politely if someone speaks English is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Valencia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Spain; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants. Some establishments include a service charge; check the bill before leaving extra.
Cash is accepted broadly, but credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely used in shops, restaurants, and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming orange trees, and landmark spring festivals like Fallas preparations; ideal for walking and city photography.
Hot and dry, with long beaches and abundant sun. Hydration and sun protection are essential; schedule outdoor activities early morning or late evening.
Warm days fade to cooler evenings; outdoor dining and beach strolls remain enjoyable; fewer crowds outside peak events.
Mild to cool days; occasional rain; great time for museum visits and architectural photography without peak crowds.
Valencia at Night
Hiking in Valencia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills north of Valencia with various trail lengths and viewpoints over the plains.
Easy nature trails around the lagoon with opportunities for birdwatching and relaxed hiking or walking paths.
Accessible routes for a longer day hike if you venture beyond Valencia’s immediate surroundings.
Airports
How to reach Valencia by plane.
Located near Manises, about 8–12 miles (13–20 km) from the city center; accessible by metro, bus, or taxi.
Approximately 170 km south of Valencia; reachable by high-speed rail, bus, or car for longer trips.
Located to the north of Valencia; useful for regional connections and as a backup option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing residents with strong regional identity and language ties to Valencian culture.
A lively mix from across Europe and beyond, drawn by universities and coastal lifestyle.
Seasonal crowds focused on beaches, markets, and cultural festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city’s top football club, with games at Mestalla Stadium and a passionate local following.
A strong regional team with notable domestic competition and European appearances.
Coastal location supports sailing, windsurfing, and paddle sports along the beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valencia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Valencia; ask for verduras (vegetables) paella or arroz negro without seafood. Look for risottos with artichokes, escalivada (roasted peppers and eggplant), or garbanzos with spinach as hearty alternatives.