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Things to do in Valencia
Valencia is a city that has a lot to offer visitors, from its fascinating history to its modern attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Valencia, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do. Here are some of the best things to do in Valencia.
Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most popular attractions in Valencia, and for good reason. This futuristic complex is home to a variety of attractions, including the Hemisfèric, an IMAX cinema, the Science Museum, and the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the City of Arts and Sciences.
Explore the Old Town
Valencia’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and beautiful buildings, including the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. The Plaza de la Reina is also a must-visit, as it’s one of the most picturesque squares in the city.
Try some Paella
Valencia is the birthplace of paella, the iconic Spanish dish made with rice, saffron, and a variety of meats and vegetables. There are countless restaurants in Valencia where you can try this delicious dish, but for the most authentic experience, head to a local paella restaurant such as La Pepica or El Racó de la Paella.
Stroll through the Turia Gardens
The Turia Gardens are a lovely park that runs through the heart of Valencia. The park is a former riverbed that was converted into a park in the 1980s, and it’s now a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. There are plenty of paths to explore, as well as playgrounds, sports fields, and even an outdoor gym.
Visit the Central Market
The Central Market is one of the oldest and largest indoor markets in Europe, and it’s a must-visit for foodies. The market is home to dozens of stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to local cheeses and cured meats. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, it’s worth a visit just to see the beautiful Art Nouveau building.
See the Fallas Festival
The Fallas Festival is Valencia’s most famous festival, and it takes place every March. During the festival, the city is filled with enormous sculptures made of wood, papier-mâché, and other materials. The sculptures are on display throughout the city for several days, and then they’re burned in spectacular fireworks display on the final night of the festival.
Visit the Albufera Natural Park
The Albufera Natural Park is a lovely wetland park located just outside of Valencia. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and fish, and it’s a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. You can take a boat ride through the park to get a closer look at the wildlife and the beautiful scenery.
Go to the Beach
Valencia is home to some attractive beaches, including the popular Malvarrosa Beach. The beach is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
Visit the Silk Exchange
The Silk Exchange is a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 15th century. The building is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and it was once used for trading silk, which was Valencia’s main export at the time. Today, you can take a guided tour of the building to learn more about its history and architecture.
Take a Bike Tour
Valencia is a fantastic city for cycling, and there are plenty of bike rental companies that offer guided tours of the city. A bike tour is an ideal way to see the city’s highlights while getting some exercise at the same time. You can choose from a variety of tours, including historical tours, food tours, and even a tour of the City of Arts and Sciences.
Visit the La Lonja de la Seda
Another example of Valencia’s Gothic architecture is the La Lonja de la Seda, or the Silk Exchange. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was once a hub for silk trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. The building has an impressive spiral staircase and a large courtyard with orange trees. Guided tours are available, and it’s definitely worth a visit to learn about the history of Valencia’s silk industry.
Attend a Flamenco Show
Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that originated in Andalusia, but it has become popular all over Spain, including Valencia. There are several places in Valencia where you can see Flamenco shows, including Casa Carmen and Cafe del Duende. It’s a great way to experience Spanish culture and see some amazing dancing.
Visit the Mercado de Colón
The Mercado de Colón is a gorgeous modernist building that was originally built as a market in 1914. Today, it houses a variety of shops and restaurants, and it’s an awesome place to go for lunch or dinner. The building itself is worth a visit, as it’s a lovely example of modernist architecture.
See the Valencia Bioparc
The Valencia Bioparc is a unique zoo that focuses on creating a natural habitat for its animals. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and gorillas, and visitors can walk through the park on raised walkways to get a closer look at the animals. It’s a good place to spend an afternoon, especially if you have kids.
Explore the Street Art Scene
Valencia has a vibrant street art scene, and there are several neighborhoods where you can see some amazing murals and graffiti. The Cabanyal neighborhood is a splendid place to start, as it’s home to several large-scale murals. Other neighborhoods to check out include Ruzafa and El Carmen.
Take a Cooking Class
Valencia is known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a nice way to learn more about it. There are several cooking schools in Valencia that offer classes in traditional Valencian cuisine, including paella. You’ll learn how to make the dish from scratch, using local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Visit the Monastery of San Miguel de los Reyes
The Monastery of San Miguel de los Reyes is a fabulous monastery that was built in the 16th century. The building is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and it’s a popular spot for weddings and other events. Guided tours are available, and it’s a great place to learn about Valencia’s religious history.
See the Bullfighting Museum
Bullfighting is a controversial sport in Spain, but it’s an important part of the country’s culture. The Bullfighting Museum in Valencia is a great place to learn more about the history of bullfighting, as well as the techniques and tools used by matadors. The museum is located in the Plaza de Toros, which is also worth a visit.
Visit the Casa-Museo Blasco Ibáñez Vicente
Blasco Ibáñez was a famous writer and politician who was born in Valencia in 1867. The Casa-Museo Blasco Ibáñez is the house where he lived, and it’s now a museum dedicated to his life and work. The museum has a collection of his personal belongings, including furniture, paintings, and manuscripts. It’s a great place to learn about the life of one of Valencia’s most famous citizens.
Relax at the Albufera Natural Park
The Albufera Natural Park is a large freshwater lagoon located just south of Valencia. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and ducks. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lagoon or rent bikes to explore the surrounding countryside. It’s a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature after a busy day in the city.
Visit the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas
The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas is a spectacular Baroque palace located in the center of Valencia. The building is now a museum dedicated to decorative arts, and it has an impressive collection of ceramics, furniture, and textiles. The palace is also home to the National Museum of Ceramics, which has a collection of over 5,000 pieces.
Take a Day Trip to Sagunto
Sagunto is a small town located about 20 miles north of Valencia. The town has a rich history, and it’s home to an ancient Roman theater that dates back to the 1st century BC. Visitors can also explore the Sagunto Castle, which was built in the 10th century and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit the Almudín Museum
The Almudín Museum is located in a beautiful Gothic building that was once a grain storehouse. The museum has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of Valencia’s art and culture.
Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Valencia is located on the Mediterranean coast, and it has several gorgeous beaches that are perfect for a day in the sun. The most popular beaches are Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa del Cabanyal, which are both easily accessible from the city center. Visitors can rent umbrellas and sun loungers, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
Visit the Santa Catalina Church and Tower
The Santa Catalina Church and Tower is a charming Gothic church located in the center of Valencia. The tower dates back to the 14th century and offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a small fee, and it’s a great way to see the city from above.
In conclusion, Valencia is a vibrant and exciting city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just relaxing on the beach, Valencia has it all. With its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that Valencia has become one of the most popular destinations in Spain. So, if you’re planning a trip to Spain, be sure to add Valencia to your itinerary – you won’t regret it!
