20 Things to Do in Valencia, Spain
Valencia welcomes visitors with its sunny Mediterranean charm, blending historic treasures with stunning futuristic architecture along Spain’s southeastern coast. Famous as the birthplace of paella and home to beautiful beaches, the city offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploration, and discovering the unique Turia Gardens or wandering the old town are just some of the wonderful free things to do in Valencia. This city invites you to savor its culture, cuisine, and beautiful surroundings.
From ancient silk exchanges to cutting-edge science museums and relaxing natural escapes, Valencia provides a rich tapestry of experiences. This guide highlights 20 distinct ways to dive into the heart of this captivating Spanish city, ensuring you capture its unique spirit and create lasting memories. Get ready to explore Valencia’s diverse attractions.
Historic Heart & Landmarks
Valencia Cathedral & Miguelete Tower: Visit the city’s impressive cathedral, said to house the Holy Grail, showcasing a mix of architectural styles. Climb the Miguelete bell tower for fantastic panoramic views over Valencia’s historic center.
La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange): Explore this stunning example of late Valencian Gothic architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the beautiful Contracting Hall with its twisting columns, reflecting the city’s golden age of commerce.
Torres de Serranos: Walk up to and climb one of the imposing medieval city gates that once formed part of Valencia’s defensive walls. Enjoy great views of the Turia Gardens and the historic city center from the top.
Torres de Quart: Discover the other surviving medieval city gate, notable for the cannonball marks still visible from past sieges. These towers offer another glimpse into Valencia’s fortified history.
Futuristic Wonders: City of Arts and Sciences
Explore the City of Arts and Sciences: Wander through the breathtaking complex designed by Santiago Calatrava, featuring striking futuristic architecture set amidst turquoise pools. Simply walking around the grounds to admire the buildings is an experience in itself.
Oceanogràfic: Visit Europe’s largest aquarium, located within the City of Arts and Sciences complex. Explore diverse marine ecosystems from around the globe, including impressive shark tanks and dolphin displays, for a fascinating underwater journey.
Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe: Engage with interactive science exhibits housed within another stunning Calatrava building. This science museum offers hands-on learning experiences perfect for families and curious minds.
Hemisfèric: Catch an IMAX movie or digital projection within the eye-shaped building known as the Hemisfèric. Its unique design and immersive shows provide a memorable cinematic experience.
Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: Admire the spectacular opera house and performing arts center, another architectural marvel within the complex. Consider taking a guided tour or attending a performance to see its impressive interior.
Gardens, Beaches & Nature
Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia): Stroll, bike, or relax in the unique park created in the diverted Turia riverbed, winding for miles through the city. Enjoy playgrounds, sports facilities, fountains, and beautiful landscaping in this vast urban green space.
Malvarrosa Beach: Relax on Valencia’s main city beach, a wide stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying waterfront activities. Find numerous restaurants and bars along the lively promenade.
Albufera Natural Park: Take a short trip south of the city to explore the large freshwater lagoon and surrounding wetlands, birthplace of paella. Take a traditional boat trip to observe birdlife and experience the tranquil natural environment.
Markets & Flavors
Central Market (Mercado Central): Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of Europe’s oldest and largest food markets, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building. Browse stalls overflowing with fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and enjoy the vibrant local scene.
Mercat de Colón: Visit this beautiful Modernist market building, now housing upscale cafes, restaurants, and flower stalls. Admire the architecture and enjoy a coffee or meal in its elegant setting.
Eat Authentic Paella Valenciana: Sample the region’s most famous dish in its birthplace, traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, green beans, and snails (though seafood versions are popular too). Find restaurants serving paella cooked over a wood fire for the most traditional flavor.
Drink Horchata with Fartons: Try Valencia’s signature refreshing drink, horchata (made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar), typically accompanied by long, light pastries called fartons. Visit a traditional horchatería for this classic local treat.
Neighborhoods & Culture
Explore El Carmen Neighborhood: Get lost wandering the charming, narrow streets of Valencia’s oldest neighborhood in the historic center. Discover hidden plazas, street art, bohemian bars, and remnants of the ancient city walls.
Discover Russafa Neighborhood: Explore the trendy district known for its hip cafes, independent boutiques, art galleries, and lively nightlife. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and browse the unique local businesses.
Fallas Museum (Museo Fallero): Discover the artistry behind Valencia’s famous Las Fallas festival by visiting the museum housing the “ninots” (figures) saved from the annual bonfire by popular vote. It provides insight into this unique and spectacular city tradition.
IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art): Explore collections and temporary exhibitions focused on modern and contemporary art, particularly Spanish artists. Located near El Carmen, it offers a look at 20th and 21st-century artistic movements.
