Valuable tips for Exploring the Highlights of Valencia
Valencia is a vibrant city where futuristic modernity contrasts against the traditional architecture of days past. As Spain’s 3rd largest city (behind Madrid & Barcelona), there is a ton of experiences to enjoy from the diverse culture to the beautiful beaches. Easily accessible by train or plane, 4 or 5 days is the perfect amount of time to visit. Along with delicious food and eccentric festivals, Valencia has something for every type of traveler. Here are the top 10 best things to do in this valiant city!
10. La Lonja de la Seda
Old Town Valencia is the quintessential place to discover the vintage architecture and fascinating history. La Lonja de la Seda is an exquisite Gothic masterpiece that stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the 15th century. Formerly known as the Silk Exchange, this UNESCO World Heritage site epitomizes the affluence of Valencia’s mercantile past with its architectural precision of intricate stone carvings, ribbed vaults, and gracefully intertwining columns.
9. Mercado Central
Mercado Central is a food lover’s paradise, brimming with fresh produce, local delicacies, and vibrant colors. Renowned as one of the largest markets in Spain, this Eden of delicacies exudes an aura of timeless elegance where you can buy high quality ingredients. The hours are from 7:30am – 3pm (but closed on Sundays) so be sure to arrive early to enjoy it.
8. Chill on Playa Malvarrosa, the Best Beach in Valencia
Malvarrosa Beach is a 1km expanse of golden sands caressed by the gentle azure waves of the Mediterranean. Valencia’s largest beach also boasts a bustling picturesque promenade lined with seaside shops and beachfront restaurants. Playa Malvarrosa offers a resplendent retreat from downtown, where you can play volley ball or lounge on one of Spain’s best beaches. The best time to visit is between June and August for the warmest temperatures.
7. Visit Barrio del Carmen, the Coolest Neighborhood in Valencia
Barrio del Carmen is an enigmatic neighborhood located in Valencia’s historic Old Town district that’s over 1,000 years old! The contemporary charisma of the narrow alleyways are gracefully interwoven within the ancient labyrinthine streets of the old city. Here you can find a plethora of cafes, tapas bars, and souvenir shops to satisfy any wanderer’s intrigue. Sign up for a wine & tapas tour for an immersive insight into the city’s culture and cuisine with the help of a local for the most authentic Valencian experience. I also recommend trying the city’s signature beverage, Agua de Valencia (a mixed pitcher of cava, orange juice, vodka and gin).
6. Valencia Cathedral, Home to THE Holy Grail
Nestled in the heart of the ancient city stands the divine elegance of Valencia Cathedral. Also known as St. Mary’s Cathedral, this regal edifice was built over many centuries, which explains the Romanesque, Baroque, and Gothic architectural styles used throughout its design. The Legendary Holy Grail is also said to be housed inside. Adjacent to the cathedral is El Miguelete, a gothic bell tower that pierces the sky which can be ascended for just a few Euros.
5. Savor an Authentic Paella Valenciana
Did you know that Valencia is the birthplace of Paella? No trip to Spain is complete without tasting its signature dish; and there’s no better place to eat an authentic paella than in Valencia. This iconic rice dish is cooked to perfection with fresh ingredients including green beans, rabbit, chicken and lima beans all cooked in olive oil and chicken broth. Anything else is just rice with stuff in it. A few of the best restaurants to try amazing paella include La Pepica, Casa Roberto, and Casa Carmela. To elevate your paella experience, consider signing up for a cooking class.
4. Experience Las Fallas Festival
If you’re lucky enough to be in Valencia in March, don’t miss Las Fallas. This colorful and lively festival is a celebration of art, culture, and tradition, featuring impressive sculptures, fireworks, and vibrant parades. The festival terminates with the burning of the papier-mâché and wooden sculptures in a raging fire. Typically, the celebration is held in the middle of March (March 15th – 19th in 2024) and lasts for about 4 days. Even if you’re there out of season, the Museu Faller de València conveys the essence of Las Fallas Valencia.
3. Oceanografic, Europe’s Largest Aquarium
For marine life enthusiasts, a visit to the Oceanografic is a must. It’s Europe’s largest aquarium and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world beneath the waves. Oceanografic is a Seaworld-esque amusement park that’s part of the larger City of Arts & Science complex. Expect to spend about 3 or 4 hours enjoying the attractions like a live dolphin show, a shark tunnel, whales, penguins, tortoises, and so much more.
2. La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València
Also known as the City of Arts & Sciences, this modern architectural masterpiece is a futuristic complex that showcases the ingenuity of our civilization. It is considered one of the 12 Treasures of Spain, took over 10 years to complete construction, and costed nearly 1 billion dollars! This marvelous landmark holds various exhibits you can explore including Oceanografic, Hemisfèric, The Umbracle, PrÃncipe Felipe Science Museum, the Reina SofÃa Palace of the Arts, and the Agora. You can also ride some futuristic paddle boards and boats in the surrounding pools. If you only do 1 thing in Valencia, make sure it’s this.
1. La Tomatina de Buñol
While not technically in Valencia, no trip to La Tomatina can be attended without going through Valencia first. Located in the quaint town of Buñol (about 1 hour north of Valencia), this chaotic festival is the world’s largest food fight held every year on the last Wednesday of August. The streets are dyed red in an insane frenzy of vivacious exhilaration as you hold on to dear life from a seemingly never-ending torrent of tomatoes. The overstimulating feelings of joy, euphoria, and terror make this event an item every traveler needs to cross off their bucket list. Stay tuned for a future post of all the essential tips you’ll need for surviving this epic celebration.
Valencia is the dichotomy of old and new architecture and one of our favorite cities in Spain. With amazing cultural landmarks, delicious food, and relaxing beaches to enjoy, there is something for every type of traveler. March or April make for excellent times to visit if you’re interested in a festival of a lifetime. High speed train from Madrid to Valencia is under 2hrs so I highly recommend visiting various cities across the country. Stay tuned for more travel adventures thru Spain! Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Check out our Valencia travel vlog for more insights of the best things to do in the city!
And here’s our full experience of La Tomatina festival 2023!
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