Valencia is a magnificent coastal city in Spain, perched on the glittering Mediterranean. As Spain’s third-largest city, it offers a thriving cultural, eating and nightlife scene, as well as a long stretch of beach and a glorious green park that was once a riverbed. It’s also a place rightly famous for its gastronomy (this is the birthplace of paella, after all) and its spectacular festivals, which culminate in the wild party that is Las Fallas (more on that below).
Whether you’re after art, shopping, food, or simply looking to enjoy the vibes of one of the most exuberant cities on the Med, Valencia has it all. Below, find out how to make the most of your time in the city as a first-time visitor to Valencia. Even if you’re just in town for a day.
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1. Explore the City’s Architectural Marvels
Valencia is a haven for architecture enthusiasts. Start your journey in the historic Old Town, where you’ll find the impressive Valencia Cathedral. Built in the 13th century, it was once a mosque, and before that, a Roman temple. The interiors are cool and quiet, with one of Spain’s most glorious frescoes gracing the ceiling. Then, climb up the El Miguelete bell tower for panoramic views of the city and its Gothic architecture.
For even more Gothic architectural gems, find your way to the nearby Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site with intricate Gothic and Renaissance features that was once at the center of Valencia’s thriving silk trade. It paints a perfect picture of Valencia during its golden age, when it was one of the richest and most successful cities on the Iberian Peninsula.
Another architectural gem is The City of Arts and Sciences, an instantly recognizable landmark designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava. This futuristic-looking complex houses an opera house, science museum, and IMAX theatre. Its striking modern design is a stark contrast to the city’s traditional buildings.
2. Enjoy Valencia’s Cuisine
No visit to Valencia is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. As the birthplace of paella, Valencia is renowned for its rice dishes. Lunch should be had at a restaurant overlooking the beach, sampling an authentic Valencia paella. That doesn’t mean seafood; instead, look to the paellas that contain rabbit, chicken, or even snails.
For a glimpse at the region’s fresh food, hit the city’s Central Market. This is one of the largest markets in Europe, with aisles and aisles of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood. There are even a few handy food stalls where you can grab a quick bite to eat. For dinner, nothing beats a tapas crawl through the city’s old town, bouncing from bar to bar and ordering a smattering of small plates at each as you go. This is the best way to eat in Valencia, and a great way to enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.
3. Soak up the City’s Natural Spaces
You’re in a Mediterranean city, so it makes sense to spend at least a little time lounging on one of Valencia’s pristine beaches, enjoying refreshing dips in the Med. Make the most of the sunny days and rent a bike, pedaling out toward Malvarrosa Beach, a lively spot lined with beachfront restaurants (perfect for that paella mentioned above). For a quieter experience, head to Patacona Beach or El Saler Beach, where the crowds are less, and the vibe is more tranquil.
If you’re visiting in winter, the beach is a no-go; instead, turn to the city’s green lung, Turia Gardens. This stunning park winds its way through the city, created on the former riverbed of the Turia River (which was diverted to prevent flooding). The lush greenery in the middle of the city offers a welcome respite in the heat as well, with shady areas for picnics, beautiful fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds. The paths winding through it all are ideal for aimless wandering, watching the life of families playing in the parks and picnicking on the lawns.
4. Get to Know the City’s Artsy Core
Valencia is a city brimming with culture and creativity. As you wander through the charming streets of El Carmen (one of the area’s that make up Valencia’s Old Town), you’ll discover a distinctly bohemian vibe. Squeezed into the narrow lanes and alleyways are art galleries, theatres, and music venues, making for a good spot to wander around.
Then, there’s the up-and-coming neighborhood of Ruzafa. This area has been booming since the early 2010s, and today it’s filled with independent stores and hip restaurants, cafés, and bars. Wandering through the streets here will turn up vintage clothing stores, local handicrafts, and plenty of other trendy spots for souvenirs, food, and drink. It’s a good glimpse into the city’s thriving creative scene.
5. Festivals and Celebrations
Valencia knows how to throw a party, and its festivals are some of the most exciting in Spain. Visit in March and you’ll have a chance to experience the utterly unforgettable Las Fallas festival, one of the wildest parties in Spain. Giant sculptures are paraded through the streets before being set ablaze in a spectacular display of fireworks and bonfires, and the city entirely gives itself over to lively street parties, live music, and non-stop celebration.
40km west of Valencia is the town of Buñol, the location of one of Spain’s most famous festivals: La Tomatina. For those who don’t know, this is when 20,000 revelers descend on the town for an impassioned tomato-throwing battle that must be seen to be believed.
6. Admire the Art of the Spanish Masters
Finally, for art lovers visiting Valencia, know that it’s home to the second largest collections of paintings in Spain inside the Museo de Bellas Artes. For anyone who has travelled in Spain you would know that’s no mean feat, so this museum is one worth checking out. It’s housed in a beautiful building with a blue dome that stands out in the cityscape. Inside, you’ll find works by famous artists such as JoaquÃn Sorolla, Francisco Goya, and El Greco, as well as one of the rare self-portraits by Diego Velázquez. It’s a veritable treasure trove of artwork from some of Spain’s best.