Valencia

Written by Celine Fournier, David Garcia, Javier Garcia
31/08/2025
Stunning view of the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain, showcasing modern architecture under a dynamic sky.
Dominik😎, Pexels

Valencia presents itself as a dynamic destination, seamlessly blending a rich historical past with striking modern architecture. Visitors discover a city celebrated for its authentic gastronomy, particularly as the birthplace of paella, alongside expansive green spaces and accessible city beaches.

The neighborhoods of Ruzafa and El Carmen offer vibrant areas for socializing, featuring a lively array of bars, cafes, art studios, and nightlife popular with both locals and travelers. The historic Old Town also provides numerous spots to enjoy food and drink in a bustling atmosphere.

Top 7 Things to do in Valencia

Valencia offers a diverse range of experiences, from futuristic architectural marvels and immersive marine life encounters to historic city exploration, vibrant market visits, relaxing beach days, and authentic culinary journeys.

1. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences and L'Oceanogràfic

Discover the architectural wonders of the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava. You can wander through the open-air gardens of L'Umbracle or marvel at the exterior of the Hemisfèric and Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía. The highlight for many is L'Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium, where you can observe a vast array of marine species from different ecosystems, including sharks in a submarine tunnel. It is an engaging experience suitable for all ages. You can also visit the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum for interactive exhibits that spark scientific curiosity. To truly appreciate the design, consider visiting at sunset when the lighting creates stunning reflections.

Cost: Access to the City of Arts and Sciences complex itself is free, though individual attractions require tickets. L'Oceanogràfic tickets typically start from €35 for adults. Combined tickets for 2-3 attractions are available and can offer savings. The Umbracle and Ágora exteriors are free to visit.

Transport: The City of Arts and Sciences is easily reachable from the city center. You can take Metro Line 10 to Ciutat Arts i Ciències – Justícia station (approx. 9-15 minutes from Russafa/Alacant stations) or several bus lines (e.g., 1, 13, 15, 19, 35, 95). A single bus or metro ticket costs around €1.50-€2. You can also enjoy a pleasant 25-minute walk through the Turia Gardens from Alameda metro station or rent a bike for a scenic ride.

2. Wander Through Valencia's Historic Old Town (Ciutat Vella)

Step back in time by exploring the winding medieval streets of Ciutat Vella. Here, you will encounter significant landmarks like the Valencia Cathedral, which houses the Holy Grail and offers panoramic views from its Miguelete Tower after a climb of approximately 207 steps. You can also admire the Gothic architecture of La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the ornate Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas, home to the National Ceramics Museum. The charming Plaza de la Virgen and Plaza de la Reina are perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere.

Cost: Entry to Valencia Cathedral (including Micalet Tower and Museum) is typically around €8-€9. La Lonja de la Seda entrance costs approximately €2, with free entry on Sundays. The Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas (National Ceramics Museum) entrance is around €3, also with free entry on Sundays.

Transport: Most of the Old Town is best explored on foot. It is centrally located and easily accessible by walking from most central accommodations. Public buses also serve the periphery of the Old Town.

3. Experience the Vibrancy of Mercado Central (Central Market)

Immerse yourself in daily Valencian life at the Mercado Central, one of Europe's oldest and largest operational food markets, housed in a stunning Modernist building. The market is a sensory feast, brimming with over a thousand stalls selling fresh local produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and spices. It's an ideal place to sample local delicacies, grab a fresh juice, or even enjoy tapas at one of the market bars. Visiting in the morning is recommended to experience its lively atmosphere at its peak.

Cost: Entry to the Central Market is free. Costs will vary depending on purchases and food sampled.

Transport: Located directly in the heart of the Old Town, the Central Market is within easy walking distance of most major historical sites like La Lonja de la Seda and Valencia Cathedral. Several bus lines and metro stations (e.g., Colon, Xàtiva, Angel Guimera) are within a 5-10 minute walk.

4. Relax and Recreate in Turia Gardens

Discover a unique urban oasis in the Turia Gardens, a nine-kilometer-long park created in the former riverbed of the Turia River. This expansive green space offers a tranquil escape with lush landscapes, walking and cycling paths, sports facilities, and playgrounds. It connects significant parts of the city, from Cabecera Park to the City of Arts and Sciences. You can rent a bicycle or tandem to explore its full length, enjoy a picnic, or simply stroll among the palm trees, orange trees, and fountains. The park also features Gulliver Park, a giant playground, perfect for families.

Cost: Access to Turia Gardens is free. Bicycle rentals typically range from €5-€15 for a few hours to a full day.

Transport: The Turia Gardens stretch across the city and are easily accessible. You can reach different sections via various metro stops (e.g., Turia, Alameda) or numerous bus lines. Walking or cycling along its paths is a popular way to explore.

5. Unwind at Malvarrosa Beach

Enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine and sea breeze at Malvarrosa Beach, one of Valencia's urban beaches. This expansive sandy stretch is easily accessible from the city center, offering a perfect spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and various water sports. You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, lined with restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional paella, or rent equipment for activities like paddle surfing, windsurfing, or jet skiing. It's a great place to experience the city's coastal charm.

Cost: Access to the beach is free. Sunbed and umbrella rentals vary. Water sports rentals (e.g., 1-hour paddle surf rental) can cost around €10-€15, and windsurfing lessons might start from €40-€50 for a group.

Transport: Malvarrosa Beach is approximately 30 minutes from the city center. Several bus lines (e.g., routes that include beach access) provide direct service. A single bus ticket is around €1.50-€2. Taxis are also readily available.

6. Indulge in an Authentic Paella Experience

As the birthplace of paella, Valencia offers an unparalleled opportunity to savor this iconic Spanish dish. You can join a paella cooking class to learn the traditional methods and ingredients, providing a hands-on cultural immersion into Valencian cuisine. Alternatively, seek out authentic paella at local restaurants, particularly those along the beachfront or renowned establishments in the city. This culinary experience is a fundamental part of visiting Valencia.

Cost: A paella cooking class with market visit often ranges from €50-€80 per person. An authentic paella meal in a restaurant can vary, but expect to pay around €15-€30 per person.

Transport: Cooking classes or restaurants are often located in the city center or beachfront areas. These are accessible by walking, public bus, or metro.

7. Explore Ruzafa and El Carmen Neighborhoods

Experience the vibrant social scene and local culture by exploring the Ruzafa and El Carmen neighborhoods. Ruzafa is known for its trendy atmosphere, with an array of bars, cafes, independent boutiques, and art studios. El Carmen, nestled within the Old Town, offers a bohemian charm with narrow medieval streets, colorful street art, and a lively nightlife. Both districts are excellent for evening strolls, enjoying tapas, or experiencing Valencia's dynamic social life.

Cost: Exploring these neighborhoods is free, with costs dependent on personal spending for food, drinks, and shopping.

Transport: Both Ruzafa and El Carmen are central and easily walkable from many parts of the city. El Carmen is part of the Old Town. Ruzafa is a short walk from the city center, and both are well-served by public transport.

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