First the bad news. Valencia, Spain’s third biggest city, doesn’t have that iconic, must-see reason to visit. There’s no Sagrada Familia or Prado museum here, or anywhere near the number of sights Madrid and Barcelona have.
However, Valencia is still a fine place to visit. It is under two hours from Alicante and Madrid (though the latter is on an expensive high-speed train) and three hours from Barcelona. If it fits into your schedule, you’ll find a city that doesn’t feel as big as it actually is (the suburbs sprawl out much further than a tourist will ever see), with fine cuisine at good prices and a number of excellent museums.
Sights
1. Explore the Old Town
Explore the city center, starting with the two main squares (Plaza Ayuntamiento and Plaza Victoria).
2. Cathedral
Valencia’s cathedral is said to be home to the Holy Grail.
3. City of Arts and Sciences
This mega cultural center, designed by Calatrava, is host to a dolphin show, an IMAX movie theater, a science museum, and much more.
4. Port & Beach
Valencia’s revamped port area has played home to the America Cup in recent years and now hosts a Formula One Grand Prix every year. The beach is good as far as city beaches go, though there are better ones in the region.
5. Mercado Central
Valencia’s market is more spacious than the more famous Boqueria market in Barcelona, less touristy and not so expensive.
6. La Lonja
The old silk exchange looks like something out of Lord of the Rings.
7. Bullring
Valencia’s bullring is a modern design, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t get some good fighters occasionally, especially during the Fallas festival.
8. Turia River
The river Turia passed through the city until a 1957 flood forced the council to redirect it around the city. The former riverbed is now a park that snakes through the city. There’s also a fun Gulliver (from Gulliver’s Travels) children’s climbing frame.
9. Bioparc
Valencia’s self-proclaimed “new generation zoo” is within walking distance from the city center.
Day Trips
After a while, all cities can blur into one another. If you want to stretch your legs a little and get out of the metropolis, consider taking one of these day trips from Valencia.
10. Cuenca
A beautiful city on the way to Madrid, now accessible from Valencia by high-speed rail, famous for its ‘hanging houses’, dwellings that cling to the edge of a cliff.
11. Segorbe
A water park, cathedral, and aqueduct await visitors to Segorbe.
12. Castellon
The largest city between Valencia and Barcelona.
13. El Palmar
The rice fields where paella’s key ingredient was first grown. There are some good paella restaurants in the area.
14. Cueva de las Calaveras
Ancient caves with impressive stalagmites and stalactites that exemplify the wonders of nature.
15. Requeña
Valencia’s wine-producing town.
16. Xativa
A historic town with a scenic castle built on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views.
Cuisine
Valencia is at the heart of Spain’s reputation for great Mediterranean cuisine, with plenty of delicious food for you to try. However, the two dishes you must not leave the city without sampling are:
17. Paella
Spain’s most famous dish originates from Valencia. It’s a must-try while visiting!
18. Horchata
A refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, offering a unique flavor that’s a staple in Valencia.
Museums
Valencia’s museums may not hit the international headlines, but several are worth visiting.
19. MuVIM – Museu Valencia de la Il·lustració i la Modernitat
This museum features intriguing street photography and discussions on our modern world.
20. Toy Soldier Museum
A charming museum where toy soldiers re-enact significant historical eras, capturing the interest of young visitors.
21. Valencia’s Modern Art Institute
Pop art, sculpture, photography, and installations await art lovers at this dynamic museum.
22. Museo de Bellas Artes
This fine art museum lies next to the royal gardens, showcasing exquisite art.
23. Prehistoric and Ethnology Museums
Two fascinating museums, housed in the same building, next door to the modern art institute.
Things to Do in Valencia: Festivals
Valencia boasts two renowned festivals.
24. Tomatina Tomato Fight
The world’s most famous food fight, offering a unique and spirited experience.
25. Fallas
Valencia’s festival of bonfires and vibrant celebrations, blending pyrotechnics with cultural rituals.
