Summary
Spain’s third-largest city, sun-soaked Valencia is unparalleled when it comes to captivating experiences. Over more than 2000 years, its character-filled streets have been molded by builders with grand visions, beginning with the Romans who arrived here in 138 BCE to the modern architects who regard the city as a canvas for their creativity.
The outcome is a remarkable array of sights and attractions.
Stunning buildings emerge at every turn, from ancient monuments to avant-garde installations. Culture enthusiasts are drawn here for a vibrant arts scene, while culinary aficionados indulge in local specialties – whether a traditional paella or exquisitely prepared cheesecake at a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the main market.
From remarkable architecture to hidden galleries, here is your guide to the foremost experiences in Valencia.
1. Marvel at otherworldly architecture
Valencia’s most visually striking attraction, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, is a requisite destination for any traveler. Spanning a 1.5km (1-mile) stretch of the historic Turia riverbed, the complex predominantly features the work of the renowned local architect Santiago Calatrava. While the development has sparked considerable debate due to financial overruns and design controversies, it remains an awe-inspiring spectacle and notably family-friendly. If you’re seeking a place for lunch, the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía houses the Contrapunto Les Arts, which features a terrace ideal for relaxation. Settle into a wicker chair and savor stunning vistas of the turquoise ponds.
Detour: Are you a fan of Calatrava’s architectural style? Explore his lesser-known structures throughout the city, such as the Alameda metro station (Estación de Alameda) from 1995. Completed three years prior to Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, its signature flowing shapes and radiant trencadís tiles unmistakably reflect the master’s influence.
2. Climb the cathedral’s bell tower
Many visitors come to the Catedral de Valencia to view the Roman-era agate cup claimed to be the Holy Grail or to admire the opulent Italianate frescoes. However, another way to appreciate this 13th-century gem is by ascending the 207 steps of its bell tower. The tightly spiraled staircase leads to a terrace offering captivating views (if you stand on your toes, you can even catch a glimpse of the sea). The 7.5-ton bell known as El Miguelete tolls every hour, and it’s quite loud – best avoided unless you seek an exhilarating surprise. Arrive early to avoid long waits and bring cash for the entry fee of €2.50.
Local tip: You may notice several expectant mothers lingering by the cathedral’s nave. They are not merely getting their exercise; they are here to see the Virgen del Coro, located just behind the altar. It is said that if one walks around the cathedral’s perimeter nine times, she will bless them with a healthy delivery.
3. Fall in love with almuerzo
In Spanish, almuerzo translates to lunch; however, in Valencia, it signifies something altogether different. Also referred to as esmorzaret in the local language, Valenciano, almuerzo is a substantial second breakfast, enjoyed around 11 a.m. The centerpiece is a colossal sandwich (bocadillo), accompanied by peanuts, olives, and a beer – although wine with sparkling water is also customary. It concludes with a cremaet, which is coffee with flambéed rum, lemon, and cinnamon.
This memorable meal has its origins in helping laborers sustain their energy before a demanding workday; today, it is a cherished local tradition. One of its appealing aspects is its inclusive nature: irrespective of age, gender, or profession, everyone eagerly participates in a messy bocadillo. If you wish to partake, visit La Pergola and order the superbonbón, or head to Nuevo Oslo in western Valencia, where owner Raúl proclaims himself “king of almuerzo” and distributes plastic crowns.
4. Feast on local delicacies at Mercado Central
Arrive with an appetite at the Mercado Central: this stained-glass Modernista structure is where you’ll discover the freshest vegetables, juiciest fruit, and most aromatic cheese in the city. Inside, merchants engage in friendly banter beside mounds of sun-ripened cherries while visitors marvel at tomatoes that resemble teapots in size. The cheesecake at Solaz is a must-try – crafted by the team from the double-Michelin-starred Ricard Camarena Restaurant. Given the popularity of the market, it is advisable to arrive as early as possible. Enjoy breakfast at Central Bar (opening at 9 a.m.) and observe as the market comes to life.
Local tip: Visit Mercado Rojas Clemente in western Valencia, a smaller and more laid-back market with equally delightful vendors. Here, you can find mini organic watermelons at Terra i Xufa, and exceptional cold brew coffee at Ki’bok. Outside, Bar Restaurante Rojas Clemente is a straightforward venue renowned for its almuerzo-time bocadillo.
5. Unwind in an urban oasis
Secluded from the hustle and bustle yet conveniently accessible from the central Barrio del Carmen, Jardín Botánico serves as a lush sanctuary perfect for morning walks or tranquil evening strolls (open until 8 p.m.). Established in the 16th century, this botanical garden found its ultimate location in 1802, with educational botanical classes held here during the 19th century before it fell into disuse. A decade-long restoration project culminated in 2000, rehabilitating historical elements while introducing new attractions, including the grand orchid and fern glasshouses.
6. Cycle Spain’s largest urban park
One of the paramount reasons Valencia appears so green and open is the magnificent Jardines del Turia, a 9km (5.5-mile) ribbon of verdant parkland that extends from the city to the coastline. The optimal way to appreciate this space is by bicycle (Happy Tourist Center offers stylish B’Twin models). Navigate into the park from anywhere within the city center, then head southeast toward the ocean. Pedal past the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and proceed to Playa de la Patacona to discover La más Bonita, a bohemian café equipped with a relaxed terrace on the beachfront.
7. Visit the birthplace of paella
Located south of Valencia’s city center, the Parque Natural de la Albufera is recognized as the birthplace of paella. Here, rice fields encircle a 27-sq-km (10.5-sq-mile) freshwater lagoon. In the town of El Palmar, restaurants serve this iconic dish in exceptionally large pans, employing only ingredients that would have been locally available to their ancestors. Plan ahead to order the award-winning house paella at Bon Aire, and reserve the terrace for picturesque views of the adjacent paddies. Sunday afternoons are lively, filled with families enjoying animated discussions while sharing servings of rice straight from the pan.
Local tip: In Valencia, there is only one authentic type of paella, made with rice, rabbit, chicken, garrofón (white beans), and occasionally snails. Any other variation is considered “rice with things.” While other rice dishes remain popular (such as arroz del senyoret, rice with bite-sized seafood), the locals would never categorize them as paella.
8. Discover hidden art galleries in Russafa
While the artistic neighborhood of Russafa has grown in popularity recently, there remain lesser-explored corners, and seeking out its hidden galleries will reveal the district’s innovative spirit. Start at Sporting Club Russafa, a community-oriented arts center housed in a spacious old warehouse, where artists work in open studios and interact with visitors. The diminutive Gabinete de Dibujos is so discreetly marked that discovering it feels like a genuine accomplishment. Ring the doorbell to be granted access to this cozy gallery, where exhibitions are loosely linked to the theme of drawing.
Detour: Just a three-minute walk from Sporting Club Russafa, Buñolería El Contraste is a nostalgic bar renowned for serving the finest buñuelos (a delightful deep-fried treat made with pumpkin) in the city, handcrafted by fourth-generation buñolero Mariano, who proudly states that they make for an excellent breakfast.
This article was initially published on November 23, 2021, and updated on October 5, 2024.
