Exploring Things to Do in Valencia, Spain

Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is a vibrant and colourful metropolis located on the Mediterranean Sea. With its world-class architecture, stunning beaches, and exciting nightlife, it’s no wonder that Valencia is becoming a popular tourist destination.

From exploring the ancient city centre to soaking up the sun on one of the many beaches, Valencia has something for everyone. Read on to discover the must-see attractions, unique activities, and top-rated restaurants in this beautiful Spanish city.

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most iconic attractions in Valencia. Designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this incredible complex of buildings is a sight to behold. With its futuristic architecture, the City of Arts and Sciences is a must-see for any visitor to Valencia.

The complex is made up of six distinct buildings, each with its own unique design. The Hemisfèric is an IMAX cinema and planetarium, the Museu de les Ciències Principe Felipe is a science museum, the Umbracle is a landscaped walkway, the Oceanografic is an aquarium, and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia is an opera house and performing arts centre.

The City of Arts and Sciences is the perfect place to spend the day exploring and admiring the spectacular architecture.

Explore the Historic Centre

No visit to Valencia would be complete without exploring the city’s historic centre. Here, visitors can discover the city’s fascinating history and unique culture. Start your exploration at Plaza de la Reina, where you can admire the grand 15th-century basilica and the stunning Gothic architecture of the town hall.

Continue your journey through the historic centre to Plaza de la Virgen, where you can visit the impressive Valencia Cathedral. This spectacular Gothic building houses a variety of religious artifacts and artworks, as well as the Shrine of the Virgin of the Forsaken, one of the city’s most important landmarks.

Take a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of the historic centre, admiring the beautiful buildings and stopping for a spot of lunch at one of the many cafés.

Go Shopping in the City Centre

Valencia is a great place to go shopping. From the bustling El Carmen district to the chic boutiques of Calle Colón, there’s something for everyone in the city centre.

Head to El Carmen to browse the vibrant street markets and explore the quirky independent shops selling unique gifts and handmade crafts. For something a little more upmarket, take a stroll down Calle Colón, where you’ll find an array of luxury stores and designer boutiques.

There’s also a wealth of art galleries, antique shops, and bookstores to explore, so make sure you leave plenty of time for shopping during your visit to Valencia.

Relax on the Beach

Valencia is blessed with a fantastic selection of beaches. From the bustling Las Arenas beach to the tranquil Malvarrosa beach, there’s something for everyone.

Las Arenas is the perfect place to soak up the sun and watch the world go by. Here, you can sunbathe on the golden sands and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Malvarrosa beach is ideal for those looking for a more peaceful experience. Here, you can relax on the secluded beach and admire the stunning views of the city skyline.

Taste the Local Cuisine

Valencia is known for its delicious cuisine, so make sure you leave plenty of time to sample the local dishes. From the renowned paella to the fresh seafood of the Mediterranean, there’s something to suit all tastes.

Head to Barrio del Carmen for a true taste of Valencian cuisine. Here, you can sample the traditional tapas dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local bars and restaurants.

For something a little more refined, visit one of the city’s many fine-dining restaurants, where you can sample the best of Valencian cuisine in a luxurious setting.

Visit the Turia Gardens

The Turia Gardens are a must-see for any visitor to Valencia. This 9km stretch of lush green parkland is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Stroll through the gardens, admiring the colourful flowers and lush trees, or take a leisurely bike ride along the winding paths. The gardens are also home to a number of attractions, including the Bioparc Valencia, a zoo and wildlife park, and the L’Umbracle, an outdoor sculpture garden.

The Turia Gardens are the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon in Valencia.

Take a Boat Trip

Valencia is a great place for a boat trip. From the bustling port of Alicante to the tranquil beaches of Benidorm, there’s plenty to explore.

Cruise along the coast, admiring the stunning views of the coastline and the picturesque islands. Stop off at one of the many beaches and take a dip in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dive into the deep and explore the hidden caves and shipwrecks beneath the sea.

Visit the La Lonja de la Seda

The La Lonja de la Seda is one of Valencia’s most iconic attractions. This historic building, built in the 15th century, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Take a tour of the building and explore the grand hall, the intricate carvings, and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Admire the ornate ceilings and the exquisite marble floors, and take a few moments to appreciate the beauty of this historic building.

The La Lonja de la Seda is the perfect place to explore the city’s rich history and culture.

Explore the Nightlife

Valencia is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, and there’s something for everyone. From the lively clubs of El Carmen to the sophisticated bars of Calle Colon, there’s plenty to explore.

Take a stroll down El Carmen and explore the bustling bars and clubs. Dance the night away in one of the many discos, or grab a drink and people-watch in one of the lively cafés.

For something a little more refined, head to Calle Colon, where you can find a selection of chic bars and cocktail lounges. Here, you can enjoy a sophisticated evening of cocktails and conversation.

Visit Albufera National Park

Located just outside of Valencia, Albufera National Park is a stunning nature reserve. Here, you can take a peaceful boat ride through the wetlands and admire the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Explore the park’s vast network of trails, stopping to admire the native wildlife and take in the tranquil atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the park’s many species of birds, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

Albufera National Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

Take a Day Trip to Alicante

Alicante is a popular day-trip destination for visitors to Valencia. Just a short train ride from the city centre, this coastal city is a great place to explore.

Start your day at the Alicante Castle, where you can admire the stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Then explore the old town, taking a stroll along the picturesque streets and admiring the historic buildings.

Finish your day with a relaxing stroll along the beach. Admire the golden sands and soak up the sun on one of the many beaches.

Visit the Albufera Nature Reserve

Located just outside of Valencia, the Albufera Nature Reserve is a stunning protected area. Here, you can explore the tranquil wetlands and admire the native wildlife.

Take a boat ride through the wetlands, stopping to admire the many species of birds and the lush vegetation. Then take a stroll through the nature reserve, stopping to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Albufera Nature Reserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

Summary

Valencia is an exciting and vibrant city, with something for everyone. From exploring the City of Arts and Sciences to admiring the stunning architecture of the historic centre, there’s plenty to see and do. Relax on the beach, explore the local cuisine, and take a day trip to Alicante. There’s something for everyone in Valencia, so make sure you leave plenty of time to explore this beautiful Spanish city.