Valencia is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, favoured for its rich history, thriving food scene and culture. It has beautiful architecture, seaside activities and markets where you can find all sorts of treasures. No matter what you’re looking for, or the sort of traveller you are, when you’re here, you’re guaranteed to find so much to love. Here we’ve put together a few unforgettable things to do in Valencia to really make your trip one you will never forget. Keep reading to find out more.
Take a wander through the old town
Start your visit to Valencia in El Carmen, Valencia’s historic heart of the city. Here you can meander through winding streets lined with medieval buildings, quirky cafés, and lively plazas. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like La Lonja de la Seda, a Gothic silk exchange and UNESCO World Heritage site, or the majestic Valencia Cathedral, where you can climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic city views.
Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
A true modern icon of Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences is an architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava. This futuristic complex houses the Oceanogràfic (Europe’s largest aquarium), the Museu de les Ciències (interactive science museum), and the Hemisfèric (IMAX cinema and planetarium). It’s perfect for families, culture lovers, and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Go shopping
Valencia is a great city for shopping lovers, whether you’re hunting for fashion, local crafts, or something unique to take home. Stroll through the boutiques around Calle Colón and the charming independent stores in Ruzafa. For music lovers in particular, there’s a thriving vinyl scene worth exploring. Check out the Travel Gentlemen’s guide to vinyl shops in Valencia which offers a rundown of the best record stores in the city. Whether you’re into classic rock, jazz, or Spanish indie, these shops offer a fun way to discover local culture through music!
Feast on the cuisine
Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and trying this iconic dish here is a must. Head to traditional eateries in the El Palmar area or around the Albufera Natural Park to sample authentic Valenciana paella cooked over a wood fire. Beyond paella, explore local favorites like horchata (a refreshing tiger nut drink), fartons, fresh seafood, and tapas in the bustling Central Market — one of Europe’s largest covered markets.
Head to the beach
No trip to Valencia is complete without a visit to the beach. Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas are both popular spots to soak up the sun. Here you can enjoy long stretches of golden sand, a leisurely lunch in a beachside restaurant and a swim in the sea.
These are just a few things you can do when in Valencia to ensure you make the most of your trip. Whether you’re a foodie, you love arts and culture, or if you just want to relax on a beach, there’s something for everyone. What are some of the top things you like to do when you are in Valencia? Let us know your top tips!
Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric: https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-photography-of-city-1388030/
