Dreaming of a vacation on Spain's Mediterranean coast? Then set your sights on Valencia! This great Spanish city promises you as many beautiful beaches as it does must-sees. Between city, sea, monuments, museums and water sports, Valencia has a lot to offer for a vacation. It's a city full of surprises, equally suited to couples and families with children. Discover our 19 must-sees to organize your next stay in Valencia.
1. The Barrio del Carmen, in Valencia's historic center
Barrio del Carmen© lunamarina - Adobe Stock
The Barrio del Carmen is right in the heart of Valencia. As you stroll through the city's picturesque streets, you'll come across this district and its sublime cathedral. The Barrio del Carmen lies to the northeast of the old town. The atmosphere here is relaxed, bohemian and festive! The new quarters, with their stores and restaurants, were built over the palaces and other buildings of the medieval era. So you'll find a very special charm, as well as a nice slice of history. If you're looking for a place to party in Valencia, we recommend the Calle de Caballeros. If you prefer to see relics of the past, head for the Plaza de Toros. Valencia's bullring awaits you!
To book valencia: Explore Valencia by booking this audio tour on a multi-stop bus. You hop on and off whenever you like on an itinerary that takes you to all the must-see places in the city.
2. City of Arts and Sciences
City of Arts and Sciences© Le Barrio del Carmen - Adobe Stock
With its futuristic, resolutely modern design, it's impossible to miss Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences! Its exterior architecture is impressive. The buildings have astonishing shapes, enhanced by the immense surrounding pools. Once you've admired the extraordinary exterior, the interior promises a wealth of new discoveries. Several spaces await you:
- Hemisphèric, with its huge Imax cinema.
- Oceanografic, Europe's largest aquarium (remember to book your entry in advance here at Oceanogràfic).
- Principe Felipe Science Museum, dedicated to technology and science(book your ticket to the Principe Felipe Science Museumhere ).
- The Queen Sofia Palace of the Arts, home to ballets, operas and concerts.
- Umbracle, a viewpoint at the entrance to the complex, offering incredible views.
- the Agora, for major sporting and cultural events, as well as congresses, exhibitions and concerts.
Its botanical garden is also exceptional. It's a must-see when you're on vacation in Valencia.
3. What to do in Valencia, Spain Visit the central market
Valencia Central Market© nickos - Adobe Stock
Valencia is a city with a lot to offer, and there's plenty to see and do. In the midst of your cultural and leisure visits, we invite you to discover its famous Mercado Central and its hundreds of stalls! The building itself, with its cathedral-like appearance, is well worth a visit. Inside, you'll find producers and sellers of regional products. Spanish gastronomy and its specialties await you at Valencia's central market, with meats and charcuterie on one side, and fruit and vegetables on the other. If you're looking for a good Iberian ham or 100% Spanish chorizo, you've come to the right place!
4. Valencia and its beaches
Valencia and its beaches© espiegle - Adobe Stock
In Valencia, you'll find all kinds of beaches. Some are more pleasant than others, and will allow you to relax between two cultural visits. North of the port of Valencia, you'll find the famous Malvarrosa beach(playa de Malvarrosa), one kilometer long. Here you'll find everything you need, with bars and restaurants lining the promenade. If you're further south, we recommend El Saler beach(Platja del Saler). Located right next to the Albufera nature park, which we'll also mention, you'll appreciate its fine, warm sand. It's a quiet beach surrounded by pine forests, perfect for relaxing or strolling.
Did you know? Valencia is one of the best destinations for vacations in April!
5. What to do in Valencia, Spain Go to Oceanogràfic
Oceanogràfic© Anna Maloverjan - Adobe Stock
We mentioned it earlier, and now we're going to show it to you in a big way! And big is the right word: 10 hectares in which to discover numerous marine species and habitats. Valencia'sOceanogràfic is one of the attractions of the Cité des arts et des sciences, with its giant water-lily-shaped aquarium. Fish, reptiles, aquatic birds, cetaceans, pinnipeds, etc. are just some of the animal species on display at this Valencian landmark. If you're taking the whole family on vacation to Valencia, this is a must-see and very interesting place to visit.
Tempted? Remember to book your admission in advance right here at Valencia Oceanogràfic.
6. The boat, to see Valencia from the sea
The boat, to see Valencia from the sea© Salva G. Cubells - Adobe Stock
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Valencia? Take the boat out to sea, to see and admire the Spanish coast in a different way. In and around Valencia, you can rent a boat with or without a license. If you don't have a boating license, a skipper will take you on a guided tour of the most beautiful spots. Some places are even ideal for swimming, for a day of 100% idleness! Dreaming of a sailboat trip near Valence? The Royal Club Nautique in Gandia, 1 hour away, is the place to be. You can also go sea kayaking if you wish.
Discover Valencia from the water by booking your catamaran cruise with sunset option right here : unforgettable moments guaranteed!
Read more: What to do in Spain The 21 most beautiful places to see
7. Visit Saint Mary's Cathedral in Valencia
Saint Mary's Cathedral, Valencia© Christophe Rubin - Adobe Stock
This Spanish cathedral is famous for good reason. It's the place where the Holy Chalice, used by Jesus Christ and his disciples during the Last Supper, is said to have been kept. This religious edifice is impressive in its own right, combining different architectural styles. Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles are all evident on the facades of Sainte-Marie de Valence Cathedral, offering tourists and locals alike an incredible monument to visit.
Want to visit Valencia on a budget? We advise you tobuy just here a tourist pass giving you access to over 15 museums and municipal monuments, including Sainte-Marie Cathedral!
Another option is a guided walking tour of Valencia's history, including visits to the Cathedral, the Church of St. Nicholas and the Lonja de la Seda (entrance tickets included).
8. What to do in Valencia, Spain Turia Gardens
Turia Gardens© twindesigner - Adobe Stock
When a catastrophe gives rise to a superb place to visit... This is the story of the Turia river, which overflowed its banks in 1957, causing a great deal of damage in the process. The river was subsequently diverted and its bed transformed into a green and poetic setting: theJardí del Túria ( Turia Gardens ). Walking through this natural setting, you'll discover palm-lined footpaths, gardens, pine groves and orange groves. If you ever find it hard to bear the heat of the Spanish sun, the Turia gardens will be a welcome breath of fresh air. Its fountains and shady spots are just waiting for you!
Click here to book your guided bike tour of Valencia, taking in the river Tùria and its gardens!
Interested in Valencia? We also recommend our 10 charming stops in the Valencia region!
9. Gulliver Park in the Turia Gardens
Gulliver Park in the Turia Gardens© dudlajzov - Adobe Stock
Let's stay a little longer in the Turia Gardens, to discover Gulliver Park. If you're traveling with the family and children, this is a visit not to be missed! Your children will feel like real Lilliputians in this timeless place. They'll be able to climb Gulliver, having fun on ramps, stairs and slides. Give your children time to explore this replica of a Gulliver lying on the ground and climbing... A pure moment of pleasure and discovery, that will remain engraved in their memories!
10. Valence Museum of Fine Arts
Valencia Museum of Fine Arts© Leonid Andronov - Adobe Stock
Do you love museums? Then your vacation in Valencia is the perfect opportunity to discover the Valencia Museum of Fine Arts. If you're visiting the city's historic center, this is the place to stop for a few hours. Lovers of painting and medieval religious art will be enchanted by the rich and fascinating collections. Valencian and Flemish painting will hold no secrets for you after your visit to this museum. Just like Madrid, Valencia has some very fine museums - it would be a shame to miss out!
11. What to do in Valencia, Spain Taste great Spanish food!
paella© michelangeloop - Adobe Stock
Vacations are also about discovering local gastronomy. In Valencia, and more generally in Spain, there are many succulent dishes to discover again and again. Paella is, of course, a must. We're not talking about the usual canned or frozen paëlla, but real Spanish paëlla! Renowned addresses such as La Papica serve this typical local dish and many others. At Vuelve Carolina, tortitas de camarones will delight your taste buds. And of course, what would Spanish culinary specialties be without the famous tapas? Many restaurants, such as La Pitusa, will introduce you to tapas as we know them so well in Spain! In Valencia, you'll also have the opportunity to sample a wide range of rice and fish dishes. Last but not least, don't leave without tasting THE typical drink of Valencia: chufa orxata, made from water, tigernuts and sugar.
12. Valencia: festivals not to be missed
Las Fallas de Valencia© Helena GARCIA - Adobe Stock
If you're vacationing in Valencia in spring, March is the best month to visit. It's during this month that the city's most famous festival takes place: the Las Fallas Festival. Its works of art, all made of wood and composite materials, are superb to behold and highly colorful. On the last day, the climax of the festival, these sculptures are burned to celebrate the arrival of spring. If you're visiting Valencia in summer, there' s a festival that takes place in August: the Festival de la Tomatina. It is held in Valencia's neighboring town of Buñol.
A word of advice: as the festival ends with a giant tomato battle, avoid wearing white on this day...
Numerous festivals, fiestas and férias await you in Valencia all year round. Make the most of it, because vacations are all about partying and relaxing! Also check out the 10 must-see music festivals in Spain.
13. What water sports activities are available in Valencia?
Windsurfing in Valencia© lunamarina - Adobe Stock
Do you enjoy water sports and outdoor activities on vacation? With Valence's proximity to the sea, you're in for a treat! On the program: windsurfing, stand-up paddling, jet-skiing... In addition to these activities, which can be enjoyed from Valence, others await you not far from the city: rafting, canyoning, canoeing-kayaking... So, if you prefer sports and water activities to cultural visits, Valence is the destination of choice.
For example, we recommend this jet ski excursion in Valence an unforgettable experience!
Petit Futé tip: Valencia is a good alternative to Barcelona when it comes to limiting mass tourism!
14. What to do in Valencia, Spain The city's botanical gardens
Botanical Garden, Valencia© REDMASON - Adobe Stock
Make way for a bit of calm and greenery! At Valencia's Botanical Garden, you can discover over 4,500 plant species. These include palms and exotic plants. The botanical garden is also located in the heart of the old town. It's a low-cost way to relax in the fresh air for a few moments.
15. Valencia's Lonja de la Seda
La Lonja de la Seda de Valence© citylights - Adobe Stock
On your way out of the Central Market one morning, you can continue your day with a visit to the Lonja de la Seda(Silk Hall). This Gothic building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the past, it was used as a sales and trading area, particularly for silk.
The exterior of this centuries-old building is impressive, with its Gothic architecture. Inside, with its columns, tower and halls, you'll discover a unique place, as well as a small piece of the history of this beautiful city. During your vacation, this is a must-see, as it is the best representative of Valencia's golden age.
16. The Miguelete, its tower, its cathedral
The Miguelete© Mistervlad - Adobe Stock
The cathedral now visible on this site replaced a former mosque. Today, the building bears the architectural traces of several eras and influences, but is nonetheless superb. The Holy Grail has been kept here since the 15th century. El Miguelete is in fact the former minaret of the mosque, a vestige of another era. You can climb it to get a closer look, after climbing just over 200 steps. From the top of the El Miguelete tower, a true symbol of the city of Valencia, you'll have a superb view of the historic heart.
17. What to do in Valencia, Spain Albufera Natural Park
Albufera Natural Park© OjoVertical - Adobe Stock
Take a breath of fresh air and visit the Albufera Natural Park, one of the most beautiful natural parks in the Valencia Region. Located to the south of Valencia, it's home to a lively lagoon. To better understand this unique place, you can visit it by boat on a guided tour. Birdwatchers will be delighted to stroll and recharge their batteries in this unspoilt area, home to thousands of birds. During the day, you can relax on the El Saler beach we've already mentioned, which lies not far from here. This natural park is an interesting visit to consider after partying and exploring the city and its cultural wonders. It's a real relaxing interlude with a vacation flavour!
Click here to book your excursion to the Albufera Nature Park from Valencia: you'll take a 30-minute boat trip on the lake, enjoy a typical lunch and admire the rice fields.
18. The silk museum
Valencia Silk Museum© David Andres - Adobe Stock
Valencia's Silk Museum offers a glimpse into the city's history. Although very interesting, it is more suitable for adults than children. The museum is housed in a building dating back to the 15thcentury , now in Baroque style. Beautiful artistic remains have been renovated over the years, such as the frescoes in the main hall and the superb tapestries.
Today, the Silk Museum houses precious archives such as manuscripts, old books, archive boxes...all of which provide a better understanding of the history of this part of Spain.
19. What to do in Valencia, Spain A trip to the city's biopark
Valencia Biopark© twindesigner - Adobe Stock
This last visit will delight the kids: the Valencia Biopark, located northwest of the Turia Gardens. Over 100 species of animal, including African fauna, can be found here. Dry or wet savannah, equatorial forest or Madagascan rainforest: different worlds come together at the Valencia biopark. You'll discover the "zoo immersion" concept, which replaces the animals' usual "prison fences" with natural barriers. Each animal is staged so that both animals and visitors feel as if they are in Africa, in a natural environment. This is one of the strong points of this biopark: it's not a classic zoo, but a place for raising public awareness and learning.
Go here to book your ticket for Bioparc Valencia: you'll see lions, giraffes, lemurs and hippos in areas dedicated to different ecosystems.
Where to stay in Valencia, Spain
Valencia's city center is ideal for your stay. As we've seen in this guide, there are plenty of interesting places to visit! You'll also have access to a wide range of public transport options. Among the various accommodation options in Valencia, here are our favorites:
- The most central in Valencia: Hostal Antigua Morellana
If you decide to stay in the city center, we recommend the Hostal Antigua Morellana, right next to the Mercado Central. With its friendly atmosphere, spacious rooms, comfort and affordable prices, this is undoubtedly a good address in Valencia, which you can book right here.
- The most luxurious: the Westin Valencia
If you prefer to stay in a luxury establishment, the Westin Valencia, housed in a 19th-century building, is ideal. With its spa, swimming pool and Art Deco rooms, this hotel knows how to treat its guests with taste. Its chic café, gardens and cocktail bar will delight vacationers looking for a luxurious place to stay in Valencia. Tempted by this little folly? Click here to to book your stay!
- Closest to the beach: the Miramar Hotel
For a mid-range budget between these two hotels, we recommend the Miramar Hotel, bookable here, facing Las Arenas beach. It's ideally placed for holidaymakers looking above all to enjoy the beaches. Its little plus? A solarium and lounge area, combined with comfortable rooms. Excellent Spanish gastronomic specialties are also served in the restaurant. Click here to find out more about availability at this establishment!
Getting around Valencia in Spain
If you're planning to stay in Valencia itself, it's a good idea to use public transport. The city has streetcar, bus and metro services to get you to all the places you want to visit. This means you don't have to rent a car and drive into an unfamiliar city. You can discover the city on foot, with a little help from public transport where necessary.
However, a car (your own or a rental) is an excellent option if you don't mind driving in a foreign city. This option will allow you to get off the beaten track. There are many worthwhile sights outside Valencia that you can visit yourself. Vilafamès, for example, is less than an hour's drive from Valencia and is one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
An important point there's plenty of parking in Valencia. So you'll be able to park easily.
How do I get to Valencia in Spain?
The quickest way to reach Valencia is by plane. This vacation destination is available from France's main airports: Lyon, Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nantes, etc. You'll reach your destination in an average of 2 hours. Remember to book your plane tickets early. You'll not only be sure to have space left, but also to benefit from the best fares. If you're going away for a weekend, flying is the best option. You'll have more time to visit the city and its treasures. Or would you prefer to explore the Spanish coast between France and Valencia? If so, you can reach your vacation destination by car. You'll pass through Barcelona, which is well worth a stop if you have time, via the AP-7 freeway and the E-15.
Valencia is one of Spain's most attractive cities. It has everything you could wish for on vacation: sandy beaches, cultural outings, festive events, lazing around, nature in the vicinity... Whether you're looking to combine all of these, or are a fan of certain activities in particular, you're bound to find what you're looking for in Valence. Valence's strategic location by the sea means you're sure to find plenty to do. So enjoy your vacations, and who knows? Maybe next year you'll discover Seville or another of Spain's great cities! Whether you're in Andalusia in the south of Spain, on the coast or in the heart of the country, there are many wonderful places to spend your vacation in this Iberian country.
Find out more about the trendiest things to do in Valencia, Spain:
