Things To Do
in Valencia
Valencia, Ecuador is a small, leafy city in Los Ríos Province, situated along fertile river plains and offers a relaxed rural-urban blend. The town thrives on agriculture, river life, and a welcoming community that gathers in plazas and markets. The architecture mixes colonial touches with modest, modern buildings, giving a sense of timeless Ecuadorian character.
This peaceful base is ideal for exploring the river valleys and nearby green hills of the coastal Ecuadorian region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the impressive Cathedral of Valencia, where you can admire its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque Plaza de la Independencia, where local vendors offer fresh fruits and traditional snacks. Don't forget to stop by the nearby Municipal Museum to appreciate local art and culture.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling local dishes like ceviche and patacones. Afterward, explore the cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings, taking in the charm of Valencia's architecture. Visit the San Francisco Church, known for its beautiful façade and tranquil atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to the bustling food market to experience Valencia's vibrant culinary scene. Indulge in various street foods, from empanadas to grilled meats, while mingling with locals. End your evening at a cozy bar, sipping on a refreshing canelazo as you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Start your morning at the Mercado Central, a lively marketplace filled with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and sample exotic fruits such as maracuyá and guanábana. The vibrant atmosphere and fragrant scents will awaken your senses and provide a glimpse into daily life in Valencia.
After your market adventure, take a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Ecuadorian dishes using ingredients sourced from the market. Enjoy the fruits of your labor during a communal lunch, sharing stories and laughter with fellow food enthusiasts. Post-lunch, visit the nearby artisan market to browse unique handmade souvenirs.
As evening approaches, make your way to a local cultural center for a folkloric dance performance showcasing traditional Ecuadorian music and dance. The lively rhythms and colorful costumes will captivate you and offer a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage. Cap off the night with a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the cool breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and easygoing vibe
- Affordable costs and local cuisine
- Compact center making it easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some streets can be dusty or uneven for wheelchair users
- Limited English spoken outside tourist spots
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in Valencia
Visit one of these nice places.
A colonial-style plaza framed by a church and market stalls, ideal for street photography and golden-hour portraits.
Scenic riverfront with boats, palm-lined walkways, and colorful sunsets over the water.
Bridges and overlooks offering panoramic views across the river valley and farmland.
Food in Valencia
Valencia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish simmered in coconut milk with peppers and herbs, typically served with rice and yuca.
Must-Try!
A comforting fish soup with yuca, onions, and cilantro—a popular breakfast or lunch option.
Rice with a bean or lentil stew and a portion of meat, a staple family dish.
Fried plantain slices layered with melty cheese; simple and satisfying.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market with fresh produce, river fish, herbs, and quick street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días/tardes,’ use polite language, and ask about family or health; modest behavior in public spaces.
Dress casually but respectfully, especially in religious sites; avoid loud behavior and be mindful of personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Valencia
Ensure a smooth experience
In many restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if not included. Rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash is widely accepted; credit and debit cards are increasingly common. The currency is USD.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with little rain; ideal for outdoor activities and longer daytime visits; evenings are comfortable.
Humidity and frequent brief showers; lush greenery and vibrant landscapes, though plan for rain gear and indoor options during showers.
Valencia at Night
Hiking in Valencia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle 3–5 km loop along the riverbank with birdlife and water views.
A hillside path to a lookout with panoramic views of the valley and farmland.
Airports
How to reach Valencia by plane.
Guayaquil's international gateway; the main nearest major airport for the region, about 100–150 km away by road depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnicity in Valencia and the Los Ríos region, representing mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
A blend of farmers and city dwellers who contribute to the town’s economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport region-wide, with local matches and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valencia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Dishes can be adapted; look for vegetarian soups, rice with beans, plantains, fresh salads, and sides like vegetables or mushrooms. When in doubt, request 'sin carne' (no meat) or 'sin pescado' (no fish).