Things To Do
in Canals
Canals is a charming Valencian town set amid olive groves and rural farmland. Its historic center preserves whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, and a riverside atmosphere that invites strolls. The town offers a relaxed pace of life, friendly locals, and easy access to both nature and nearby Valencia.
From vibrant markets to riverside views, Canals makes a great base for day trips along the coast and into the hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely boat ride through the picturesque Albufera Natural Park, surrounded by rice fields and tranquil waters. As the sun rises, the beauty of the landscape comes alive, providing perfect photo opportunities of the serene environment. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of 'tostada' with fresh tomatoes and olive oil at a local café before setting off for the day.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of nearby Valencia. Visit the bustling Central Market to sample local delicacies and experience the lively atmosphere created by the vendors. After indulging in a delicious lunch, explore the unique architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences and the nearby canals.
As the sun sets, head to a quaint riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor authentic paella while overlooking the illuminated canals. Let the ambiance draw you in as you relax and enjoy the sound of gentle lapping waters. After dinner, take a calming stroll along the water’s edge, soaking in the beauty of the night sky reflected on the surface of the canals.
Start your day in Cuenca, renowned for its hanging houses and scenic gorge. Wander through the streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, taking in the stunning medieval architecture while enjoying a cup of locally roasted coffee. Don’t miss the breathtaking viewpoint at the Puente de San Pablo, giving you a stunning view of the city and the canyon below.
After lunch in the charming old town, embark on a guided tour of the Cuenca Museum to delve into the region's rich history. Take a leisurely walk along the Huécar River, following the path that runs parallel to the beautiful canals that connect this unique town's waterways. Admire the art installations and gardens that adorn the riversides, making it a perfect spot for photos.
In the evening, dine at one of the local eateries, featuring seasonal dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Later, attend a cultural performance at the local theater, showcasing Cuenca's rich artistic heritage. End your day with a quiet, reflective walk through the cobbled streets, feeling the historical charm of the town envelop you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly) | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.50-1.80 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Excellent local cuisine and markets
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Good base for day trips to Valencia and coast
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Less English widely spoken outside tourist areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Opciones vegetarianas" - Vegetarian options
Places to Visit in Canals
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic church with a charming plaza; great for golden hour photography.
Stone arch bridge with reflections in the water and quiet mornings.
Wide, shaded paths ideal for sunset shots and birdwatching.
Vibrant street scenes with colorful facades and daily market life.
Food in Canals
Canals Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Valencian paella prepared with chicken, rabbit, saffron, and short-grain rice.
Must-Try!
Oven-baked rice with pork sausage, chickpeas, tomatoes, and paprika.
Seafood noodles cooked in a rich broth and finished with almonds and lemon.
Chilled tiger-nut drink served with sweet, fluffy fritters.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic town market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and regional specialties.
A row of tapas bars and stalls along the main street with local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake; among friends a kiss on both cheeks is common.
Keep hands visible when eating, use utensils properly, and wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Some shops close in the afternoon for a siesta; plan accordingly.
Residential areas have quiet hours late at night; avoid loud noise after 11pm.
Safety
Tipping in Canals
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; in bars and cafes a small tip of 5-10% is common for good service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; some smaller places may take only cash. Some establishments may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes; ideal for city walks and hill hikes.
Hot days; carry water, seek shade, plan early morning activities; coastal breezes can bring relief.
Pleasant weather with autumn colors; great for photography and food markets.
Milder winters with some rainy days; plenty of indoor activities and fewer crowds.
Canals at Night
Hiking in Canals
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged hills and pine forests with panoramic views; drive from Canals to Enguera.
Coastal trails along the Valencia coast with sea views; reachable by bus or car.
Airports
How to reach Canals by plane.
Large international airport; 60-90 minutes by car to Canals; frequent domestic and international flights.
Major airport about 1.5-2 hours by road from Canals; frequent domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families with children; a quiet, safe town with local schools.
Popular with retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle in the countryside.
Tourists drawn to markets, rice dishes, and nearby landscapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular racket sport in Spain; many clubs around Valencia and Canals.
Flat and rolling countryside suitable for day trips.
Local clubs and casual games; weekend matches are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canals.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for vegetarian rice dishes and markets with fresh produce. Ask for dishes prepared without meat stocks.