Things To Do
in Valencia
Valencia is a vibrant city located on the eastern coast of Spain, known for its mix of modern architecture and historic landmarks. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, such as Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal, where locals and tourists can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sea. Valencia is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, with paella being a traditional dish that originated in the region.
Visitors can explore the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex of buildings designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $45
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views. Enjoy a café con leche at a nearby terrace as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Head to the historic Mercado Central for lunch, where you can sample local delicacies like paella and horchata. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the old town, discovering its unique boutiques.
As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. Enjoy traditional Spanish tapas alongside a glass of local wine.
Spend the morning at Malvarrosa Beach, soaking up the sun and taking a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. Grab a breakfast of churros and chocolate from a beachside café.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, where paella is a must-try. In the afternoon, rent a bike and ride along the beach promenade.
Take a sunset stroll along the shore before choosing a beachside venue for dinner. Indulge in seafood fresh from the Mediterranean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- Rich cultural heritage, including festivals like Las Fallas and beautiful architecture.
- Delicious cuisine, particularly known for paella and fresh seafood.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other major Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
- Vibrant nightlife and a variety of entertainment options.
- Beautiful beaches and access to natural parks.
- High tourism levels can lead to crowded places, particularly in the summer.
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers in some areas.
- Occasional issues with public transport frequency and reliability.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields compared to larger cities.
- Hot temperatures during the summer can be uncomfortable for some.
- Seasonal fluctuations in certain services and amenities due to tourism.
Best Activities in Valencia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing day at one of Valencia's iconic beaches, offering golden sands and clear blue waters.
Explore the extensive greenery and scenic pathways of the Turia Gardens by renting a bike and enjoying a leisurely ride through this beautiful urban park.
Embark on a hiking adventure through the stunning natural landscapes of Calderona Natural Park, located just a short drive from Valencia.
Experience the beauty of Albufera Natural Park by taking a sailing excursion on its tranquil lagoon, providing a serene escape from the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Valencia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Valencia
Visit one of these nice places.
Modern architectural complex with stunning views and unique photo opportunities
Beautiful park with lush greenery and scenic views of the city and river
Historic site offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas
Food in Valencia
Valencia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Valencian rice dish, typically made with a combination of rabbit, chicken, and green beans, and flavored with saffron. Best enjoyed at La Pepica or La Riua.
Must-Try!
A refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, often paired with sweet pastry called Farton. Head to Horchatería Santa Catalina for the best experience.
A traditional salad of roasted red peppers, salt cod, garlic, and olive oil, offering a delightful blend of flavors. Can be found at Casa Montana.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Valencia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest food markets in Europe, offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. Perfect for sampling local ingredients.
Wander through the streets of El Carmen to discover various food stalls and small eateries offering classic street food such as bocadillos, empanadas, and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect the tradition of the siesta, which is a daily mid-afternoon break for rest and relaxation. Many businesses close during this time, so it's important to be mindful of this cultural norm.
In Valencia, it is common to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on each cheek. This is a sign of warmth and familiarity, so it's important to be respectful of this tradition when meeting locals.
Meal times are highly valued in Valencia, with lunch being the main meal of the day. It's important to respect the timing of meals and avoid scheduling appointments or meetings during lunchtime, as it is a time for family and relaxation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Valencia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Valencia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Valencia, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip of around 5-10% for exceptional service.
Cash is widely accepted in Valencia, especially for smaller purchases. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, and contactless payment methods are becoming more prevalent. It's important to carry some cash, particularly when visiting smaller establishments or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Valencia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Valencia with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various cultural events such as Las Fallas festival in March.
Expect hot and dry weather with lively beach atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, but it can be crowded with tourists.
Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the city comes alive with events like the Day of Valencia and the Grape Harvest Festival.
Cool and mild weather, great for exploring the city without the summer crowds, and the city is decorated for the holiday season.
Valencia at Night
Hiking in Valencia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park with a variety of trails, ideal for hiking and enjoying the stunning landscapes, flora, and fauna.
A popular hiking destination within Sierra Calderona, featuring a moderate hike with rewarding views from the summit.
A unique natural park that offers walking trails amidst wetlands, rice fields, and opportunities for birdwatching.
A scenic area with various trails alongside the riverbed, perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying nature.
A picturesque hiking route that winds through the countryside, showcasing the beauty of the Valencian landscape.
Famous for its impressive cliffs and diverse ecosystems, Montgó offers various trails for hiking with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Valencia through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Valencia by plane.
The main airport serving Valencia, located about 8 kilometers west of the city center.
Located approximately 170 kilometers south of Valencia, it serves the Alicante province and surrounding areas.
Spain's largest airport, located about 350 kilometers northwest of Valencia, serving both domestic and international flights.
About 350 kilometers northeast of Valencia, it is the second largest airport in Spain, serving a high volume of international traffic.
Located approximately 550 kilometers southwest of Valencia, it serves the tourist areas of Costa del Sol and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Valencia, primarily representing those with Spanish nationality.
A significant population originating from various countries in Latin America, including Venezuela, Colombia, and Argentina.
A notable community, particularly among immigrant groups, due to historical migration patterns.
Including individuals from Morocco and Algeria, contributing to the cultural diversity of Valencia.
A growing community primarily involved in commerce and local businesses.
Includes a variety of smaller communities from countries like Italy, the UK, and France.
A smaller but rising demographic, including migrants from several African nations.
The Soul of Valencia
Discover the essence of Valencia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Valencia, with a rich history and passionate fanbase. The city is home to Valencia CF and Levante UD, two prominent football clubs in La Liga.
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Valencia, particularly with the success of the Valencia Basket team, which competes in the Liga ACB and has a strong following.
Valencia has a vibrant tennis community, bolstered by events such as the Valencia Open. The city has produced several professional players and offers numerous tennis clubs and facilities.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Valencia, thanks to its flat terrain and extensive network of bike lanes. The city hosts various cycling events and boasts a growing cycling culture.
Futsal, a variant of football played indoors, is quite popular in Valencia, with numerous clubs and youth leagues promoting the sport among younger players.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Valencia, with local clubs and youth teams fostering interest and participation in the sport at both amateur and semi-professional levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valencia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Valencia offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options like vegetable paella, grilled artichokes, and vegan tapas.
Several establishments in Valencia are mindful of gluten-free diets, providing gluten-free paella, tapas, and desserts for those with dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Valencia with these cultural adventures.
