Valencia, a Mediterranean port town, is often described as "a piece of heaven fallen to earth." With its palm-lined plazas and vibrant churches, Valencia is a city where historic charm meets modern vibrancy.
Once the capital of the Kingdom of Valencia, the city boasts cultural treasures like the 15th-century Silk Exchange and the Museum of Fine Arts. Valencia's Ciutat Vella (Old Town) is a hub of history, while the City of Arts and Sciences propels visitors into a world of futuristic discovery.
For a comprehensive guide on the best attractions and activities in Valencia, Spain, continue reading.
See also: Where to Stay in Valencia
1. La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències
Explore the intersection of art and science at the futuristic La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, this complex features an IMAX cinema, landscaped walks, interactive museum exhibits, Europe's largest aquarium, an opera house, and a concert space.
Address: 7 Avenida del Professor López Piñero, València
Official site: http://www.cac.es/en/home.html
2. Las Fallas Festival
March in Valencia is marked by the Fiesta de San José, a vibrant festival with music, parades, fireworks, and the burning of fallas, large papier-mâché figures. The Fallas Museum showcases the evolution of these figures over time.
Address: Plaza Monteolivete 4, València
3. Oceanogràfic de València
Europe's largest aquarium, Oceanogràfic de València, designed by Félix Candela, showcases marine ecosystems and over 45,000 sea creatures. Highlights include a shark tunnel and the Submarine Restaurant.
Address: 1 Carrer d'Eduardo Primo Yúfera, València
Official site: https://www.oceanografic.org/en/
4. La Lonja de la Seda
La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 15th-century Gothic masterpiece that once housed the Silk Exchange. Its crenellated exterior and stellar vaulting are a sight to behold.
Address: Plaza del Mercado, València
5. Go Shopping at Mercado Central
Mercado Central, an Art Nouveau market, offers fresh local produce and is adjacent to the historic Iglesia de los Santos Juanes.
Address: Plaza de la Ciutat de Bruges, València
Official site: https://www.mercadocentralvalencia.es/
6. Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir de València
The church of St. Nicholas and St. Peter the Martyr, with its lavish Baroque frescoes, is often likened to Rome's Sistine Chapel.
Address: 35 Calle de los Caballeros, València
7. Admire the Catedral de València
The Catedral de València, a blend of architectural styles, houses the Holy Chalice and features a museum with works by Goya. Climb El Miguelete for city views.
Address: Plaza de l'Almoina, València
Official site: http://www.catedraldevalencia.es/en/
8. Plaza de la Virgen
The Plaza de la Virgen, with its Neptune fountain and historic buildings, is a picturesque and ancient square in Valencia.
9. Iglesia de Santo Tomás y San Felipe Neri
The Church of Saint Thomas and Saint Philip Neri, with its blue-tiled dome and Baroque façade, is a National Historic Monument.
Address: Plaza de San Vicente Ferrer, València
10. Meet the Animals at Bioparc València
Bioparc València is a zoo that simulates African habitats for its animals, emphasizing sustainability and conservation.
Address: 3 Avenida Pío Baroja, València
11. Museo Arqueológico de la Almoina
La Almoina Archaeological Museum showcases Valencia's Roman, Christian, and Moorish past through well-preserved ruins.
Address: Plaza Décimo Junio Bruto, València
12. Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas (Ceramics Museum)
The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, an 18th-century palace, now houses a ceramics museum with a diverse collection, including works by Picasso.
Address: 2 Calle Poeta Querol, València
13. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de València
The National Museum of Fine Arts in Valencia features a rich collection of medieval to modern art, including works by Goya and Velázquez.
Address: 9 Calle San Pío V, València
14. Institut València d'Art Moderne
The Valencia Institute of Modern Art showcases 20th-century avant-garde art and hosts temporary exhibitions and workshops.
Address: 118 Calle Guillem de Castro, València
Official site: http://www.ivam.es/en/
15. Torres de Serranos (Ancient Town Gate)
The Torres de Serranos, an ancient gate, offers panoramic views of Valencia and is a symbol of the city's history.
Address: Plaza dels Furs, València
16. Spend a Day at Playa del Saler
Playa del Saler, a popular beach near Valencia, offers a serene escape within the La Albufera Natural Park.
17. Day Trip to the Medieval Town of Requena
Requena, a medieval town near Valencia, features a Moorish castle, historic churches, and the Fuente Podrida spa resort.
