Must-Dos in the City of Arts and Sciences
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Beautiful beaches? Check. Historic buildings? Check. Delicious Spanish cuisine? Check. From being the birthplace of paella to having plenty of unique architecture, Valencia is home to all things that are quintessential Spain. Here’s a bucket list to make sure you experience all that Valencia has to offer!
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
No trip to Valencia would be complete without making it to Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias! Recognized as the symbol of Valencia, the complex is one of the 12 Treasures of Spain and sits in the Turia riverbed. It’s comprised of six sections, including an opera house, science museum, aquarium, and IMAX theater. You could easily spend a day or two exploring all of the buildings. If you’re short on time, we recommend at least walking through the gardens and visiting the science museum. More information and ticket prices can be found here.
Torres de Quart
If you’re looking for a great viewpoint to see all of Valencia, you need to go to Torres de Quart. These towers were built in the 15th century and are some of the few remaining from the wall that surrounded the city. Be prepared for quite a few steps to make it to the top, but the view is worth it! Admission is free on Sundays and holidays.
Puente de las Flores
Whether you’re looking for a great photo op or a nice place to walk around the city, make sure to add Puente de las Flores to your bucket list. This beautiful bridge sits over the Turia riverbed and gets its name since it’s adorned with flowers year round. While you’re in the area we recommend stopping by Parc Gulliver, a whimsical playground where visitors can climb all over a gigantic figure of Gulliver.
Valencia Cathedral
Located in the historic center of the city is the Valencia Cathedral. The biggest draw to visiting the Cathedral is the Holy Chalice, one of the few chalices recognized by the Vatican as possibly being the Holy Grail used by Jesus. Visitors can also see artwork from the first Spanish Renaissance as well as climb to the top of the Miguelete Tower for beautiful views of the city. Admission is 8 Euros.
La Lonja de la Seda
La Lonja de la Seda, also known as The Silk Exchange, served Valencia as a commerce center starting in the 16th century. The building is one of the most well-preserved pieces of Gothic architecture and was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Visitors can explore the Main Tower, Sala del Consulado del Mar, Sala de Contratación, and the Patio de los Naranjos. Be sure to look up as you wander through the building – there are 28 Gothic gargoyles along the roof.
Plaza de la Virgen
A great place to relax while exploring the city is Plaza de la Virgen. Around the square visitors can find the Cathedral, Fuente del Turia, and many cafes and restaurants. If you happen to be there on a Thursday at 12 PM, head to the Cathedral for the Water Tribunal of the Plain of Valencia meeting. The eight members of the court meet to discuss the use of irrigation water in the region around Valencia. The meeting is conducted in the traditional Valencian language and all decisions made are final. Given Intangible Cultural Heritage status by UNESCO, this tradition has been going on for a thousand years and is the world’s oldest court as well as Europe’s oldest democratic institution.
Valencia Station North
Valencia Station North, the main train station in Valencia, embodies the essence of the city in its architecture. Opened in 1917, the station was built in the art nouveau style and has many references to oranges, as the Valencia region is one of the European largest exporters of them. Visitors can catch trains to many other Spanish cities from here including Barcelona, Seville, and Granada.
Playa de la Malvarrosa
What’s a visit to Spain without going to the beach? Valencia is home to some beautiful beaches and Playa de la Malvarrosa is one of the best! The beach is long and wide, so there’s lots of space for visitors to spread out and soak up the sun. There’s also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, so we recommend stopping by one for some patatas bravas or gelato!
Mestalla Stadium tour
This one is for all the soccer fans! Mestalla Stadium is home to the Valencia Club de Futbol and is one of the oldest soccer stadiums in Spain. Visitors can tour the stadium and walk out onto the pitch, visit the press room, and learn about the history of the club. More information about tour times and ticket prices can be found here.
Try Horchata at Horchatería de Santa Catalina
Horchatería de Santa Catalina is one of the best places in Valencia to try horchata, a drink made of milk and tiger nuts. It’s usually enjoyed with fartóns, which are pastry breads with sugar on top. Expect long lines at Horchatería de Santa Catalina during the summer.
Get a meal from The Central Market
The Central Market is the perfect stop whether you’re in need of a snack or want to try some Spanish cuisine. Located near the historic center, the market is the largest market in Europe that offers fresh produce. Visitors can also find horchata, live eels, souvenirs, and more. We recommend trying the vegetable paella!
Disclaimer: All information presented in this post was accurate at the time of our trip. Attractions, availability, circumstances, operating hours, prices, etc. are subject to change and this post may not reflect the most up-to-date information. Readers are advised to do their due diligence in researching the location prior to travel. Hyperlink content may be out-of-date and is not sponsored by or affiliated with Scenic Sites unless otherwise noted.
Visited June 2018 | Posted August 2022
