Nestled on Spain’s south-eastern coast, Valencia is a vibrant port city with a rich history, stunning architecture, excellent food and a sunny Mediterranean climate. Known as the birthplace of paella and the home of the Holy Grail, Valencia has plenty to offer visitors.
Here’s an in-depth travel guide to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Valencia.
Getting There
Valencia is easy to reach by plane, train or car. The city has its own international airport, Valencia Airport, with direct flights from major European cities as well as from Madrid and Barcelona within Spain.
High-speed AVE trains connect Valencia to Madrid in just 1 hour 40 minutes, and to Barcelona in 3 hours. Valencia is also accessible by car via the AP-7 motorway that runs along Spain’s eastern coast.
When to Visit
One of Valencia’s biggest draws is its mild climate, with around 300 sunny days per year. The most pleasant times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures typically range from 60-75°F. Summers are hot and humid, with temps sometimes exceeding 90°F. Winters are mild, with daytime highs in the 50s or 60s.
Valencia has festivals and events year-round. Popular times include Las Fallas festival in March, the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in May, and the summer beach season from June to August. Keep in mind that hotels fill up quickly during Las Fallas and the Grand Prix.
Getting Around
Valencia’s city center is compact and walkable. Many of the main sights like the Cathedral and Central Market are located steps away from each other. The metro and bus system run frequently and make it easy to reach outer neighborhoods and the beach. Buy a rechargeable transit card to save on individual tickets.
Taxis are affordable, with most rides within the center costing €6-10. Cycling is also popular, with a municipal bike sharing program and bike lanes along the Turia Gardens and beachfront.
Where to Stay
Valencia offers a wide range of accommodations including luxury hotels, boutique inns, hostels and vacation rentals. The two most desirable areas to stay are the historic Barrio del Carmen neighborhood and the seaside district of El Cabanyal.
Barrio del Carmen is centrally located and puts you near top attractions like the Cathedral and Central Market. Charming boutique hotels like Caro Hotel and hostels like Purple Nest Hostel can be found in the winding streets of this quarter.
For a beach vacation vibe, look to El Cabanyal beside the Mediterranean. Hotels like H2 Cabanyal and Apartments Las Arenas offer easy access to Valencia’s beaches and promenade.
Other solid lodging options exist near City of Arts and Sciences complex and the airport. Opt for public transportation or a short taxi ride to reach the historic center from these areas.
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Top Things to Do in Valencia
- The City of Arts and Sciences – This futuristic architectural complex contains a science museum, IMAX theater, aquarium and more.
- Valencia Cathedral – Dating to the 13th century, this Gothic cathedral houses the Holy Grail that inspired Indiana Jones. Don’t miss the views from the Miguelete bell tower.
- Central Market – One of Europe’s oldest continually operating markets, this building dazzles with over 1,200 stalls of produce, meat and seafood under a stunning Modernist roof.
- Torres de Serranos – These imposing 14th century Gothic gates once guarded entry into the city. Climb the towers for panoramic views.
- Beaches – Playa de la Malvarrosa and Las Arenas beach offer miles of soft golden sand along Valencia’s coastline.
- Bioparc Valencia – This innovative zoo recreates African savannahs and tropical forests to immerse you alongside giraffes, lions, gorillas and lemurs.
- Turia Gardens – Once a riverbed, these sprawling gardens follow a 9 km path through the heart of the city. Jog, bike or stroll while admiring the landscape architecture.
- Mercado de Colón – Housed in a decadent building, this gourmet food market features chic eateries and stalls selling the finest Spanish cheeses, hams, wines and more.
Best Day Trips from Valencia
- Albufera Natural Park – Located just 10 km south of Valencia, this freshwater lagoon ecosystem boasts walking/biking trails and boat tours to see migratory birds. Don’t leave without trying traditional Valencian paella at one of the restaurants lining the park.
- Gandia – This coastal town has excellent beaches, a magnificent palace with centuries of history and the largest shopping center in the Valencia region. Reach it in 50 minutes by train.
- Sagunto – Dating back to Roman times, Sagunto’s castle and ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The site of an important battle in the Second Punic War, it’s just a 35 minute train ride north of Valencia.
- Peñíscola – This picturesque seaside village made for a striking backdrop in Game of Thrones. Walk the medieval streets and visit the castle with views of the Pope LunaPapal Palace. It’s 90 minutes north of Valencia by bus.
Where to Eat and Drink
Valencia offers great nightlife, especially in the university district around Barrio Ruzafa. Look out for festive beach clubs along the Malvarrosa running events and parties during summer.
La Lonja – Located beside the Silk Exchange, a UNESCO site, this upscale restaurant serves inventive Spanish cuisine in a setting mixing Gothic and Renaissance design.
El Rodamón de Russafa – Head to Valencia’s Russafa neighborhood for this hip eatery offering modern tapas and main dishes with global influences. Their weekend brunch is excellent.
Casa Montaña – For a taste of traditional Valencian cooking, this family-run restaurant established in 1836 is a must. Paella valenciana, fideuà, roasted meats and more.
Colmado La Lola – This café and provisions shop in the heart of El Carme has fantastic sandwiches, charcuterie, cheeses and a great selection of local wines.
Café Negrito – A vintage-style café located in the 1960s modernist Mercat de Cabanyal. Stop by for coffee, brunch or live music in the evenings.
La Distilería – Hands down one of Valencia’s best cocktail bars. The mixologists here create unique gin and tonics incorporating herbs and spices.
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