Top Things to Do and See in Valencia: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

• Valencia dates back to 138 BC when the city was established as Valentia Edetanorum by Roman consul Decimus Junius Brutus. That makes it over 2,160 years old—one of the oldest cities in Spain!
• But wait, let’s talk about the Old Town (Ciutat Vella). It’s got this cozy, historic vibe that’s just irresistible. And wandering through those narrow streets, stumbling upon hidden squares—it’s like a treasure hunt.
• The Valencia Cathedral (also in the old town)? Majestic! When you stand inside Valencia Cathedral, in the La Seu neighborhood, you’re actually standing in the exact spot where the Romans first settled. The very bones of the city are layered beneath your feet!

• And the people? I’ve never felt so welcomed anywhere else. Valencianos are so proud of their city—you’ll get local tips just by striking up a conversation at a market or cafe. Practice a little Spanish (even just “gracias” and “hola!”) and you’ll get a big smile every time.

Valencia has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites well worth visiting:

• The Palmeral of Elche is a stunning oasis of date palms with roots going back to the 5th century B.C. It was shaped into its current form in the 10th century by Arab settlers, who brought ingenious irrigation and farming techniques to this arid corner of Spain. Today, it’s a rare glimpse into historic Arab agriculture on European soil.

          Location: Carrer de la Llotja 2, Valencia, Spain6

          How to Get There:

• • By Metro: Nearest stations are Àngel Guimerà, Xàtiva, or Colón.

  • By Bus: Many lines stop near the Central Market, right across from the Lonja.

  • By Foot/Bike: Easily walkable from anywhere in Valencia’s Old Town.

• La Lonja de la Seda in Valencia is a stunning late Gothic building that once served as a bustling silk exchange. Built between 1482 and 1533, it reflects Valencia’s golden age as a Mediterranean trading powerhouse. The majestic Trading Hall (Sala de Contratación) is a striking symbol of the city’s wealth and influence during the 15th and 16th centuries.

          Location: Carrer de la Llotja 2

          How to Get There:

• • By Metro, the nearest stations are: Àngel Guimerà, Xàtiva, or Colón. All are within a 10-minute walk.
  • By bus, you have several lines that stop near the Central Market, which is directly across from La Lonja.
  • By foot, it’s easy walkable from most central locations in Valencia’s Old Town (Ciutat Vella).

• Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin showcases vivid prehistoric paintings that offer a rare glimpse into early human life on the Iberian Peninsula. These artworks are unique in both style and subject, capturing a pivotal moment in our shared history. You can only see this with a guide, by boat, and trust me, it is extremely popular, so book well ahead of time.

But what really gets me is the cultural blend. You’ve got the modern, the historic, and the traditional, all in one place.

• The Fallas festival? A total blast! It’s a vibrant festival that features fireworks, satire, and giant “ninots” (sculptures) made of wood, cardboard, and papier-mâché, which are then set on fire in a dramatic spectacle on the last night of the festival. Las Fallas is one of Europe’s most spectacular festivals, usually held from March 15th to 19^th. The city literally lights up during that time—it’s a party you can’t miss!

Here’s my tip: Book your accommodation months in advance and look out for side events in the neighborhoods (the “barrio” parties are epic and way less crowded than in the city center!).

• The Water Tribunal (Tribunal de las Aguas), a 1,000-year-old tradition that continues every Thursday at noon under the Apostles Gate at the Cathedral of Valencia. They don’t meet during the Christmas period and bank holidays, but otherwise you’re free to watch!

• The manual ringing of bells is an unforgettable experience at the top of the Miguelete, the iconic bell tower of the Cathedral. Here, you still witness professional bell ringers keeping the tradition alive with all kinds of bell flipping and chiming techniques. 

  Pro tip: The Church of Santos Juanes in the Campanar neighborhood also practices bell ringing.

  And get this, all of the above traditions and practices are recognized as “UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage”. A celebration of living traditions and cultural expressions.

Las Arenas, Malvarrosa, and Patacona beaches are just minutes from the city center. You can go from cathedral to coastline in under 20 minutes.

Malvarrosa Beach is like stepping into a postcard—soft, golden sand, and that Mediterranean Sea just pulls you in.

Pro Tip: Go early in the morning for a peaceful walk when it’s just you and the locals, then hit Casa Carmela for an authentic paella lunch. They only serve it at lunchtime, and locals say it’s the best in town. Trust me—skip the tourist traps near the main square and come here instead.

• And speaking of food, you have to order horchata with fartons at Horchatería Santa Catalina in the old town. It’s a super traditional spot, and the horchata is so refreshing after a hot beach day.
• Paella? Valencia’s got it nailed! I mean, where else can you have the most authentic paella? You’re in the birthplace of paella, with authentic versions served in local taverns and seaside restaurants. I highly recommend the Central Market tour, which combines fun and feast with a Paella cooking class! 
• A moonlight evening with a glass of Agua de València (cocktail) makes for a perfect evening. What more can I say?
• And those bustling markets? La Boqueria’s got competition here! Fresh produce, local bites—it’s a foodie’s paradise.

Like I said before, what really makes Valencia special is the blend of everything—seriously, where else can you go from exploring the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences (a futuristic wonderland of museums and design) to wandering cobblestone streets lined with orange trees?

• The City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava is architecture on a whole new level. The complex houses the oceanarium, the opera house, and the science museum—total eye candy!
• Take a sunset walk around the Turia Gardens (it’s an old 9km riverbed turned into a massive park!). Locals love it for jogging, picnics, and even open-air concerts.
• Rent a bike to cover more ground—it’s the best way to see the city like a Valenciano.

• The city is great value for food, lodging, and experiences.
• Valencia’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike.