Places to Visit Near Valencia

Valencia is a historic city in eastern Spain, located on the Mediterranean coast. It is Spain’s third largest city and the capital of the region of Valencia. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique architecture. Valencia is also home to many amazing sights and attractions that make it a must-visit destination for tourists. From stunning beaches to fascinating museums, there are plenty of places to explore in and around Valencia. In this guide, we will explore some of the best places to visit near Valencia.

Valencia’s History and Culture

Valencia is a city steeped in history and culture, having been settled by the Romans in 138 BC. It was later conquered by the Moors in 711 AD and eventually became part of Spain in 1238. Throughout its long history, Valencia has been a major trading port, as well as an important cultural center. It was home to the court of the medieval Kingdom of Valencia, one of the most powerful political entities in Medieval Spain.

Valencia is renowned for its unique culture, which has been shaped by centuries of history. The city is known for its vibrant festivals, particularly Las Fallas, which is celebrated every March with fireworks, parades, and other festivities. The traditional cuisine of Valencia is also renowned – it’s known as the birthplace of paella and other delicious dishes. The city also has a vibrant nightlife and many interesting museums, galleries, and other cultural sites.

Valencia’s Weather

Valencia has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures year round. The summers are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F). Winters are mild but rainy, with temperatures averaging around 12°C (54°F). During this time of year, the days are short and the skies are often grey.

The best time to visit Valencia is during the spring or autumn months when temperatures are mild and the days are sunny. This is also when the city’s festivals and events are usually held. During these times, visitors can experience the city’s culture and nightlife without having to endure extreme temperatures or weather conditions.

Things to Do in Valencia

Valencia has many attractions that make it a great destination for tourists. Here are some of the most popular things to do in the city:

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is an impressive complex of buildings located near the center of Valencia. It includes an IMAX theater, an interactive science museum, and an aquarium, among many other attractions. Visitors can explore these amazing attractions while admiring the unique architecture of the complex.

Explore Turia Gardens

The Turia Gardens are a lush park along the banks of the Turia River. The park stretches for miles and includes many trails for walking and biking, as well as playgrounds, gardens, and other attractions. This is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring nature in the heart of Valencia.

See Historic Sites

Valencia has many historic sites to explore, such as the 15th century La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), the Gothic Cathedral of Valencia, and the Roman ruins of Tossal de Manises. These sites are great examples of Valencia’s rich history and culture and offer insight into what life was like in medieval times.

Visit La Malvarrosa Beach

Just a few minutes away from Valencia is La Malvarrosa Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities. The beach is located near many restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.

Places to Visit Near Valencia

In addition to the many attractions in Valencia itself, there are several places near the city that are worth visiting. Here are some popular places to explore near Valencia:

Cartagena

Cartagena is a city located on the Mediterranean coast about two hours south of Valencia. It is known for its historic ruins, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife. Visitors can explore its many attractions while admiring the beautiful scenery of the Mediterranean coastline.

Teruel

Teruel is an ancient town located about two hours east of Valencia. It is known for its unique Mudéjar architecture and its fascinating Mudejar Museum which houses artifacts from more than 1000 years ago. The town also has a lively nightlife with many bars and restaurants to explore.

Sagunto

Sagunto is a coastal town about an hour north of Valencia. It is famous for its ruins from Roman times, as well as its stunning beaches and dramatic coastline. Visitors can explore these ruins while admiring views of the Mediterranean Sea from atop one of the city’s hilltops.

Gandia

Gandia is a city located about an hour south of Valencia on the Mediterranean coast. It is known for its sandy beaches and lively nightlife, as well as its historic sites such as its Moorish palace and Gothic cathedral. Visitors can explore these sites while enjoying views of the sea from nearby beaches.

Popular Tours Near Valencia

If you’re looking for something a bit more structured while visiting Valencia, why not take one of these popular tours?

Mountain Bike Tour in Albufera Natural Park

Albufera Natural Park is a protected area just outside of Valencia that is home to some of Spain’s most stunning nature reserves. On this mountain bike tour you will explore the park’s trails while taking in views of its lakes and wetlands. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience some of Valencia’s natural beauty in an active way! Book a Mountain Bike Tour in Albufera Natural Park here.

Wine Tasting Tour in Paterna

Paterna is a town located just outside of Valencia that is known for its excellent wines. On this tour you will visit several wineries in Paterna where you will sample some of the region’s finest wines while learning about their production process. This is a great way to learn more about Valencia’s unique culture while enjoying some delicious wines! Book a Wine Tasting Tour in Paterna here.

Guided Hike in Chelva Valley

The Chelva Valley is a stunning area located about two hours east of Valencia that is known for its lush forests and breathtaking views of its many rivers and gorges. On this guided hike you will explore this region while learning about its rich history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience some of Valencia’s beautiful nature! Book a Guided Hike in Chelva Valley here.

Day Trip to Peñíscola Castle

Peñíscola Castle is a medieval castle located on a peninsula just off the coast near Valencia. On this day trip you will explore this stunning castle while learning about its history and taking in views of the Mediterranean Sea from its walls. This tour is great for those who want to experience some of Valencia’s fascinating history! Book a Day Trip to Peñíscola Castle here.

As you can see, there are many amazing places to visit near Valencia that offer something for everyone! From exploring its vibrant culture to admiring its beautiful nature reserves, there’s no shortage of things to do in this incredible region. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or just some relaxation by the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia has something for everyone!