Valencia Top Things To Do

Valencia is a coastal city located on the Mediterranean Sea in eastern Spain, about 230 km south of Barcelona. With a population of over 800,000, it is the third-largest city in Spain and is one of the country’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. Valencia is an exciting destination for tourists, offering a wide variety of activities for all ages. From strolling along the beachfront promenade to taking a walk through its historic old town, there’s something for everyone in this colorful city.

A Brief History of Valencia

Valencia has a long and rich history, going back to the times of the Roman Empire. The city was founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC by General Decimus Junius Brutus Callaicus. In the Middle Ages, Valencia became an important port city and trading center. It was conquered by the Moors in 714 AD and was later reconquered by the Christians in 1238 AD. In the 15th century, Valencia flourished as a center of trade and commerce and by the 16th century, it had become an important center for silk production. In the 19th century, Valencia became an industrial center, with factories producing textiles, paper, furniture, and other products. During this time, the city’s population increased significantly and many new public buildings were constructed, such as the Central Market and the City Hall.

Valencia is also known as the birthplace of paella – the traditional Valencian dish made with rice, vegetables, and seafood. The dish is said to have originated in the mid-19th century when farm workers would cook a mixture of rice and whatever ingredients they had on hand. Today, it is one of Valencia’s most popular dishes and is served in restaurants throughout the city.

Valencia Attractions & Activities

Valencia offers a wide range of activities for tourists to enjoy. From exploring its historical attractions to taking part in cultural activities or simply relaxing on the beach, there is something for everyone in Valencia. Here are some of the top things to do in Valencia:

Explore the City’s Historical Monuments

Valencia’s rich history is reflected in its monuments and architecture. The old town is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings and landmarks, such as the 12th-century Silk Exchange building, now home to the Valencia History Museum. Other notable monuments include the Cathedral of Valencia, built in the 13th century; the Micalet bell tower; and the Santa Catalina church. Many of these monuments are illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight for visitors.

Stroll Along La Malvarrosa Beach

La Malvarrosa beach is one of Valencia’s most popular beaches and stretches along the city’s coastline for over 3 km. Visitors can take a stroll along the beachfront promenade or take part in water sports such as sailing or windsurfing. La Malvarrosa also has a variety of restaurants and cafes, so visitors can enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing drink while soaking up some sun.

Enjoy Valencian Cuisine

Valencia is renowned for its vibrant and flavorful cuisine. Paella is perhaps its most famous dish but there are many other traditional dishes that visitors should try, such as arroz negro (black rice), esgarraet (codfish salad), and calamares fritos (fried calamari). Valencia also has an abundance of fresh seafood, such as octopus and mussels, which can be found in local restaurants and markets.

Visit Hemisfèric & Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

The Hemisfèric is an IMAX Cinema located in Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences complex. It features a large domed screen and state-of-the-art technology, making it one of the best places to watch 3D movies in Europe. The City of Arts and Sciences also includes an aquarium, an interactive science museum, and a planetarium. Visitors can take a guided tour of these attractions or explore them independently.

Shop at Central Market

The Central Market is one of Valencia’s most popular attractions and is located in the old town. Built in 1928, it has over 1,000 stalls selling a variety of fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, cheese, and spices. Visitors can also find handmade crafts and souvenirs at the market. It’s a great place to buy fresh local ingredients for a Valencian meal or simply take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant market hall.

Take a Trip to Albufera Natural Park

Albufera Natural Park is located just outside of Valencia and is one of Spain’s most important wetlands. It is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching. Visitors can take boat trips from Valencia to explore Albufera’s waterways or take walking tours to observe its wildlife. There are also several restaurants near Albufera where visitors can enjoy traditional Valencian dishes with views of the lake.

Popular Tours To Do In Valencia

Valencia offers plenty of tours that visitors can join to experience more of what this beautiful city has to offer. Here are two popular tours that visitors should consider booking:

Valencia Private Tour

The Valencia Private Tour offers a personalized experience with an English-speaking guide who will take you around the city’s top attractions. This tour starts with a visit to the City of Arts & Sciences complex before heading off to explore Valencia’s old town. You will also have plenty of time to admire the Cathedral of Valencia before ending your tour with a stroll along La Malvarrosa beachfront promenade. This tour can be booked here.

Valencia Tapas Tour

The Valencia Tapas Tour is a great way to sample some of Valencia’s best dishes while enjoying a night out in the city. The tour starts with a guided walk through Valencia’s old town before exploring some of its best tapas bars. You’ll have time to sample several dishes along with some refreshing drinks as you learn about Valencian culture from your local guide. This tour can be booked here.

Conclusion

Valencia offers something for everyone – from exploring its historical monuments to sampling its delicious cuisine or simply relaxing on its pristine beaches. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to explore this vibrant city at your own pace, there are plenty of things to do in Valencia that will make your trip special. Plus with plenty of tours available that offer guided experiences of the city’s top attractions, you’re sure to have an unforgettable visit to this stunning city on Spain’s Mediterranean coast!