What Are the Best Things To Do During a Trip to Valencia?

Valencia is a stunning city in Spain that can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages and interests. Home to energetic festivals, beautiful beaches, and rich history, there’s something for everyone on a trip to Valencia. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sunshine or explore the city’s vibrant culture, here are some of the top things to see and do while in the city.

Visit La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences)

One of the top things to do in Valencia is to visit the City of Arts and Sciences. This stunning complex, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, consists of several buildings that are integrated into the surrounding dry river bed of the Turia River. This interactive space offers plenty of things to explore, including live science demonstrations at the Hemispheric IMAX theater, a planetarium, an aquarium, and a botanical garden. With its interactive exhibits and shows along with stunning views, it’s one of the coolest places to visit in the city.

Enjoy Valencians Passion for Festivals

Valencians take their festivals seriously. From La Tomatina – an infamous tomato-throwing festival in Buñol – to Las Fallas – where giant statues are burned in the streets – there’s always something exciting going on throughout the year and all over the city. You could also check out some of the smaller neighborhood-level festivals such as El Cabanyal Festa de la Mare de Deu Dels Desemparats, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. For more detailed information about upcoming festivals in Valencia, you can check out Valencia Tourist Card.

Explore Historic Buildings

Valencia has plenty of historical attractions for visitors to explore, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Cathedral of Valencia. Built in 1263, it’s a great example of Gothic-style architecture and is home to many treasures such as a 13th-century reredos and a painting of Jesus Christ donated by Christopher Columbus. For more architectural beauties, you could check out Lonja de Seda (Silk Exchange), a 15th-century merchants’ exchange building that was included on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, or Palau de la Generalitat – a 15th-century building located in the old city center that was once the seat of local government.

Relax on the Beaches

Valencia has some of the best beaches in Spain and it would be impossible to come here and not spend at least one day relaxing on the sand. Just outside the city, you can find some stunning golden sand beaches, perfect for swimming and soaking up some sun during your trip. If you’re looking for something a bit less crowded, head to Cullera Beach – located about 20 miles south of Valencia – or Albufera Natural Park – located just northeast of Valencia, where you can enjoy tranquil seascapes without all of the crowds.

Experience Valencian Cuisine

Valencia is well known for its unique cuisine which consists primarily of fresh seafood and rice dishes. Try out some local specialties such as paella (the classic Valencian dish made with meat, seafood, and vegetables simmered in rice), All i Pebre (a popular fish dish made with garlic and spices) or Bunyols de Peix (fried fishballs). And don’t miss out on an opportunity to sample some of the city’s delicious traditional desserts such as Valencia’s sweet rice pudding which is served with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top or try some pastissets de nadal – small pastry bites made with shortcrust pastry and filled with chocolate.

Valencia’s fascinating mix of old-world charm and modern attractions offer visitors a wide range of things to see and experience. Whether you’re looking to explore one of the city’s famous festivals or just want to relax on its beautiful beaches, there are plenty of activities that will keep you entertained during your stay. Use this guide to ensure you don’t miss anything during your stay in this vibrant city!

An Insider’s Guide to Valencia: Exploring Beyond the Tourist Spots

Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and bustling streets. But the city has much more to offer than just the popular tourist spots. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the hidden gems of Valencia. Let’s begin.

Local Attractions: Discovering Valencia’s Secret Gems

Valencia is filled with interesting and unique attractions beyond the well-known hotspots. One such gem is the Mercado Central, a beautiful market filled with local produce, fresh seafood, and handmade crafts. Another attraction that many tourists miss is the Albufera Natural Park, which features a freshwater lake and stunning views of the nearby rice paddies.

For those interested in history, the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda) is not to be missed. This UNESCO World Heritage site played a significant role in Valencia’s history as one of the wealthiest cities in Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Dining Spots: Tasting Valencia’s Local Cuisine

Valencian cuisine is world-famous, and for a good reason. The city is known for its paella, but locals will tell you that there’s much more to it than just the rice-based dish. Try Horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, or the local cocktail, Agua de Valencia, a sparkling wine with orange juice.

Some of the best places to experience the local cuisine are the Central Market, which offers fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, and fruits; and Canalla Bistro, which offers a modern take on the traditional dishes of Valencia.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Valencia’s Traditions and Festivals

Valencia is a city with deep-rooted traditions, and witnessing one of the city’s festivals is a unique and unforgettable experience. Las Fallas is perhaps the most famous event, held annually in March. During this festival, the entire city is filled with fireworks, music, food, and stunning, larger-than-life papier-mache sculptures.

Another festival not to be missed is La Tomatina, where thousands of people gather to throw tomatoes at each other, a tradition that has been around for over 70 years.

Local History: Discovering Valencia’s Fascinating Past

Valencia has a complex and fascinating history, and it’s worth taking the time to learn about it. Start with the Valencia History Museum, which offers an excellent overview of the city’s past.

For a more unique perspective, visit the Torres de Serranos, a medieval gate that has stood since the 14th century. Another must-see is the Cathedral of Valencia, which features a beautiful combination of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Exploring Valencia’s Unique Offerings

Valencia offers many unique and unforgettable experiences that go beyond the usual tourist activities. For example, try a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful mountains, beaches, and forests surrounding the city.

Or, visit the Gulliver Children’s Park, which is based on the famous character from Gulliver’s Travels and features a giant slide, climbing frame, and playground. Lastly, visit the City of Arts and Sciences, an impressive architectural complex comprising of various buildings, like a planetarium, aquarium, and open-air opera house, offering events and activities for all ages.

Conclusion

Valencia is a city with so much to offer, and this insider’s guide is just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you spend time exploring the hidden gems, dining on delicious local cuisine, experiencing the exhilarating festivals, learning about its fascinating history, or enjoying some of the unique experiences scattered around the city, Valencia is guaranteed not to disappoint. Get out and start exploring Valencia beyond the tourist spots!