29 Best Things To Do In Valencia
In 2024 From A Travel Expert
WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN VALENCIA IN 2024?
By Liam Mulligan | Published on April 2, 2024 |Modified on August 20, 2024
Valencia is one of Spain’s greatest cities. A jewel on the Mediterranean coast, it regularly features in the top places to visit in the country and topped my list of the 20 Best Places To Visit In Spain For First-Timers. Yet the city remains relatively unknown compared to the two bigger cities of Madrid and Barcelona.
I fell in love with Valencia when I first visited and returned with my family in September 2022 for a week, who all then fell in love with it too. The city has a ton of things to do for all interests with lots of variety. You could literally stay for a month and still not see everything.
So keep reading as I take you through my 29 best things to do in Valencia in 2024.
Note: These attractions are not in any particular order of preference. Rather they are the result of a brainstorm. The list contains plenty of variety so pick your favourites according to what you like doing and have the best time!
1. Climb the Miguelete Tower
The Miguelete Tower is the bell tower of the city’s majestic cathedral. Completed in 1429, the tower is 207 feet tall and coincidentally has 207 steps to the top. Originally, it was a separate tower before the cathedral was added at the end of the 15th century.
Climbing the 207 steps, visitors are rewarded with fantastic panoramic views of the city stretching out to the City of Arts and Sciences and the sea beyond. Also, at the top of the tower you get a great overview of the Old Town with its winding streets and historic buildings.
You can visit Miguelete Tower every day of the year. Tickets cost €2 for adults and €1 for children. You can climb the tower anytime from 10 AM until 7:30 PM.
2. See the Holy Grail from the Last Supper
One of Valencia’s most prized artefacts, the Holy Grail used in the Last Supper resides in Valencia Cathedral. Yes, you read that right – the actual chalice used in the Last Supper!
Whilst it hasn’t been historically proven to be the actual chalice used by Jesus and his disciples, it has a pretty good claim to being the real deal. Archaeologists have dated the cup back to the 2nd or 1st Century BC and its origin is between Egypt and ancient Palestine.
You can now visit the Holy Grail in a chapel on the right-hand side of the cathedral. The cathedral costs €9 for adults and features an audio tour.
3. Try Agua de Valencia
You may have heard of Mimosas or Buck’s Fizz, a famous cocktail combining sparkling wine with orange juice. Popular at brunches, this cocktail is refreshing, light and a nice addition to a boozy brunch. Well, get ready for Valencia’s version!
Agua de Valencia (Water of Valencia) is Valencia’s most iconic cocktail. It is incredibly refreshing and although originally an evening drink can now be drunk at any time of day. It was created in the 1950s at Café Madrid Valencia by bartender Constante Gil and is now emblematic of the city.
Similar to mimosas, Agua de Valencia is made by mixing Spanish sparkling wine, known as cava with orange juice. The difference comes with the addition of two extra spirits: vodka and gin. With the two extra spirits, it is a bit more potent than a mimosa but even more delicious. A definite must-try when in the city.
4. Marvel at the architecture at The City of Arts and Sciences
Possibly Valencia’s most famous sight, the City of Arts and Sciences is a striking complex of modern architecture that needs to be seen to be believed. This futuristic collection of buildings next to the former Turia riverbed helped to put Valencia on the tourist map.
Voted one of Spain’s 12 Treasures, construction began on the complex in 1996. The final phase of the project was finished in 2009 and is now a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Within the complex is Europe’s largest oceanographic aquarium, an opera house, an IMAX cinema, an interactive science museum, a planetarium, a laserium and a multipurpose events space. There are also multiple gardens and places to relax and marvel at the buildings.
You could spend all day at the complex and not get bored. With so much to do, there is something for everyone.
Pro-Tip: Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Consider booking a combo ticket if you want to visit more than one sight as you’ll get a discount. If you have purchased a Valencia Tourist Card, you’ll get 10% off the purchase price!
5. Relax at Malvarrosa Beach
Valencia is the city with everything! It even has a beach! Perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing or spending a full day chilling out on a longer trip, Valencia’s beaches are beautiful, full of golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
Malvarossa Beach is one of the most famous and Located only 30 minutes by bus from the centre of the city. It is popular with tourists and locals alike who come down to the beach in the summer months after work with their families.
We spent a full day at Malvarrosa Beach in September on our trip. The weather was beautiful, the temperature of the water was just right, and the beach wasn’t too crowded. There are also a range of restaurants and places to grab lunch when you get hungry.
6. Go to a football match at the Mestalla
Spain is a country obsessed with football and Valencia is no different. The city is home to two teams: Valencia CF and Levante UD. Valencia CF are one of the most successful teams in Spain. Their rivals, Levante UD tend to bounce between the two top divisions.
Valencia’s CF’s Mestalla stadium is one of the oldest in Spain. They offer daily tours for €13.30 for adults. Tours last about an hour and take in the trophy room, the dressing room and pitch side.
For a full Spanish experience, head to a game. Tickets can be bought online beforehand for the best prices. It is sure to be an event to remember.
Sadly we didn’t manage to get to a Valencia game on our trip. But having been to seen both FC Barcelona and Athletic Club Bilbao, I can safely say that the atmosphere at Spanish football stadiums is something else!
Cultural Note: You might have noticed a bat in many emblems around the city. It features on the badges of Valencia CF and Levante UD. There are many theories why the bat is the symbol of the city. One popular theory is that the Muslim army planned a surprise attack on the city during the time of Jaume I. The bat sensed the attack and warned the army of the incoming army, protecting the army and saving the city! Since then, the bat has been the symbol of the city of Valencia!
7. Savour a delicious paella
Valencia is home to many delicious dishes, none more famous than paella. That’s right, the famous rice dish that has become one of the most recognisable Spanish is from Valencia and you can get some of the best paella here!
The dish gets its name from the wide, shallow pan used to cook the dish. Originally a lunchtime meal for farmers, the dish would contain whatever the farmers could gather based on the season. Combined with rice, meat, or seafood and cooked in olive oil and chicken broth, this hearty meal became synonymous with the city.
You cannot leave Valencia without trying a paella. Two of my favourite spots are Rincón 33, where we had a delicious seafood paella. My other recommendation is Restaurant Navarro, a great place for paella with rabbit.
8. Hang out in Ruzafa
Ruzafa used to be a working-class district in Valencia. It has undergone an incredible transformation over the past few years. Nowadays it is one of the city’s trendiest and most bohemian areas. It is the perfect neighbourhood to hang out in and just soak up the atmosphere.
In the centre of the area is Ruzafa Market. A fantastic food market with plenty of fresh produce and local specialities, it is a great place to start your time in Ruzafa. The building itself is a beautiful historic building and the market buzzes with energy.
Ruzafa’s culinary scene extends beyond the market. There are plenty of tapas bars and innovative eateries offering fusion cuisine. The neighbourhood also numerous cafés, perfect for chilling out or working if you’re a digital nomad.
There are many art galleries showcasing the works of local and international artists. Also there are many theatres hosting plays and live music concerts, Ruzafa is buzzing with artistic energy and is an unmissable stop on a trip to Valencia.
9. Eat your way around the Central Market
As you can probably guess, Valencia has a strong connection with food. The birthplace of paella as well as a rich array of other dishes, the city and region are very proud of their gastronomic heritage.
One of the best places to experience this is Central Market (Mercado Central/Mercat Central). Located in the Old Town of Valencia close to the Silk Exchange, the market is an iconic symbol of the city.
The market dates back to the early 20th century and the building itself is stunning. Entering the building you’re met with an array of smells, sights and noise as locals and tourists flock to the market. The market is still used by locals and so is an authentic place to experience a traditional Spanish market.
There is a great variety of stalls with all types of foods – expect Spanish cheeses, meats, fruits, vegetables and spices. There are also stalls where you can try some of the produce which combined with the market’s central location, makes it an essential stop on a tour of the Old Town.
10. Go on a graffiti tour in El Carmen
The neighbourhood of El Carmen is one of the neighbourhoods located in the Old Town (Ciudad Vieja/Ciutat Vella) area of the city. Located in the north of the city to the west of the Serranos Towers, this historic district has become synonymous with street art.
The neighbourhood is full of centuries-old buildings. The artwork has given a new lease of life with some incredible street art. The artwork is a continuing revolving door of artwork. Artists continually transform the neighbourhood to reflect the social, political, and cultural zeitgeist.
Part of El Carmen’s charm is the ability to wander at your leisure and discover the artwork for the first time. The colourful murals will draw you in and inspire you to find the next piece. Start at Carrer dels Cavallers or Carrer de Quart for some of the best artwork.
11. See the animals at the Bioparc
Valencia is a city of innovation. From the City of Arts and Sciences to the street art of El Carmen, the city embraces its historic past whilst innovating towards the future. This strive for innovation is evident in the city’s zoo, located at one end of the Turia Gardens.
Bioparc Valencia is a unique zoo concept that offers visitors an immersive experience. Unlike traditional zoos, the park is designed to recreate the natural environments of the animals. Spacious enclosures and environments aim at mimicking their authentic ecosystems.
With this in mind, visitors are greeted with lush vegetation and winding pathways. Each takes you through the different regions of Africa. Expect to venture through the savannahs of the Serengeti through to the dense rainforests of Madagascar with each area offering a glimpse into that region’s unique ecosystem.
The park is committed to environmentalism and conservation. There are interactive exhibits and educational programmes aimed at educating visitors on the threats the animals face in the wild.
The nature of the bioparc puts animal welfare at the heart of its mission. With a dedicated team of workers working alongside the naturalistic enclosures, the zoo aims to provide as close an environment to their natural habitats for the animals as possible.
Bioparc Valencia is a great option when in the city and is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
12. Walk through the Turia Gardens
Another example of Valencia’s constant innovation is the beautiful Turia Gardens. Snaking around the heart of the city, the park is 9 kilometres of green space, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for locals and tourists alike right in the city’s heart.
What makes the Turia Gardens so unique is their origin. The park was once the bed of the Turia River, hence its snaking design around the city. After another devastating flood in 1957, the city decided to divert the river. The diversion left behind a huge area of land in the city centre.
Urban planners and landscapists were drafted in and together created one of the largest urban parks in Spain. The Turia Gardens are now a lush landscape full of palm-lined promenades, manicured gardens, and architectural landmarks such as sculptures, bridges and fountains dotted around the park.
The park is now an integral part of Valencian life. Locals can be seen cycling, jogging, and relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of the Turia. It has also become a cultural hub hosting events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. It makes for the perfect activity for any visit to Valencia.
13. Explore the seafront district of El Cabanyal
El Cabanyal is one of Valencia’s seafront districts. Known for its distinctive architecture with narrow streets and colourful facades, it is a great place to visit and learn more about Valencia’s history.
The neighbourhood was inhabited by fisherman for many years who lived in the traditional houses known as ‘barracas’. You can spot these by their tiled rooves and colourful fronts.
In the past few years, El Cabanyal has undergone significant urban development. Efforts have been made to conserve the character of the neighbourhood. It is a great place to wander through, checking out the houses and unique architecture. Similar to El Carmen, there is some fantastic street art in the area which provides a great focus for exploring the area.
14. Celebrate Las Fallas festival
Las Fallas is Valencia’s biggest festival. Taking place between 15th and 19th March each year, the city commemorates the feast day of Saint Joseph, patron saint of carpenters. Las Fallas is known for its street parties, colourful parades and the creation and burning of sculptures known as “fallas”.
The tradition began when carpenters would burn wood scraps and old tools on the eve of the feast of St Joseph (19th March) to celebrate the arrival of spring. Over the years, this evolved into larger and more elaborate sculptures. Nowadays the sculptures are usually satirical or represent current events, politicians, or cultural phenomena.
Different neighbourhoods across the city compete to create the most impressive fallas. This process takes all year with people working on them as soon as the previous festival ends. During the festival, Valencia comes alive with music, fireworks and parades. On the night of 19th March, the fallas are all set on fire, symbolising the end of the festival and the renewal of life.
Las Fallas is recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. If you’re looking for the most Valencian of experiences, head to the city in March.
15. Marvel at marine wildlife at the Oceanogràfic
The Oceanogràfic is an aquarium located in the City of Arts and Sciences. Opened in 2003, it is the largest aquarium in Europe and one of Valencia’s most popular tourist attractions.
The building is designed to resemble a water lily. It is split up into different buildings, each representing a different aquatic environment. There are Mediterranean, tropical, Arctic and Antarctic environments as well as many more all housing the marine species native to that region.
Highlights of the Oceanogràfic include the Dolphinarium where visitors can watch dolphin shows and the Ocean Tank, which is a massive tank that simulates a coral reef ecosystem complete with the various species found there.
The Oceanogràfic is great fun for all ages and one of the must-see attractions when visiting Valencia.
16. Delve into Valencia’s merchant past at the Silk Exchange
Valencia has a rich and varied history dating back to Roman times. Being situated on the Mediterranean Coast, Valencia became one of the most important port cities and a place buzzing with commerce.
The Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda/La Llotja de la Seda) was constructed between the 15th and 16th centuries as a trading centre for silk merchants. The building is a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles and is now one of the most significant landmarks in the city.
The main hall of the Silk Exchange, known as the Contract Hall, is an impressive room. Adorned with intricate stone carvings, it has vaulted ceilings and ornate columns, giving a good idea of the wealth in Valencia during this time.
A visit to this UNESCO Heritage site will send you back in time to Valencia’s height of power in the Silk Exchange and is a great activity to do when in the city.
17. Relax in Plaza de la Virgen
Plaza de la Virgen is arguably Valencia’s most iconic square. Located in the city’s old town, it is a focal point for tourists and locals alike. With cafés and restaurants on its edges, it is the perfect place to relax and people-watch.
In the centre of the square is the famous Fountain of Turia. This Baroque-style fountain dates back to the 18th century. Celebrating the Turia River and its tributaries, there is a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, in the centre.
The square is also home to some of Valencia’s most important buildings. On the northern side of the square is Valencia Cathedral (another of the top sights in Valencia), housing the Holy Grail, believed to have been used at the Last Supper.
On the eastern side of the square is the Basilica of the Virgin of the Helpless, a church dedicated to the patron saint of Valencia. It also houses a revered statue of the Virgin Mary that is paraded through the streets of the city during the Fallas festival.
Finally, there is the Palace of the Generalitat, a historic building which serves as the seat of the Valencian government.
Given its importance to the city and its use as a focal point, Plaza de la Virgen is a great spot to visit and take in Valencian life in this most historic of places.
18. Marvel at the architecture of North Station
You might be wondering why a train station is featured on the list of the best things to do in Valencia! But wait until you get to North Station (Estación del Norte/Estació del Nord). The place is stunning and a Valencia attraction in its own right.
The station is the main railway station in the city and serves as a transportation hub for both regional and national train services. Opened in 1852, the station is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Modernisme, a Catalan Art Nouveau style, in Valencia.
The outside of the station is a majestic façade with a central clockface. Heading towards the station, you can feel the history and the buzz of all the people who have walked through the station on their travels.
Inside, it is like being transported back in time. The entrance contains old ticket booths, and intricate tilework showing scenes from Valencia. There are also stained-glass windows and decorative elements, showing how grand railway travel was in its heyday.
As both a hub to get to other destinations in the Valencian region on a day trip and as a beautiful piece of architecture, North Station is not to be missed.
19. Get back to nature with a trip to Albufera Natural Park
Whilst Valencia has lots of things to do within the city, the wider region is beautiful and offers a plethora of fantastic day trips for those who are in the city longer or want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Albufera Natural Park is one of the most popular day trips from Valencia. It is a freshwater lagoon known for its wetlands, dunes and marshes and for being a great place to spot birds, fish and other wildlife.
There is plenty to do at Albufera Natural Park. You can take boat trips across the lagoon, explore the surrounding trails, or relax on the beaches. The town of El Palmar is a great place to spend some time. Famous for its thatched-roof houses, there are plenty of seafood restaurants serving delicious food, including the region’s speciality, paella.
20. Get lost in the Old Town
Valencia’s Old Town (Ciudad Vieja/Ciutat Vella) is absolutely stunning. Home to many of the other top sights on this list, chances are you will be spending lots of time here. We certainly did; we kept coming back day after day!
The oldest part of Valencia, the Old Town is an enchanting labyrinth of narrow streets, hidden squares and historic buildings. The first settlements here were in Roman times and since then the Moorish and Gothic periods have both left their mark on the neighbourhood.
Whilst the area is of historical importance, that doesn’t mean it is like a museum. The area is alive with vibrant markets, squares, bars and restaurants, acting as a focal point for the city. When festivals like Las Fallas are taking place, the Old Town comes alive.
With many of the top sights in Valencia located here such as the cathedral, Silk Exchange, Central Market and many more, you will find yourself coming back here again and again. Considering how beautiful it is, that’s no bad thing at all!
21. Go back in time at the Serranos Towers
The Serranos Towers were the first stop on our family trip to Valencia and should feature on any Valencia itinerary. Situated in the north of the Old Town, they are one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
The towers were first built in the 14th century as part of the defensive fortifications of the city and have served as a jail and art storage at various times throughout its history. The towers were positioned to guard one of the main entrances to the city and must have been an imposing sight for anyone approaching the walls.
Nowadays you can climb the towers for the small sum of €2 for adults. Climbing up the towers takes you back in time and provides a great viewpoint of the Old Town and the Turia Gardens. They also provide the perfect starting point for your exploration of the Old Town.
If you’re here during Las Fallas, the opening ceremony of the festival takes place here. The Fallera Mayor or First Lady of the Fallas declares the festival open, underlining the Serranos Towers’ importance to the city.
22. Learn about Las Fallas at the Fallas Museum
Las Fallas is a great reason to visit Valencia. However, given they only take place for five days a year, it is likely that your trip dates won’t coincide with the festival. Never fear because Valencia has you covered!
The Las Fallas Museum (Museu Faller de València) is a fantastic alternative located not far from the City of Arts and Sciences. The museum offers visitors a fascinating journey into the history of this unique festival, explaining the traditions and its cultural significance.
The museum contains over 80 different ninots (figures burnt in the festival), all with different themes and from different periods. Each ninot tells its own story and allows visitors imagine the spectacle of the festival.
There are interactive exhibits and information about the craftmanship that goes into each creation. As an essential part of Valencian culture, the Las Fallas Museum should not be missed.
23. Try local delicacies at the Colón Market
Back to food for this one. As you may have guessed by now, Valencia is something of a culinary capital. Its cuisine is famous throughout Spain and the city is full of high-quality cafés and restaurants, just dying to be tried.
Colón Market (Mercado de Colón/Mercat de Colón) can be found in the Eixample district of Valencia and is a must-visit, especially for any foodies. The market was opened in 1916 and similar to many of Valencia’s buildings, is worth visiting for the architecture alone.
The building is a good example of Valencia Modernisme with ornate mosaics, intricate ironwork and towering domes. It was originally a bustling food market. Over the years, it has been transformed and nowadays, it is a major gastronomic hub in the city.
Expect gourmet shops, trendy cafés and upscale restaurants all under one roof, making it the perfect place to visit for sampling local produce. The market also hosts cultural events, art exhibitions and live performances throughout the year.
24. Get arty at a museum
Valencia has a wealth of museums across the city. With so many varieties showcasing different artwork, there is sure to be something for everyone. Whilst I appreciate more traditional artwork, I much prefer modern art so I am right at home at places like the Guggenheim in Bilbao.
For those who like traditional artwork, check out the Fine Arts Museum of Valencia (Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia/ Museu de Belles Arts de València). Containing Spanish artwork from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, expect to see artists such as Velázquez and Goya, two of Spain’s most famous artists.
For those who like the modern touch, look no further than the Institut Valencià d’Art Modern (IVAM). This was the first centre for modern art in Spain. It hosts rotating collections of paintings, sculptures photos and installations by both Spanish and international artists.
If you’re into culture, check out the Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània (CCCC). This cultural centre hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, performances, workshops, and cultural events, showcasing the work of emerging and established artists from Valencia, Spain, and around the world.
Whatever your tastes, there is bound to be a museum in the city to fit your interests.
25. Learn how to cook an authentic paella
For a truly authentic Valencian experience, why not spend time in the city learning to cook an authentic paella?
Originally a farmer’s lunchtime dish, paella has evolved to become a symbol of Spain. Made up of rice, vegetables, spices (particularly saffron), broth and some form of protein, ingredients used originally were simply what the farmers had to hand.
Nowadays the most popular varieties are seafood paella which uses a combination of different seafood and is popular along the coast and in Valencia itself and meat paella containing chicken and rabbit.
There are plenty of places to learn how to cook paella and it is a truly memorable experience. Plus you get to learn a skill ready to impress your friends back home.
26. Get all scientific at the Principe Felipe Science Museum
The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum (Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe/Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe) is located at the City of Arts and Sciences, and it is a great option for all ages. If you’re travelling with children, this museum is bound to keep them occupied.
The museum was opened in the year 2000 and is distinguishable by its building which looks like the skeleton of a whale. Inside you’ll find a variety of interactive exhibits, covering the fields of science, technology and innovation.
Spanning the different scientific disciplines, the exhibitions are hands-on and aim to engage visitors in a fun way. Aside from the regular exhibitions, there are temporary exhibitions and workshops to explore making it a great day out.
Tickets for the museum should be bought in advance to avoid disappointment.
27. Relax at Montanejos thermal springs
For some rest and relaxation, head out on a day trip to Montanejos. This picturesque village is nestled in a valley in the Valencian region. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and its thermal springs.
The main attraction of Montanejos is ‘El Río Mijares’, the thermal river that flows through the area. The river has warm, crystal-clear waters all year making it the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
The town is also popular for hiking and outdoor activities. If you are a keen hiker, this will be the place for you. The most famous hiking route is ‘Circuit of the Fuentes’. This takes hikers past natural springs and viewpoints with views of the valley below.
The town is also charming in its own right. There are cobblestone streets, historic buildings with cosy cafés and traditional restaurants serving Valencian cuisine.
28. Explore Valencia’s Town Hall
The Valencia Town Hall, known as the Ajuntament de València in Valencian, is the administrative headquarters of the municipal government of Valencia, Spain.
Located in the heart of the city’s historic centre, the Town Hall is housed in a magnificent building that is an architectural masterpiece in its own right.
The building dates back to the early 20th century and features a beautiful façade with intricate sculptures, ornate balconies, and grand columns. Inside, there are elegant halls, majestic staircases and opulent chambers underlining the importance of the building.
Valencia’s Town Hall is open to the public for guided tours. Head into the building and check with tourist information for the latest schedule and availability.
29. Cool down with a delicious horchata.
You didn’t think I’d get to the end of this list without mentioning one of Valencia’s most famous drinks, did you? Horchata (known as orxata in Valencian) is a milky drink made of crushed tiger nuts, water and sugar. The result is a delicious creamy, sweet and refreshing drink that has become synonymous with the city.
Horchata is popular throughout the year in Valencia but is especially popular in the hot summer months in Valencia. The drink is served cold over ice and is accompanied by fartons, sweet pastries which you dip into the horchata.
It is a bit of an acquired taste and received a mixed response from my family when we visited the city. I loved it but it wasn’t universally liked so I guess you’ll have to just try it for yourself.
For some of the best horchata in Valencia, head to Horchatería Santa Catalina, a historic café that has been serving horchata since 1836 in charming surroundings. It is located centrally, right by the cathedral and is popular with tourists and locals alike.
FAQs
What is Valencia best known for?
Valencia is probably best known for its celebrated dish, paella. Now found all over Spain, this rice dish has its origins in the city as a lunchtime dish prepared by farmers. It is also known for Horchata, the milky tiger nut drink that you have to try when visiting Valencia.
Aside from food, Valencia is known for its beautiful historic Old Town. Its majestic cathedral sits at the heart of the Old Town and contains the Holy Grail, making it an important cultural destination.
Valencia is also known for its incredible climate. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the city is the perfect place to visit at any time of the year.
What is worth seeing in Valencia?
There are so many things worth seeing in Valencia but what you see will be dependent on your interests and how long you are spending in the city.
If you are short on time, my top three attractions in the city would be the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia Cathedral, and the Central Market. The three combined with exploring the Old Town give a great idea of Valencia’s mix of old and new.
Is 3 days enough in Valencia?
3 days is a good amount of time to spend in Valencia. You’ll have enough time to visit the city’s main attractions, try some great food and start to experience the vibe of the city.
If you have more time, I recommend spending more time in the city. As you can see from this list, there are so many things to see and do that even after spending a week or longer, you would not be bored. Valencia is also a great hub for visiting the rest of the region with some fantastic day trips within easy reach of the city.
Can you do Valencia in 1 day?
You can but I wouldn’t try to. Valencia is a completely underrated city with so many sights that the longer you stay the more you peel back and discover the city. It has the perfect mix of historic sites and modern attractions making it a fascinating place to visit.
I would recommend spending at least 3 days in Valencia to get a good feel for the city and see all the main attractions. I spent 3 days in Valencia in 2012 and returned ten years later, spending a week there with my family. Even after a week, we were talking about returning as we loved it so much!
Final Thoughts: 29 Best Things To Do In Valencia In 2024
And that’s my list of the 29 best things to do in Valencia in 2024. With so many things to do, Valencia offers something for everyone. You could spend a month in the city and still be discovering new things to do.
From the modern architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences to the religious history of Valencia Cathedral, from exploring street art in El Carmen to climbing the Serranos Towers, and from relaxing on Malvarrosa Beach to enjoying an authentic paella, Valencia is a city that keeps on giving and deserves to be visited time and time again!
So when are you booking your flights?
About Me
My name is Liam and I’m the owner and author of ‘Travels Around Spain’. I have been obsessed with Spain ever since my first visit 35 years ago. I am on a mission to visit and discover every part of this beautiful country and share all my hints and tips with you all.
Read more about my journey by clicking here.