Best 20 things to do in Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Valencia, the city of paella and oranges! If you're looking for a captivating blend of history, culture, and great food, you've hit the jackpot. Start your adventures by exploring the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, where it seems like you've landed in a sci-fi movie set. Then, take a refreshing walk in the Turia Gardens, a park built on a former riverbed that's so massive, you might be tempted to get lost and start your own civilization. Finally, satisfy your taste buds by indulging in a mouthwatering paella, but be warned: Valencia is famous for its "no paella in the afternoon" rule. We don't make the rules; we just happily devour the deliciousness.

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1. La Lonja de la Seda

4.6 (19988)

C/ de la Llotja, 2, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to La Lonja de la Seda, a true architectural gem located in the heart of Valencia. Step inside this majestic building and prepare to be amazed by its intricate Gothic style, which boasts more curves than a tortuous road trip, and more intricate details than your Aunt Martha's knitted sweater collection. Don't forget to marvel at the stunning pillars that seem to stretch as tall as the fashion standards of 90s sitcom characters - truly a sight to behold! So, whether you're an art enthusiast or simply someone looking for a hilarious moment to share with your travel buddies, La Lonja de la Seda is a must-visit spot that promises to leave you in stitches... figuratively, of course!

www.valencia.es

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2. Plaza de la Reina

4.5 (27202)

Pça. de la Reina, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Plaza de la Reina, Valencia's bustling heart that's ready to tickle your fancy! Nestled amidst charming streets and awe-inspiring architecture, this square is as vibrant as a flamenco dancer on roller skates. Prepare to have your senses bombarded with the aroma of tantalizing paella wafting from nearby restaurants, the symphony of street musicians showcasing their "talents," and the entertaining spectacle of pigeons attempting synchronized flying. Whether you're in search of cultural treasures or simply craving a front row seat to the delightful chaos of Spanish life, Plaza de la Reina is the purr-fect spot to embrace it all.

www.valencia.es

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3. Mercado Central

4.7 (74357)

Pl. de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

As you step into the Mercado Central in Valencia, get ready to feast your eyes on a mouthwatering smorgasbord that will make even the most ardent dieter weep tears of joy. From the juicy tomatoes blushing like bashful sunsets to the vibrant chorus of fruits and vegetables, this place is a visual feast fit for a king, or maybe just a ravenous foodie. And fear not, dear visitor, for the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked bread and sizzling chorizo will guide your nose towards untold pleasures, reminding you that gluttony is perfectly acceptable in this food-lover's paradise.

www.mercadocentralvalencia.es

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4. Turia Park

4.4 (140)

46133, 46018 Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Turia Park, the paradise of greenery in the heart of Valencia! This sprawling park is like the gift that keeps on giving, except instead of unwanted Christmas sweaters, you get eight kilometers of lush gardens, sports courts, and serene walking paths. It’s so massive that you might even encounter unicorns or the Loch Ness monster hiding in its secret corners, but don't worry, they're just locals jogging in their unicorn onesies. So grab a picnic blanket, some snacks, and your best "I'm totally outdoorsy" face, and get ready to explore the park that makes all other parks green with envy!

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5. Albufera Natural Park

5 (2)

Carrer de Vicent Baldoví, 46012 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Albufera Natural Park in sunny Valencia, where the water is as tranquil as a snoozing cat and the wildlife is as diverse as a costume party organized by chickens. Take a leisurely boat ride across its pristine lagoon and enjoy the mesmerizing dance of literally thousands of birds, some of which may even moonwalk for your amusement. And before you leave, don't forget to catch a glimpse of the notorious "Fish Whisperer," a local legend who can summon fish from the depths with just a flick of his wrist, or so the legends go.

www.parquesnaturales.gva.es

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6. Torres de Serranos

4.6 (39021)

Plaça dels Furs, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain

Hidden amongst the delightful maze of Valencia lies the audacious Torres de Serranos, a medieval marvel ready to transport visitors to a time of armored knights, squabbling lords, and extravagant moustaches. Standing proudly like two grand warriors, these towering gateways once protected the city from marauding invaders, but now offer a refreshing change for tourists seeking a break from relentless paella consumption. With breathtaking views over the city and its picturesque chaos, one might even be tempted to shout, "Hark, I claim this kingdom in the name of flawless selfies!" Go forth and conquer... with a camera!

www.valencia.es

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7. Mestalla Stadium

4.6 (23297)

Av. de Suècia, s/n, 46010 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Mestalla Stadium, the vibrant heart of Valencia where football fanatics unite! This legendary fortress is a true marvel, boasting a captivating blend of architectural beauty and the occasional questionable color scheme. Catch a match here and prepare to be swept away by an explosion of passion, noise, and questionable fashion choices as locals truly embrace their team with unparalleled fervor. A word of caution: don't underestimate the power of match day traffic - the chaos can rival a bull run, so be prepared for some truly hair-raising adventures en route!

www.valenciacf.com

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8. Plaza de la Virgen

Plaça de la Verge, València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Plaza de la Virgen in fabulous Valencia! This plaza is like Netflix for history buffs - a delightful collection of ancient tales unfolding right before your eyes. Soak up the sunshine as you marvel at the city's majestic Gothic cathedral, where it seems like even the statues are gossiping about who's dating whom. Don't miss the iconic fountain, a favorite meeting spot for pigeons with a questionable fashion sense; they're known to strike a pose and demand attention like true divas of the avian world.

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9. Valencia Cathedral

4.6 (21115)

Pl. de l'Almoina, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Valencia Cathedral, where architectural beauty meets divine inspiration. Prepare to be awestruck by the dazzling blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and baroque styles; it's like a fashion show of cathedrals! As you enter, keep an eye out for the cheeky gargoyles, who seem to be having a gossip session about the latest ecclesiastical trends. Be sure to catch a glimpse of the Holy Grail, although it's probably not the one from Indiana Jones - sorry, Harrison Ford not included.

catedraldevalencia.es

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10. Hemisferic

4.1 (3713)

Av. del Professor López Piñero, 3, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to the Hemisferic in Valencia, where curiosity and imagination collide like two clumsy tourists in the middle of the night! This iconic building resembles a gigantic eye about to wink, daring you to step inside and experience an audiovisual extravaganza that'll make your senses go "holy paella!" Get ready to lose track of time as you dive into a world where science, art, and entertainment canoodle like flamenco dancers on roller skates. Once you cross the threshold, prepare to have your mind blown faster than a sangria-induced bull race! The Hemisferic boasts an otherworldly planetarium that shoots you into the cosmos like a caffeinated churro rocket. Hold on to your astral seat as constellations dance around you, leaving you feeling like you've overdosed on cosmic caffeine! But wait, there's more! As you explore deeper into this architectural marvel, you'll stumble upon a jaw-dropping IMAX cinema that's so colossal, you'll probably witness an elephant looking for popcorn. Get comfy and let the larger-than-life screen transport you to a place where superheroes battle aliens and popcorn spills faster than the city's tomato festival! In a nutshell, the Hemisferic in Valencia is a place where your imagination can run wild and science becomes as playful as a gingerbread man with rollerblades. It's an experience that'll leave you gobsmacked faster than a flamenco dancer belly-flopping onto a bullfighter's cape. So strap on your adventure hat, loosen your shoelaces (you never know what's gonna make you trip), and get ready to explore a world where dreams come true through the wonders of this funky, fantastical building.

www.cac.es

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11. Oceanografic

4.6 (72172)

C/ d'Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Oceanografic in Valencia, where even the most land-dwelling folks can experience a wet and wild adventure! Dive into a world of aquatic enchantment as you explore this massive oceanarium. Prepare to be mesmerized by the vast array of marine life, dazzling shows, and the occasional eventful slip-and-slide moment on the slippery floors – watch out for those sneaky penguins! This aquatic wonderland offers a refreshing escape from the scorching Valencian sun, providing an opportunity to see magnificent sea creatures up close and personal. Marvel at the majestic dolphins as they gracefully splash around, seemingly mocking our inability to swim as elegantly. And don't forget to wave at the playful sea lions, who put on a show that may leave you both inspired and slightly jealous of their balancing skills. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, get ready for a heart-pounding encounter with the mighty sharks! Brace yourself as you wander through a transparent tunnel, only a few inches away from rows of razor-sharp teeth. Don't worry, though, it's perfectly safe, unless you've recently forgotten how to swim – in that case, maybe stick to the cuddly sea turtles.

www.oceanografic.org

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12. Serranos Towers

4.6 (39021)

Plaça dels Furs, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain

Towering over the picturesque city of Valencia like giant pepper grinders, the Serranos Towers demand attention from both locals and tourists alike. These medieval marvels were once the main entrance to the city, ensuring that only the most daring horsemen could navigate their narrow passageways without getting stuck. So, channel your inner knight and embark on a journey through time as you climb the tower, but beware, stairs were definitely not designed with modern footwear in mind.

www.valencia.es

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13. Malvarrosa

La Malva-rosa, 46011 València, Spain

Nestled on the sun-drenched coast of Valencia, Malvarrosa is a sandy shoreline that proudly shows off its Mediterranean charm. Picture yourself frolicking on a beach that boasts sand so soft, even sunbathing is an extreme sport—don't forget to pack extra SPF. As you saunter along the promenade, prepare to be mesmerized by bronzed locals strutting their stuff and seagulls attempting to steal your paella with unsuspecting precision.

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14. Plaza Redonda

Pl. Redona, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

Tucked away between the narrow streets of Valencia lies Plaza Redonda, a peculiar gem that will give your GPS a run for its money. This circular wonderland looks as if someone took a magnifying glass to an ordinary square, folding and tucking it into this pint-sized amusement park. Filled to the brim with quirky shops, it's the perfect place to shop for unique trinkets to prove to yourself that souvenir shopping can indeed be an Olympic sport.

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15. Central Market of Valencia

4.7 (74357)

Pl. de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain

Nestled in the heart of vibrant Valencia, the Central Market is a sensory playground that will make your taste buds do the flamenco! Prepare to embark on a delightful adventure as you weave through the bustling stalls, where the fresh produce pops with colors that would make Picasso jealous. Don't be surprised if you find it hard to resist stuffing your suitcase with impossibly juicy oranges - just make sure they don't roll away when you try to board the plane!

www.mercadocentralvalencia.es

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16. City of Arts and Sciences

Av. del Professor López Piñero, 7, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to the City of Arts and Sciences in the sunny city of Valencia, where modernity and creativity collide like a salsa dancer with a flamenco guitarist. This architectural wonderland will have you questioning whether you stepped into the future or just got your coordinates mistaken. Prepare to have your mind blown by the futuristic structures that house a planetarium, interactive science museum, and an opera house, giving birth to a not-so-secret superhero lair of culture and knowledge.

www.cac.es

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17. Valencia Bullring

4.3 (18786)

C/ de Xàtiva, 28, 46004 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to Valencia Bullring, where adrenaline meets matadors in a furious dance! This monumental masterpiece has been hosting exhilarating bullfights since the late 19th century, making it the go-to destination for those seeking a unique blend of excitement and questionable decision-making. As you enter, prepare to witness the bravado of bullfighters as they attempt to outsmart and outrun their horned adversaries, all while praying for a happy ending that doesn't involve turning into oversized kebabs.

entradasplazadevalencia.janto.es

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18. Malvarrosa Beach

4.5 (4815)

Malvarrosa beach (Valencia), Spain

Welcome to Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia, where sand and sea come together to form a vacationer's delight. Picture a place where sun-soaked bodies tan, children build sandcastles that rival architectural wonders, and lifeguards double as Olympic synchronized swimmers. It's a beach where you can perfect your sun salutations while unintentionally giving your fellow beachgoers laughter yoga lessons.

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19. L'Oceanografic

4.6 (72172)

C/ d'Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain

Welcome to L'Oceanografic in sunny Valencia, where you can dive into the aquatic wonderland without getting a single hair wet. This marine extravaganza boasts more fish than an overzealous sushi chef! Immerse yourself in stunningly colorful ecosystems where you can meet exotic creatures that make Finding Nemo look like a neighborhood fishpond gathering.

www.oceanografic.org

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20. Bioparc Valencia

4.6 (40942)

Av. Pío Baroja, 3, 46015 València, Valencia, Spain

Nestled in the vibrant city of Valencia, Bioparc offers a wild adventure for animal enthusiasts and reluctant safari-goers alike. Get ready to tiptoe through this quirky yet authentic zoo, where the animals reign supreme and visitors become the ultimate background extras in their daily dramas. With jaw-dropping exhibits like the Elephant Bathing Pool and the adorable Red Pandas playing hide-and-seek, a visit to Bioparc is simply untamed fun with a side of hilarity.

www.bioparcvalencia.es

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Valencia by plane is to fly into Valencia Airport. Airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Iberia offer flights to Valencia from cities throughout Europe.

Car

Driving to Valencia is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding areas. From Madrid, take the A-3 motorway south towards Valencia. The journey takes around 3 hours depending on traffic.

Train

One option for travelling to Valencia by train is to take the high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid. The train journey takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes and arrives at Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station.

Boat

If travelling internationally, you can take a ferry from the island of Ibiza to the port of Valencia. The ferry takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes from Ibiza town to Valencia Port.

Bus

Travelling to Valencia by bus is a cost-effective option. There are many bus companies that operated a direct service from other cities in Spain. Companies such as ALSA have routes from Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga among other cities.

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