Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is a unique mix of culture, nature, and great food. With its laid-back atmosphere and walkable neighborhoods, the city effortlessly combines the energy of a modern urban hub with the easy pace of coastal life.
From wandering through the cobbled streets of the historic Old Town to marveling at the sci-fi elegance of the City of Arts and Sciences, visitors are treated to a diverse tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re into architecture, art, food, or nature, these are some of the best things to do in Valencia.
Top 10 things to do in Valencia
Wander through the Old Town
Best for: History lovers and casual explorers
One of the first things to do in Valencia Spain is to explore the Old Town. This is the heart of historic Valencia, where cobbled streets, centuries-old churches, and lively plazas paint a vivid picture of the city’s past. Your itinerary should definitely include a stop at the Valencia Cathedral, which is said to house the Holy Grail. You can also climb the 207 steps that lead to its bell tower and admire some spectacular views from the terrace.
Other impressive monuments in the Old Town are La Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas, and the Plaza de la Virgen. If you’re in Valencia only for a day or two, you can look up the best way to get from Valencia Airport to the city to save time and make the most of your stay.
Tip: The bell on top of the Valencia Cathedral, called El Miguelete, chimes on the hour, and it’s very loud, which can be scary to young children.
Explore the Central Market of Valencia
Best for: Foodies and culture seekers
Europe’s largest covered market, Mercat Central, bursts with colors and aromas as it houses over 300 stalls that sell all kinds of excellent quality food. This unique building blends Art Nouveau and Gothic elements, and it fits perfectly in the Old Town. Besides admiring the unique architecture, a visit to the Central Market is a must for sampling local delicacies and a perfect lunch idea if you are exploring the Old Town.
Visit La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange)
Best for: Architecture buffs and UNESCO site collectors
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning Gothic 15th-century building stands as a symbol of Valencia’s prosperous mercantile history and is one of the most impressive sites in the Old Town. Admire the huge trading spaces with vaulted ceilings supported by beautiful spiral columns and travel back in time to the commercial transactions during the Middle Ages.
Tip: There is free entry on Sundays and public holidays.
Marvel at the City of Arts and Sciences
Best for: Families and modern design enthusiasts
Perhaps Valencia’s most photogenic and recognizable landmark, the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) is a futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava. Despite being a popular attraction, it’s definitely one of the most unusual things to do in Valencia.
You can freely admire the incredible futuristic architecture of L’Hemisfèric, shaped like an eye, and the Prince Felipe Science Museum, designed to look like a huge whale skeleton. Finally, make sure to pay a visit to L’Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, with some 500 marine species.
Stroll or cycle the Turia Gardens
Best for: Families, nature lovers, and active travelers
Spending an afternoon at the Turia Gardens is one of the best things to do in Valencia with kids. Once a river, Turia Park stretches for 9 kilometers from the city to the sea. This innovative urban green space has cycle tracks, children’s play zones, water features, and picnic spots, perfect for a day in nature. Besides the cost of renting a bike, visiting the park is one of the best free things to do in Valencia.
Tip: Take the little ones to the famous Gulliver Park, a one-of-a-kind playground with a massive interactive sculpture inspired by “Gulliver’s Travels”.
Taste the flavors of Valencia
Best for: Food lovers and culinary travelers
Valencia’s culinary scene is a delicious journey through flavor and tradition. Start your day like a true Valencian with almuerzo, a hearty mid-morning meal that often includes a bocadillo (sandwich), olives, and a cold beer or coffee. For lunch, try the famous paella Valenciana, the original version of Spain’s most iconic dish. It’s traditionally made with chicken, rabbit, local green beans, and sometimes snails, and not seafood as we now consider the norm.
No visit would be complete without tasting the region’s renowned oranges, whether freshly squeezed at a café or as the base of Agua de Valencia, a refreshing and deceptively strong cocktail made with orange juice, cava, vodka, and gin. And for a sweet finish, dip crispy churros into thick hot chocolate at a traditional horchatería.
Tip: Locals only eat paella for lunch, so places advertising paella at dinner time are probably touristy.
Visit Valencia’s free museums
Best for: Budget travelers and art lovers
If you’re looking for things to do in Valencia for free, you can add a museum or two to your itinerary based on your interests. Valencia has several free museums, some always free and others only on specific days of the week. Among the most interesting are The Museum of Fine Arts and The Centro del Carmen, which are always free. The Museum of Prehistory and Cultures of Valencia is free on Sundays, while The IVAM is free on Fridays from 7:00 PM. Finally, the Fallero Museum, which shows the history of Valencia’s famous Fallas, is free on Sundays for families.
Tip: Plan your trip in March to catch the unique Fallas Festival, which fills the city with giant sculptures, parades, music, traditional dress, and fireworks.
Soak up the sun on Valencia’s beaches
Best for: Sunbathers and swimmers
Valencia’s coastline is a major draw for visitors, offering wide, golden-sand beaches just minutes from the city center. The most popular urban beaches are Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas, lined with palm trees, seafood restaurants, and vibrant chiringuitos (beach bars) that come alive in the summer months. Take a break from the city vibes to dive into the warm Mediterranean, enjoy a beachfront paella, or simply lounge with a book and a cold drink.
Tip: During the summer, 1:30 to 5:00 PM is time for siesta, and many businesses are closed, so it’s a perfect time to head to the beach.
Relax at Albufera Natural Park
Best for: Couples and peace-seekers
Just a short drive or bus ride from the city, Albufera Natural Park offers a peaceful retreat into nature, far removed from the urban buzz of Valencia. This expansive wetland area is home to a vast freshwater lagoon, rice paddies, and an abundance of birdlife, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. The nearby village of El Palmar is famous for its rustic charm and authentic paella, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Valencian meal after a boat ride or walk through the park’s trails.
Tip: Plan your visit in the afternoon for a spectacular sunset over the lake.
Discover Valencia’s neighborhoods
Best for: Local culture lovers and urban explorers
Each “barrio” in Valencia has its own personality, from the hip, bohemian vibe of Russafa with its indie shops and creative eateries, to the colorful, maritime charm of El Cabanyal, once a fishing village. Wander the elegant streets of L’Eixample for upscale shopping and classic architecture, or discover interesting things to do in Valencia for young adults in Benimaclet, a student-friendly area with youthful energy.
Tip: It’s worth looking into each neighborhood a bit while planning your trip, to find the best accommodation based on the things you want to see during your trip. Then you can book a Valencia Airport transfer directly to your hotel or apartment to ensure a seamless start to your trip.
Frequently asked questions
What not to miss in Valencia? 
All lists with things to do in Valencia Municipality of Valencia, Spain include visits to the City of Arts and Sciences, the Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Grail, and the Turia Gardens. Also, make sure to taste the local paella and the popular Valencia oranges.
What is Valencia best known for?
Valencia is known as the birthplace of paella and is famous for its sweet and juicy oranges. In terms of sightseeing, the most popular attractions are the Old Town, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the Turia Gardens.
What to do in Valencia for 3 days?
Exploring the Old Town, visiting the Turia Park and the City of Arts and Sciences, and relaxing at La Malvarrosa beach are some of the best things to do in Valencia Spain if you’re visiting only for 3 days.
Is 2 days in Valencia enough?
While in Valencia the things to do are many, so ideally you should plan to spend at least 3 days there. If you only have 2 days, you can focus on the city’s main attractions around the Old Town and at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
Which area to avoid in Valencia?
Valencia is generally a safe city, but staying alert, especially during the night, is always a good idea. If you’re new to the city, it’s best to avoid the neighborhoods of El Cabanyal and La Coma, often characterized as more sketchy.
Is Valencia Old Town worth visiting?
Absolutely, strolling around Valencia Old Town should definitely be part of your itinerary. Some of the best things to do in Valencia Old Town are visiting the Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Grail, La Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas, Plaza de la Virgen, and the Central Market of Valencia.
What is the most beautiful part of Valencia?
The Old Town, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the Turia Gardens are among the most beautiful areas of Valencia.
