13 of the Best Things to Do in Valencia, Spain

The third largest city in Spain is right on the coast and is a perfect combination of city life and beach vibes. I’m completely obsessed and there’s so many things to do in Valencia! I hope you enjoy this city as much as I do.

Quick facts about Spain

Valencia is the 3rd biggest city in Spain and is a lovely little coastal town that is not too small to be bored, but not too big to be overcrowded.

I lived in Valencia and, over the years, the city has grown exponentially. It is now a digital nomad hub, home to tons of different specialty coffee shops, nature spaces and bike lanes to explore, and of course a lovely city beach.

While Valencia has grown and become more international, it still retains its uniquely Spanish culture. Whether you’re coming to Valencia on vacation or spending a few months as a digital nomad or studying Spanish at a language school, I hope you enjoy my home!

What to see and things to do in Valencia, Spain

1. Visit the Ciutat de les Arts i les ciències

The most famous landmark and symbol of Valencia!

This museum complex is home to a science museum, an opera house, an IMAX theater, and an aquarium. You can spend days exploring the various buildings, so plan accordingly! The complex is the symbol of Valencia and is a must do photo op.

2. Take a bike around the Turia

Fun fact: the Turia park used to be a river, running along the city center. It dried up long ago and has now become a hub for enjoying nature, right in the heart of the city. It’s common for people to go for a bike ride, jog, play sports, or picnic. There’s also a playground for kids that is shaped like the giant from Gulliver’s Travels.

3. Eat paella valenciana

Valencia is the home of paella. Paella is a rice dish that is cooked in a huge pot for hours. There are several different types of paella, but the original one is paella valenciana, which has green beans, rabbit, and chicken.

4. Drink agua de valencia

Agua de Valencia, a local drink, is similar to a mimosa, but with a lot more added to it. Agua de Valencia normally has orange juice, cava (Spanish champagne), gin, vodka, and maybe some other ingredients. It’s very refreshing but you need to be careful with how much you drink!

5. Visit Malvarossa Beach

You can’t visit Valencia without going to the beach! The main, tourist part of the beach (Malvarossa) contains many restaurants and clubs. If you head a bit more north on the same stretch of sand, you’ll reach Patacona, which has many different chiringuitos or, beach bars, for a more relaxing vibe. You can also visit the beach at El Saler, for a more natural type of scenery.

6. Visit the Valencia Cathedral

The Valencia Cathedral is right in the old town. In addition to being beautiful by itself, this cathedral also has a tower where you can climb 207 steps for a panoramic view of Valencia.

Hint: If you’re looking for hostel accommodation, Red Nest Hostel is close to the cathedral and the rest of the Old Town, with a great backpacker vibe

7. Cruise along the coast

There are so many amazing towns and beaches to visit on the coast, and most of my international friends who live in Valencia haven’t checked them out! You’re seriously sleeping on some of the best beaches in Europe if you don’t do some Day Trips from Valencia

8. Explore Ruzafa

While Ruzafa used to be one of the less desirable parts of the city, it has now made a name for itself as the hipster neighborhood. You can wander the streets of Ruzafa for unique bars and restaurants, as well as visit the market there.

9. See the Plaza de Toros

Situated right next to the train station is the bullfighting arena. While bullfighting is a bit controversial nowadays, you can still visit the arena for other events like concerts and parties, or just see the outside.

10. Go to Las Fallas

If you’re lucky enough to be in Spain during Las Fallas, you absolutely have to go to Las Fallas. Las Fallas usually takes place during the middle of March and is a festival that is celebrated for weeks on end.

Locals build these massive and colorful caricatures (called ninots) and are displayed all over the city. Every day, there is something called a mascleta, where everyone gathers to hear massive firecrackers go off that literally shake the earth. There are presentations and parties and parades for weeks.

On the last day in the final week of Las Fallas, judges choose the winning ninot of the year and everyone celebrates. The following day, the celebrations continue by burning every ninot all to the ground. The winner is the last one to be burned.

It’s an absolutely amazing experience to witness, but I will warn you: if you don’t like crowds or loud noises, avoid Valencia during March.

Find out exactly when the festival is at the official website.

11. Shop at the Mercat Central

This main market in the city centre has fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat. Even if you’re not there to shop, it’s still a great place to walk around and see all the options and the atmosphere or to grab a drink.

12. Visit the Silk Exchange

La Lonja de la Seda, or the silk exchange, is an important historical building in the old town. It’s also open everyday! Check the website for the latest information and see this beautiful piece of history

13. Bioparc Valencia

The Bioparc in Valencia is a zoo, but unlike any zoo you’ve seen before. This zoo was created under the concept of “zoo immersion” with carefully planned natural habitats for the animals and less barriers. Of course, you’ll still be far away from the tigers and lions in their exhibit, but when entering the lemur forest you’ll find that they are free rein

Have you visited Valencia? What other things do you love to do in this amazing city?