What To Do in Valencia, Spain

I spent a full 30 days in Valencia, and I could easily spend a lifetime there. It is my favorite city I have been to on my journey. It’s a laid-back city with tons of sunshine, a sprawling beach, and a friendly community. I joke with people that “Spanish don’t like to work” after countless times I would show up to a local spot because of high reviews only to find it’s closed for no particular reason, as well as the almost mandatory siestas from 4–8 p.m.

Maybe that’s why I fell in love, life is meant to be lived, not worked away like in the US.

So what to see In Valencia, Spain?

The Ruzafa neighborhood: a trendy area south of Valencia Nord. Full of restaurants and bars with high energy

Plaza Redonda (City Center): houses, tapas bars, restaurants, and a flea market on Sunday

National Museum of Ceramics (City Center): even if you don’t want to go in at least admire the astounding façade. Free on Sat/Sundays after 4 pm, otherwise it’s 3e.

Casa Judia (next to Valencia Nord train station): built in the 1930s, this residential building is one of the most photogenic places in Valencia.

Quart Towers: 15th-century gothic towers and one of the remaining portions of the old city walls. You can also go in (for free on Sundays!) to ascend to the top for a view of the city.

Jardin del Turia: once a river now converted to a massive park, running along the eastern area of the city center. One of the nicest parks I’ve been to!

The City of Arts & Sciences: located south of Jardin del Turia, is something to see! There is an aquarium, a hemisferica, an algora, a science museum, and a large greenhouse. Ticket prices vary, although I would recommend just walking around if you don’t want to purchase any tickets. I experienced the science museum as well as the aquarium.

Walk the streets of El Carmen: on the northern area of central Valencia this area is famous for the quirky street art displayed everywhere. Great energy at night regardless of the day of the week.

Visit El Cabanyal beach: this free beach is a stone’s throw away from City Center. From Valencia Nord Station, take the C-6 Train toward Castello and exit at Valencia Cabanyal (approx. 14 minute train ride). I took the scenic route one day and decided to walk from city center. I found these very Moorish style facades along the way. You can also rent a bike to speed up the trip!

The Cathedral (City Center): Stunning large cathedral in the middle of city center. Audio guide comes with price of entrance (9euros)

The Central Market (City Center): open M-Sat 7:30-3pm. Built between 1014-1928m it is one of largest European Markets. Any type of Spanish cuisine you have wanted to try but didn’t want a huge portion? This is the place! You can eat/drink your way through trying anything from mixed queso to squid tapas. This was one of my favorite spots in Valencia!

Where can I get an Aqua de Valencia?

Cafe Madrid: A trendy cocktail spot serving up a true Aqua de Valencia. It’s taste like sunshine in nice wine glass. Give it a try.

Olhops; (Ruzafa)- craft beer bar, if you were missing a small piece of America while you’re gone

Bear Club: (City Center)- Fun bar for a good cocktail. A must for a large Sangria or Aqua de Valencia, or a beer to watch futbol with the locals.

Barceloa Hotel: This 4 star hotel has a fantastic rooftop bar a short walk from the City of Arts & Sciences. You can’t miss it. The most magical sunset view I’ve seen. Good for a drink or two around 1800.

Churros, Patatas Bravas, Paella, Repeat.

Did you know? The Spanish love to eat. In my research, here are meals based on time of day.

Desayuno (breakfast): 0800–1100

Almuerza (lunch): 1100–1400

Comida (snack): 1400–1800 (Menu Del Dia)

Menedia (snack): 1800–2100

Cena (dinner): 2100

DDL Boutique: (Ruzafa neighborhood)- coffee and pastry

Le Grande Café: (Ruzafa neighborhood)- coffee, pastry, empanadillas, beer

Restaurante el Matador: (Ruzafa neighborhood)- cute tapas bar

Puerta del Mar: traditional Valencia Paella. Easy to get a reservation with a nice ambience. Traditional Paella its cooked from scratch so order a few tapas while you wait!

Cantina Monterey: Tacos? Why not. This small cantina is home to some of the most delicious street tacos and large San Miguels in Valencia.

La Terraza Santa Catalina:  (City Center) -if you would like a true Spanish delicacy, order the churro con chocolate. Don’t order the latte unless you like 90% milk 10% coffee. Cappuccinos all the way.

And yes, the Spanish Siesta does exist. In the later afternoon, from 4–8 p.m., they take a little break. We all need one of these during the day, right? Be sure to check reservation times before heading out for the evening!

I traveled to 20 new countries on this sabbatical/ life crisis/grown-up gap year and when anyone asks what my favorite place was, Valencia remains #1. I spent the most time here of any city and could easily move there tomorrow without question. Valencia is definitely overlooked as a tourist destination which, to me, makes it even more valuable. I hope you embrace the people, culture and cuisine that this Southern Coastal City has to offer. Salud!

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