The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 1

Some cities flirt with your curiosity, Valencia dives right in with a full glass of wine and a plate of paella. Between its golden beaches, jaw-dropping architecture, and citrus-scented streets, this Mediterranean gem is as bold as it is charming. From the first sip of a wine tour in Valencia’s sun-kissed vineyards to late-night bites in buzzing tapas bars, the city promises a full-on sensory adventure. Whether you’re here for futuristic wonders or old-town strolls, consider this your invitation to explore the best things to do in Valencia, with a little extra flavor.

What are the best things to do in Valencia?

Wander the historic Valencia Cathedral

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 3

If you’re into legendary relics and epic views, the Valencia Cathedral is your kind of stop. Tucked in the heart of the old town, it claims to house the Holy Grail, yep, the real one. And if you’re feeling adventurous, climb the Miguelete Tower (just 207 easy-ish steps) for a rooftop view that’s worth the leg burn. Think orange-tiled rooftops, church bells, and a peek of the sea in the distance.

Visit the lively central mercado

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 5

Need a slice of local life? Head straight to Valencia’s Central Market. Just a few steps from the Lonja de la Seda, this place buzzes with colors, aromas, and chatter. It’s not just a market, it’s where Valencians do their thing. Grab a basket (real or imaginary) and lose yourself between towers of oranges, rows of salty cod, and stalls dishing out cheeky sips of vermouth. It’s the perfect spot to snack your way into the mood for paella, or just pretend you’re shopping for one.

Stroll through the refreshing Turia Gardens

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 7

Imagine a river turned into a giant garden, you’re in the Turia. Once a real river (rerouted after a dramatic flood), this lush green ribbon now slices through the city as Valencia’s ultimate playground. Locals jog, stroll, nap under orange trees, and even rollerblade like it’s 1999. From art installations to cheeky fountains and photo ops with both palm trees and sci-fi architecture in the background, the Turia Gardens are where you go to breathe, stretch, or just vibe out with a sandwich.

Relax on the beaches of El Cabanyal

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 9

Just a flip-flop stroll from the city center, this former fishermen’s barrio serves up golden sands, sea breezes, and seafood that tastes like summer. Think grilled fish so fresh it could wink at you, colorful houses with peeling charm, and casual bars pouring chilled glasses of agua de Valencia. Come for the beach, stay for the neighborhood soul.

Marvel at the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda)

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 11

Step into the Silk Exchange and you’ll wonder if Valencia once hired wizards to handle their trades. This Gothic gem, yep, UNESCO-approved, looks like the perfect setting for a medieval fantasy series. The twisted stone columns are basically architectural flexing, and the vaulted Contracts Room is where silk deals were once struck in serious style. It’s like a cathedral built for business, minus the sermons and plus a whole lot of swagger.

Explore the street art and culture of El Carmen

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 13

Get lost (on purpose) in El Carmen, Valencia’s coolest maze. This neighborhood feels like someone threw medieval architecture, street art, and late-night tapas into a blender, and we mean that in the best way. Every crooked alley leads to something unexpected: a mural, a mojito, or a modern art museum tucked behind a centuries-old wall. It’s the kind of place where you can hop between Gothic churches and graffiti-covered bars without missing a beat.

Immerse yourself in Fallas Festival Traditions

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 15

Valencia in March? Buckle up. Las Fallas isn’t just a festival, it’s a citywide explosion of noise, fire, and pure joy. Picture giant, hand-crafted sculptures (some hilarious, some jaw-dropping), marching bands on every corner, and fireworks that feel like they might launch you into orbit. Locals don traditional dress, firecrackers go off like confetti, and the whole city turns into one big, fiery block party. It’s wild, beautiful, loud, and completely unforgettable.

Unwind at Plaza de la Reina and Plaza del Negrito

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 17

Need a break from the sightseeing buzz? Plaza de la Reina is your go-to. Right in the heart of Valencia, it’s the kind of place where time slows down, grab a seat, sip something cold, and admire the cathedral peeking through the skyline. Just around the corner, Plaza del Negrito is where locals hang out. Less polished, more real, and perfect for a casual drink under the trees. It’s not a detour, it’s the vibe you came for.

Catch a performance at Palau de la Música

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 19

Into music? The Palau de la Música is your jam. Tucked inside the green flow of the Turia Gardens, this shiny glass palace isn’t just a pretty face, it’s where Valencia hits all the right notes. From orchestras that stir your soul to indie bands that get you moving, the lineup’s always got a surprise. Even if you don’t score a ticket, the vibe outside is worth the stop.

What are the best things to do around Valencia?

Explore the vineyards in the region

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 21

Just outside the city buzz, Valencia’s countryside rolls into a patchwork of sun-drenched vineyards that are begging to be explored. Head inland toward regions like Utiel-Requena, where winemaking is a way of life and every glass tells a story. Expect bold reds, fresh rosés, and sparkling surprises made with native grapes like Bobal. Whether you’re hopping between rustic cellars or enjoying a long lunch under vine-covered terraces, this is where wine tasting becomes an adventure, no pretension, just good wine, local charm, and plenty of reasons to raise a glass.

Sip Valencia like a local

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 23

Ambia Tours turns a simple afternoon into a mini celebration of Valencian wines, and maybe your new favorite memory. Based just a short ride from Aranjuez (yes, in the heart of Valencia!), these folks bring on-the-ground guides and sommeliers who make wine tastings feel like hanging out with your most cultured friend. Think small groups, native grape stories, and easygoing flavors, no snooty vibes, just glasses of local Garnacha, Bobal, or Tempranillo that taste like sunshine and tradition. Fancy something bigger? Their full-day winery tour heads inland to Utiel-Requena, where vineyard views and cellar chats give you a real taste of vineyard life. It’s wine, but better, because it’s personal.

Get real with natural wines

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 25

Ever wanted to sip wine and feel like you’re part of the story? Casa Balaguer is your backstage pass. About 45 minutes from Valencia, this friendly biodynamic estate takes you on a relaxed tour through olive groves, vineyards, and even barnyard buddies. Sample their cloudy, natural wines, Moscatel, Garnacha Peluda, Monastrell,that taste like the land they come from. It’s earthy, honest, and refreshingly unstuffy, like a down-to-earth dinner party, but with better wine.

Visit the magical Albufera Natural Park

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 27

Just 22 minutes south of Valencia, Albufera Natural Park is where the city takes a deep breath. Think shimmering rice fields, calm lagoons, and sunsets that look like they’ve been Photoshopped. This is the birthplace of paella, so come hungry, and don’t even think about leaving without trying it straight from the source. Hop on a traditional boat for a lazy ride through the wetlands, spot herons along the way, and soak up the slow pace. Bonus points if you cool off with a glass of horchata and a few sweet fartons nearby, it doesn’t get more Valencian than that.

Wander through the town of Xàtiva

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 29

Just an hour from Valencia, Xàtiva is your go-to if you’re fond of a castle with a view and a side of jamón. Perched high above town, this dramatic hilltop fortress feels like it’s straight out of a fantasy series, but with way better weather and way fewer dragons. Down below, shady plazas, crumbling stone walls, and cozy bars serve up local tapas with small-town charm. It’s the perfect excuse to ditch the beach for a day and swap flip-flops for castle vibes.

Head south for sun and castles in Alicante

Things to Do in Valencia - The Best Things to Do in Valencia: Your Ultimate Guide - 2025 - 31

Ready for a change of pace? Just about 2 hours south of Valencia by car or train, Alicante brings that irresistible combo of golden beaches, lively old town vibes, and castle views that stretch to the sea. Climb up to Santa Bárbara Castle for some epic photo ops, then wind down with a lazy stroll along the Explanada de España, bonus points if you’re snacking on turrón or sipping local wine.

More sunshine and seaside charm? Dive into our full guide on the best things to do in Alicante!


Good to Know before visiting Valencia

What are the must-do things in Valencia?

Valencia offers a mix of historic charm and modern attractions. Must-do activities include visiting the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, admiring the intricate architecture of Valencia Cathedral and its El Miguelete bell tower, and strolling through the lush Turia Gardens. Don’t miss the vibrant Mercado Central for local delights, and experience authentic paella in the place where it was born. End your day with a sunset walk along Malvarrosa Beach.

What to do in Valencia if it rains?

If it’s raining in Valencia, you can explore many excellent indoor attractions. Visit the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, or discover the science exhibits at the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum. Art lovers should head to the IVAM (Institut Valencià d’Art Modern) or the Museum of Fine Arts. Cozy up in a café in the Ruzafa district or explore the frescoes in San Nicolás Church, often called the ‘Sistine Chapel of Valencia.’

What is Valencia best known for?

Valencia is best known for being the birthplace of paella, its Mediterranean beaches, and its unique blend of Gothic and futuristic architecture. Its annual Fallas Festival in March is world-famous for firework displays, satirical effigies, and lively parades. Valencia is also popular for its laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, and vibrant street art.

What are the best restaurants in Valencia?

To enjoy authentic Valencian cuisine, try these top eateries:

  • Casa Carmela – Known for classic wood-fired paella near the beach.
  • La Riua – A beloved family-run spot serving traditional Valencian dishes.
  • Bodega Casa Montaña – Historic tapas bar in El Cabanyal offering local wines and produce.
  • Central Bar by Ricard Camarena – A modern twist on local food inside Mercado Central.
  • Restaurant Navarro – Specializes in paella and seafood, near the city center.

What are the best hotels in Valencia?

Whether you prefer luxury, boutique, or budget accommodations, Valencia has options for all:

  • Caro Hotel – A luxurious 5-star in the heart of the old town, blending modern comfort with historic architecture.

  • Quart Youth Hostel – A clean, budget-friendly option for backpackers and solo travelers.

Are there free things to do in Valencia?

Yes! Valencia has many wonderful free attractions. Walk or bike through Turia Gardens, explore the Old Town with landmarks like Plaza de la Virgen or the charming El Carmen district, and soak up the sun on Playa de la Malvarrosa. Many museums, like the Museum of Fine Arts, offer free entry, and the Fallas Museum has free access on Sundays. Street art lovers should explore the murals of El Carmen as well.

Is Valencia worth visiting, and is 2 days enough?

Valencia is absolutely worth visiting for its unique mix of tradition and innovation, delicious cuisine, and relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Two days are sufficient to see the highlights, such as the Old Town, City of Arts and Sciences, and the beach, but three to four days allow a more relaxed pace and time for hidden gems and culinary experiences.

What are the best things to do in Valencia at night?

Valencia has a lively nightlife scene. Start your evening with dinner in Ruzafa or the historic Carmen neighborhood, where tapas and wine flow freely. Enjoy rooftop cocktails at Ateneo Sky Bar or check out the architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, beautifully lit at night. For late-night fun, dance the night away at Marina Beach Club or venues like L’Umbracle Terraza and MYA.