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Municipality in Spain
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Valencia (València in Valencian, pronounced [vaˈlensia], vahl-EHN-see-ah; baˈlenθja [bahl-EHN-thyah] in Spanish) is a charming old city and the capital of the Valencian Community. With just over 830,000 inhabitants in 2023, it is Spain’s third-largest city and, after Barcelona, the most significant cultural centre along the Spanish Mediterranean coast. It is the capital of the autonomous Valencian Community, and is known for tourism and cuisine. In March visitors flock to the city for the annual UNESCO-listed Falles celebration, but the city is worth visiting at other times of year for its paella, ultramodern architecture, and good beaches.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias / City of Arts and Science
This ultra-modern architectural complex on the former Turia riverbed was designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava and Spanish-Mexican architect Félix Candela. If you don't want to pay the steep admission charges to the individual sights, you can wander around the complex and appreciate the architecture from outside for free.
Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe / Príncipe Felipe Science Museum
A science museum designed to resemble a whale skeleton, it has interactive exhibits on three floors.
The largest oceanarium in Europe, and the second-largest in the world, has seven sections devoted to different ecological zones. The building was designed by Félix Candela to resemble a water lily. Highlights include a dolphinarium, a walk-through shark tunnel, a shark tank (open for public diving), and spherical bird aviary. There are several restaurants on-site, and with so many attractions it’s easy to make this into an all-day affair.
A botanic garden landscaped with plants native to Valencia. The park also has the Jardí d'Astronomia (Jardín de la Astronomía / Astronomy Garden) and the Passeig de l'Art (Paseo del Arte / Art Promenade), which has permanent and temporary exhibits of large-scale contemporary art, mostly sculpture.
A multi-use covered plaza, designed for sporting events, concerts, and special exhibits.
Puente de l'Assut de l'Or / Assut de l'Or Bridge
The striking cable-stayed bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2008, crosses the dry Túria riverbed. At 125 m high, the bridge tower is the highest point in Valencia.
La Seu / Valencia Cathedral
It was the site of a Roman temple, then a Visigothic cathedral, and then a Moorish grand mosque. It is now the seat of the archbishropic of Valencia. The current Gothic structure was begun in 1262 and remodeled numerous times, resulting in a structure with elements from three distinct architectural periods. Especially notable are the Puerta de los Apóstoles from the 14th century, and the Puerta del Palau, the oldest doorway of the cathedral, which is Romanesque with Moorish influences.
Capilla del Santo Cáliz / Chapel of the Holy Chalice
The focus of this side chapel is a chalice of agate, the top of which is believed by the devout to be none other than the Holy Grail. Of the handful of similar chalices with the same claim, this is deemed by many scholars to be the most likely candidate as that part has been dated by experts to the 1st century BCE. Acquired in 1399, it was repaired after being broken into several pieces thanks to being dropped by a priest in 1744. He is said to have died the following week.
El Miguelete
The unusual octagonal bell tower, with a height of 51 m, was built in the 14th and 15th centuries. It provides a pleasing view of the city.
Cripta Arqueológica de la Cárcel de San Vicente Mártir / Archaeological Crypt of the Prison of San Vicente
This Visigothic chapel has on display objects discovered during its excavation including a Visigothic altar, Roman mural, Muslim artifacts, and a sculpture of the early Christian Saint Vicente Mártir, who is believed to have been buried here.
La Lonja de la Seda / Silk Exchange
This UNESCO landmark is considered to be one of the most significant secular Gothic buildings in Europe. It was built between 1482 and 1533 on the site of an earlier oil exchange. The Llotja consists of four distinct parts: the Sala de Contractació (Trading Hall), also known as the Saló Columnari (Hall of Columns); the Sala Consulado del Mar with its magnificent ceiling; the unfinished Torre (tower) with its debtor prison (temporarily closed to visitors), and the Pati dels Tarongers (Patio of Oranges). Some of the Gothic gargoyles are quite naughty.
Iglesia de San Nicolás / Church of San Nicolás
Established in the 13th century, the church was expanded in several phases, culminating in the current 15th-century Gothic structure. During the late 17th century extensive Baroque renovations were carried out to the interior, the most significant of them being ceiling frescoes. This remarkable set of frescoes completely covers the vault of the nave and the presbytery, and illustrates the lives of St. Nicolás and St. Peter. They were designed by the Italian master Antonio Palomino and painted by his student, Dionis Vidal, and have been completely restored.
Tourists are not permitted to visit during mass or other liturgical celebrations.
Biblioteca Valenciana Nicolau Primitiu / Monastery of San Miguel de los Reyes
Founded in the 16th century, this massive Renaissance building is considered by some historians to be the early model for the more well-known El Escorial near Madrid. In 1835 the monastery was dissolved and came under control of the state; it was used for a time as a school, an asylum, and during the Franco period as a prison. It was fully restored in 1997-2000, and now houses the central library of the Valencian Community, the collection of which includes many of the original volumes kept here during the building's monastic period. Guided architectural tours of the building are offered on weekends (Spanish/Valencian only).
Porta de Quart
This medieval tower was part of the wall that surrounded the old city; the numerous pock-marks are from gun battles during the Spanish War of Independence from the French (1807-1814). Great views of the city can be had from the top.
Porta de Serrans
Built in 1392, this gate was also part of the ancient wall and for a time also served as a prison. The gate has been massively renovated and somewhat modernized, but is still interesting. It is across the street from the park. This tower also offers excellent views.
Almudín
Constructed in the early 14th century on the site of a Moorish palace, the building is essentially Moorish in design and used to function as the municipal granary; its name is derived directly from 'almud' (Arabic: bushel). The building was fully restored in 1996 and is now a venue for temporary art exhibitions.
Baños del Almirante / Almirante Muslim Baths
Although constructed in 1313 after the Christian reconquista, the bathhouse was built in the Arabic style and is considered to be an excellent example of Moorish architecture. It was used continuously as a bathhouse until the 20th century, and is one of the few remaining such structures in Spain. It was fully restored in 2005.
Atarazanas del Grao / Royal Shipyards
These Gothic shipyards date to the early 14th century, and attained their current layout in 1500. Trade ships were built and repaired here, as well as galleys used for defense against Barbary pirates. Later the building was used as a storehouse for salt, and now functions as a venue for temporary exhibits. Due to the shifting coastline over the centuries, the shipyards are now two blocks inland from the shore.
Palacio de Cervelló / Cervelló Palace
Built in the 18th century as the residence of the counts of Cervelló, this palace became the official residence for visiting royalty following the demolition of the Palau Reial de València. The building now houses a museum, the Municipal Archive, and the Serrano Morales Library. On the ground floor is an exhibit (in Catalan and Spanish) illustrating the historic events which took place here, and on the upper floor are the grand ballroom and Serrano Morales Library, with original murals and furnishings.
Casa Natalicia de San Vicente Ferrer / Home of San Vicente Ferrer
Sant Vicent Ferrer, the principal patron saint of Valencia, was born in this house in 1350. The house was renovated numerous times, and has a chapel, well, and 18th-century ceramic tile panels depicting the life of the saint.
Torre del Angel / Angel Tower
One of the few vestiges from Valencia's Muslim period, the semicircular 11th-century tower was once part of the Muslim city wall. It is now a private dwelling, but can be viewed through a fence.
Centro Arqueológico de la Almoina
This extensive site was uncovered in 1985 during preparations for new construction, which was then cancelled. Excavations revealed archeological remains dating from the Moorish, Visigothic, and Roman periods. After completing excavations, the city of Valencia converted the site into an underground museum. Highlights include Roman baths, a Moorish courtyard, and various artifacts.
Museo Nacional de Cerámica / National Ceramics Museum
This very ornate Baroque palace once served as the residence of the Marqués de Dos Aigües, and is now a museum. The ground and first floors showcase a collection of stagecoaches and period furniture, while the upper two floors house an extensive ceramics collection with a focus on historic Valencian pieces. Of particular note are Moorish ceramic tiles from the main mosque which was on the site now occupied by the cathedral, and six plates designed by Picasso. Photography permitted, no flash.
Museo de Historia de Valencia / Museum of Valencian History
Housed in a former reservoir, this well-designed museum is dedicated to the developmental history of the city, from the Roman era until the present. Although labels are in Valencian and Spanish, booklets with English translations are available at the front desk. Constructed in 1850, the building is interesting in its own right as an excellent example of 19th century industrial architecture.
Centre Valencià de Cultura Mediterrània / Centro Valenciano de Cultura Mediterránea
This 19th-century former hospice was completely refurbished in 1995, and now in addition to hosting two museums it also functions as a cultural centre and venue for special exhibits.
Museo de Prehistoria de Valencia / Prehistory Museum of Valencia
This museum is devoted early regional history, with collections from the Paleolithic to the Visigothic periods. A special highlight is the Guerrer de Moixent (Warrior of Moixent), an early Iberian bronze sculpture from the 5th or 4th century BCE.
Museo Valenciano de Etnología / Valencian Museum of Ethnology
The focus of this museum is on cultural traditions in the Valencian Autonomous Community, with three permanent exhibits focusing on life in the country, in the mountains, and in urban areas. Rotating temporary exhibits examine historic and sociological issues.
Museo L'Iber / Tin Soldier Museum
In an old Gothic palace, this is the world's largest private collection of tin soldiers of about one million pieces. Figures represent periods of Valencian, Spanish, and world history.
Built in 1898 for an infantry regiment, the building now houses a collection of over 3,000 objects, most of them from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Museo del Arroz / Museum of Rice
The Museum of Rice of the City of Valencia is in the refurbished and restored old Serra’s Mill. It tells the story of the industrial process of rice processing, a cereal whose growth goes deep into the wetlands of the City.
Museo de la Seda / Silk Museum
The Moors introduced silk to Valencia, and it became a major hub of the silk trading route during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Valencian silk weavers' guild was established in the late 15th century, and in 1494 acquired this building, which remained the guild's headquarters throughout its history. The building was remodelled extensively during subsequent centuries, and was fully restored in 2016. Now a museum, it showcases various aspects of Valencia's silk trade and production.
Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia / Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia
This 17th-century former palace houses over 2,000 pieces of art, with a primary focus on art of the 14th to 17th centuries. Highlights include an excellent collection of medieval altarpieces, a collection of engravings by the Italian artist Piranesi, and a handful of minor works by Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya. Photography permitted, no flash.
IVAM / Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno / Valencian Institute of Modern Art
This museum focuses on Spanish and international modern art and photography, and hosts regular special exhibits, workshops, and lectures. A library, gift shop, and café are onsite. Photography permitted, no flash.
Managed by the Seminary of Corpus Christi, this museum has a small collection of paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, with special highlights including works by Juan de Juanes, El Greco, and early Flemish masters. The collection can only be viewed with a tour, offered in a number of European languages; to be sure there is a tour in your language it is best to reserve ahead, either by phone or online.
Museu Valencià de la Il·lustració i de la Modernitat / The Valencia Museum of the Enlightenment and Modernity
The museum is devoted to civics and culture, with special exhibits focused on such topics as graphic design, photography, and cinema. The building and garden were designed by Valencian architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra.
This former factory from the 1930s has been transformed into an exhibition space for Spanish contemporary art, with a special focus on photography. The building has an interesting history, as it was used to make industrial pumps, and later during the Spanish Civil War was used by the Republicans as an air raid shelter and to assemble armaments.
Casa-Museo Benlliure
This was once home to two generations of the Benlliure family, headed by prominent Valencian artist José Benlliure. The early 20th-century residence has been maintained in three distinct sections, including the primary house with original furnishings and artworks, a lovely courtyard and garden, and a second building with a private study and more artworks.
Fundació Bancaixa
The former 19th-century residence is a cultural centre which hosts excellent, well-curated temporary exhibits of contemporary art and photography, by Valencian, Spanish and international artists.
The former convent hosts rotating special exhibits showcasing local history, and historic and contemporary artists from Valencia and outside the region.
Palau Joan de Valeriola
This well-preserved 14th-century Gothic palace houses a permanent collection of contemporary Spanish art, with rotating exhibits.
Centre Cultural de la Universitat de València
Built in 1498, this was once the library and main building for the University of Valencia. Today it is used by the university primarily as a venue for photography and art exhibits, and for classical music concerts.
This unique underground gallery has been designed around the remains of a city wall from the Moorish period, complete with arches. The gallery is a venue for temporary exhibits of Spanish and international contemporary art.
Jardines del Turia / Turia Gardens
After catastrophic flooding in 1957, the Turia River was diverted to the south of the city, and the former river bed was converted into a 7-km-long elongated park which spans many neighborhoods, ending at the City of Arts and Sciences. The park encompasses soccer and rugby fields, an artificial boating lake, athletics track, playgrounds, fountains, and cafés. Abundant bicycle paths make it an ideal place to get in a little exercise and sun.
Parque Gulliver / Gulliver Park
The centrepiece of this unusual playground is a 70-m-long sculpture of Gulliver (from the classic book Gulliver's Travels), who has been tied to the ground. Visitors can climb on and slide down the giant figure, much as Lilliputians might have. The sculpture was designed by Valencian artist and illustrator Sento Llobell.
Puente De La Trinidad / Trinitat Bridge
The oldest bridge in the city, with the current structure dating to the early 16th century. The two 17th-century sculptures of Valencian saints used to be on another nearby medieval bridge, and were relocated to this bridge in the mid-20th century.
Puente De La Exposición / Exhibition Bridge
Designed by Santiago Calatrava and built between 1991 and 1995, the bridge resembles a comb, hence the nickname 'La Peineta'.
Jardín Botánico de Valencia / Botanic Garden of Valencia
Established in 1802 by the University of Valencia, this lovely garden maintains extensive collections of plants from a number of different habitats. Most of the greenhouses date from the latter half of the 19th century, while the modern research centre was completed in 2000.
Jardín de Monforte / Monforte Garden
This formal Neoclassical garden was designed in the mid-19th century by Valencian architect Don Monleón for the aristocrat Marqués de San Juan. It was declared a 'National Artistic Garden' and is now maintained by the city of Valencia, which opened it to the public in 1973.
As far as zoos go, this is more animal-friendly than most. Focused exclusively on African fauna, the modern zoo has been thoughtfully designed to provide maximum space in natural settings for its residents. A special highlight is the walk-in lemur exhibit (no touching or feeding).
Jardines del Real / Royal Gardens
Established by the Moors in the 13th century as gardens for the royal palace (no longer standing), this pleasant and popular park is the second-largest park in Valencia, after the Turia gardens. The park includes a rose garden, sculpture garden, bicycle track, and aviary. During the summer various festivals are held here.
Museo de Ciencias Naturales / Museum of Natural Sciences
The museum is divided into several segments, covering Valencian contributions to the sciences, the ecology of the Valencian region, and of course paleontology with the requisite dinosaur skeletons.
Palacio Real / Royal Palace
Established by the Moors, then rebuilt by Christians, this building served as the royal Valencian residence until its demolition in 1810. It was forgotten and then rediscovered in 1986. The partially-excavated site is now surrounded by a fence with informative panels in Valencian, Spanish, and English.
El Carmen
In the old centre, it is the perfect place for a stroll where you can witness the transition from a forgotten area to an up-and-coming diverse neighbourhood. Barri del Carme has many outdoor cafes and trendy shops. There is an interesting mix of people, from lifetime residents, to alternative types, hippies, gays and lesbians, and other assorted people. The neighbourhood swells at night with revelers, but please respect the neighbours who live there.
Cabañal
Established in the 13th century as a fishing village, in the 19th century the town became known as a beach getaway before being annexed by Valencia in 1897. Along with easy access to the beach, it has many charming historic tiled buildings and great bars and restaurants, and is the setting of the annual Semana Santa Marinera (described below under 'Do'). For many years the area directly east of the Valencia-Cabanyal train station was badly neglected, and squatters and other nefarious types moved in. Although the related political and legal disputes have since been resolved, for the near future this specific area is still best avoided at night.
Ruzafa
Ruzafa (from Arabic رصافة – rusafa, or 'garden') was established in the 9th century as a Moorish pleasure garden, and evolved into a farming community. It was independent until 1877, when it was annexed by the city. Today the barrio is known for its cultural diversity, charming hipster shops and cafés, great restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Benimaclet (from Arabic بني مخلد – bani mahlad, or 'sons of Majlad') began as an Arabic farmstead, and was an independent farming community until 1878. Preserved are its central square and parish church, and charming pedestrian alleys. Due to its proximity to the University of Valencia, it is known for its large student population, many immigrant shops, and good bars and restaurants.
Tribunal de las Aguas / Water Tribunal
The horta (Spanish: huerta), the fertile region surrounding Valencia, has relied on artificial irrigation since antiquity. The tribunal was developed to mediate disputes between farmers, and is believed to date back to Roman times; it has operated in its current form since the Moorish era. The court consists of nine representatives who meet in public and issue judgments on water rights and usage. Proceedings are conducted in Valencian and verdicts are issued orally. Although today the court is largely ceremonial, verdicts are considered legally binding by the highest court in Madrid and by the EU. In 2009 it was listed by UNESCO as an 'intangible cultural heritage'.
Valencia General Cemetery
In use since 1807, the cemetery has some interesting mausoleums and funerary sculpture and is the final resting place for a number of notable Valencians, including members of the artistic Benlliure family, painter Joaquín Sorolla, and writer Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. For visitors with a smartphone there is a helpful app (iOS and Android; Spanish and Valencian only) which describes walking routes and gives grave locations.
El Mirador del Ateneo Mercantil / Ateneo Viewpoint
The viewpoint is on the rooftop of a private social club, and offers excellent 360° panoramic views of the city.
Valencia has become a magnet for street artists both homegrown and those hailing from abroad, many of them internationally-renowned. Works range in size from smaller stencils to giant murals, with the greatest concentration in el Carmen (Carme). There are also clusters of great art in Ruzafa, Benimaclet, Cabanyal, and other neighbourhoods.
The monumental sculpture dominating the roundabout was designed by internationally-renowned Valencian artist Manolo Valdés and completed in 2007. It was inspired by the Iberian sculpture Dama de Elche ('Lady of Elche'), which was discovered in Elche and now resides in Madrid's National Archaeological Museum. Valdés's version is an 18-m-high steel structure covered with 22,000 miniature replicas of the modern version, made of cobalt-blue ceramic by fellow Valencian artist Manuel Martin.
the 'wake-up call'
Beginning at 07:30, brass bands parade down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir to the Plaça de l'Ajuntament, followed by falleros and falleras throwing firecrackers. At noon more bands perform at the central square, and the season's first mascletà takes place at 14:00.
the 'call'
Crowds gather along bridges and the Túria river bed to hear the fallera mayor (principal fallera) announce the beginning of the Falles season at 20:00. Fireworks conclude the event.
This is 120 kg of gunpowder translated into a multi-sensory ‘symphony of noise’, and must be experienced to be understood, as it includes not just the noise but also the intense smell of gunpowder as well as the vibrations which can be felt through the entire body. The event is very popular and you should arrive at least an hour in advance.
Las Calles Iluminadas / Battle of the Lights
Casal fallers around the city decorate their streets with expensive street lighting displays, the most elaborate of which compete annually for the top prize. Three of the top contenders every year are in the Ruzafa district, with the fourth in La Roqueta.
Ninot exhibit
The current year's ninots are placed on display, with visitors voting for their favourite ninot. The winning ninot is spared the flames of the Cremà and added to the permanent collection of the Museu Faller de València (listed below).
Ninot Parade
The ninots previously exhibited are now paraded through the streets, before being included in the falla monuments.
Planting
The 15th marks the start of the assembling the elaborate 'fallas', which have been laboured over during the previous year. Construction must be completed by 08:00 on 16 March, or the falla will be disqualified for the competition. Tourist information offices have free maps available showing locations of the Selección Especiál fallas.
La Ofrenda / The Offering
The falleros and falleras from each 'casal faller' bring flowers in offering and used to decorate the mantle of an enormous effigy of the Virgen de los Desamparados in the Plaça de la Virgen. Participants are dressed in traditional clothing, and the processions follow two main routes, each terminating at the cathedral: one proceeds westward down Carrer de de Pau / Calle de la Paz, and the other northward up Carrer de Sant Vincent Màrtir / Calle San Vicente.
fireworks displays
A nightly fireworks display between midnight and 01:30, with each night more impressive than the previous one, until culminating in the final display on the 18th, which is known as La Nit del Foc (the Night of Fire). This is also very crowded and you should arrive early to see it. The best location to view this is from pedestrian bridges crossing the Turía Park riverbed, or even better, from below the Palacio de la Musica.
Cabalgata del Fuego / Fire Parade
A parade featuring all types of spectacles involving fire. This parade may be canceled in inclement weather.
The Burning
At the end of a week displaying the 'fallas' are burnt. The fallas infantiles are burned at 22:00, the fallas mayores are burned anytime between midnight and 01:00, and the falla at the Plaça Ayuntamiento is burned last at 01:00. The most impressive to see are the fallas in the Secció Especial, because these are the largest and most dramatic when they burn. These tend to be very crowded and one should arrive early, preferably an hour in advance. A good strategy is to visit a selection of fallas beforehand, and then to choose one to watch burn.
Museo Fallero / Falles Museum
Since 1934 ninots (papier-mâché figures) voted as the best of the year have been spared the final flames of the Falles festival. Along with photos and posters, these figures are showcased in a building which has served as a lepers' hospital, barracks, and prison.
Museo del Gremio de Artistas Falleros / Museum of the Guild of Falles Artists
Setmana Santa Marinera / Marinera Holy Week
As elsewhere in Spain, Valencia celebrates Holy Week with street processions of penitents, organised into fraternities. Although not as well known as the more elaborate processions in Andalusia and Castile and Leon, Valencia's own unique traditions date back to the 15th century and are centred in the neighbourhood of Cabanyal, formerly an independent fishing village. Especially noteworthy are the Good Friday morning processions: two separate fraternities carry a crucifixion effigy to the beach, say a prayer for those who have lost their lives at sea, and place a laurel wreath in the ocean. This practice is unique in Spain and has been designated a 'Fiesta of National Touristic Interest' by the government.
The processions, routes, and times may vary from year to year. The Valencia edition of ABC (in Spanish) publishes detailed routes and schedules of each day's events.
Semana Santa Museum
This small museum has exhibits explaining the Semana Santa Marinera traditions with costumes, documents, and photographs.
International Kite Festival
Held annually since 1997, the two-day event includes exhibits, kite-making demonstrations, and competitions.
Festividad de la Virgen de los Desamparados, Festival of Our Lady of the Forsaken
The day is devoted to celebrating the Virgen de los Desamparados, Valencia's patron saint. After a formal mass at 08:00 in the Plaça de la Virgen, a ceremonial procession transfers the effigy of the Virgin from the royal chapel to the cathedral next door. A second traditional procession begins at 18:30, in which the effigy follows a more circuitous route around the city centre, accompanied by showers of flower petals and dancing in the streets. This procession proceeds along Carrer dels Cavallers, Carrer de la Bosseria, Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, Plaça de la Reina, and Carrer de les Avellanes before finally returning to the cathedral at Plaça de l'Almoina.
Fiesta de Corpus Christi
The city has been celebrating Corpus Christi since the late 13th century, and holding feast day processions since 1355. The main procession, known as the Cavalcada del Convit (Spanish: Cabalgata del Convite) begins at 12:00 and follows an itinerary established in the 18th century, which begins at Carrer de la Batlia, heads south along the western side of the cathedral to the Plaça de la Reina, and then up Carrer d'Avellanes and finally terminates at Plaça de l'Almoina. The parade features several medieval dances and rituals unique to Valencia, the most famous of which is La Moma i els Momos, in which a man in white dress and white-veiled face is surrounded by seven men clothed and veiled in black; the dance represents the fight of virtue against the seven deadly sins. Also noteworthy are the dances of the Nanos (dwarves) and Gegants (giants), in which dancers wear oversized heads and costumes respectively, and La Poalà, in which participants at the end of the route are doused with buckets of water.
16:30 marks the start of a second procession, the Pas de les Roques (Spanish: Paso de las Rocas, or Parade of Carriages), the highlight of which are the antique horse-drawn carriages. This parade follows a more circuitous route along Carrer dels Cavallers, Carrer de la Bosseria, Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, Plaça de la Reina, and Carrer de les Avellanes before finally returning to the cathedral at Plaça de l'Almoina. A third procession begins at 17:30, with the same dancers featured in the 12:00 parade, and following the route of the carriage parade. The final procession, the Solemne Processó (Spanish: Solemne Procesión) begins at 19:00, with participants from parishes and guilds followed by biblical characters and finally by the monstrance.
Casa de las Rocas / Museo del Corpus
The horse-drawn carriages used in the Corpus Christi parades, known as roques (Spanish: rocas, or 'rocks'), have been stored in this building since the mid-15th century. Eleven carriages are on display, the oldest of which was built between 1373 and 1392. Other items exhibited are costumes and historic documents, as well as a 25-minute video about the processions (in Spanish).
Feria de Julio / July Festival
Held annually since 1871, this month-long festival includes daily free and ticketed music and dance performances in parks and plazas, open-air cinema, sporting events, and fairground rides. Every Saturday at midnight there are large fireworks (locations vary). The mid-month Gran nit de juliol, always on a Saturday, features street parades and free outdoor concerts, and most museums remain open until midnight or 02:00. The tourist office can offer a detailed schedule of events.
Correfoc: literally 'fire-running'
This energetic festival began in medieval Catalonia and is celebrated throughout the Catalán/Valencian-speaking region. Participants dress as devils with pitchforks and dance through the streets to drums, setting off fireworks and interacting with spectators. The route varies from year to year, but generally is in the area near the North Train Station and the Porta de la Mar. The many flying sparks can burn holes in clothing, so it's a good idea to wear older clothes or not get too close to the action.
Battala de las Flores / Battle of the Flowers
The highlight of the July festival, the 'Battle of the Flowers' was first held in 1891. This unusual event begins with a parade of horse-drawn floats, on which are perched falleras in traditional dress. The floats circle around a closed off section of the avenue four times, and prizes are awarded for the most beautiful float. Then the fun begins: mountains of softball-sized marigolds have been distributed around the ring, and seated audience members proceed to pelt the falleras with the flowers, who defend themselves with tennis rackets and hurl flowers back into the audience. After the parade, the general audience is allowed into the ring, and a general melee begins.
Diada Nacional del País Valencià / Valencian Community National Day
This annual public holiday has been celebrated since 1338 and commemorates the date in 1238 when King James I of Aragón entered the city, freeing it from Moorish rule. In the week leading up to the 9th there are free concerts and parades around town, including a correfoc ('fire-running') which takes place on the preceding Saturday evening in the El Carme district. During this same weekend nine governmental palaces which are ordinarily closed to the public are opened for general visitation (Sa and Su 10:00-20:00, free admission). Of these the 15th-century Gothic Palau de la Generalitat (Palacio de la Generalidad / Palace of the General Assembly) is the most remarkable, and is well worth the long queue to see the well-preserved interior.
Formal festivities commence at midnight on 8 October with a fireworks display from the Túria River park by the Pont de l'Exposició (by Alameda metro station). At noon on the following day a formal procession carries the Valencian flag from the Ayuntamiento (City Hall) to the Jardí del Parterre (Parque del Parterre / Parterre Park), where a wreath is laid before the equestrian statue of King James.
The highlight of the 9th itself is the parade of Moros i Cristians (Spanish: Moros y Cristianos), which commences at Plaça d'Alfons el Magnànim and proceeds down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent, finally terminating at Plaça de l’Ajuntament. The parade starts at 18:30 but it is best to find a spot about a half-hour before the parade begins.
The 9th of October is also the day of St. Dionysius, which for Valencians is similar to Valentine's Day. In a tradition dating to the 18th century, it is customary for men to give their sweethearts a mocadorà – a small bundle of marzipan treats shaped like fruits and wrapped in a handkerchief. Beginning a week before the 9th, these can be purchased at pastry shops and even some supermarkets.
Designed by José María de Paredes and opened in 1987, this is considered to be one of Europe's most important concert halls. The building is marked by an enormous glass greenhouse-like structure which also serves as the main entrance. In addition to classical music, jazz concerts are also performed here.
This opera/concert house has four halls and covers an area of 37,000m². A schedule of events can be found here.
Valencia's oldest theatre was opened 1832 and has a Rococo interior. It is the venue for a varied program of plays and musicals (in Spanish), modern dance, ballet, and concerts.
Teatro Olympia / Olympia Theatre
Built in 1915 by Valencian architect Vicente Rodríguez Martín, the theatre is a venue for plays, musicals, and flamenco performances. Tickets can be purchased online.
Teatro Talía / Talía Theatre
The historic theatre was built in 1928 and mostly showcases local plays and actors, but is also occasionally a venue for dance and especially flamenco performances. Tickets can be purchased online.
This café is an intimate venue for flamenco performances, with well-known dancers and musicians hailing not only from Valencia but from across Spain. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays performances begin at 23:00 and last for one hour; on Sunday they begin at 20:00. As shows are very popular, it is advisable to get there at least an hour before the show in order to secure a seat – getting to the door 15 minutes before opening is even better.
The cultural centre is a venue for music, theatre and dance performances, and hosts rotating temporary exhibits. It also has an onsite restaurant. Tickets for events can be purchased online.
Designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatravato to resemble a giant eye, this building functions as an IMAX and 3D cinema as well as planetarium. Multiple films are screened daily, with a schedule available online. For visitors interested in seeing the inner workings of the building, guided tours are available M-F at 12.00 and 16.00 in Spanish and English. The building also has a restaurant and shop.
Interesting cinema with cafe.
An art-house cinema which screens films in their original languages, including many current releases. The cinema has an adjoining café, and offers mid-week deals of dinner plus a movie for a reduced ticket price. All films VO.
A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions (VOS: versión original subtitulada).
corrida de toros
Bullfights are staged in Valencia only during three short seasons, including Falles (mid-March), the Fira de Juliol (July Festival), and the Nou d’Octubre (Valencian National Day in October).
If you are put off by bullfighting, consider attending a recortes competition, an ancient nonviolent alternative practiced only in the Valencian Community, Navarra, La Rioja, and northern Castile-La Mancha. Recortadores leap, perform backflips, and occasionally pole-vault over charging bulls. The bulls are unharmed and not killed afterward, but it is very dangerous for the athletes, who are often matadors-in-training. While these events are not as well-attended as bullfights, popularity is growing. Typically there is one recortes event during each bullfighting season.
Plaza de Toros de Valencia
A bullring and artistic monument, it is used for bull fighting and big shows. The stadium holds 12,884 people, and was built between 1850 and 1860 by Valencian architect Sebastián Monleón Estellés.
Museo Taurino de Valencia
Has displays illustrating the development of Valencian bullfighting since the 19th century.
There are several versions of this tasteful rice dish: paella valenciana, with meat (chicken and/or rabbit usually), paella de marisco, with fish or seafood, or even paella mixta, with meat and fish at the same time, the least popular among locals. It is very difficult to say which is the 'real' paella, as every person has his/her own version (though no paella that deserves this name contains sausage, ham or meat broth, for instance). If you want to eat an authentic paella, try it at the Malvarrosa beach area; you will find there are several good restaurants. The authentic Valencian paella is made only with fresh ingredients, in a special iron pan and using a fire made with wood (not gas or electricity). Vegetarian paella is called paella vegetal or paella de verduras. Authentic paella can be rather dry, it's not a soup and shouldn't look like gumbo. Don't be shy about scraping the caramelized rice from the bottom of the pan, it's delicious!
arroz a banda
A side dish of rice cooked in fish stock, usually served with alioli.
arroz negro
Also cooked in fish stock, this rice dish is black because it contains squid ink, as well as squid or cuttlefish, peppers, and paprika.
This paella-like dish, with short noodles and fish, was invented in Gandía and can be usually found in paella restaurants. It deserves a try too.
A stew made of eel, a snake like fish typical from the Albufera, a lagoon near Valencia. You can drive to El Palmar and taste it there. Delicious, but a very special taste. You can find good paella, and other traditional dishes at the restaurants there too.
leche merengada
A kind of milk-based soft ice cream with a cinnamon-lemon taste.
buñuelos
Fried doughnuts, sometimes round shaped, sometimes like rings. Widely available only during March during the Falles celebration. Dip them in hot chocolate. Sometimes they are too oily, so don't eat a lot of them or you will not be hungry again for several hours. If you can choose the carabasa (pumpkin) version, you should try it. They are generally tastier.
This tiny but very popular tapas bar is known for its sardinas (grilled sardines), served with garlic infused olive oil and white bread. Other specialties include champiñones a la plancha (grilled mushrooms) and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). The place only has a handful of tables with additional seating at the bar, and tends to get very packed after 21:00.
This is a very popular place for almuerzo (late breakfast or early lunch), and is especially known for its very large bocadillos. No reservations are accepted, but it's worth the wait for a table.
This is a very popular lunch spot for delicious and cheap bocadillos. Their signature bocadillo is the Super Bombon, piled high with steak, jamón, lettuce, dressing, and french fries. The Bombon, which omits the french fries, is a slightly lighter version. Getting a table requires some patience, or reservations.
vegetarian
This restaurant-coffeeshop is a favourite with the local Moroccan community and serves a range of traditional Moroccan dishes, some of them vegetarian. It also has an excellent onsite bakery.
This very small restaurant serves creative tapas, with a number of seafood as well as vegetarian options. Pleasant seating is both indoor and along a pedestrian-only street. They also have a decent selection of wine, as well as the local Turía beer.
This small sidewalk eatery is known throughout the city for its excellent tortillas de patatas in a number of flavours, many of them vegetarian. Tortillas can be eaten either with a fork (pincho) or in a sandwich (bocadillo). Meatballs (albondigas) are also served here, but main attraction are the tortillas.
One of a trio of restaurants owned and operated by famed Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, this tapas bar is a good place to sample his food without breaking the bank. The menu changes daily depending on what's available in the market. Reservations are not accepted, so if you plan to visit for lunch be prepared to wait awhile for a seat.
Mercado de Colón
Built in 1916 as a marketplace, this excellent example of modernist architecture now houses a number of cafés and tapas bars. Every Sunday at noon there are free classical music concerts.
Owned and operated by an American from Portland, Oregon, this place serves classic American bar food and burgers, along with a good range of local beers. For those looking to improve their Spanish (or English) there is an intercambio (language exchange) open to all Wednesday evenings beginning at 20:30.
One of only two Korean restaurants in Valencia, this family-operated restaurant is highly-regarded in the Asian community for its authentic home-style Korean cooking. Dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarians, and diners can request how spicy (or not) they prefer their meal.
A favourite with locals, this hidden gem specialises in all types of traditional Valencian rice dishes and seafood, served in a garden setting.
Operating since 1947, the restaurant serves traditional Valencian seafood, tapas, and sandwiches. It is also especially known for very good patatas bravas and ensalada rusa.
Serves simple, creative and high-quality tapas, along with a full range of drinks.
This is the second of a trio of restaurants owned by star Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, with an eclectic menu that varies seasonally. Reservations can be made online.
Across the street from an air raid shelter from the civil war, it serves very innovative fusion cuisine. Reservations can be requested online.
A highly-regarded Moroccan restaurant which has been reviewed in the New York Times and has an extensive menu. Reservations can be made online.
Serves classic Mediterranean dishes using ingredients from the Mercat Central and Mercat de Russafa, with a number of vegetarian options and a good wine selection. Paellas and other Valencian rice dishes must be reserved in advance. Reservations are required, and can be made online.
Probably the best and most authentic of the few Indian restaurants in the city, Swagat serves a range of dishes from both northern and southern India. Diners can request dishes be spiced for the Indian, rather than the blander Spanish, palate. Reservations strongly recommended, especially on weekends.
Serves paella, fideuà, and meat and seafood. Does not serve tapas, but does have a good wine selection.
Vegetarian.
Operated by star chef Quique Dacosta, the restaurant serves his most famous dishes from his eponymous three-starred Michelin restaurant in Dénia, but without the sky-high prices. This restaurant was awarded its own Michelin star in 2013. Reservations can be made online.
Small cafe with outdoor seating offering tasty vegan food. On-line reservations available.
Good for breakfast, lunches, fresh juices, coffee and cocktails; this place is especially known for its cakes. There is seating in two areas: on the beach side with a view, or in an interior patio with garden. It is very popular, so if you don't have reservations be prepared to wait awhile.
Established in 1836, this is the oldest tapas bar in Valencia. All classic dishes here are prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, accompanied by an enormous selection of wines. The setting is informal and friendly. Reservations are recommended and can be made online.
A favourite with Valencians and those wishing to avoid the tourist traps, it serves great traditional rice dishes with a focus on paella. The place is packed at lunch, so it's best to arrive early, or even better, to have a reservation.
Known for paella, this family-run restaurant has been open since 1898, and has served the likes of Ernest Hemingway as well as contemporary and modern celebrities. Reservations are recommended especially on weekends, and can be made online.
Lienzo Gastrotapas
This modern, creative avant garde restaurant is operated by chef Maria José Martinez, who formerly worked for Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta.
The very popular restaurant is known primarily for traditional Valencian rice dishes, and is also a great place for tapas with a very good wine list and excellent service. It's especially busy at lunchtime – reservations recommended.
Te restaurant became famous when master chef Begoña Rodrigo won the first edition of Top Chef España in 2013. Reservations can be made by email or online.
Operated by chef Jorge de Andrés, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves innovative updates of traditional Valencian cuisine, in a setting with some of the best views of the city. Reservations can be made online; free parking (3 hr) available in Centro Comercial Aqua.
Serves traditional cuisine from Galicia.
Ricard Camarena's flagship restaurant earned him his third Michelin star in 2012, just three months after opening. Dishes are wildly creative, and guests have a good view of the kitchen to watch the master in action. Reservations can be made by email or online.
Internationally-renowned chef and owner Bernd Knöller earned a Michelin star in 2009. Reservations can be made by phone or online . Occasional classes and cooking workshops are also offered.
Agua de Valencia
'Valencia water' is a very famous mixed drink, invented in 1959 and based on a mix of orange juice and cava, the local sparkling wine. Many modern versions also include gin and vodka as well as sugar. Be careful, as this drink packs a punch!
horchata
A drink made from tigernut (Valencian: xufa, Spanish: chufa), which was first created during the Moorish period. Being cold and sweet, it is especially popular during the summer months, and can be ordered in orxateries or horchaterias and at street carts as well as in most cafés and bars. When ordering an orxata, you will most probably be asked whether you would like to have a fartón, a small pastry for being dipped in orxata, as well.
An iced malt drink.
Iced lemonade.
café del tiempo
A popular summer drink, this is espresso served with a glass of ice along with sugar and a slice of lemon. Usually sugar is mixed first into the hot espresso, which is then poured over the ice.
blanco y negro
Iced coffee with leche merengada, which is blend of milk, egg white, sugar, and cinnamon.
A popular coffee mixed with burned alcohol (typically rum) that is normally consumed at esmorzar (the eating that takes place between breakfast and lunch). Its sweetness depends on the time spent burning it (the more burned, the more sweet it is, and the less alcohol percentage it has).
Established in 1949, this is the largest and most well-known horchatería in Alboraia (Spanish: Alboraya), a small agricultural town on the outskirts of Valencia whose primary crop is tiger nuts (chufa), the key ingredient in horchata. There is a second branch in the Mercat de Colóm (listed under 'Eat').
A very large and popular horchatería with artisanal fartóns. Takeaway available.
Serves hot chocolate with churros, horchata, granizada, ice cream, and pastries. This is one of the only places which sell bunyols (buñuelos) outside of the Fallas season, and in winter and during Fallas it is so popular the queues can stretch a block down the street.
Along with horchata, this classic Valencian place offers homemade hot chocolate and, during Fallas, bunyols (buñuelos).
The oldest horchatería in Valencia, this classic place serves not only horchata with fartons, but hot chocolate, churros, and ice cream. The interior has a cafeteria atmosphere, and is ornamented with Valencian tiles.
This popular café-bar is a good spot for coffee or cocktails with light snacks, in a Baroque-styled interior with eclectic music.
In a charming square which was once the site of Valencia's Lonja del Aceite, or olive oil market. The primary draw is the expansive terrace seating by an olive tree, making this is a good spot for people-watching with a coffee or cocktail.
Relaxed café with outdoor seating.
A classic café-bar in the historic Rialto Theatre, with a small terrace. It also has a well-priced set lunch menu for €10.50.
One of two Valencia branches of the Villajoyosa-based chocolate company, this is a good place for hot chocolate with churros.
The owner roasts his own coffee locally. Very friendly. Relaxed and calm environment in a nice neighborhood.
The combination bar-café-bookshop has become a favourite haunt in the neighbourhood, with a good selection of craft beers as well as tapas and other light fare. Also hold exhibits and sponsors other cultural events.
This very casual, classic old-school tavern has been operating since 1973, and is popular with students. It is a good place to sample local wines accompanied by simple tapas including jamón, cheese, and sausages. It gets very popular especially later in the evening, so if you want a seat be sure to arrive before 19:30, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Corner pub with a good selection of Spanish brews
10 taps including house beer. Micro-pub with bottle shop
A further 9 beers a short walk away in Ruzafa.
This is one of the best nightclubs in Valencia. New and old good music all night offered by Dj Moisés.
La Fàbrica de Gel
The once abandoned ice factory is home to a nightclub and cultural centre, and is a good place for drinks and tapas (some vegetarian). There are nightly concerts by mostly local musicians, with Sundays devoted to jazz. Dogs permitted.
Beach club and restaurant by day, this is a popular music hotspot at night with live performances and visiting international DJs.
A popular bar-cum-club with a crowded dance floor playing a variety of danceable world music. The crowd is mixed locals and travellers, mostly under 30. Aggressive bouncers.
Velvet Underground
Feetup Home Backpackers Valencia
In town centre and specialised in backpackers and groups. The cheapest one in Valencia, and claims to be the 'best'. Free Wi-Fi and bed linens, wheelchair accessible, nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi. Towels €1.
Free Wi-Fi, has onsite bar/restaurant.
Hostels Valencia Spain
A good budget hostel in Valencia hostel in the city centre. Has free Wi-Fi, family room, rooftop terrace and barbecue, and bar.
Hostels Valencia Spain
A good budget hostel Valencia in the city centre. Has a large kitchen free lockers, free bed linen, and free Wi-Fi; towels €1.
Has nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hr front desk.
11 rooms (double, triple, quadruple) with balconies, aesthetically decorated, no en-suite bathrooms, in a quiet alleyway.
Operating since 1886, the hostal has nonsmoking rooms with private baths, and a 24-hr desk. Free Wi-Fi.
On the northern outskirts of the city, the hotel has nonsmoking rooms, an onsite restaurant and bar, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request, free nearby parking.
Has an onsite fitness centre, bar and restaurant. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, no parking available.
In a quiet area of the centre of Valencia, 2 minutes' walk from the cathedral.
formerly Hotel Ibis
A modern hotel with gym, fitness centre, and rooftop pool, as well as onsite restaurant and bar. Free Wi-Fi available; private parking €12/day.
Has a roof-top swimming pool and onsite bar/restaurant, with free Wi-Fi. Private parking available for €19/day.
Limited service hotel part of the IHG family, with 100 rooms. Has a bar, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €14.50/day.
A family-run operation with 18 rooms. Free Wi-Fi, paid public parking nearby.
In a tastefully decorated 19th-century mansion in a residential area. Free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle (by reservation), pets accepted; no parking available.
A modern hotel with an onsite bar/restaurant, gym, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking nearby (€14/day). Pets permitted on request.
Has non-smoking rooms, an onsite restaurant, pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €20/day.
Has non-smoking rooms, and onsite restaurant, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request; private parking €20/day.
Has non-smoking rooms and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €16/day.
formerly Confortel Aqua 4
Has an onsite restaurant, fitness centre, non-smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking available (€14/day).
formerly Hotel Hilton Valencia
In a modern building, facilities include a spa, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€17/day).
La Novieta
A retro-chic, intimate & adults-only boutique hotel. Situated in a modernist house that was built in 1924, the hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2023. It features four en-suite bedrooms, each equipped with free Wi-Fi and super king beds.
Has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, and non-smoking rooms as well as free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€16/day).
A five-star hotel facing the sea. Has two onsite restaurants, an outdoor pool, spa, and gym. Offers an airport shuttle (with surcharge), free Wi-Fi, and parking (€19/day).
A restored 19th-century palace with non-smoking rooms, Turkish bath, fitness centre, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request. Private parking €26/day; electric car charger available.
A small hotel with suites. Has free Wi-Fi, nonsmoking rooms, and onsite restaurant. Private parking €20/day.
In a building from the late 19th century, the hotel has 85 rooms and offers free Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant. Public parking is available (€24/day).
This modernist building has been converted into an exclusive luxury hotel, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and art. Facilities include a spa, indoor pool and Turkish bath, fitness centre, two onsite restaurants, and a bar. Free Wi-Fi available throughout the building; pets permitted. Private parking available (€22/day).
Plaza Redonda
Designed by Valencian architect Melchor Escrig Salvador in the mid-19th century, this unique building was constructed around a round plaza, and was noted by Valencian novelist Vicente Blasco Ibáñez in his novel Arroz y Tartana. The building has been completely renovated and now is home to a number of shops for traditional crafts as well as tapas bars. On Sunday mornings it is home to a flea market.
Mercado de L’Escuraeta
This traditional market dates back to the 13th century and Jaume I, when vendors set up extra stalls by the cathedral to coincide with the annual Festividad de la Virgen (feast of the Virgin). Items sold here include crockery and traditional cooking utensils, as well as pottery and other arts and crafts.
A traditional local shop that sells all kinds of dried fruits and nuts.
Shop specializing in edible insects. Only one of its kind in Spain.
Local souvenirs, mostly food products and some art.
Mercado Central / Central Market
In a restored modernist iron and glass building dating from 1928, this is one of the largest markets in Europe. See how the locals shop for food and buy some fantastic fresh produce, meat, seafood, or olives.
Mercado del Cabañal / Cabanyal Market
Traditionally one of the better markets in the city for fish, this also has fresh produce and artisanal products. Has free Wi-Fi throughout the building, no registration or password required.
Mercado de Mosén Sorell
A smaller market, which was renovated in 2016, in the centre of the Carmen neighbourhood.
Mercado de Ruzafa
Designed by Julio Bellot Senet and completed in 1957, the market is at the centre of the vibrant Ruzafa neighbourhood. Inside are more than 60 vendors of all types of food products, as well as a bar and café. Compared to the Central Market, this feels less like a tourist center and more like a place where locals shop.
Flea market
Valencia's enormous second-hand market is a good place to pick up all sorts of odds and ends, ranging from vintage toys to Valencian ceramics to bicycle parts. Vendors are licensed and there is a police presence, but do beware of pickpockets.
Cabanyal street market
One of the larger and more colourful weekly street markets.
Benimaclet street market
Probably Valencia's largest bookshop and part of a national chain, it has four floors of new and used books, with a good selection of books in English and other languages. Pets are permitted.
This branch of the French chain has a good selection of English books on the first floor, along with DVDs and computer accessories.
This Valencian independent bookstore carries new and discounted books, with a selection of titles in English and other European languages, including in the travel section. It is also a good place to pick up Spanish cookbooks. There are four branches in town.
For visitors who read some Spanish, this travel bookshop is a good resource as it stocks a good range of Spanish and regional travel guides, maps, and other travel accessories.
Along with the usual chain shops and restaurants, this large complex has two hotels, a cinema, a bowling centre, and a large gym and pool. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside.
Has a full range of standard international chain stores as well as restaurants and a Carrefour hypermarket. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside.
Has more than 80 shops and restaurants as well as a branch of Corte Inglés. Also has a children's playground, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. There is a taxi stand outside.
Has 40 shops and a restaurant. Parking available.
By train
The traditional main train station is València - Estació del Nord (Valencia - Estación del Norte / Valencia - North Station), which is in the city centre, next to Plaza de Toros and near the Town…
By bus
By boat
On foot
Aside from going to the beach and the City of Arts and Sciences, exploring the hub of the city requires no public transportation.
By public transportation
Travellers visiting for a short period may want to consider purchasing a Valencia Tourist Card, a one-, two- or three-day pass which allows for unlimited travel on all metro and bus lines, including…
By tourist bus
By bicycle
Valencia is essentially flat, and cycling has become a popular way for visitors to get around.
By car
In the city, especially the centre, having a car is more of an impediment than an advantage, and visitors may well find it easier to just park it and walk.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
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