Things to do in Valencia? Don’t miss these plans off your list

With so many things to see in Valencia, it may be hard to know where to start. Yet, a great place to begin your exploration is Valencia Cathedral. This magnificent example of Gothic architecture is said to be the home of the Holy Chalice, venerated as the Holy Grail. Stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets until you reach the Lonja de la Seda, another Valencia must-see and a World Heritage Site demonstrating the city's commercial importance during the 15th century. The Plaza de la Virgen cannot be missed, this surrounds the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados and the Palacio de la Generalitat, seat of the Valencian government. Continuing on, it is impossible to visit the old town without admiring the Plaza del Ayuntamiento with its stunning City Hall building and central fountain. Take the opportunity to stop by a local café to enjoy a cup of horchata, a traditional Valencian drink accompanied by some famous sweet treats known as fartons. 

With so many things to see in Valencia, it may be hard to know where to start. Yet, a great place to begin your exploration is Valencia Cathedral. This magnificent example of Gothic architecture is said to be the home of the Holy Chalice, venerated as the Holy Grail. Stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets until you reach the Lonja de la Seda, another Valencia must-see and a World Heritage Site demonstrating the city's commercial importance during the 15th century. The Plaza de la Virgen cannot be missed, this surrounds the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados and the Palacio de la Generalitat, seat of the Valencian government. Continuing on, it is impossible to visit the old town without admiring the Plaza del Ayuntamiento with its stunning City Hall building and central fountain. Take the opportunity to stop by a local café to enjoy a cup of horchata, a traditional Valencian drink accompanied by some famous sweet treats known as fartons. 

Here you can find important city buildings such as the Palacio de las Artes Reina Sofía which is used as an auditorium and live music venue. Close by, the Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe is another must-visit, as it offers interactive exhibits perfect for occupying little ones if visiting Valencia with children. But, perhaps the most iconic building of the complex is the L’hemisféric - a neo-futuristic building shaped like an eye which houses a cinema and entertainment rooms for cultural events.

Of course, if you are looking for the best base for exploring the city, the Barceló Valencia is situated opposite the City of Arts and Sciences. This 4-star hotel offers an excellent connection for those wanting to be close to both the best things to do in Valencia and the airport.

It should be illegal to visit the city and not try its most famous rice dish. Of course, fans of paella will know that outside of the city, the recipe can change to include all kinds of ingredients. But, the authentic Valencian paella is made from rice, rabbit, green beans and snails cooked over an orange wood fire. Be sure to taste the socarrat, the rice that sticks to the bottom of the pan and gets toasted for longer giving it a characteristic flavour essential for a great paella. If you want to eat this dish like a local, you should eat it at lunchtime, never dinner and also head to the Garden of Valencia, a broad stretch of cultivated land outside of the city where many restaurants serve paella on the weekends. 

A favourite amongst locals and tourists alike, this beach is located in the heart of the Albufera Natural Park, just a 15-minute drive from the capital and only half an hour by bus from the city centre. With over five kilometres of white sand, natural sand dunes and calm waters, El Saler Beach is one of the best natural Valencia attractions to visit on your holidays. This beach is also a popular spot for nudists and those travelling with their dog can enjoy a designated spot for off-leash play. So if you are lookign for things to do in Valencia outside of the city, this is a must-visit.

Immersing yourself in local life is the best way to discover a city and what better way to do so than to explore one of Valencia’s most famous markets? Luckily you are spoilt for choice as there are two that are worth the visit when looking for things to do in Valencia. First, the Mercado Central de Valencia is a must. This bustling food market is located in a modern 20th-century building and is one of the largest markets in Europe. Have fun exploring the aisles of fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and seafood, all sourced locally. You can also stop and enjoy a glass of wine and a tapas. 

Another fun thing to do in Valencia is to visit the Mercado de la Imprenta where you can get a closer look at the traditional regional cuisine. Located in the heart of the Carmen neighbourhood and housed in a restored 19th-century building that previously housed a printing press, this market offers a different and eclectic experience. Discover gourmet products, crafts, fashion and local design, as well as gastronomic spaces where you can tuck into typical tapas and international dishes. 

After exploring the Mercado de la Imprenta, step out into the Carmen neighbourhood and enjoy its slow pace of life. Lose yourself in its beautiful alleys that lead you to hidden spots where you can enjoy delicious dishes. Yet, at peak times, you will be hard-pressed to find a space on the terraces so be sure to plan ahead. In this neighbourhood, you can explore modern cafes, designer shops and contemporary art galleries all contained within the city’s ancient walls. In addition to its wide range of leisure activities, El Carmen is home to historical monuments such as the Church of Santa Catalina and the Palace of the Generalitat, as well as cultural spaces such as the IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art) and the Museo del Carmen, which offer a fascinating look at the city's past and present.

If you want a break from city life when looking for things to do in Valencia?  Head to the luscious green Turia Garden which stretches along the bed of the Turia River. This vast urban park is a peaceful place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre offering miles of trails to explore at a leisurely pace. There are also many themed gardens, children’s play areas and sports facilities such as tennis courts and football pitches. Don’t miss the Puente de las Flores, a pedestrian bridge covered in thousands of flowers, offering not only a pretty lookout spot to enjoy views of Valencia but also a great Instagrammable spot for photos. 

Those looking for a fun night out don’t need to head to Barcelona or Madrid. The Ruzafa neighbourhood is a trendy place where locals flock to after dark. Expect to find terraces of people enjoying an aperitif along the narrow cobbled streets as they soak up the bohemian atmosphere. Here you can find a wide variety of bars, pubs and clubs to suit all tastes from live music venues to electronic clubs, this area is a top choice for those in search of a party.

If you have time and want to get out into nature, a trip to the Albufera area is a paradise just kilometres from the city. Enjoy a traditional boat trip along its calm waters, an experience that brings you through rice fields and forests of native vegetation. During the tour, local guides share knowledge about the fauna and flora of the area, highlighting birds such as the kingfisher or the grey heron, as well as the importance of rice cultivation in the region. If you are a nature lover, this is one of the must-do things in Valencia.