Fallas, paellas and firecrackers. It is said that Valencia is 'the beach of Madrid', but the capital of the Valencian Community is much more than that and, undoubtedly, it can surprise you. Whether you have settled there for a while, or if you are just visiting, it will come in handy to know what to do in Valencia.  

Located on the banks of the Turia River, Valencia has a great historical and artistic heritage, with places like the Lonja de la Seda or the City of Arts and Sciences, and festivities such as the Fallas or the Tomatina de Buñol. However, the charm of the city goes far beyond that. Its good weather and outdoor activities are also other of its main attractions.

If now that summer is approaching you are wondering what to do in Valencia, here is a list of 5 must-see places on your visit to the city.  

Turia Gardens

The Turia Gardens are a green oasis that crosses the city, following the old Turia riverbed. More than nine kilometers long, it is one of the largest urban parks in Spain. Perfect for strolling, playing sports or simply relaxing, the Turia Gardens are the green lung of Valencia. Here you will find playgrounds, fountains, bike paths and an impressive variety of flora. In addition, points of interest such as the Bioparc, an innovative zoo, and the futuristic Palau de la Música are located throughout the park.

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They are an excellent venue for cultural and sporting events, with numerous activities and festivals held throughout the year. During your stroll, you may come across modern sculptures, themed gardens and historic bridges connecting different parts of the city. This green space not only offers a respite in the middle of the city, but is also a meeting point for the community, ideal for picnics, outdoor yoga and rollerblading or biking.

The City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is, without a doubt, one of the emblems of Valencia. This architectural complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, is a marvel by day and by night. Inside it houses the Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe; the Hemisfèric, an IMAX cinema with a concave screen of 900 square meters; and the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, an interactive space that fascinates both children and adults. In addition, its gardens and outdoor spaces are ideal for enjoying the good weather in Valencia.

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Beyond its impressive buildings, the City of Arts and Sciences hosts a wide variety of temporary exhibitions and special events that make each visit a unique experience. The Agora, a structure used for concerts and sporting events, and the Umbracle, a trellis-covered garden promenade that houses an exhibition of contemporary sculptures, are two other highlights of the complex.

The Plaza de la Virgen

In the heart of Valencia's old town is the Plaza de la Virgen, a place full of history and charm. Flanked by the Cathedral of Valencia, the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados and the Palacio de la Generalidad, this square is a meeting point for locals and tourists. In the center of the square stands the Fuente del Turia, an allegorical representation of the river that gives life to the city.

The Plaza de la Virgen is also the scene of numerous festivities and traditional events, such as the Offering of Flowers during the Fallas, where thousands of Valencians wear traditional costumes and fill the square with color and joy.  

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A few steps from the square is the Miguelete, the bell tower of the cathedral, from the top of which you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. In addition, the square is an excellent starting point for exploring the Carmen district, with its narrow streets and vibrant nightlife.

La Albufera

A few kilometers south of Valencia lies the Albufera Natural Park, a paradise for nature lovers. This freshwater lake, the largest in Spain, is surrounded by rice fields and offers spectacular sunsets. You can explore the Albufera by boat, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings and observing the varied birdlife. In addition, the Albufera is the place of origin of the authentic Valencian paella, so you can't miss this delicious dish in one of the restaurants in the area.

La Albufera is not only famous for its landscapes and gastronomy, but also for its hiking and cycling routes that allow you to explore the park at your own pace. Traditional boats, called “albuferencs”, offer you a relaxing tour of the lake, where you can observe bird species in their natural habitat. Sunset in the Albufera is a magical experience, and many visitors choose to enjoy this natural spectacle from one of the viewpoints or restaurants overlooking the lake.

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The Colon Market

The Mercado de Colón is one of the most emblematic modernist buildings in Valencia. Restored and converted into a gastronomic space, this market is the perfect place to enjoy the best culinary offer of the city. From tapas and fresh produce to haute cuisine, the Mercado de Colón offers a unique experience in an incomparable architectural setting. In addition, its terrace is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a horchata, the typical Valencian drink.
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In addition to being a gastronomic center, the Mercado de Colón frequently hosts exhibitions, craft markets and cultural events that make it a point of reference for the social and cultural life of Valencia. The market's architecture, with its wrought iron structure and modernist decoration, is worth a visit in itself. Inside the market, you can find a mix of gourmet stores, cafés and pastry shops offering high quality local products, perfect for taking home a culinary souvenir of your visit.

Ruzafa

The Ruzafa neighborhood, known for its cultural and nightlife, is one of the trendiest places in Valencia. With its streets full of colorful graffiti, designer stores, art galleries and a wide range of bars and restaurants, Ruzafa is the perfect destination for those looking for an authentic urban experience. Strolling through its streets, discovering its corners and enjoying its bohemian atmosphere will allow you to get to know a different Valencia, full of creativity and dynamism.

Ruzafa is also known for its multicultural atmosphere, reflected in its diverse restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, from Spanish tapas to Japanese sushi and Thai food. During the day, you can enjoy its flea markets and independent boutiques, while at night, the neighborhood transforms into a bustling nightlife center with alternative bars, clubs and theaters. Ruzafa is the ideal place to experience the energy and creativity of Valencia, with a calendar of events that includes music festivals, art fairs and community activities.

Do you already know what to do in Valencia?

With these outdoor plans and the numerous events and activities available, Valencia is a city that offers something for all tastes and ages. From the tranquility of its parks and beaches to the cultural and gastronomic life of its neighborhoods, every corner of the city has a story to tell and an experience to offer. Pack your bags and discover what Valencia has in store for you!