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Things to do in Valencia: Ultimate guide for every traveller
Discover the best things to do in Valencia. This guide covers top attractions, local tips, and free activities for a memorable city break.
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city, offering a unique mix of Mediterranean coastlines, historic streets, and modern design. From beaches and cathedrals to science museums and street markets, the city blends tradition and innovation for every travel style.
This guide explores the best things to do in Valencia, including top attractions, cultural highlights, and free activities.
You’ll also find tips on what food to try, when to go at night, and how to stay connected with an eSIM for Valencia.
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Things to do in Valencia with kids
Valencia is a top destination for families thanks to its safe, walkable layout and a mix of educational and playful attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or longer, these kid-friendly spots offer fun for all ages:
- City of Arts and Sciences: This futuristic complex includes interactive science exhibits and hands-on activities that spark curiosity in young minds.
- Oceanogràfic: As Europe’s largest aquarium, it’s an unforgettable place to see sharks, dolphins, and marine life from across the globe.
- Gulliver Park: A local favourite, this park is a massive playground shaped like Gulliver that lets kids climb, slide, and explore for free in a creative outdoor space.
Things to do in Valencia for young adults
Valencia is one of the best cities in Spain for young adults looking for culture, nightlife, and outdoor fun.
Here are the best things you can do in Valencia:
- Explore Ruzafa and El Carmen: These neighbourhoods are packed with street art, independent boutiques, and cafés that capture Valencia’s creative energy.
- Rooftop bars and nightlife: Watch the sunset from Ateneo Sky Bar or dance by the sea at Marina Beach Club; Valencia’s nightlife is as relaxed or lively as you want it to be.
- Get active outdoors: Join a bike tour through Turia Gardens or try paddleboarding and beach volleyball at Malvarrosa Beach for a dose of sun and sport.
Things to do in Valencia at night
Valencia nightlife blends historic charm, local food, and a relaxed vibe into a memorable evening. If you want to experience living in Valencia like a local, here’s how to enjoy the city at night:
- Take a night stroll through the Old Town: Walk past softly lit monuments in Plaza de la Virgen and Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where the city’s history feels most alive.
- Discover night markets and cultural pop-ups: Head to Ruzafa or El Carmen for local art events, open-air markets, and street performances that change with the season.
- Unwind with tapas and live music: Try a tucked-away bodega or join locals at a buzzing tapas bar; many spots offer live flamenco or jazz into the night.
Free things to do in Valencia
There are plenty of free things to do in Valencia that let you explore the city’s beauty, history, and coast without spending a cent.
From gardens and plazas to wide-open beaches, here are some of the best free places to visit in Valencia:
- Viveros Gardens: A peaceful green escape near the city centre where you can walk, relax under palm trees, or enjoy a picnic with no crowds.
- Plaza de la Reina and Plaza del Ayuntamiento: These historic squares are perfect for people-watching, street photography, or soaking up the city’s architecture without spending a euro.
- Malvarrosa and Patacona beaches: Valencia’s beaches are free to access year-round. Walk the promenade, enjoy the sea breeze, or catch a stunning sunset over the water.
Romantic things to do in Valencia
Valencia offers a quiet charm that’s perfect for couples. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or adding a romantic stop to your Spain itinerary, the city has plenty of scenic and memorable experiences for two.
- Botanical Gardens: Stroll through lush greenery and historic greenhouses just steps from the Old Town, a peaceful, photogenic spot to slow down together.
- Sunset boat ride in Albufera: Just outside the city, Albufera Natural Park sets the stage for one of the most romantic things to do in Valencia. Glide across the lagoon at sunset and enjoy the stillness and golden skies.
- Rooftop terraces with a view: Sip cocktails with panoramic views at places like Atenea Sky Bar or 270º Terrace at Barceló, ideal for a romantic evening.
Unusual things to do in Valencia
Valencia offers plenty of unusual things to do, from underground museums to creative spaces and alternative viewpoints that show a different side of local life.
Here are some more unusual and interesting things you could do in Valencia:
- Museo Fallero: Explore the artistic legacy of the Las Fallas Festival through saved ninots, vintage posters, and historic photographs that capture Valencia’s most iconic celebration.
- Contemporary art spaces and workshops: Visit Bombas Gens or IVAM to see bold exhibitions, or join a ceramics or printmaking workshop to tap into the city’s creative scene.
- Miguelete tower climb or viewpoint tours: For a unique view of the city, climb this Gothic tower in the heart of the Old Town or join a guided rooftop tour for sunset panoramas.
Beach activities in Valencia
Valencia’s beaches are some of the best in Spain, known for their wide promenades, golden sand, and local food spots. Whether you’re visiting for a summer holiday or a sunny city break, there’s plenty to do by the sea.
- Malvarrosa, Patacona, and Playa de la Devesa: These are the best beaches in Valencia for different travel styles. Malvarrosa is vibrant and easy to reach, Patacona is more relaxed with a local vibe, and Playa de la Devesa offers a quiet escape inside Albufera Natural Park.
- Walk or cycle along the coast: Valencia’s beachfront promenades and bike paths are perfect for scenic rides, long walks, and people-watching, all with sea views.
- Beachfront dining: Try paella by the sea, sip horchata, or enjoy tapas at one of the beach bars along Valencia’s coastline.
Best time to visit Valencia
The best time to visit Valencia is in spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to October), when temperatures average around 25°C and the sea is still warm for swimming. These seasons offer the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
March is peak season due to the Las Fallas Festival, and summer brings full beach days but also the highest prices. For either, it’s best to book in advance. Winter is mild and budget-friendly, ideal for a quieter trip.
What you should know before visiting Valencia
Before you plan your trip to Valencia, here’s a quick guide to help you get the most out of your trip.
What not to miss in Valencia?
Top things to do in Valencia include visiting the iconic City of Arts and Sciences, exploring the historic Valencia Cathedral, and tasting fresh local flavours at Central Market.
What is Valencia famous for?
Valencia is known for being the birthplace of paella, its refreshing summer drink horchata, and the Las Fallas Festival held every March. It’s also famous for its historic orange groves that have shaped the region’s identity and economy.
Is Valencia walkable?
Yes. Valencia’s city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with Turia Gardens offering scenic walks and bike paths. You can also use public transport for longer routes or day trips from Valencia.
Is Valencia nicer than Barcelona?
Compared to Barcelona, Valencia offers quieter beaches, historic neighbourhoods, and a more relaxed pace. If you prefer local charm over tourist crowds, Valencia might just suit you better.
Is Valencia expensive for tourists?
Valencia is more affordable than Barcelona or Madrid, making it a budget-friendly choice for tourists. Food, transport, and accommodation are reasonably priced, which is why many digital nomads choose Valencia as a long-term base.
Is 3 days enough in Valencia?
Yes, 3 days in Valencia is enough to explore the city’s main highlights and get a real sense of its local culture. One day covers the essentials, two days let you add hidden gems, and three days allow time for the beach, unique attractions, and a slower pace.
Stay connected while exploring Valencia
A Holafly eSIM for Spain keeps you connected throughout your trip, whether you’re navigating the city, booking transport, or checking restaurant hours.
Choose from daily or monthly eSIM plans, activate it instantly, and start using data as soon as you land with no physical SIM card required.
Once you leave Valencia, you can continue using the same eSIM across 200+ destinations in Europe and beyond.
Stay online with one simple solution, no matter where your trip takes you.
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Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.
