1. City of Arts and Sciences
Santiago Calatrava’s white futuristic complex with a science museum, the Hemisfèric and the Oceanogràfic, one of Europe’s largest aquariums.
2. Turia Gardens
A nine-kilometre park in the old riverbed, running through the city. Rent a bike.
3. Central Market
One of Europe’s largest fresh food markets, in a modernista building with a glass dome.
4. La Lonja de la Seda
The Gothic silk exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, opposite the market.
5. Valencia Cathedral
Home to a chalice venerated as the Holy Grail. Climb the Miguelete tower for views.
6. El Carmen
The old quarter’s lanes, street art and bars.
7. Malvarrosa beach and paella
The city beach, with restaurants nearby serving paella valenciana, traditionally made with chicken, rabbit and beans.
8. Albufera Natural Park
A freshwater lagoon and rice fields just south of the city, where the rice for paella grows. Take a boat at sunset.
Day trips from Valencia
- Albufera lagoon: about 30 minutes by car or bus.
- Xàtiva castle: about 45 minutes by train.
- Sagunto: about 30 minutes by train.
What to eat
- Paella valenciana at lunchtime
- Horchata with fartons
- Esgarraet
- Agua de Valencia
Tip: Locals eat paella at lunch, not dinner.
Planning to stay longer? Read our full Valencia guide and where to stay in Valencia.
