Things to do in Valencia

Activities, attractions and tours

Valencia
Valencia
Valencia
Valencia
Valencia
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Top places to visit

1. City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is a multipurpose cultural and entertainment complex. Discover over 500 marine species, enjoy opera performances, enjoy interactive science and technology exhibits and watch 3-D movies. This complex of six venues stretches along 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) of Valencia’s Turía Gardens and is a showcase of the city’s modern architecture.
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City of Arts and Sciences featuring modern architecture and a city

2. Malvarrosa Beach

Situated north of the port of Valencia, Malvarrosa Beach offers the chance to swim in the warm Mediterranean Sea, play beach sports and take walks along a wide beachfront promenade. The beach features historic villas, fine restaurants and clean waters and is only minutes away from the city.
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Malvarrosa Beach which includes a sandy beach and general coastal views

3. Oceanogràfic Aquarium

The Oceanogràfic Aquarium is one of Europe’s largest aquariums. The expansive complex is divided into multiple areas, each representing one of the world’s primary marine ecosystems. In addition to seeing beluga whales, sharks, walruses, penguins and hundreds of other species, enjoy entertaining activities that allow interaction with the animals in unique ways.
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City of Arts and Sciences showing interior views and marine life as well as a large group of people

4. Plaza del Ayuntamiento

The Plaza del Ayuntamiento is the city’s main square and one of the gems of Valencia’s Old Town. This magnificent flower-filled space encompasses grandiose Baroque buildings, florist stalls, cafés, restaurants, kiosks and an impressive fountain. Wander through the triangular-shaped plaza and explore its main attractions.
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Main city square of Valencia, The Plaza del Ayuntamiento in bright afternoon colors, Spain

5. Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral (Catedral de Valencia) is a breathtaking monument that presides over Plaza de la Reina, in the beating heart of Valencia Old Town. Built in the 1200s, the cathedral stands on a site that was once home to a Roman church and Moorish mosque. Inspect the varying architectural styles of Valencia Cathedral’s grandiose exterior. Then explore its venerated chapels, paintings and reliquary.
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Valencia old town, Spain

6. Central Market

Visit Valencia’s Central Market (Mercat Central) to experience the sights, sounds and smells of a bustling food market. Sample everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheeses and cured meats. Opened in 1928 by King Alfonso XIII, today the market is home to around 1,000 stalls and is one of the oldest-running food markets in Europe.
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Valencia, Spain. Mercado Central is a famous old market hall

7. Bioparc Valencia Zoo

At Bioparc Valencia, get close to wild animals, experiencing them in re-creations of African habitats. This 25-acre (10-hectare) zoo has three main areas: Savannah, Madagascar and Equatorial Africa. Paths and tunnels connect each area, leading to viewing points where rivers, ponds, rocks and glass walls are all that separate you from the animals.
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Bioparc Valencia Zoo showing zoo animals

What to do in Valencia

Popular places to visit

City of Arts and Sciences featuring modern architecture and a city

City of Arts and Sciences

Watch an opera performance, visit an interactive science museum and spot 500 species of marine life at this multipurpose cultural and entertainment complex.

City of Arts and Sciences
Port of Valencia

Port of Valencia

Explore the waterfront in Valencia with a trip to Port of Valencia. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or experience the fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.

Port of Valencia
Malvarrosa Beach showing a city, a sandy beach and outdoor eating

Malvarrosa Beach

Swim in the warm Mediterranean Sea, stroll along the promenade and dine along the waterfront at one of Valencia’s most popular urban beaches.

Malvarrosa Beach
City of Arts and Sciences showing interior views and marine life as well as a large group of people

Oceanogràfic Aquarium

Explore this spectacular indoor-outdoor aquarium, home to innovative exhibits and more than 500 different marine species.

Oceanogràfic Aquarium
Plaza del Ayuntamiento

Plaza del Ayuntamiento

Visit stately historical buildings and learn about Valencia’s history and evolution when you spend time in this beautiful city center square.

Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral

See the supposed Holy Grail, marvel at Renaissance frescoes and admire city views from a bell tower at one of Valencia’s most iconic landmarks.

Valencia Cathedral
Estación del Norte

Estación del Norte

You can learn about the history of Valencia with a trip to Estación del Norte. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this culturally rich area.

Estación del Norte
Central Market showing markets, street scenes and a city

Central Market

Shop for local fruits, vegetables, cheeses and cured meats, and watch local market traders at work in one of Europe’s oldest food markets.

Central Market
Bioparc Valencia Zoo showing zoo animals as well as an individual male

Bioparc Valencia Zoo

Visit this zoo to experience careful re-creations of African ecosystems and to enjoy wildlife in an almost barrier-free environment.

Bioparc Valencia Zoo

Areas of Valencia

Valencia City Centre featuring heritage architecture, a city and château or palace

Valencia City Centre

4.5/5(659 area reviews)

Explore Valencia’s medieval streets, admire historic architecture, visit food markets and museums and people-watch from lively squares.

Valencia City Centre
Valencia City Centre which includes a city, a square or plaza and heritage architecture

Ciutat Vella

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia to Silk Exchange – discover Ciutat Vella, a destination also famous for its shopping.

Ciutat Vella
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Ruzafa

Ruzafa is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Ruzafa Market and Color Elefante.

Ruzafa
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Pobles del Sud

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Beaches and restaurants are highlights of Pobles del Sud. Make a stop by Albufera or El Saler Golf Club while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Valencia South Station to get around town.

Pobles del Sud
Valencia which includes land animals and zoo animals

Sant Francesc

While you're in Sant Francesc, take in top sights like Plaza del Ayuntamiento and jump on the metro at Colon Station to see more of the city.

Sant Francesc
Malvarrosa Beach which includes a sandy beach and general coastal views

Poblats Maritims

4.5/5(62 area reviews)

A noteworthy feature of Poblats Maritims is its stunning beaches. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Port of Valencia and America's Cup Building.

Poblats Maritims

 

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Photo by Michelle Weigold

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Frequently asked questions

Is Valencia worth visiting?
Offering a blend of walking trails and watersports, there's no shortage of things to do in Valencia. When you're here, check out Malvarrosa Beach, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Valencia?
Malvarrosa Beach and City of Arts and Sciences are two great places to start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Valencia while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Valencia?
The top tourist attraction in Valencia is Malvarrosa Beach, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Valencia?
You can easily tour leading attractions like Malvarrosa Beach, City of Arts and Sciences and Oceanogràfic Aquarium with a three-day trip to Valencia. On average, most travellers book three days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a bit longer and head to Manises.
Is Valencia a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Valencia is a great destination to see on foot. Enjoy wandering between Malvarrosa Beach and City of Arts and Sciences. Then take a stroll through Valencia City Centre, located 0.32 kilometres from downtown, and Ciutat Vella, which is about 0.32 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Valencia with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Valencia with kids.

What to do in Valencia for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Valencia for adults including Puerta del Mar and Valencia Town Hall.
Are there free things to do in Valencia?
In Valencia, Malvarrosa Beach is a top spot for anyone looking to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a simple way to learn about the best free things to do in Valencia.

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