Travel and Accommodations in Valencia, Spain

Discover Valencia's Wonders

Full of historical sights and lush gardens, Valencia has a powerful attraction for many travelers to the Mediterranean. Some of its most important sites include the Metropolitan Cathedral, with its bell tower, the Serranos Towers and the Silk Exchange. Valencia also offers a rich variety of food and a busy nightlife scene, making it as cosmopolitan as it is historic.

Current Weather

83.07 °F - Clear Min/Max: 81.84 °F / 84.61 °FFeels: 89.65 °F Humidity: 74%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Valencia oozes history. A walk around the old quarter will transport you from the days of the city’s Roman foundation in the year 138 B.C., whose remains are preserved in the museum of the Almoina, to the times of El Cid and the Moors, witnessed by the medieval wall gates of Serranos and Quart, and beyond. The beautiful Gothic building of La Lonja (Silk Exchange) is a reminder of the city’s Golden Age in the 15th century when Valencia was the heart of the silk trade. You will also find jewels of Modernist art like the Central and Colón markets, as well as extravagant Baroque churches and palaces like the Palacio del Marques de Dos Aguas, now home to the Ceramics Museum. But the city also has a very modern side, where you can spend the days in department stores or high-end boutiques, and the nights sipping cocktails like the typical Agua de Valencia in the trendy bars of the bohemian Ruzafa district. The Turia Gardens were created on the Turia Riverbed after disastrous flooding diverted its course in 1957, and are today lined with futuristic buildings. Here, the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, a complex designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, has become the city’s number one tourist attraction. Above all, Valencia is a city that embraces the sea and offers an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. The beaches of Las Arenas and Malvarrosa are buzzing in the summer, and also at weekends throughout the year, as locals head for a stroll in the sun followed by a paella at one of the restaurants along the seafront. Nearby you will find the old fishermen’s quarter of Cabanyal, with its colourful tiled buildings and traditional tabernas. The Marina Real Juan Carlos I revamped to host America’s Cup in 2007 and 2010, is now becoming the new gastronomic and cultural hub of the city. One more thing is guaranteed in Valencia: wherever you go, you will find a warm welcome from locals who are immensely proud of their city and their traditions and are more than happy to share them with visitors.

Useful information

Population:

Metro area: 841,000 Valencians (2025)

Currency:

Euro (EUR) €1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Emergency Number: 112
National Police: 091
City Police: 092
Fire Brigade: 080
Red Cross: +34 963 677 375

Opening Hours:

Traditional opening hours are Mon–Sat 9am–1:30pm, and 4:30pm–8pm, though many shops in the city centre stay open all day, and are also open on Sundays. Large department stores open daily from 10am to 10pm (9pm on Sundays).

Events

Day of the Valencian Community (9 October)

Día de la Comunidad Valenciana, which commemorates the liberation of the city from the Moors, brings along one of the most peculiar and charming Valencian traditions. In a kind of “alternative Valentine’s day”, men give their loved ones a special gift of marzipan figurines of fruits and vegetables wrapped in a silk scarf known as the mocadora.

Great Valencia Fair (July)

The whole month of July is a fiesta in Valencia. Concerts, al fresco cinema, stand-up comedy, fireworks displays, folk dances, parades, street markets… The programme of the Gran Fira (Great Valencia Fair) features more than 100 events at different locations throughout the city. Don’t miss the Battle of Flowers on the last Sunday, when brightly coloured floats and horse-drawn carriages parade through the city, with men, women, and children in lavish, traditional costumes tossing flowers out into the cheering crowds.

Las Fallas (March)

Valencia welcomes spring with its most colourful and famous festival. Gigantic papier mache monuments, known as fallas, with effigies usually representing celebrities or politicians in a satirical way, are set up on streets and squares throughout the city and burnt to a cinder in spectacular bonfires on the last day of the celebration. The Flower Offering to the Virgen de los Desamparados, when thousands of falleras and falleros in traditional costumes parade through the city, is also a sight to behold.

Moto GP Valencia

The Gran Premio de la Comunidad Valenciana is a key annual fixture in the Moto GP calendar. Thousands of motorcycling fans head to the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Cheste, about an hour from the city, to cheer on their national and international heroes.

Valencia Marathon

The Trinidad Alfonso EDP Valencia Marathon is the highlight of the annual calendar of running events that take place in Valencia, an ideal city for the practice of this sport because of its flat seaside location and mild climate.

Do & See

Bioparc

With no visible barriers, visitors to this 10-hectare zoo park can immerse themselves in the amazing wild habitats where lions, elephants, hippos, gorillas, and many more species live. The emphasis is on the preservation of endangered species and protecting the environment.

Botanical Garden

The University of Valencia's Botanical Garden has its roots in the orchard that was established in the 16th century to facilitate the teaching of botany. The garden boasts an impressive collection of over 3,000 species of trees and plants from various regions of the world. Its collection of palm trees, tropical shrubs, cacti, and desert flora is particularly noteworthy.

Cathedral & Miguelete Tower

Valencia’s Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and the home of the Holy Grail–the only one certified by the Vatican. Its tower, the Miguelete, is a true icon of Valencia. Climb up to the top for great views of the city.

Central Market

Opposite La Lonja, you will find the oldest food market in Europe, housed in a fascinating building in a true Valencian style. The market is just as lively now as it was a hundred years ago as if time had stood still. This is a great place to buy some local delicacies and experience Valencia's daily life.

City of Arts & Sciences

The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, or City of Arts and Sciences, is a cultural and architectural complex designed by Santiago Calatrava that has become the number one attraction in Valencia. Walking around and taking photos of the stunning buildings is a pleasure in itself, and that does not cost anything. However, it is well worth the entrance fee to explore the various exhibits inside.

Colon Market

One of the most beautiful examples of Modernist architecture in the city, the Colon Market is home to several cafes and restaurants, and a good place to pick up interesting crafts and gifts, particularly at the Christmas market.

Fallas Museum

This small museum’s exhibits focus on Valencia’s huge Las Fallas festival. Las Fallas is a traditional celebration held every year in March, and people use this festive event to ridicule those in power. The term Fallas refers to both the celebration and the monuments created during the celebration. A number of towns in the Valencian Community have similar celebrations inspired by the original one in Valencia.

Gulliver Park

This playground is quite unusual and very much appreciated by the children. If you look closely you will see that the whole playground consists of a large giant, hence the name "Gulliver".

Dining

Al Pomodoro

A classic Italian restaurant in the city centre with an authentic atmosphere serving pasta, pizzas, meat dishes, and even gluten-free pizza options.

Casa Carmela

A traditional restaurant by Malvarrosa Beach established in 1922, Casa Carmela has been serving wood-fired paella, fish, and seafood for four generations. For many, it offers the best rice dishes in Valencia.

Contrapunto Les Arts

Traditional Mediterranean cooking with an innovative twist in the striking environment of the Palau de les Arts concert hall, inside the City of Arts and Sciences.

Dolium

Dolium is an elegant and welcoming establishment with a modern flair, where customer service is the top priority. The steak tartare, prepared tableside, is a must-try dish.

Dos Estaciones

Innovative Spanish cuisine using the best seasonal produce in the trendy neighbourhood of Ruzafa. Founded by two friends and top chefs who have previously worked at some of the top establishments in Valencia.

El Ocho Y Medio

The location in the Old Town, as well as the interior of wooden beams and original design by Daniel Torres, provide a warm ambience to this restaurant. The cuisine can best be described as creative, with one of the specialities being black paella.

El Palmar

Near the Albufera Natural Park, you’ll find El Palmar, an award-winning restaurant which has been around for over 100 years. Four generations dedicated to serving the best traditional Valencian cuisine, including a variety of classic seafood, rice, and tapas dishes to be enjoyed in their airy, tiled dining area or on their large terrace.

Entrevins

Experience haute cuisine and fine boutique wines in an elegant setting at this sophisticated yet affordable wine bar. Their expert sommelier, Guillaume Glories (winner of the 2010 Madrid Fusion national championship), carefully pairs each dish with the perfect wine to create a truly memorable culinary experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to indulge in some of the best cuisine and wine the region has to offer.

Cafes

Bertal

Located in the heart of Valencia, Bertal is a great place for breakfast, brunch, or a coffee break while sightseeing in the Old Town. It serves a variety of both sweet and savoury options at affordable prices, plus a selection of artisan ice creams, iced drinks, and milkshakes.

Chocolatería Valor

Chocolatería Valor has been around since 1881, and its location in Plaza de la Reina is ideal. The café offers a range of desserts, but the real star here is its churros. These treats are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are served with a side of warm chocolate for dipping. If you're in the area, be sure to give them a try!

Horchatería Daniel

Horchatería Daniel is a great place to take a break from shopping and enjoy a refreshing ice cream or a glass of horchata, the typical Valencian tiger nut drink, with fartons (doughnuts) in the beautiful surroundings of the Colon Market.

Horchatería Santa Catalina

As its name suggests, Horchatería Santa Catalina is the ideal spot to try horchata, a traditional Valencian drink made from tiger nuts. You can enjoy it with a side of fartons (long doughnuts), or opt for another local speciality: churros with hot chocolate. Don't miss out on this unique culinary experience when you're in the area!

Bars & Nightlife

Black Note Club

At Black Note Club, you can enjoy live music most nights of the week. The venue hosts rock, soul, and blues bands in old-school surroundings.

Café Bolsería

Claimed to be one of the most popular disco bars in Valencia, this venue is the place to be for a night out. You can enjoy drinks, dance to R'n'B music, and make new friends, all while having a great time.

Espit Chupitos

Espit Chupitos is a bar chain with locations throughout Spain that specializes in shots. Their signature shot is the "chupitos de fuego" or fire shot. Since its inception in 1989, Espit Chupitos has been dedicated to innovation and creativity in the world of shot bars. They have developed more than 600 original shots and 180 jugs and cocktail shakers using their own brand of high-quality, competitive beverages. Whether you're looking to try something new or stick to a classic, Espit Chupitos has got you covered.

Hawaika

Tiki Bar in Valencia offering colourful, tropical drinks made with natural fruit juice, exotic essences, and top-quality distillates. In addition to their signature cocktails, they also serve natural juices, smoothies, artisan ice cream, and homemade crepes. These refreshing treats are sure to awaken your senses and provide a taste of paradise.

Jimmy Glass

Since 1991, this cosy, urban jazz bar has been showcasing international and emerging artists while serving tapas and cocktails. It's the perfect spot for a night out if you're a fan of jazz music. Check out their website to see what's on while you're in town.

Johnny Maracas

Johnny Maracas is the place to go for a fun, Latin-inspired night out. The venue features a popular cocktail menu with options like mojitos and Agua de Valencia (a mixture of cava or champagne, orange juice, vodka, and gin). When you're ready to dance, the Latino culture at Johnny Maracas will have you feeling the rhythm all night long.

L'Ermità Café

Located in the heart of Valencia's downtown area, L'Ermità Café is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great selection of imported beers, high-quality cocktails, and other drinks. This artistic café attracts beautiful groups of intellectual and laid-back people. It offers a good music playlist and hosts cultural activities every day. There are outdoor seating options for those who want to enjoy the fresh air while sipping on a drink.

Mya

This chic, futuristic dance club offers cocktails and champagne under an arched glass roof adorned with palm trees. It is considered one of the essential night spots in Valencia, with its stylish interiors and beautiful outside view of the modern buildings of the City of Arts and Science. Here, you can dance the night away or relax in the outdoor lounge.

Shopping

Adolfo Domínguez

Adolfo Domínguez is a Spanish fashion brand with a history dating back to the 1950s. Today, it has stores all over Spain and around the world. With an emphasis on sustainability, the brand offers stylish and elegant clothing, bags, and shoes for both men and women.

El Corte Inglés

Spain's department store colossus is both loved and hated, but successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to offer most things to most people. Designer fashions, their own low and medium-priced lines, enormous perfumery and make-up departments, accessories, toys, children's and baby's clothes, art materials, souvenirs, food and delicatessen, household furniture and decorations, electrical goods, books, and a range of services can be found here.

Mercado Central de Valencia

Located in one of Valencia's most iconic modernist buildings, the Central Market is the largest fresh produce market in Europe. It features over 1,200 stalls selling a variety of items, including fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, spices, nuts, fish, and seafood. The market is bursting with colour, aroma and flavour, and is a must-visit destination for anyone in the city. Don't forget to stop at the Central Bar for some tapas while you're there!

Rastro Market

El Rastro de Valencia is a weekly flea market that takes place on Sunday mornings and attracts over 500 vendors each week. It is one of the largest flea markets in Spain and offers a wide variety of items, including old books, ornaments, toys, household items, jewellery, vinyl records, vintage clothing, ceramics, and more. The market is a great way to spend a few hours exploring and finding unique treasures but is open for a short time, so it's best to arrive early to avoid the largest crowds.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

April-June and September-October are the best months for a trip to Valencia when it comes to cultural events, as well as for the weather, which should be warm and mostly sunny. June and the first couple weeks of September are also good for beach holidays: the weather is still warm, but the place is less crowded and the prices are lower. The high season at the seaside is in July-August, but the weather can get very hot then. Whichever dates you choose, don't worry about missing out on nightlife: Valencia is a lively university city, so something is always going on. Last but not least, take a look at the "Event" section of this guide if you haven't: many interesting festivals take place in Valencia during the year, and you might want to include one in your trip. Las Fallas in March is particularly popular, thus very crowded, but so very worth it.

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Spain, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Valencia Airport (VLC)

Valencia Airport is located approximately eight kilometres west of Valencia. Bus line 150 runs to the city centre and the port, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. You can also take one of the two underground lines that connect the airport with the city; the journey takes about 25 minutes. The taxi service in València is provided by the urban taxis of the joint service area. Please note that there is a supplement for trips from the airport, and make sure that the taxi driver starts the taxi meter at the beginning of the journey. It is advisable to request a receipt in case you need to make a complaint. The metropolitan bus line 150, also known as the Metrobus, connects the airport with the city centre of València, with intermediate stops at Mislata, Quart de Poblet and Manises. Metrovalencia line 3 links the airport with the city centre, the university area and the northern part of the metropolitan area. The station is located on the ground floor of the regional flights terminal, and there is an information office in the arrivals area of the airport.

Public Transport

The public transport system consists of a network of buses, underground trains, and trams. It is easy to get around Valencia and the metro is both the fastest and the easiest. Ticket prices vary for a single journey. You can buy combination tickets that include all means of transportation. The Valencia Tourist Card is a good option for tourists.

Taxi

Taxis in Valencia are white and are available 24 hours a day. You can easily get hold of one in the city. You can either hail a taxi on the street or call for one. Here are a couple of taxi companies operating in Valencia: Teletaxi Valencia: +34 963 57 13 13 Radio Taxi Valencia: +34 963 70 33 33 Another option for lower fares is the rideshare company Uber.

Electricity

Spain’s power grid operates at 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, using Type F, Schuko plug, and Type C, Europlug, outlets. Both types accept plugs with two round prongs, common across continental Europe.

Pharmacy

Pharmacies in Valencia have alternating opening hours at night and at weekends.

Post

Spanish post offices are known as Correos. Stamps can be purchased from post offices and kiosks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Valencia?

Valencia is known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, the historic Valencia Cathedral, and the vibrant Central Market. Don't miss the Turia Gardens, a lush park that stretches through the city.

When is the best time to visit Valencia?

The best time to visit Valencia is during the spring months of March to May when the weather is pleasant and the famous Las Fallas festival takes place in March.

What local dishes should I try in Valencia?

Valencia is the birthplace of paella, so trying this iconic rice dish is a must. Also, taste horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and enjoy a serving of fartons, a local pastry.

How can I get around Valencia?

Valencia has an efficient public transportation system including buses, trams, and a metro. Renting a bike is also a popular option as the city is bike-friendly with numerous cycling paths.

How many days should I spend in Valencia?

A 3-day visit is ideal to explore Valencia's main attractions, enjoy its beaches, and experience its culinary delights without feeling rushed.

What are some popular day trips from Valencia?

Consider visiting Albufera Natural Park for its beautiful lagoon and rice fields, or the historic town of Sagunto with its ancient Roman theater and castle ruins.

Where is the best area to stay in Valencia?

The Ciutat Vella (Old Town) is a great area to stay for its historic charm and proximity to major attractions. For a more modern vibe, consider the Ruzafa neighborhood, known for its trendy cafes and nightlife.

Trips

Barcelona and Valencia Spanish Escapade

Let’s plan your next vacation

Let us take care of all the details to create the perfect trip for you. With our expertise and personalized service, we will ensure that every moment of your trip is special and unforgettable. Get ready to embark on a dream adventure!

Your Trip Plan is Empty