Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, is a wonderful blend of ancient history, architecture, golden sand beaches, and irresistible cuisine. Right on the Mediterranean coast, this city offers something for every kind of traveler.
Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Valencia that will truly capture the essence of this magnificent city:
1. City of Arts and Sciences and Oceanografic
A crown jewel of modern Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences is a stunning architectural complex that captures the imagination of visitors of all ages. Conceived by local architect Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic wonderland stretches across nearly two kilometers of the former Turia Riverbed and blends cultural enrichment with entertainment and education.
The complex is divided into several key attractions. The Oceanogràfic is Europe’s largest aquarium, home to a vast array of marine life including sharks, belugas, and dolphins. It’s a family favorite and offers immersive experiences in ecosystems from around the globe.
At the Hemisfèric, you’ll find an IMAX cinema and planetarium housed inside a building shaped like a giant eye. Daily screenings include documentaries that bring science and nature to life.
The Science Museum promotes hands on learning with interactive exhibits on everything from physics and biology to technology and space exploration. Its motto, “Touching is allowed,” makes it especially engaging for curious minds.
Music and performing arts take center stage at the Palau de les Arts, a majestic opera house that hosts a range of performances throughout the year. And if you’re in the mood for a scenic walk, the Umbracle offers a tranquil garden space filled with Mediterranean plants and striking sculptures.
Tickets for individual buildings can be purchased separately or bundled, depending on your interests. Even if you do not want to visit any of the attractions the area is a must see for everyone with futuristic buildings and water fountains.
Ticket price: Oceanographic from 38€ for adults.
Official site and tickets: https://www.oceanografic.org/
Other tickets: There are multiple tickets options to access one or multiple attractions.
2. La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)
A true gem of Gothic civil architecture, La Lonja de la Seda stands as a proud symbol of Valencia’s mercantile past. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, this magnificent 15th century building once served as the heart of the city’s thriving silk trade. Its elegant design reflects the wealth and importance of Valencia during the medieval era.
The standout feature is the Column Hall, where traders once negotiated deals under its soaring, spiraled columns.
Ticket price: 2€ for adults.
3. Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete Tower
The Valencia Cathedral is a remarkable mix of styles, reflecting its long history as a place of worship built over Roman, Visigoth, and Islamic foundations. Its primary structure is Gothic, but you’ll also find touches of Romanesque, Baroque, and Renaissance elements woven into its architecture.
One of its most revered treasures is the Holy Chalice, believed by many to be the true Holy Grail. This polished agate cup is displayed in a richly decorated chapel and has even been used by visiting Popes for mass. The cathedral also houses an impressive museum that includes works by Spanish masters like Goya and Maella, as well as rare medieval pieces.
Don’t miss the Renaissance frescoes behind the main altar and for those eager to enjoy the city from above, the climb up the iconic Miguelete Tower is well worth the 207 steps. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Valencia’s historic center.
Ticket price: Guided visit to the Cathedral from 9€, Miguelete Tower 2€
Official site and times: https://catedraldevalencia.es/visita-cultural/horarios-y-tarifas/
4. Central Market (Mercado Central)
A paradise for food lovers and a masterpiece of modernist architecture, Valencia’s Central Market is a must visit experience. Housed under a soaring iron and glass dome, the market spans over 8,000 square meters and features intricate ceramic tile work and vibrant stained glass that make it as visually striking as it is flavourful.
Inside, over 250 stalls overflow with the freshest produce from the nearby Valencian orchards, bright oranges, juicy tomatoes, artichokes, and more. The scent of herbs, spices, seafood, and cured meats fills the air, creating a full sensory immersion into Mediterranean culinary culture.
Even if you’re not looking to shop, the market is worth exploring. Stop by the renowned Central Bar, where you can sample gourmet tapas and sandwiches made from really fresh ingredients.
5. Turia Gardens
One of Valencia’s most remarkable urban transformations, the Turia Gardens stretch across nine kilometres of beautifully landscaped parkland. The gardens are a haven for joggers, cyclists, families, and anyone seeking a breath of fresh air. Palm trees, pine groves, fountains, rose gardens, and walking paths make this space feel like a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. You’ll find cultural landmarks dotted along the way, from the Bioparc at one end to the City of Arts and Sciences at the other.
The park also features the whimsical Gulliver Park, where children can clamber over a giant sculpture of the famous literary character.
6. CaixaForum Valencia
Located in the striking Ágora building within the City of Arts and Sciences, CaixaForum Valencia is a bold fusion of culture, science, and design. The space is a conceptual marvel featuring a garden restaurant filled with aromatic plants, floating classrooms, palm tree shaped offices, and an auditorium designed like an inverted forest, all surrounded by water.
This dynamic cultural centre houses rotating exhibitions on ancient civilizations, cutting edge technology, and contemporary art, making it a space where history and innovation meet. More than just a museum, CaixaForum hosts live performances, talks, workshops, and community events for all ages.
Ticket price: 6€ adults.
Official site and tickets: https://caixaforum.org/es/valencia/info-centro
Free days: October 9th, March 19th, May 18th.
7. Albufera Natural Park
A short drive from the city transports you to a landscape of serene waters, whispering reeds, and endless rice fields. Albufera Natural Park is a true escape into nature, known for its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets reflected in the vast freshwater lagoon, the largest in Spain.
This protected area is also the cradle of Valencian cuisine, where paella was born. The nearby village of El Palmar is the place to taste traditional dishes and explore the culinary roots of the region.
Whether you choose to explore the park by boat, follow one of its scenic walking routes, or spot migratory birds in their natural habitat, Albufera offers a slower, more tranquil side of Valencia.
8. Plaza de la Virgen
Plaza de la Virgen is one of Valencia’s most iconic and atmospheric squares, right in the heart of the historic old town.
The square takes its name from the Virgen de los Desamparados, the city’s patron saint, whose basilica proudly anchors the plaza. Each March during the Fallas festival, the square is transformed by a floral offering in her honor, creating a vibrant and emotional display that draws thousands of locals and visitors.
With its gently trickling fountain, colorful flowers, and the sounds of local life echoing through its stone arcades, Plaza de la Virgen invites you to sit at one of its many terraces and enjoy a true taste of Valencian charm.
9. Barrio del Carmen
Located in the northwestern part of Valencia’s old town, Barrio del Carmen is one of the city’s most vibrant and storied neighborhoods. Named after the historic church and convent of Carmen Calzado, this district has grown into a dynamic mix of history, art, and nightlife.
Wander through its labyrinth of medieval alleys and you’ll come across centuries old buildings, hidden plazas, and remnants of the ancient city walls. It’s also a haven for food lovers with countless tapas bars, also independent boutiques, and colorful street art that turn every corner into a photo opportunity.
By day, it’s a charming destination for exploring local heritage and architecture. By night, it transforms into a buzzing hub where people gather to enjoy the city’s famously lively nightlife.
10. Bioparc Valencia
Bioparc Valencia offers a unique and immersive wildlife experience that goes far beyond the traditional zoo. Spanning over 100,000 square meters in Cabecera Park, this innovative space recreates authentic African habitats with minimal barriers, allowing visitors to feel as though they’ve stepped into the savannah, rainforest, or wetlands.
Home to nearly a thousand animals across 150 species, the park is divided into themed ecosystems including the dry savannah, equatorial forest, and the island of Madagascar. Elephants roam among baobab trees, gorillas perch in the forest shadows, and lemurs leap through the trees just inches away from you.
With its combination of conservation focus, naturalistic design, and family friendly amenities, including a restaurant overlooking the savannah, Bioparc offers a memorable journey into the heart of Africa, right in the middle of Valencia.
Ticket price: Around 30€ for adults.
Official site and tickets: https://bioparcvalencia.es/en/
11. Torres de Serranos
A commanding symbol of medieval Valencia, the Torres de Serranos are among the city’s most iconic landmarks. Constructed in the late 14th century as part of the ancient defensive wall, these impressive Gothic towers once guarded one of the main entrances into the city. Remarkably preserved through centuries of change, they even served as a noble prison for aristocrats in the 16th to 19th centuries.
Today, visitors can climb the towers for panoramic views of the old town and the nearby Turia Gardens. The towers also take center stage during one of Valencia’s most beloved traditions: La Crida, the opening ceremony of the Fallas festival, held each February. During this lively event, the Fallera Mayor addresses the city from atop the towers, officially inviting all to join in the celebration.
Ticket price: 2€ for adults.
12. Torres de Quart
Standing as another sentinel of Valencia’s medieval past, the Torres de Quart were built in the 15th century to protect the city’s western entrance. These imposing twin towers, with their heavy stonework and visible scars from cannon fire during the Napoleonic Wars, offer a raw and authentic glimpse into the city’s turbulent history.
Historically, the towers served multiple roles, from guarding the city gates to storing gunpowder and even housing a women’s prison. Today, visitors can climb their spiral staircases for a striking view of the old town rooftops and beyond.
Ticket price: 2€ for adults.
13. Malvarrosa Beach
Once beloved by artists like Joaquín Sorolla for its dazzling light, Malvarrosa Beach remains one of Valencia’s most iconic seaside destinations. Stretching for nearly two kilometers, it offers soft golden sands, gentle waves, and full Mediterranean vibes.
Malvarrosa is a favorite spot for people to relax under the sun, take a refreshing swim, and indulge in classic Valencian dishes at one of the many beachfront restaurants.
14. Marina de Valencia
Marina de Valencia is a revitalized waterfront district that perfectly combines leisure, sailing, fine dining, innovation and creative entrepreneurship, and culture.
At its heart stands the striking Veles e Vents building, a contemporary icon that hosts cultural events, exhibitions, live music, and culinary hotspots including renowned restaurants like La Marítima and La Sucursal. Nearby, you’ll find chic beach clubs, lively terraces, and some of the city’s best spots for dining and nightlife.
The marina is also a playground for water sports enthusiasts, with activities ranging from sailing and kayaking to diving and stand up paddleboarding. Marina de Valencia has also become a hub for innovation and business, home to several startup incubators and tech centers.
15. Ruzafa District
Often compared to New York’s Soho, Ruzafa is Valencia’s most eclectic and creative neighborhood. Once a humble residential area, it has transformed into a cultural hotspot filled with a colorful mix of art galleries, independent boutiques, and buzzing cafés. Its architecture is a blend of modern flair and charming vintage facades.
During the day, Ruzafa tempts visitors with artisan bakeries, flower shops, and bookstores. By night, it comes alive with vibrant energy: indie clubs, cozy wine bars, and live music venues ensure there’s never a dull moment. Ruzafa captures the artistic, free spirited soul of modern Valencia. It’s a place to explore, linger, and return to again and again.
16. San Nicolás Church
Tucked away in the historic center, the Church of San Nicolás de Bari and San Pedro Mártir is one of Valencia’s most breathtaking surprises. Dating back to the 13th century, it’s one of the city’s original parishes.
What truly makes this church unforgettable is its ceiling, full of canvas of frescoes covering every inch of the vaults. Painted in the late 17th century these vivid scenes depict the lives of Saints Nicholas and Peter Martyr, earning the church its nickname as the “Sistine Chapel of Valencia.”
Ticket price: Visit with audio guide 11€.
Official site and tickets: https://www.sannicolasvalencia.com/
17. Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia
Housed in a beautifully restored 17th century seminary, the Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia is both a cultural treasure and a work of art in its own right. As Spain’s second largest art gallery, it offers an extraordinary journey through centuries of Spanish art, from the Gothic period to the early modern era.
The museum’s highlight is its impressive collection of Valencian artists, including multiple rooms dedicated to Joaquín Sorolla, as well as standout works by Joan de Joanes, Pinazo, Vicente López, and the Ribalta family. Art lovers should also seek out the striking self portrait by Velázquez and masterpieces by El Greco, Van Dyck, and José de Ribera.
With its quiet cloisters and serene galleries, this museum is an ideal retreat for anyone who wants to slow down and absorb Valencia’s rich artistic heritage.
Ticket price: Free
Official site and tickets: https://museobellasartesvalencia.gva.es/es/horarios-y-tarifas
18. Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas
An architectural gem in the heart of Valencia, the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas is a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque design. Behind its famously elaborate alabaster façade lies the González Martí National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts, one of the finest collections of its kind in the country.
The museum celebrates centuries of Valencian craftsmanship with an extensive collection of ceramics ranging from the 18th century to the modern era, including works by Picasso. You’ll also find exhibits on traditional trade routes like the Silk Road.
Ticket price: 3€ for adults.
19. Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Plaza del Ayuntamiento is Valencia’s main civic square and one of its most emblematic spaces, framed by grand neo classical buildings like the City Hall and the ornate Central Post Office. It’s a vibrant and expansive plaza where history and daily life intersect.
At the heart of the square lies a large circular fountain, beautifully illuminated at night, and a landscaped garden area that adds a touch of greenery to the urban setting. This plaza is especially famous during Las Fallas, when it becomes the stage for the thunderous Mascletà, a daily firework display that fills the air with rhythm and sound.
For one of the best views of the plaza, head up to the rooftop terrace of the Ateneo Mercantil building. From here, you can take in the sweeping panorama and appreciate the square’s size and architectural elegance.
20. Las Fallas Museum (Museo Fallero)
If you can’t be in Valencia during its most famous festival, the Museo Fallero offers a fantastic way to experience the magic of Las Fallas year round. This unique museum showcases the artistry and tradition of the festival by preserving the “ninots indultats”, the satirical paper mâché figures that were spared from the flames each year through a public vote.
Since 1934, these colorful and expressive sculptures have been collected to form an ever growing gallery of Valencian creativity, humor, and craftsmanship. The museum also explores the evolution of these figures, from early wax models to today’s more sustainable materials, and gives visitors a behind the scenes look at how a falla is built.
Ticket price: 2€ for adults.
Valencia is a city that knows how to balance its rich heritage with a bold sense of innovation. From ancient cathedrals to science fiction architecture, and from golden beaches to artistic neighborhoods, it’s a destination that keeps surprising you at every turn.
So whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a deep dive into Spanish culture, make sure to add these 20 incredible spots to your Valencia itinerary. ¡Buen viaje!
