Last Updated on April 2, 2020
Valencia is a port in the south-eastern part of Spain. Lying on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia is the third largest city in the country. With a glorious climate, Valencia is a popular destination for many travelers, and with its huge variety of culture, arts and outdoor activities, there is something to excite everyone.
1. L’Oceanografic
Whether you are an avid animal lover or whether you simply enjoy looking at creatures from afar, the stunning L’Oceanografic aquarium in Valencia is surely one of its most prominent attractions.
Set in a truly stunning building designed by architect Felix Candela and his team, the aquarium is something to behold before you even get inside.
The aquarium is located within the City of arts and sciences, known locally as Ciudad de les arts y de les ciences.
There are over 45,000 animals kept at the aquarium including species of rays, dolphins, walruses, whales and sharks amongst others and is the largest aquarium in Europe.
2. Valencia Cathedral
When visiting any city, one might be interested in the beautiful architecture and spiritual meaning of the city’s cathedral, and Valencia is no different. Its beautifully designed cathedral sits in an area of the city known as El Carmen. The cathedral features a variety of designs including gothic and baroque.
The cathedral links up two of the most famous squares in old Valencia called Plaza del Reina and Plaza del Virgen, both of which are well worth seeing during your visit to the cathedral.
On visiting the cathedral you will be given an audio guide enabling you to explore the building at your own leisure.
3. Valencia Bioparc
The Valencia bioparc is a large zoo in the city and is located in the Turia Gardens.
The zoo is designed to give the visitor a compete immersion experience, making them feel like they are actually in the natural habitat of the creatures they are viewing. All of the zoo has been designed to be as close to nature as is possible, giving you a truly unique experience.
One of the most interesting things about the zoo is that the animals are not enclosed in a cage and that more than one species lives together in one area.
Animal species are housed in areas of the zoo as they would naturally live in the wild. You are able to get up close and personal with the animals. A highly recommended place to visit when you are in Valencia.
4. Central Market of Valencia
For those who love to shop, or simply browse, the Central market of Valencia is the ideal place to visit. Here you can buy delicious Spanish meats, fruits and vegetables and a whole host of cheeses.
The market is the largest fresh produce market on the continent and is always lively and full of exciting smells, tastes and colours. Set in a truly magnificent building, the market features over 1200 stalls, an ideal way to spend an afternoon.
5. Tapas Tour
For those who love food, what better way to include that in your trip to Valencia than with a tapas tour. Famed as one of Spain’s greatest dining experiences, you can see for yourself why it is so popular.
A guide will take you to the best places for tapas and will introduce you to some local classics and traditional tapas dishes. The tours are designed to be for small groups of people so you won’t find yourself lost in a crowd.
6. Almoina Archaeological Centre
Valencia had its beginnings as a walled Roman city. To see how it has developed over time to the present day, you can visit the Almoina archaeological centre where you will see history come alive before your very eyes.
You can see the ancient Roman baths as well as a huge collection of historic artefacts and the courtyard of an old Muslim city. For anyone who hasan interest in history, this is the place to see.
7. La Lonja de la Seda
Spanish for the silk exchange, La lonja de la seda can be found in the old city of Valencia and is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The huge gothic building dates as far back as 1492 and is separated into three different sections. It is one of the most popular tourist locations in the city of Valencia and it isn’t hard to see why.
If you are looking to see an incredible building with a rich history, la lonja will definitely satify. Whilst the building was originally used for trading silk, showing where it gets its name, it has been use for various things since.
The upper floor was once used as a prison for those who did not pay their debts, and other parts were used for banking.
8. Hemisferic
This huge IMAX movie theatre inside the city of arts and science shows special screenings and screen in 3D and is the ultimate cinema experience for any film fan.
Its incredible exterior shape is a sight to behold in itself. and shows a variety of different films for a very reasonable price.
The building was opened in 1998 and was the first building on the site to open to the public. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava who made its 100 meter roof its distinguishing feature.
Even if you are not there to visit for the films it displays, the architecture of the building itself is certainly something you wouldn’t want to miss on your trip to Valencia.
9. The X Door
If you are looking for something a little more on the thrill-seeking side, then The X Door may be for you. Following the increasingly popular escape room game, this attraction is sure to add a little excitement to your visit to the city.
Booking is essential as this is rated as the top escape room in the country, and can be played with 2 to 6 people participating. The location is fully air conditioned and a knowledge of Spanish is not necessary.
The experience claims to be fully immersive and like ‘being on the set of a movie’ giving the participant a fully life like experience. If you want a little spice in your trip, then this highly recommended attraction could be exactly what you are looking for.
10. El Migulete
This octagon shaped bell tower is highly recognizable as one of the most famous images from Valencia and is well worth a visit.
The bell tower is that of the Cathedral and can be accessed from inside the cathedral. It features a 207 step climb to the top so be prepared for somewhat of a workout if you’re going to head up there.
The gothic style tower is beautiful to see and the view of the city of Valencia that you will experience once at the top is a memory you will forever cherish.
11. Jardin del Turia
For a more relaxing activity, why not visit the Jardin del Turia, a stunning park located within the city. The park was originally created as a solution to a flood that occurred in 1957, now some of the bridges that were built as part of this solution are one of the unusual features you will find the park.
The park has many different themed areas and features places to play sports as well as beautiful fountains and childrens play areas.
Set over an area of nine kilometres, the park certainly makes for a very interesting and slow paced afternoon out in Valencia.
12. Malvarossa Beach
When visiting a coastal city, especially one on the Mediterranean, many people will opt for at least a little time on the beach and Malvarrosa offers a beautiful one.
Whilst only a kilometer in length the beach has been awarded the blue flag for its cleanliness and array of amenties such as lifeguards, disabled access ramps and showers.
A variety of restaurants and bars line the beach so there are plenty of options for when you get a little peckish or fancy a quick drink.
13. Bicycle Hire
Valencia, like many cities, offers a bike hire program and what better way to head off to some of the wonderful sights that the city has to offer than on a bicycle.
You can take in the beautiful sights and sounds whilst stopping off at some of the hot tourist spots or simply stop for a drink and a bite to eat and watch the world go by.
This is a great way to explore the city without limits.
14. Torres de Serranos
Another beautiful historic attraction on the city, the Torres de Serranos or Serrans gate is one of twelve gates that served when Valencia was a walled city. For those who admire stunning architecture, this is a must see.
Whilst built in in 1300s, the gate has had some restoration work on it over the years but all in a sympathetic way which is in keeping with the gothic design.
So whether you are looking for culture or art, food or relaxation Valencia has something to offer every visitor. The beautiful, historic city is the ideal getaway and you can be guaranteed not be bored whilst you are there.
