Valencia

Introduction

You will find Valencia situated on the banks of the Turia river along the east coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, this capital city serves as the heart of both the Valencian Community and its namesake province.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the local cultural landscape. While Spanish is widely spoken throughout the city, you should be mindful that Valencian is also an official language; locals are particularly particular about their language being referred to as "Valencian" rather than Catalan. While many residents under 50 speak some English, they generally prefer to be addressed in Spanish or Valencian first.

To navigate the city efficiently, consider these practical tips:

• Purchase a Valencia Tourist Card at any of the local information offices to enjoy free public transportation and admission to various monuments and museums.
• Be aware that while the city is among the safest in Europe, certain neighborhoods such as Ciutat Jardí, El Cabanyal, and Aiora are mostly deserted at night and may require extra caution.
• Stay vigilant against pickpockets during the large Falles celebrations.
• Be mindful of overtourism in the old city and beach areas, where local sentiment regarding the impact on the cost of living is visible through local commentary.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air at Valencia Airport in the neighboring town of Manises. From there, you can take the metro to the city center or catch a bus to the heart of the historic district. Taxis are also available at the airport arrivals hall for transport into the city.

For those arriving by rail, the Estació del Nord station serves as a central hub with various amenities and connections to different neighborhoods via local bus lines. High-speed and long-distance trains arrive at the nearby Joaquín Sorolla station, which is linked to the main station by a frequent shuttle bus. If you prefer traveling by road, the Estación de Autobuses de Valencia serves as a primary stop for regional and national bus routes. Additionally, ferries operate from the Port of Valencia, providing maritime connections to islands such as Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca.

Getting around

Navigating the city center is best done on foot, as most areas are easily accessible by walking between cafes and local sights. When you do walk, stay clear of designated bike lanes. Be aware that street names may appear in both Valencian and Spanish; however, many signs use Valencian only, and some older names are being updated to honor various figures. While online maps generally reflect these changes, printed maps may not be as current.

For longer trips or reaching the beach and the City of Arts and Sciences, you can utilize a variety of transport options:

• The Valencia Tourist Card provides unlimited travel on all metro and bus lines, including to the airport, along with access to museums and discounts at various shops.
• The rechargeable SUMA 10 card offers a flexible way to travel on both metro and bus lines for multiple people.
• The Cercanías rail network connects the city center to surrounding areas, allowing you to pay with a contactless bank card.
• The EMT bus system serves the city day and night; you can use the official app or website to plan your route.
• A hop-on, hop-off tourist bus offers guided commentary along historic and maritime routes.
• The flat terrain makes cycling popular; you can use the extensive network of bike paths or join the Valenbisi sharing program via a mobile app.

Where to stay

Staying in or near the Old Town ensures you can explore much of the city on foot, only requiring transport if you plan to visit the beach. For those seeking budget accommodations, several hostels are located in the city centre, offering amenities such as free Wi-Fi and communal spaces like kitchens or rooftop terraces. You can also find historic options nearby, including a long-standing hostal in the Mercat area that has been operating for centuries.

For a more mid-range experience, you can choose from various styles of lodging:

• Stay in a tastefully decorated 19th-century mansion in a residential area.
• Choose a boutique hotel in Xerea with unique decor or an intimate, adults-only retro-chic option in a modernist house.
• Select a modern hotel near the City of Arts and Sciences featuring fitness centres and pools.

Food & drink

Savor a variety of rice-based specialties that define the local culinary landscape. You can choose between paella valenciana with meat, paella de marisco featuring fish or seafood, or paella mixta which combines both. For an authentic experience, seek out dishes prepared in special iron pans over wood fires using fresh ingredients; these are typically served dry rather than as a soup. Other notable rice dishes include arròs a banda, cooked in fish stock and often served with alioli, and arròs negre, which features squid ink, peppers, and paprika. If you prefer noodles, try fideuà, a dish of short noodles and fish. In the nearby El Palmar area, you can sample all i pebre, a unique stew made of eel.

Explore different flavors across various neighborhoods:

• In the Malvarrosa beach area, find several restaurants serving traditional paella.
• Visit the Cabanyal district for creative tapas and seafood or to enjoy large bocadillos.
• Head to El Carme for innovative fusion cuisine or simple, high-quality tapas.
• Experience Moroccan flavors in L'Amistat or at a highly-regarded restaurant near the city center.
• Explore the Ruzafa neighborhood for an eclectic, seasonal menu.

What to see and do

Explore the striking contrast between ancient history and modern design in Valencia. You can wander through the ultra-modern Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, an architectural complex on a former riverbed featuring structures designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. Nearby, you can visit L’Oceanogràfic, a massive oceanarium shaped like a water lily, or explore the interactive exhibits of the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum. For a different atmosphere, stroll through L’Umbracle, a botanical garden featuring native plants and contemporary art sculptures.

Immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage by visiting several historic sites:

• The Cathedral of Santa María de València, which showcases Gothic architecture with elements from three distinct periods.
• The Llotja de la Seda, a significant secular Gothic building and UNESCO landmark.
• Various medieval towers, including Torres de Quart and Torres de Serrano, both of which offer expansive views of the city.
• The Renaissance-style Monestir de Sant Miquel dels Reis, which now houses a central library.
• Specialized sites such as the Capella del Sant Calze, featuring a chalice of agate, and the Cripta arqueològica de la presó de Sant Vicent Màrtir, where you can see Visigothic and Roman artifacts.

When to go

You can experience a variety of climates depending on your preferred atmosphere. If you enjoy beach-friendly weather, visit during the mild spring or autumn months, with late September offering some of the last opportunities for coastal outings. Spring marks a period of renewal as outdoor life resumes and terraces open, while autumn is a more active season featuring several important events.

During the summer, you will encounter hot and humid conditions. You might find the city quieter in August as many residents depart for holidays. If you prefer cooler weather, winter brings cool and damp conditions where some pavement cafés remain open. Late autumn is characterized by gloomy skies with very little sunshine.

Festivals & events

You can experience the vibrant local culture during the Falles celebrations held in February.

Three days in Valencia

Day one, you begin your journey in the heart of the Valencian Community. You can explore the Turia and experience the local culture while navigating the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Day two, you travel toward the coast to feel the influence of the Mediterranean Sea. You can wander through the area near the Port or visit the nearby neighborhoods like El Cabanyal to soak in the coastal surroundings.

Day three, you explore more of the region's unique character. Whether you are admiring local art or enjoying the scenery, you can spend your final day immersing yourself in the sights and atmosphere of Valencia.