Discover the Best Things to do in Valencia, Spain
Last Updated: March 19, 2026
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Come and Marvel at Spain's Architectural Gem
If you're a fan of history, architecture, fashion and beauty, then you'll love the idyllic city of Valencia. Uncover the old town, try the tapas, and soak up that oh-so-perfect blue sky. Come and discover the best things to do in Valencia.
Valencia has it all, and the only wish you'll have is that you should have stayed longer.
I spent a week discovering the best things to do in Valencia and criss-crossed the city more times than a spider rethreading its web. During that week, I climbed towers, scaled the city's gates, visited the markets, explored the old and the new, took to the water, hit the beach, and ate and drank more than my body should have allowed.
It's fair to say I did it all.
Therefore, having tried almost every pincho, tapas, restaurant and bar, I'm here to bring you the best of Valencia. You'll hear my reviews on everything from which buildings to visit and what it's like getting interactive in the modern City of Arts and Science.
There's a lot to discover, so grab that cold Estrella from the fridge and join me.
What's Valencia, Spain Like?
The year-round sun beats down, and the blue skies overlook the clean, graceful, historic streets and sporadic Plaças (main squares) of Valencia.
The song She's a Lady by Tom Jones describes the city to a T - "She's got style, she's got grace, she's a winner". Never have the words sheek and sleek described a city so perfectly.
A band of green parklands encircle and caresses the otherwise intense, developed old town, with larger, non-touristy districts flowing outwards. Cafes spill out into the narrow, glistening, pristine walkways, all with a constant buzz of people looking to enjoy a pastry, a pincho or delicious tapas. Beer glasses clink to shouts of Salud (cheers) as others eagerly queue for ice cream or pose for photos.
Bells from the countless towers ring out over the city, vibrating through the enclosed streets. The old lavish architecture and stylish decor meet a new modern way of living, and the pace of life is slow.
Whilst slow, it's busy, and you'll have to meander around the crowds, but even that feels like you're gliding effortlessly.
Like the city, the people dress to impress and stride confidently with elegance and fineness, even in the hottest, stickiest conditions.
You feel happy. And when thousands are delighted to be somewhere, it truly is infectious.
How to Get To Valencia
As you'd expect, there are many ways of getting to Valencia, Spain.
Firstly, and unsurprisingly, Valencia has an airport, and if you're flying into that, you have an effortless journey into the city.
In truth, the easiest of these options is the metro, which leaves from the ground floor of the regional flight terminal every fifteen minutes and takes you under the city, popping you up at several locations throughout the city centre.
Both lines three (red) and five (green) run from the airport and take roughly thirty minutes. Likewise, they stop at all the central stops up to Alameda, where they separate and run in separate directions.
Tickets cost €3.90.
During the week, the metro runs from 4am until 11pm. Yet, on weekends, it runs between 5am and 12:30am. Timetable.
Another option from the airport is the airport bus, which runs from the departures terminal every twenty minutes from 6am until 10pm and takes around half an hour, costing €1.45.
Of course, you can also take a taxi. However, you'll be paying more than €20.
If you're arriving from another city, such as Madrid, Barcelona or Alicante, you will arrive in Valencia at one of the two transport hubs.
The bus station is located in the Les Tendetes district of the city, to the northeast of the old town, a twenty-minute walk to the delightful Plaça de la Reina.
Valencia JoaquÃn Sorolla train station is directly south of the old town and again leaves a short twenty-five-minute walk to the Plaça de la Reina.
Both have bus links into the city, should you not want to or cannot walk.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Valencia?
If you want to discover the best things to do in Valencia and the surrounding area, you'll need five nights in the city. There's a lot to see and plenty of great food to try.
Yes, you could do everything in four days, but you will be rushed, and that's not the Spanish way. Take the pace off and enjoy five nights in this marvellous city.
The Best Time Of The Year to Discover The Best Things to Do in Valencia
As I found during my trip in July 2023, the summer gets extremely hot and sweaty. Therefore, avoid the city between late June and the end of August.
Similarly, if you don't want rain to ruin your time exploring Valencia, avoid the winter. More often than not, you will miss the wetter weather. All this does is increase your chances of sunshine.
The best times to visit Valencia are May and June, and then again from mid-September to mid-October. However, October can get a little wet at times.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Valencia
In reality, the best place to stay in Valencia, Spain, is in the old town - Ciutat Vella. However, because it's where all the action, fun and beauty is, it can get booked up. Therefore, you should book before you arrive, especially during the summer months.
If you decide not to stay in the old town, look no further than the Eixample district to the south.
Whilst the whole city is perfectly safe, the only areas I'd advise against staying in are El Cabanyal and La Carrasca, nearer the beach.
Having stayed in two separate hostels within the old town, for three nights each, I'd happily recommendable both, but for different reasons. Although, what one has, the other lacks, which honestly lets it down.
Admittedly, neither will make it into my top twenty hostels of all time. Yet I'd happily stay at either again.
So, starting with my favourite of the two, I give you...
Purple Nest Hostel
- What: Hotstel with nightlife and daily activities.
- Where: On the northeast side of the old town and within a five-minute walk of Jardins del Real/Vivers. (map)
- Why: Great bar, has fantastic staff and is well located within the city.
- Why Not:Â The larger dorms are too cramped, and those toilets... For god sake, reposition the toilets so you can sit on them.
Whilst the ten-bed dorms were cramped, other smaller dorms I managed to poke my head into appeared much more spacious. And, whilst that was an overriding factor in the dorm, there were positives. Firstly, it is still bright and airy, with a beautiful little balcony overlooking some sublime architecture, including the Convent de Sant Doménec.
Outside the dorms, every floor has male and female shower rooms and a separate toilet. Overall, the showers were amongst the most powerful I've ever had in a hostel. Furthermore, they were also immaculate.
However, for a reason only known to the person who fitted the toilets, they have been put in the most ludicrous places, meaning anyone over five-foot-five will struggle to sit comfortably. It makes Easyjet legroom look good.
Whilst the cramped room and ridiculous toilet positioning were downfalls, there was much more to be cheerful about. The staff were phenomenal and went out of their way to make our stay the best. Likewise, they're knowledgeable, fun and friendly.
Finally, the hostel bar is quirky, entertaining and stocked to impress. Daily activities usually start here and end, well, you decide...
Red Nest Hostel
- What: Quiet hostel in the heart of the old town.
- Where: Halfway between Porta de la Mar and the magical Plaça de la Reina. (map)
- Why: Perfectly located, super friendly and quieter than the Purple Nest.
- Why Not:Â There isn't really a bar or much of a social aspect. A lot of their nightlife revolves around the bar at Purple Nest.
Purple Nest and Red Nest are owned by the same company. Hence, it is pretty much more of the same.
Other than the name, numerous similarities remain. For example, bar the colour, the style is identical, and it's still clean, tidy, friendly and well-located. Even some of those fantastic staff I mentioned switch between hostels.
However, there are differences.
Firstly, the toilets are well positioned. Praise the lord.
Secondly, the showers - here at Red Nest, they aren't as powerful. In fact, they reminded me of those changing rooms after a footy match. You know the ones - you press the button every thirty seconds to keep the water flowing.
Yet, the most significant change is that there is no hostel bar. Despite them calling the rooftop communal area a bar, it isn't. All nightlife and daily activities start at Purple Nest. Luckily, it's only a five-minute walk, but bear that in mind.
If you want a louder party vibe, stay at Purple Nest. If you want a more relaxed, chilled and quieter stay, then the Red Nest is the place for you. Plus, if you ask me, the Red Nest is in a better location.
In July 2023, I paid £92.60 for three nights (weekend rates).
Further Accommodation
As mentioned, stay within the old town, as everything, including the beach and Albufera Natural Park, is easily accessible thanks to good metro and bus services. Furthermore, it's where some of the best restaurants and tapas bars are.
So, all you need to decide is what kind of accommodation in Valencia you want.
If you aren't blown away by my two choices above, I have added three links to Airbnb, Booking.com and Hostelworld, where you can discover other hostels, apartments and hotels hidden within the gorgeous city of Valencia.
Discover the Best Things to do in Valencia, Spain
With your accommodation sorted, it's time to discover the best things to do in Valencia.
Hopefully, you've taken my advice and are staying within the old town, which means most of these activities are within walking distance. However, a couple of items on my list will require public transport. Fear not, even that is close by, especially if you've chosen one of the two hostels I've recommended.
Before we discover the best things to do in Valencia, here are a few things to remember.
Firstly, Mondays don't tend to get going in Valencia until after 10am, so if you're thinking of getting up and out early, don't. Enjoy a lie-in.
Secondly, public transport is fantastic. The Metro runs from the airport to the beach, passing through the old town. Zone A encompasses the entire historic centre down to the beach, meaning prices are cheap. Likewise, buses run constantly through the city and stop at all the main tourist sites.
Thirdly, siestas. The Siesta is a part of Valencian culture and typically runs from around 2/2:30pm for three hours or so. Yet, you may not even notice it, as plenty of restaurants, bars, and tourist sites remain open.
Finally, more than anything, explore the old town on foot. The architecture seamlessly moves from Gothic to medieval to modern and back. It's phenomenal. The narrow streets are where you'll discover the hustle and bustle of the city, tapas, ice creams and those little delights, pinchos. Although if anywhere charges more than €5, it isn't worth going in. The best places are either free or €2.
This list is my insight into the beautiful world of Valencia, based on my most recent travels to Valencia.
Discover the best things to do in Valencia, Spain: The Highlights
- Get Interactive at the City of Arts and Sciences
- Uncover the History of the Silk Exchange
- Chill on the Beach
- Experience the Energetic Mercat Central de València
- Take a Boat Ride around the National Park of L'Albufera
- Ascend to the Roof of Valencia up El Micalet
- Discover the Natural Science Museum and the Jardins del Real
- Climb the Torres de Serranos
- Uncover Valencia's Past at La Almoina Archaeological Museum
- Clamber up the Torre de Santa Catalina
Get Interactive at the City of Arts and Sciences
- Why: To see the exquisite architecture and, inside, there's enough to keep the kids happy.
- Where: Snuggled between the southeast of the city and the port. (map)
- How long: If you have kids, half a day. However, adults only need an hour (see why below).
- How much: Depends on what you want to do: City of arts and sciences €8.70 (£7.50). Free to walk around the outside.
Okay, so I'm starting with this for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, every blog mentions it, and I agree that you cannot write a blog about Valencia without mentioning the City of Arts and Sciences. People will think you've not been there.
This leads me to my second reason for starting with this. I have been there, and unlike some bloggers, I went in, and in truth, I wish I didn't bother. Hence, I am getting the worst item on the list done, allowing us to move on and discover the best things to do in Valencia.
The exterior is a work of art and deserves all the praise. The surrounding gardens and pools are beautiful, and it is a lovely place to be. However, that's where the good ends.
When you step inside, chaos reigns, and the madness ensues. It's noisy, and once you get your ticket and head into the 'main event', it's dull and truthfully boring. Also, some interactive bits don't even work. It's designed for kids. Obviously, if you're a family visiting Valencia, then yes, go, but if you've not got kids, save the money and don't bother.
I didn't visit the L'Oceanogrà fic behind the City of Arts and Sciences, which I would have liked, but I was so deflated and didn't want to spend another €30 on that. Maybe next time.
Uncover the History of the Silk Exchange
- Why: Again, the architecture is breathtaking. Plus, there's a lot of fantastic history held within its walls.
- Where: Next to the Central Market in the heart of the old town. (map)
- How long: Half an hour to an hour.
- How much: A mere €2 (£1.70) per person. Don't be a dick and come in the exit for free.
In the 15th and 16th centuries, this building housed, sold and traded some of the finest silk in Europe. Today, this late gothic building is a homage to the great architects and visionaries Pere Compte and Joan Ivarra.
Whilst it may now lie empty, you can still feel its grandeur and importance. Once inside, you'll find a superb courtyard with orange, lemon and lime trees.
However, the main attraction is the Hall of Columns, where numerous perfectly sculpted columns run from floor to ceiling, lit with countless chandeliers.
If anyone argues that it's not worth €2 solely for that, they don't deserve eyes. It's breathtaking.
In addition, there are further staggeringly beauty rooms with intricate designs, sculptures and artworks to explore. Spend time learning about the Silk Exchange and other related Valencian history.
It's fantastic.
Chill on the Beach
- Why: As with any city break, you need some downtime.
- Where: On the coast, obviously. North of the port and east of the city. (map)
- How long: However long you need.
- How much: Any backpacker's favourite price, free.
We all know what a beach is like. This is just a bloody big one.
Not only does it curve around the bay into the horizon, but it is also broad. No jokes - it takes about three or four minutes from the esplanade to the sea.
However, once there, kick back, relax and bathe in the warming Med, forgetting all the madness of the city.
Hence, with the calming dulcet tones of the sea lapping on the shore, it has to make it onto the discover the best things to do in Valencia list.
Experience the Energetic Mercat Central de Valencia
- Why: So you can say you've visited the beating heart of Valencia and tried the incredible foods and drinks.
- Where: Less than five minutes walk southwest of Plaça de la Reina. (map)
- How long: Don't just walk through. Spend at least an hour or two here and grab a bite to eat and a drink.
- How much: Here's that word again... free.
As with Barcelona and Madrid, the central food market is more than just a market.
It's a meeting place, a focal point for the community and a way of life. Not to mention one of the best things to do in Valencia for tourists.
Fresh local produce, including fruit, seafood, jams and sauces, beers and wine, fill the exquisitely designed market hall, making for a colourful display. Hence, there is a real sensory overload throughout the building, and it's one you don't want to miss.
Alongside the smells and sights, you cannot walk through the Central Market without tasting. Whether you decide on a pot of fresh fruit, a sandwich, a pastry or a simple cold pint, it will be a flavoursome affair.
Let your nose guide you, and thank me later.
Take a Boat Ride around the National Park of L'Albufera
- Why: L'Albufera National Park is beautiful and peaceful, and who doesn't enjoy a little time in nature?
- Where: L'Albufera National Park is about thirty-five minutes south of Valencia on the bus. (map)
- How long: The boat ride is around forty to forty-five minutes, but spend half a day in the surrounding area if you like.
- How much: The bus will cost €1.50 each way, whilst the boat ride is just €5 per person (cash only). Total price €8 (£6.90). Bargain!
Sometimes, loud cities can get a bit too much, and you need to relax away from it all for a while. And what better way to do this than a soothing boat trip?
Hidden within the beauty of the Albufera National Park, this lake is shrouded in beauty, wildlife and everything Mother Nature does best. Of course, that also means silence, which brings inner peace.
Not only is there a captivating, peaceful boat ride, but the Nation Park boasts coastlines and other stunning attractions throughout.
All you have to do is hop on the number 24 bus from Porta de la Mar and jump off about thirty-five minutes later at Embarcadero de l'Albufera, then kick back and relax.
Ascend to the Roof of Valencia up El Micalet
- Why: For those sweet, sweet views.
- Where: In the northwest corner of Plaça de la Reina. (map)
- How long: Half an hour should be enough to climb up, check out the views and head back down.
- How much: Only €3 (£2.62) per person (cash only).
This happens to be the first of three climbing activities on my list. It's a workout. But, for what it's worth, I say, think about the cracking ass-cheeks you'll have instead of the pain.
Sadly, I have to say, don't pay €9 to enter the Catedral de Valencia.
Firstly, it's not worth it. Secondly, other churches and cathedrals are better. Instead, skip in the exit door and pay the €2 fee to climb the tower.
Once you've scaled the narrow, twisting staircase and reached the top, normally, to a round of applause, you are greeted with stunning 360-degree views of the city below.
Trust me, these staggering panoramic city views are worth the climb. Looking down on the beauty of Valencia from its highest tower will leave you speechless, and not just due to being out of breath from the ascent.
Discover the Natural Science Museum and the Jardins del Real
- Why: The gardens are tranquil, colourful and full of the songs of birds, whilst the museum is genuinely interesting.
- Where:Â On the northeast corner of the old town over the Pont del Real. (map)
- How long: Half a day should suffice.
- How much: The gardens are free to explore at your leisure, but the museum is €2 (£1.70) per person. Totally worth it.
Tree-lined walkways, lush rose beds, and bright, colourful flora and fauna cover the vast parklands.
The sounds of birds and even the odd squawk of peacocks fill the air, with the stunning old town dropping in as a backdrop.
Jardin del Real, aka Vivers, is the perfect place for a catch-up with friends or a romantic walk. In addition, it also hosts countless festivals, events and a little cafe.
Concealed within the park is the small but perfectly formed Natural Science Museum, which leads you through the history of everything from the dinosaurs to noble prize winners.
If you want to discover the best things to do in Valencia, look no further than these gardens to sit down and make a plan.
Climb the Torres de Serranos
- Why: It's another part of the history of Valencia.
- Where:Â On the northern fringes of the old town. (map)
- How long: Don't spend too long up here. Half an hour is more than enough.
- How much: You know it by now, it's a magical €2 (£1.70). You can walk in for free. Don't. Go inside and pay, it's not expensive.
Built during the 14th century as fortified city gates, the impressive towers are now a top attraction in Valencia, Spain.
From the top, you can glimpse across the rooftops of the old town to the south and the districts of La Saïdia, Trinitat and Morvedre to the north.
From the outside, you can discover the battle-hardened walls where numerous weapons have been used in an attempt to break down the city gates.
Whilst inside, you can peer through the impressive archer's windows and walk around the turrets, as well as admire the entrance from above, where once, boiling water, hot sand and burning oil were poured over invading armies.
Uncover Valencia's Past at La Almoina Archaeological Museum
- Why: If you are interested in the Romans or Valencia's incredible past, this is wow you.
- Where: Next to the captivating BasÃlica de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats and the Plaça de la Verge. (map)
- How long: Anywhere between forty-five minutes to an hour.
- How much? Why do you ask? You know the answer, it's €2 (£1.70) per person.
Nestled in the heart of the old town, this magical museum brings to life the ancient Roman streets and Valencia's past.
Whilst you could easily miss it from the streets, the underground maze of artefacts and ruins cascades for what feels like miles under the city.
Whilst each artefact or ruined building tells a story, one of my favourite parts of the museum was looking up through the small pool in the roof, which casts a mystical, watery light down into the historical treasures.
If you're into archaeology and history or merely want to discover the best things to do in Valencia, visit La Almoina.
Clamber up the Torre de Santa Catalina
- Why: Gets the legs pumping, and you're rewarded with more rooftop views over Valencia.
- Where: On the southwest corner of Plaça de la Reina within the Church of Santa Caterina. (map)
- How long: I'd suggest you give yourself half an hour (including a relaxing twenty minutes at the top).
- How much: No, no, no, it's not €2, it's free.
Plainly, the Santa Catalina Church is worth looking around with the gorgeous arched roof and numerous stained-glass windows ricochet beautiful lighting over the altar.
However, the pièce de résistance is the eighteenth-century Baroque tower topped with a showstopping belfry in the southeast corner.
The easily climbable steps wind up to the top, where you are greeted with stunning views over the old town and come eye-to-eye with the imposing El Micalet.
Quick note: The tower isn't always open, so ask for opening times at the church. During my trip, the tower was opened at 5pm for two hours, but I have heard and seen conflicting stories on opening times.
Where to Eat in Valencia, Spain
Ok, it's time to get serious.
As those of you who follow my stories on Instagram know, food is kind'a my thing.
It's why I travel and when I do, I tend to eat local and try as much of it as possible. Here, it's no different, and with a wide range of Spanish classics and a few local delicacies, I was in for a treat.
Valencia is the birthplace and home of Paella, so there was no way I could miss out on trying that. However, even in Valencia, there are fraudsters. Paella should only be eaten at lunchtime, and from the point you order it, it should take about 25 minutes. If either rule is broken, it's not a proper traditional paella.
Alongside Paella, you'll find numerous pincho and tapas restaurants and coffee shops with more cakes and sweets than even I could try.
After having roughly four to five meals a day over seven days, I have somehow managed to whittle down my suggestions to the below, leaving you with what I believe is the best of the best. If you have any other recommendations, throw me a comment at the bottom of the page, and I will happily fly back to Valencia and check them out.
In contrast to the restaurants and bars, you must try the fresh produce at the central market. Nevertheless, having already covered it above, I won't mention it again. I need room for all the other delicious food haunts. As it is, I'm leaving out incredible breakfast places such as Cafe de les Mones and other epic tapas bars such as Ocho and Clann. Sorry!
Below are two pincho bars, two tapas bars, two paella restaurants and, of course, two cake shops. Enjoy!
Pintxo i Trago
- What: Busy traditional pincho bar.
- Where: Within the circular Placa de Redona just off the southwest corner of Plaça de la Reina. (map)
- How much: Tasty pinchos are all yours for a fantastic €2.20 (£1.90) each, whilst larger dishes like Patas Bravas cost €7.50. (menu)
I love this place. Everything from the location to the decor and the food just works.
Whilst small, it packs a punch with its wee flavoursome pinchos, and that's why your here.
It's always busy and loud, and everyone is rushing around. You wouldn't be the first to back away, confused about what to do. However, stick in there, get a table, if there is one, ask for a beer and grab a plate... fill it with as many pinchos as you want. Done!
Despite the madness, there is an air of tradition and respect for the history of Spanish cuisine here, and I like that. It's part of what builds the excitement and makes Pintxo I Trago what it is - fantastic.
Tapeando
- What: Relaxed modern restaurant with chilled vibes serving up some of the best pinchos in Valencia.
- Where: Just south of the central market on Av de Maria Cristina. (map)
- How much: Different place, but the same great Value, with pinchos coming in at €2.20 each. (menu)
Once again, great pinchos, but in a very different setting. If tradition and madness are at the forefront of Pintxo I Trago, it's fair to say relaxed, light, fresh, and beachy-cafe vibes are what Tapeando has gone for.
Despite being very different, it works.
Find a table, sit down, and the friendly staff will come to you to take your tapas and drinks order. Although it's still, get a plate and help yourself to pinchos.
What more do you want, fantastic flavoursome foods in a relaxed setting... boom.
Taska Hogan - aka La Coveta
- What: Traditional, small Spanish restaurant serving the best tapas in town.
- Where: Within the circular Placa de Redona just off the southwest corner of Plaça de la Reina. (map)
- How much: We had three tapas dishes, two bottles of water and two beers for €25 each (£21.50). (Their website)
Like most restaurants, Taska Hogan is only small and once again tips its cap to the traditional side of Spanish cooking.
With a rustic traditional feeling, you could be sitting in a restaurant in the mountains of inland Spain, where no one speaks English. And that's not a bad thing.
Fresh produce, presented well, what's not to love?
Taberna La Senia
- What: Beautiful tapas restaurant on a lively little square.
- Where: Within the Plaza Pedrapiquers de la Llotja, northeast of the Central Market. (map)
- How much: Average tapas prices come in around €15 each (£12.80), and for that price, you have to give them a go. (menu)
I'm beginning to sound like a broken record, but I guess restaurants in Valencia are all quaint, small and full of flavour.
Super friendly, attentive staff with several typically Spanish dishes.
I tried several dishes, and frankly, the flavours were superb. I loved the Spanish take on a casserole and would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for authentic dishes in Valencia.
Restaurante la Rotonda
- What: Traditional Spanish foods with paella and tapas dishes.
- Where: Another one within the circular Placa de Redona just off the southwest corner of Plaça de la Reina. (map)
- How much: Two of us shared that paella, two tapas dishes and had a beer each for €25 (£21.40). You cannot beat that, surely?
The perfect blend of tradition and taste and is served with a friendly smile.
For me, this was the best paella I tried in Valencia. Nevertheless, this comes with a caveat. There are many more paella restaurants to try.
Everything about the service was phenomenal, and they went out of their way to make your time at La Rotonda flawless. The food matched the service, and when you combine that with the atmosphere, it all makes for a delicious meal.
As you'd expect, I'd recommend the paella. You know it's done right when it sticks to the side of the pan and gels together to make a sticky fork full of goodness. God, I'm drooling as I write this. Try it, you won't be disappointed.
Les Carabelas
- What: Beachfront restaurant specialising in Mediterranean seafood.
- Where: On the boulevard of Platja de Llevant. (map)
- How much: Much like the above, two of us shared a couple of tapas dishes, the paella and a beer for €25 each (£21.40).
Typically, I'd avoid beachfront restaurants as they tend to produce immense quantities as quickly as possible for the masses. This also tends to come with inflated prices and rude staff.
However, I'd heard a couple of good things about one or two of the restaurants on the beachfront, so I decided to break my rules and go for Les Carabelas. The other was La Pepica. Let me know what it's like in the comments below if you eat there.
Funny enough, these were also the two restaurants rammed with paying guests, and that's a good sign. Avoid empty restaurants.
Whilst service was a little slow, and the decor could do with some updating, it was a friendly and enjoyable place to sit and eat.
However, the food is the star of the show, as it should be with any restaurant, and when it's that good, other faults fade into insignificance.
If you can, grab a table with beach views. It always helps. From there, I highly recommend the patatas bravas, followed by paella and a dessert.
DDL Boutique
- What: Heaven. Cakes, pastries and coffee stop that keeps on giving.
- Where: Behind the Valencia City Hall just off the Plaça de l'Ajuntament. (map)
- How much: A hot chocolate, a coffee and two large cakes came to €13.60 (£11.80). I'll take the lot! (Their website)
Possibly the best cafe I've ever been to and the number one item on my 'discover the best things to do in Valencia' list.
With more choices of cake, doughnuts and pastries than there are stars in the sky, you will have your mind blown.
As you walk in, the smell instantly grabs you, and before you know it, you're face down on the glass counter, eyeballing the display.
Under the counter are incredibly colourful, fluffy and fresh delights, and it's clear that each one has been made with love and passion. Honestly, I couldn't stop smiling, and I could feel the excitement as I tried to make an impossible decision about what to have.
Nevertheless, it wasn't just me. I could sense it in every new face that walked through heaven's door.
Granted, whatever I'd chosen, I would have loved as if it were my child, and I'm sure you, like everyone else, will do the same.
Thus, it's the nearest I've come to the perfect cafe, and no trip to Valencia would be complete without visiting DDL Boutique.
Juliet Cookies
- What: Cookie creator.
- Where: Calle de la Nau, one block west of Plaça D'Alfons el Magnánimo. (map)
- How much: It doesn't matter, it's worth every cent. In truth, I don't recall the price, but frankly, I'd pay it again.
Juliet is unassuming and easy to miss.
Yet, it's worth tracking down as you discover the best things to do in Valencia. After all, you'll need the energy.
Freshly made, often still warm and gooey delights melt in the mouth like a volcanic eruption of flavour.
Additionally, when there's such a vast array of flavours, from Kinder Bueno to Oreo and on to raspberry and cream - you'll find something to ticket your taste buds,
Dive into the little corner shop and buy two. Why two? Well, the first won't make it out of the shop.
Where to Party in Valencia
In general, Valencia isn't known for its party and nightlife scene, and honestly, who wants to discover the best things to do in Valencia on a hangover? Not me. Trust me, I tried twice.
Although, as with the other larger cities in Spain, it is out there and in abundance. Anything from wild nights to laid-back bars and chilled vibes awaits.
So, at this point, I'd usually list several quality bars and raging clubs, but here in Valencia, I'm not. I'll give you a couple of my favourites but then share the best areas and let you choose the bars.
Why?
Well, firstly, some plazas were buzzing.
Those that were were, in part, thanks to one bar adjoining another and onto another. Hence, I couldn't identify where one bar finished and another started. Tables were a mishmash throughout the plaza. I swear some waiters and waitresses even moved between bars. So, giving you exact bar names doesn't make sense.
Secondly, I didn't have many heavy nights out. I tended to drink where I ate, which seemed to be the done thing.
That said, a common theme ran throughout Valencia - the famed and delicious local tipple, Agua de Valencian (water of Valencia). It certainly isn't water. It's a concoction of a lot of vodka, gin, sparkling wine and orange juice. Try it, and let me know what you think in the comments below.
Finally, as the Spanish eat late and people stay out into the early hours, Valencia is a safe city to let your hair down and enjoy the night. Just bear in mind Valencia is a major city, and letting your hair down doesn't mean putting yourself in a dangerous situation.
Cafe Infanta
- What: Buzzing, fun and friendly bar
- Where: In the heart of the nightlife within Plaça del Tossal. (map)
My favourite bar in Valencia, bar none.
Infanta is unique, intriguing and looks fabulous.
Outside tables line the path, and fairy lights drape around the old rundown exterior of the building, whilst wooden shutters add to that style and finesse.
Inside is a medley of weird and wonderful decor, including random artwork to mannequins and peculiar lighting guiding you through a bizarre world. If you have too many to drink, you could think you've fallen into the outlandish world of Alice in Wonderland. And this could happen because the drinks are strong, especially the delicious Agua de Valenciana.
However, along with the old rustic wooden and stone materials, it's a magnetic place to sit and relax with a drink or two.
To discover the best things to do in Valencia, you must visit.
The Lounge
- What:Â Old-style pub with sports, beer, cocktails and tapas.
- Where: Up the narrow street from the Church of Santa Caterina. (map)
I hate to say it, but it has an old Irish tavern vibe with a fantastic array of drinks, sports on the TV and a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Typically, I'd say avoid Irish pubs unless, of course, you're in Ireland and drink local. Which, ironically, is what this place is: local.
Ultimately, I could happily knock back a couple with a mate in The Lounge chatting away and watching the footy or golf.
Furthermore, it's very different to anything else in the city, and sometimes, as it is here, that's a good thing.
Placa del Tossal
- What: The mini club hub.
- Where: Halfway between Quart Towers and Plaça de la Verge. (map)
Placa Del Tossal is a lively, loud and colourful area in the heart of the old centre.
Tossal is shrouded by bars and numerous mini-clubs and is the capital of nightlife in the city.
Everything from my favourite, Cafe Infanta, to cocktail bars, shot bars and mini night clubs reign over the small triangular strip of land.
The clubs are small but quirky, and each adds something to the vibrant atmosphere. Nights range into the early hours as people surry between the booming, bright, and vivid clubs.
On balance, the only place I'd avoid here is Café BolserÃa, where the staff are rude and arrogant, and the drinks taste watered-down.
Plaza del Doctor Collado
- What:Â Chilled late-night beers with chatter and tapas.
- Where: Less than five minutes due west of Plaça de la Reina. (map)
This is one of those squares where three or four little bars fuse to create a relaxed and casual atmosphere.
Beers flow, and laughter rings across the square as people of all ages gather as if it were a wedding.
The chilled, almost nonchalant vibe creates a fun and friendly spot, no matter if you're with friends, family or on that nervy first date.
This is authentic Spanish living at its best.
If lively and loud are what you are after, this may not be for you. Nevertheless, for any other circumstance, head here, grab a table and enjoy the excitement of Plaza del Doctor Collado.
Is Exploring Valencia Safe?
Common sense would say that when you don't have to think about safety, you are generally in a very safe place.
During my time in Valencia, I never worried about or considered my safety, and I think that says a lot about the city. Nonetheless, you are in Spain's third-largest city, and crime can and does happen.
Hence, I am saying that if you are aware of your surroundings and keep your wallet in a secure place, you should be safe to discover the best things to do in Valencia.
All in all, the most prominent safety concerns come on the roads. A lot of the old town is pedestrianised, where the only thing you have to look out for is ice cream and those annoying people who suddenly stop in front of you.
However, when you leave the pedestrianised areas, you do have to keep an eye on the traffic. It appears road laws and even zebra crossings are more guidelines. Furthermore, Spanish drivers love a-honk-of-the-old horn, which can cause further confusion, head twitches and jumpy people.
Other than the roads, the only other item of concern is dehydration. Make sure you carry water. Valencia gets very hot, especially in the summer, and you need to keep hydrated, especially if you want to discover all of the best things to do in Valencia safely.
Leave a comment
Thank you for checking out my guide to Valencia. I hope you've enjoyed it and want to come and marvel at Spain's architectural gem.
If you've found this guide beneficial, let me know in the comments below. Likewise, if you think I've missed anything or dropped a clanger, you know where to let me know. After all, I want to provide the best guide and help you, my readers, discover the best things to do in Valencia.
Have you been? I'd love to hear your views on the city. What you loved and what you didn't. Similarly, if you are booking a trip and want further information, don't hesitate to ask in the comments or by sending me a message on Instagram.
I loved Valencia, and whilst Barcelona and Madrid were better, there is something that I cannot put my finger on that means I'd revisit Valencia before either of them.
In part, it's the happy-go-lucky, classy charm of the city. Come and discover the best things to do in Valencia for yourself.
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Thank you for sharing all your favorite things to do in Valencia! I am about to become a U.S. citizen and FINALLY apply for a passport! My husband’s family lives in Valencia and for years I have been waiting to be able to go and now that I can I want to do everything we possibly can there. We will definitely be following your guides!
Congratulations on getting your passport. I’m sure you’ll have the best time. It’s a fantastic city and there’s so much to see and do.
Man i loved this trip! we had so much fun!
Mate, it was so much fun, we have to do the next one asap.