A Local's Guide to the Best Things to Do in Valencia, Spain
Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, is a perfect example of a Mediterranean paradise. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Valencia boasts a mix of ancient architecture, lively festivals, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Despite its many charms, Valencia often gets overlooked in favour of its more famous siblings, Barcelona and Madrid. However, those who venture into this coastal gem will undoubtedly fall in love with all that it has to offer.
In this blog, we will highlight the best things to do in Valencia, so you can make the most of your visit to this incredible city. And perhaps in the future, relocate here with the help of Encantada World's bespoke relocation and expat services
1. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
One of the most iconic landmarks in Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic architectural complex designed by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava. This unique attraction is not only visually stunning but also houses a variety of cultural and educational institutions.
Here, you can visit the Hemisfèric, an IMAX cinema and planetarium, the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, the Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe, and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, an opera house and performing arts centre. This is a must-see destination if you're a fan of modern architecture and art.
2. Discover the Historic City Center
Valencia is a city steeped in history, and its ancient city centre is a testament to that. Valencia's Old Town (El Carmen) is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with history, charm, and vibrant street art.
Start your exploration at the stunning Plaza de la Virgen, a square surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, such as the Valencia Cathedral, the Basilica of the Virgin, and the Almoina Archaeological Center. Don't forget to climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Another must-see spot in the historic city centre is the bustling Central Market. This Art Nouveau-style market is one of the oldest in Europe and offers over 900 stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and much more. It's the perfect place to sample some local delicacies and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
3. Relax at the Turia Gardens
Once a river that flowed through the city, the Turia River was diverted in the 1950s after a devastating flood. The old riverbed was transformed into a sprawling 9-kilometre-long park known as the Turia Gardens.
This beautiful green space offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city streets and features walking paths, bike lanes, playgrounds, sports fields, and stunning gardens. You can even rent a paddleboat and explore the park's picturesque ponds.
4. Visit the Bioparc Valencia
If you're a nature lover, don't miss the chance to visit Bioparc Valencia, a unique zoo that focuses on creating immersive, naturalistic habitats for its animals.
The park is divided into different African ecosystems, such as the Savannah, the Equatorial Forest, and the Madagascar Island, allowing you to see animals like giraffes, elephants, gorillas, and lemurs up close. Bioparc Valencia is committed to conservation and education, making it a great experience for the whole family.
5. Indulge in the Local Cuisine
A trip to Valencia wouldn't be complete without trying its most famous dish, paella. This delicious rice dish originated in the region and is traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, and local vegetables, like green beans and artichokes. However, you can also find seafood and vegetarian versions in many restaurants.
Other Valencian specialties to sample include horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and fartons, elongated sugar-coated pastries perfect for dipping in your horchata. For a truly unique dining experience, our team of relocation specialists suggest heading to Casa Montaña, one of the oldest tapas bars in the city, and enjoy a selection of local wines and tapas in a historic setting.
Conclusion
Valencia is a city that has it all – history, culture, art, and delicious cuisine. From its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to its charming Old Town, you'll never run out of things to do and see in this captivating city.
Ready to start your stress-free relocation journey to Valencia? Let Encantada World be your guide. From finding your dream home to settling in with ease, our bespoke relocation and expat services for Valencia, as well as our passion for customer satisfaction, will ensure you have the smoothest transition possible. Contact us today to make your move to Valencia an enchanting rather than daunting experience!
