Things to Visit in Valencia

The largest aquarium in Europe, with over 500 marine species across 10 zones. Allow 3-4 hours for a full visit. Tickets cost around EUR 33 online. The dolphin show runs several times daily and is included in the ticket price.

Shaped like a giant eye, this building houses a planetarium and IMAX theater. Shows run throughout the day in Spanish with some English screenings. Combined tickets with other City of Arts venues save around 15%. The building is especially photogenic when reflected in the surrounding pools.

Interactive science exhibits across three floors, with a strong focus on the human body, space, and technology. Allow 2-3 hours. The building itself, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is worth seeing for its architecture alone. Combination tickets with the Oceanografic offer good value.

A 9-km park built in the drained riverbed of the Turia river, running from the Bioparc to the City of Arts and Sciences. Perfect for walking, cycling, or jogging. Rent a bike from the Valenbisi public bike system (EUR 13 for a weekly pass) to cover the full length.

The cathedral claims to house the Holy Grail in its Chapel of the Holy Chalice. Climbing the 207 steps of the Miguelete bell tower (EUR 2) rewards you with 360-degree views of the city. The cathedral itself is free to enter for prayer, or EUR 8 for the museum.

One of Europe's largest and most beautiful food markets, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building from 1928. Over 1,000 stalls sell fresh produce, cured meats, seafood, and local specialties. Open Monday to Saturday until 3 PM. Go early (before 11 AM) to avoid crowds.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of late Gothic civil architecture in Europe. The soaring columns in the Contract Hall are designed to look like palm trees. Admission is free on Sundays, otherwise EUR 2. Right across from the Central Market.

The heart of old Valencia, surrounded by the cathedral, the Basilica de los Desamparados, and the Turia fountain. A gathering place during the Fallas festival in March. The outdoor cafes here are tourist-priced but the setting is hard to beat for people-watching.

One of the 12 gates that formed part of the ancient city wall. Climb to the top (EUR 2, free on Sundays) for excellent views of the old town and Turia Gardens. The gates are especially impressive when lit up at night.

Valencia's most popular beach stretches for over a kilometer along the northern waterfront. Fine golden sand, lifeguards in summer, and a long promenade lined with restaurants. Reachable in 20 minutes from the center by tram (lines 4 or 6). Sunbeds and umbrellas rent for about EUR 8 each.

The modern port area was redeveloped for the 2007 America's Cup. It now hosts restaurants, a promenade, and the Veles e Vents building by David Chipperfield. The area is pleasant for an evening walk, especially at sunset when the light hits the modern architecture.

A freshwater lagoon and rice-growing region just 10 km south of the city. Take a traditional boat ride (EUR 4) through the wetlands at sunset. This is where paella was born, so eating rice dishes at the lakeside village of El Palmar is a must. Bus 25 runs from the city center.

Valencia is where paella originated, and locals take it seriously. Traditional Valencian paella uses rabbit, chicken, green beans, and saffron rice, not seafood. Eat it at lunch (the traditional time). La Pepica near the beach and Casa Roberto in El Cabanyal are well-regarded by locals.

Horchata is a sweet, cold drink made from tiger nuts (chufas), unique to Valencia. Santa Catalina, open since 1836, is the most famous spot. Pair it with fartons, soft sweet bread sticks for dipping. A glass and fartons costs about EUR 5.

Valencia's trendiest district is packed with independent boutiques, street art, brunch spots, and cocktail bars. The area has transformed from a working-class neighborhood into the creative heart of the city. Saturday mornings are ideal for exploring the local market and cafes.

Valencia's biggest festival fills the city with enormous satirical sculptures (fallas), fireworks, and street parties. The sculptures are burned in a dramatic ceremony on March 19. Book accommodation months in advance as the city fills up completely. The daily mascleta firecracker display at 2 PM in Plaza del Ayuntamiento is unforgettable.

A modern zoo designed around the concept of zoo-immersion, where barriers are hidden to create natural-looking habitats. The African savanna exhibit is the standout. Located at the western end of the Turia Gardens. Tickets cost around EUR 24 and you need 3-4 hours for a full visit.

Valencia's main contemporary art museum, with a strong permanent collection of 20th-century art including works by Julio Gonzalez. Free entry on Sundays. The temporary exhibitions rotate every few months and often feature international artists.

The ornate Rococo facade of this palace is one of the most photographed buildings in Valencia. Inside, the ceramics collection spans centuries of Valencian pottery tradition. Admission is EUR 3, free on Saturdays after 2 PM and all day Sunday.

The largest public park in the old city, with a small free zoo, rose gardens, and plenty of shade. A peaceful escape from sightseeing. The park also contains the Natural History Museum. Popular with locals for morning jogs and afternoon strolls.