Located on the southeastern coast of Spain, Valencia is known for its impressive architectural buildings and lively atmosphere. But there’s so much more to the city where the Turia River meets the Mediterranean Sea, with delightful restaurants, beautiful beaches and cultural attractions to discover. So whether you’re arriving by ground, air or sea after booking a ferry with Ferryscanner, here are five fun things to do in Valencia.
City of the Arts and Sciences
Perhaps the most striking landmark in Valencia, the City of the Arts and Sciences is an ensemble of modern structures that highlight the architectural delights of the city. You’ll find cultural venues and family attractions within the striking buildings, such as an IMAX Cinema and a botanical collection of plant species. City of the Arts and Sciences is regarded as one of the 12 Treasures of Spain.
El Carmen neighbourhood
Situated in the old quarter, El Carmen is the historical centre of Valencia and represents the medieval remains of the city but with a touch of modern flair. Wander around the cobbled streets and discover the unique archway of Portal de la Valldigna, Casa de Los Gatos (house of cats) and the frescoes of San Nicolas Church, as well as street art, museums and jazzy boutiques selling fashionable items. The streets are always busy and thriving with life, no matter the time you visit.
Mercat Colón Gastro Market
Visit this centuries-old market, which has been transformed after award-winning renovation. The gourmet hub is filled with trendy restaurants and cafes where you can socialise and enjoy great food and drink, while the stalls serve up fresh treats, including everything from tapas to horchata – Mercat Colón is the place to be for a lively atmosphere and tasty bites. Alternatively, Central Market is another option with its fresh produce, which offers the most extensive selection of Mediterranean flavours in the whole of Europe.
Hit the beaches
Located just minutes away from the old town, Malvarrosa Beach offers plenty of Mediterranean vibes and somewhere to catch some rays. The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for its amenities, and there are plenty of places to grab a bite along the promenade next to the beach. Alternatively, there’s El Saler Beach, with its soft sands stretching more than 2.6km along the coast of La Albufera Natural Reserve. Go for a splash to the backdrop of pine trees and sand dunes.
Mestalla Stadium
Football is a religion in Spain, and the Mestalla is one of its main churches. Pay a visit to this 49,000-seater stadium to watch Spanish La Liga team FC Valencia take on the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona. Valencia has some of the most passionate fans in La Liga, with the Mestalla’s featuring the steepest stands of any major European ground.
Fun things to do in Valencia
A trip to Valencia offers plenty of diversity, whether you’re wandering the majestic city and admiring the architecture or spending the day on the beach. It’s often hard to know where to start, but with this guide, you can enjoy the best of Valencia and create long-lasting memories in Spain’s third city.