Best things to do in Valencia

'Must see' in Valencia

Before starting, we recommend you stay in one of our hotels in Valencia. Thanks to its strategic location in the city center, it will be easy to make the most of your time. The riverbed of the Turia was transformed into a luscious park in the middle of the 20th century and, as you’d probably expect, this meanders through the city giving locals and visitors alike a wonderful escape to walk, run, or cycle within its greenery. 

Sitting to the northern end of the park is our NH Valencia Center hotel and using this as a starting point we take a short walk across the Jardines del Turia to where you’ll find the Institut Valencia d’Art Modern. This contemporary art museum is a great way to switch off and let the mind wander, with works by artists Julio González and Ignacio Pinazo providing the permanent displays and regularly freshened temporary exhibitions for your appreciation. If modern art is not your thing then next door you’ll find an alternative escape: the Museo de Prehistoria y de las Culturas de Valencia.

Continue up Carrer de Guillem de Castro for a few minutes – give a knowing glance to Valencia’s statue dedicated to Cervantes en route – until you reach the Torres de Quart. These towers are a fine example of late Gothic military construction and, as defensive gates, were known as the Limestone Towers as this was the entry point for any mineral deliveries prior to the late 19th century. For some time, it was a women-only prison.

Just behind the towers is a sensational café, Mayan Coffees, and right there continue with this short guide of things to do in Valencia and head towards Carrer de Murillo. Follow this street until it becomes Plaça del Mercat and on your right you will be presented with Mercat Central, the main market in the city. Spread out across the 8,000 square meters you’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, nuts, meat and most of the other foodstuffs you can imagine. 

Not only that, there are surprises in store for you with, for example, privately brewed beer there to taste and delicious fruit juices squeezed in front of you. This art nouveau market was designed over 100 years ago and even if you’re not there to buy, it’s worth a stop if only to admire the architecture and atmosphere. It’s also a fun place to grab lunch if that suits with a wide selection of tapas.

A cathedral overlooking Valencia 

The next stop in this guide on what to do in Valencia, is the cathedral of Valencia. First, say hello to the narrowest house in Europe (well, so it is claimed!) at 6 Plaza Lope de Vega. It measures just 105cm wide! 

Along from there, continuing to the cathedral is a handily-placed square, Plaça de la Reina. There are cafés and shops nearby so why not grab your favorite beverage in Cappuccino Grand Café and pick a spot to soak up the atmosphere, as well as making good use of your time. 

The cathedral itself is a marvel, we can even say that visiting it is the most important thing to do in Valencia. There are various sites to experience stunning views over the city and the Micalet belltower is certainly one of those, with the added attraction of getting an insight into a truly historic building. 

As you gaze at the contrasting structure you may wonder why there appear to be distinct styles. And you’d be right! A mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque features developed as the site swapped a Roman temple for a mosque and then the current day cathedral. Paintings by high-profile artists, including Goya, are housed here as well as a chalice that even the Vatican recognizes as potentially being the original Holy Grail. 

As you work your way south, you will enter the district of Eixample, shopping heaven to those who enjoy getting their wallet out. Carrer de Colón and Gran Via del Marques del Turia both host numerous mainstream brands while lesser-traveled boutiques and local stores can be stumbled upon as you venture into the medley of narrow streets that lead off the principal thoroughfare. Where better to get a unique item for someone back home.

A dazzling City of Arts and Science 

A trip to Valencia is incomplete without a look around the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Futuristic white buildings greet you as you arrive and along with a pristine lake can dazzle an unsuspecting guest as the sun reflects all around. 

It lies a little to the east of Eixample, reconnecting you with the southern part of the winding Turia park, and as well as the wonderfully interactive science museum there is also an IMAX dome if you feel the need to lose yourself in a 3D fantasy world and the largest aquarium in Europe, Oceanogràfic. Among the things to do in Valencia, a walk around these eye-catching modern structures is worth it in itself. 

From here you are just a few steps from our NH Valencia Las Artes, an exceptional base offering all that you would expect from a four star hotel as well as special packages for our guests to take in the joys of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

Valencia dining: more than paella

Undoubtedly, within this guide on what to do in Valencia – considered quite the ‘foodie’ destination – you could not miss our recommendations of the best restaurants. The first one is Canalla Bistro which is on your walk south from the cathedral, in the trendy Ruzafa district. A stylish setting with an eclectic and imaginative menu that will guarantee a very pleasant meal. 

As is customary in most of Spain, jumping between bars for a quick tapa is a great way to stave off hunger, and an extremely tasty way, let’s not forget. The old town is filled with small restaurants showing off their wares to tempt you in. 

One of our favorites is La Taberna de Marisa where the presentation is immaculate and the individual dishes run the risk of you not venturing out to try others. Their Iberico ham croquetas are to die for! Also, if you’re near there for a more substantial sit down meal then check out their impressive menu including, as you’d expect, their own paella Valenciana. A must try.

Among the things to do in Valencia, you have to sit in a bodega and try out Casa Montaña, just 10 minutes by taxi from our NH Valencia Las Artes hotel. Self-proclaimed dining spot of politicians, intellectuals and artists. Pick a nice wine, a selection of tapas and get down to the required discussions of the day, while the waft of sea air adds to the ambience. 

As you can see, even from this brief guide, Valencia really is a fascinating location to visit at any time of the year. It may not take the headlines that Madrid and Barcelona do but, be in no doubt, Valencia has a unique place in making Spain the incredible country it is.

Author: Estela Iglesias Folch

Front Office Manager at NH Valencia Las Ciencias

One of the reasons I am passionate about my job as the reception manager at NH Valencia Las Ciencias is undoubtedly the privilege of conveying admiration for my city, Valencia, to the people who visit us. Locally known as “La Terreta,” Valencia has much to offer.
A great starting point is the impressive architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, an iconic location situated along the former course of the Turia River. I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing its growth and transformation into a lush green lung that everyone can enjoy.
These days, one of the best souvenirs you can take from a city is to fill your phone’s memory with wonderful photos and impactful videos—memories at your fingertips that you can relive anytime.
I hope to share my unique perspective in this guide to Valencia’s hidden gems. I recommend comfortable footwear, as the saying goes, “Cities are books that are read by walking.”