Valencia is Spain's laid-back third city, where a medieval old town meets the bold, futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences. An entire river was turned into a long ribbon of green park threading through the city, from the historic core all the way to the sea.
This is the birthplace of paella, edged with golden beaches and the rice-growing lagoon of the Albufera. With year-round sun, short distances and prices below Madrid or Barcelona, it's one of Spain's most easygoing city breaks.
Start at the cathedral and climb the Miguelete tower for views over the terracotta rooftops, then explore the Central Market and Silk Exchange. Spend the afternoon getting lost in El Carmen and cap the day with tapas and an agua de Valencia.
Cycle through the Turia Gardens to the City of Arts and Sciences and spend the morning at the Oceanogràfic or the science museum. In the afternoon, head to Malvarrosa beach for a swim and a seaside paella.
Head south to the Albufera Natural Park, ringed by rice paddies where paella was born. Take a boat trip across the lagoon, stay for the sunset and eat fresh rice at a village restaurant.
A futuristic ensemble of white, sweeping structures by Santiago Calatrava, spread across the Turia's dry riverbed. Marvel at Europe's largest aquarium at the Oceanogràfic, the science museum and the opera-like arts centre, all mirrored in shallow reflecting pools.
A nine-kilometre ribbon of green winding through the city, laid out in the former riverbed after the water was diverted following a flood. Rent a bike to roll past fountains, orange trees and the giant Gulliver playground made to be clambered over.
A magnificent Art Nouveau market hall of iron, glass and tile, one of Europe's largest fresh-produce markets. Wander beneath the painted domes past stalls of seafood, ham, citrus and saffron, and grab a bite standing up.
The medieval heart of the old town, a tangle of narrow lanes full of street art, tapas bars and the towers of the Serranos gate. Get lost among churches and squares by day, then return at night for Valencia's liveliest nightlife.
A wide golden city beach fringed by a palm-lined promenade of seafood restaurants. Just a tram ride from the centre, it's the spot for a swim, a sunbathe and a seaside paella looking out over the Mediterranean.
A vast freshwater lagoon ringed by rice paddies where Valencian paella was born, just south of the city. Take a traditional boat out at sunset, when sky and water glow pink and gold, and stay for dinner of just-harvested rice.
The old town, where the cathedral, Central Market and Silk Exchange crowd together among narrow lanes and broad squares. Perfect for exploring everything on foot and staying in the historic core.
The lively medieval nightlife quarter, full of street art, tapas bars and ancient gates. Best if you want atmosphere and bars right on your doorstep.
The hip, creative barrio of boutiques, boho cafés and one of the best dining scenes in the city. Ideal for a relaxed, stylish base away from the tourist crowds.
The old seaside fishermen's quarter, with brightly tiled houses, a buzzing market and Malvarrosa beach right next door. Choose it if you want beach days and fresh fish.
The original paella, cooked over a wood fire with chicken, rabbit, green beans and garrofó beans — not seafood. Eat it at lunch straight from the pan, ideally at a restaurant out by the Albufera.
An ice-cold milky drink made from tiger nuts, sweet and nutty, served with long sugary buns for dipping. The classic Valencian pick-me-up on a hot afternoon.
A deceptively drinkable cocktail of cava, fresh orange juice, gin and vodka, usually ordered by the jug. Invented in the old town and perfect for kicking off a long night.
A cousin of paella where short noodles replace the rice, cooked in fish stock with seafood. Served with a dollop of garlicky alioli on top.
Spring (March–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal: warm, sunny and pleasant for wandering. March brings the fiery Fallas festival with fireworks and giant burning figures, while summer turns hot and humid and the beaches fill up.
The centre is easy to explore on foot, and the flat city is made for cycling through the Turia Gardens. Trams and the metro reach the beaches and the City of Arts, and a cheap bus runs out to the Albufera.
A realistic daily budget per person, in three styles.
Valencia offers a range of options to suit different budgets.
