Valencia Travel Guide: Pocket Version

Valencia Spain is an absolute gem of a city and the perfect European city break owing to its walkable old town, proximity to beaches and great weather most of the year. It also benefits from having much fewer tourists and crowds compared to other Spanish cities. I have put together this pocket guide of Valencia essentials which covers what to do in Valencia Spain, things to see and the main attractions in Valencia. For foodies, this Valencia travel guide also includes the local delicacies to try and the best restaurants to eat in Old Town Valencia.

I have included clickable links for the tours, activities and accommodation to make planning your trip even easier!

Things to do in Valencia, Spain

Is Valencia with visiting? Absolutely and there are so many things to do and places to see in Valencia! It’s steeped in so much history and beauty, you are bound to want to stay longer.

These are the top attractions in Valencia.

Serrano Towers
Mercat Central (one of the largest indoor markets in Europe)
Oceanografic Valencia (Europe’s largest aquarium)
City of Arts and Sciences
La Llotja la Seda (Silk Exchange)
Valencia Cathedral
San Nicolas Church
Jardi del Turia

Best Activities and Tours in Valencia

In addition to the most popular sights and tourist spots in Valencia, these are the best tours to do around the city. Indulge in tapas tastings (better yet try a paella cooking class) and learn about the history of the city. Be sure to add these to your Valencia itinerary.

What to Eat and Drink in Valencia

Valencia is the home of paella, so you know you are in the right city for delicious food. These are some of the local delicacies you have to try.

Horchata and Fartons: Tigernut milk served with a sweet pastry stick, similar in taste to a doughnut. Dip the farton into the horchata and eat!
Paella: Spain’s famous rice dish that originates in Valencia. It is traditionally cooked with chicken and rabbit
Agua de Valencia: Delicious cocktail of gin, cava, vodka and orange juice
All i pebre: Eel stew flavoured with chilli, garlic and olive oil., paired as a dipping sauce with bread

Where to Eat and Drink in Valencia

These are some of the best restaurants, bars and horchaterias in Valencia particularly Restaurant Submarino with epic views of fish swimming by as you enjoy your meal and Horchateria Santa Catalina serving for over 200 years. These are essential for a Valencia travel guide.

Horchateria Santa Catalina (Horchata and Fartons)
Horchateria Daniel (Horchata and Fartons)
Raco del Turia (traditional family-run restaurant)
Cafe de las Hores (Agua de Valencia)
Restaurant Submarino in Oceanografic
Tasca Hogan La Coveta

Where to Stay in Valencia

On your first trip to Valencia, stay in the old town for close proximity to the main sights like Valencia Cathedral and Silk Exchange. You’ll get a feel of the picturesque narrow streets, bustling centre and historic charm.

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Best Day Trips From Valencia

Fancy a day or two outside the city? Here are some of the best day trips and tours to take from Valencia. I particularly loved swimming in Montanejos Springs up in the mountains and exploring Albufera Natural Park with its hidden beach that very few know about!