Valencia, a Mediterranean city, known for its oranges, paella, rich history and art, as well as its laid-back atmosphere and friendly people, completely captivated us. We visited this third-largest city in Spain and the capital of the Province of Valencia in late October. This was a great time for a visit, as the temperature hovered around a pleasant 20 degrees Celsius. We spent five days exploring Valencia. Our starting point was the old town, where most of the attractions are located. Here’s a glimpse of what’s worth visiting and experiencing in Valencia.
TIP: If you don’t speak Spanish, we recommend learning a few useful phrases and sentences beforehand to help you in everyday situations, such as in restaurants, cafes, or shops.
SILK EXCHANGE – LONJA DE LA SEDA
One of Valencia’s main attractions is Lonja de la Seda, also known as the Silk Exchange. This impressive piece of Gothic architecture served as the central hub and silk trading exchange over the centuries. Traders from around the world gathered here to negotiate deals involving this luxurious fabric.
Much like silk itself, rich and lavish, the hall where traders met had to reflect the same grandeur. Because of its intricately carved pillars, Lonja de la Seda is also known as the Hall of Columns. The building resembles a church but is dedicated to the worship of silk.
Located next to the central market, the flow of people was significant. Therefore, the Hall of Columns had large windows without glass, emphasizing the importance of ventilating the space. Many people from around the world gathered there, and, in this way, Valencia took precautions to prevent the spread of diseases.
Honesty in trade was crucial, as emphasized by inscriptions throughout the Hall of Columns, promoting fair trading, economy, and ethics. Dishonest traders were brought to trial, and those found guilty were imprisoned in a tower. Those who had not committed severe offences or were forgiven for their dishonesty could return to trade in the main hall, but were marked with a special ‘sign’. Their desks were lower than others, indicating to everyone that the trader had been accused of dishonest trading.
Lonja de la Seda is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with an entrance fee of 2 EUR for adults.
MERCAT CENTRAL, THE MAIN CITY MARKET
The main city market, Mercat Central, is located next to the Silk Exchange and is one of the largest in Europe. Upon entering, the beautifully designed ceiling and dome made of iron, glass, and ceramics catch your attention, along with the vibrant colors and aromas of the market.
With over 1200 stalls, the market offers local produce, fish, meat, spices, cheese, cured meats, and souvenirs.
Its construction began in 1914 and was completed in 1928. The market also houses the Central Bar, serving various tapas and is a popular spot among both locals and tourists.
Make sure to visit the market while in the city; it’s open from Monday to Saturday from 7:30 am to 3 pm, closed on Sundays.
VALENCIA CATHEDRAL WITH THE MIGUELETE BELL TOWER
The magnificent cathedral is another must-visit attraction. Built in various styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassicism, the cathedral’s tower consists of the remains of a former mosque. Today, it serves as an observatory providing a beautiful view of the city. The cathedral is also known for safeguarding the Holy Chalice of Valencia, believed to be the cup used by Jesus during the Last Supper. The entrance fee for touring the cathedral is 4 euros.
PLAZA REDONDA
Approximately halfway between the central market and the cathedral, you’ll find the attractive Plaza Redonda. This circular square is home to traditional crafts and souvenir shops, offering items such as ceramics, lace, and knitted fabrics. Various tapas restaurants, often visited by the locals and their guests, can also be found there.
PAELLA AND LOCAL GASTRONOMY
When in Valencia, you must try paella, one of the most famous dishes in Spanish cuisine. Originating from this region, paella is cooked in a wide metal pan over an open fire, using rice, various vegetables, seafood, or meat like chicken, duck, or rabbit. Traditionally, Valencian farmers prepared paella with seasonal ingredients they had on hand.
We tried paella in one of the many restaurants near the main market in the old town. A single portion was large enough for several of us to share.
In addition to the traditional paella, be sure to taste their tapas, both hot and cold. A local restaurant with excellent tapas and local wine near the city center is Taberna Teca. For dessert lovers, a visit to the excellent Dulce de Leche patisserie is a must. There are several in the city, but we recommend the one on Calle Jesus 71, which is less crowded and more spacious – ideal for digital nomads.
We loved the croissant with pistachio, vanilla and almond filling.
ACCOMMODATION RECOMMENDATION: Just a 15 minutes walk from the old town, on an excellent location, you will find Belmar Apartments. There is a big supermarket in the neighbourhood, as well as many cafes and restaurants. We especially liked the aforementioned Taverna Teca and Dulce de Leche patisserie.
ARTISTS IN VALENCIA
While strolling through the city, you’ll notice numerous local artists. Some create their works in shop windows, allowing you to observe their creative process. During our visit, we came across a fan shop, and the owner was in the process of crafting fans.
In addition to the many stores with local artisans crafting popular espadrilles or painting silk scarves and dresses, you’ll also experience beautiful street art.
GONZÁLES MARTÍ NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CERAMICS
In one of Spain’s most beautiful baroque buildings, the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, you’ll find the Gonzáles Martí National Museum of Ceramics.
The museum showcases the largest national collection of ceramic and porcelain dishes, vases, decorations, and similar items dating from the 18th century to the contemporary period. Visitors can also explore Picasso’s works and learn about the lives of Valencia’s noble families during that time.
During our visit, an interesting exhibition of old photographs from the life of toreadors was taking place. The entrance fee for the museum is 3 euros for adults, and you can check the opening hours here.
VALENCIA – THE GREEN CAPITAL OF EUROPE 2024
Every year, the European Commission awards the Green Capital Award to a city that excels in environmentally friendly urban living. This year, Valencia holds this title, and here are just a few interesting reasons. Firstly, Valencia allows you to enjoy nature without leaving the city, having five million square meters of green areas. There are also two natural parks – Turia Natural Park and Parque Natural de l’Albufera, located on the outskirts of the city.
Transportation is also eco-friendly, with the city being connected by 200 kilometers of well-maintained bike lanes. Moreover, the residents and tourists can enjoy 94 square kilometers of pedestrian areas in the city center. Surrounding Valencia, there are many fruit and vegetable farms supplying local stores, markets, and restaurants with seasonal produce.
Valencia has initiated various environmental volunteer programs. These initiatives range from nature conservation and waste reduction to various educational programs. One of the educational programs in Valencia is the Erasmus program for teachers at the Europass Teacher Academy, focusing on the fundamental values of the UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. The program aims to raise awareness about the climate change and sustainable development, using ICT tools and applications, in an interesting and proactive way.
TURIA PARK
Turia Park in Valencia is one of the largest urban parks in Spain. The city’s numerous parks and green spaces are the key reasons why Valencia was declared the Green Capital of Europe 2024 (Green Capital Award). The park is located in the former riverbed, surrounding the old part of the city and stretching for 9 kilometers. The Turia River had to be redirected outside the city due to frequent floods. 18 bridges of various architecture and historical periods span the park. Turia Park is an ideal place for relaxation, walks, or recreation.
You will see orange trees and groves everywhere in Valencia. Unfortunately, at the time of our visit they were not ripe yet.
During our visit, the park was full of runners preparing for an upcoming city marathon. It’s definitely worth taking a stroll through the park and enjoying this oasis.
Pets are enjoying themselves while their owners are working.
ARTS AND SCIENCES MUSEUM AND OCEANOGRÀFIC
The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is an attraction that is definitely worth a visit. This futuristic complex was designed by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava Valls and includes the Science and Arts Museum, the largest aquarium in Europe – Oceanogràfic, the Hemisferic building with a cinema, Les Art concert hall, the Umbracle walkway and exhibition space, and the Agora, a venue for concerts and events.
You will also find a popular ‘photo point’ with the Valencia sign there.
The complex is located outside the old town, and it will take you a whole day to explore it fully. Allow a minimum of 2 hours for the Science Museum and 3 hours for Oceanogràfic. We visited the Science Museum, and the third floor showcasing space and Mars exploration was particularly interesting. The details can be found here.
CABANYAL BEACH
After visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, we took a bus number 95 from the station opposite the entrance to Oceanogràfic and headed to Cabanyal Beach. We hesitated about going to the beach, as it was getting dark soon. However, the bus arrived soon and our decision was made in an instant. Of course, we went there. It turned out to be the perfect decision. We experienced a magical sunset at the Marina Beach bar, sipping cocktails and enjoying DJ beats.
This was the perfect ending of our trip. We really enjoyed our stay for several reasons – the pleasant Mediterranean climate, relaxed atmosphere and warm-hearted people, interesting history combined with art and excellent gastronomy. But we would also add the “green” part – the awareness of a sustainable way of life, nature conservation, and the importance of the local community – everything that makes Valencia truly the Green Capital of Europe.
Jasminka Đaković, Željka Đaković
Photos: Putopis. All rights reserved.