Valencia Travel Guide 2023

Welcome to the Valencia 2023 Travel Guide! If you’re planning to visit Valencia in the coming year and want to make sure you get to know all the sights, history and must-see activities of the city, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide we provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Valencia in 2023.

In the Valencia 2023 Travel Guide you’ll find details of the city’s best sights, from the impressive City of Arts and Sciences to the iconic Plaza de la Virgen. Plus, you’ll discover Valencia’s rich history through its monuments such as Valencia Cathedral and the Serranos Towers. We will also show you the best restaurants to try the authentic Valencian paella and other typical dishes of the region. And if you like nightlife, you’ll love to know about Valencia’s tapas bars and nightclubs!

A vibrant cityscape with iconic buildings and landmarks of Valencia, Spain featured prominently in the background, while a hand holds up an open travel guide with the words “Valencia 2023” visible on the cover. In the foreground, various colorful tiles, traditional foods, and cultural symbols of Valencia are scattered around the scene, enticing viewers to explore and discover more about this beautiful city.

But that’s not all, in the Valencia Travel Guide 2023 you will also find information about transport in Valencia, accommodation options and useful tips for your trip. And if you’re travelling with children, we’ll tell you about activities and places for the whole family to enjoy.

Don’t wait any longer and discover all that the Valencia 2023 Travel Guide has to offer!

Sightseeing in Valencia

Valencia is a city full of charm and beauty, with a wide variety of tourist attractions to visit. If you are planning a trip to this Spanish city, be sure to include in your itinerary some of these places mentioned below:

• The City of Arts and Sciences: A modern and impressive architectural complex with several cultural and entertainment venues, such as the Oceanográfico and the Hemisférico. It is one of the most visited places in the city.
• Plaza de la Virgen: One of the most emblematic squares in Valencia, surrounded by historic buildings and with the impressive Miguelete, the cathedral’s bell tower, as its main attraction.
• Valencia Cathedral: A historical monument that combines different architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque. Inside is the Holy Chalice, a sacred object said to be the chalice used by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper.
• The Serranos Towers: One of the best preserved medieval gates in Europe, it was part of the old city wall. You can climb up to its terrace and get breathtaking views of Valencia.
• The Central Market: A traditional market with a modernist design dating from the 20th century, where you can find a wide variety of local products and taste Valencian gastronomy.

“Capture the vibrant colours and intricate details of Valencia’s iconic landmarks, from the stunning architecture of La Lonja de la Seda to the majestic City of Arts and Sciences. Show the bustling energy of Plaza de la Virgen and the tranquil beauty of Jardines del Turia. Include the refreshing sea breeze and endless beaches, as well as the mouth-watering dishes and drinks that Valencia is known for. Let the image transport the viewer to a world of adventure and relaxation in this enchanting city”.

These are just some of the must-see sights in Valencia, so pack your bags and enjoy all that this city has to offer!

History of Valencia

Valencia is an ancient city with a rich history worth exploring during your visit. From Roman times to the modern era, this city has witnessed many historical and cultural events that have left their mark on the architecture and monuments that can be found throughout the city.

There are many monuments and historical sites in Valencia that you can visit to learn more about its fascinating past. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Valencia Cathedral, an impressive Gothic building dating back to the 13th century.

Other important monuments include the Torres de Serranos, one of the twelve gates of the ancient wall that surrounded the city, and the Lonja de la Seda, an impressive Gothic building that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

In addition to the monuments, there are also many museums and art galleries in Valencia for those interested in culture and history. The Fine Arts Museum of Valencia is one of the most important in Spain and has an impressive collection of Spanish art from the 14th to the 20th century.

In short, Valencia is a city full of history and monuments not to be missed during your visit. Learn about its fascinating past and discover how it has evolved into one of Spain’s most vibrant and exciting cities.

Valencian gastronomy

Valencian gastronomy is one of the most delicious in Spain, and on your visit to Valencia you can’t miss out on some of the region’s typical dishes. As well as the famous paella, there are many other options to try in the city’s best restaurants.

Show a close-up view of a steaming hot plate of authentic Valencian paella, featuring an assortment of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients like saffron-infused rice, juicy chicken pieces, succulent rabbit meat, and plump green beans. The dish should be beautifully presented with a golden crust on the bottom layer of perfectly cooked rice and topped with a colourful array of peppers and tomatoes, giving it an appetizing appearance that’s sure to make viewers’ mouths water. The background should feature subtle hints of Valencia’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, from the vibrant colours of fruits and vegetables at a local market to the rolling hillsides and sparkling ocean vistas that surround the city.

• Valencian paella is the typical dish par excellence, made with rice, chicken, rabbit, beans and garrofon beans. Don’t miss the opportunity to try authentic paella in one of the best restaurants in Valencia.
• Another essential dish is baked rice, a stew of rice with meat, potatoes and chickpeas that is baked in the oven to achieve a unique flavour.
• If you are more of a fish lover, don’t miss the arroz a banda, a rice dish with fish and seafood that is another of the region’s most popular dishes.
• Desserts include horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and fartons, long, spongy sweets that are usually eaten with horchata.

Discover the best restaurants where you can try all the authentic Valencian gastronomy and enjoy a unique culinary experience during your visit to Valencia. Enjoy!

Nightlife in Valencia

If you’re looking for things to do in Valencia once the sun goes down, don’t worry! The city has a varied and lively nightlife that will satisfy all tastes.

One of the most popular options is to go for tapas in the Carmen neighbourhood, where you’ll find a wide variety of bars and restaurants with delicious tapas and a great atmosphere.

If you prefer something more elegant, we recommend a visit to La Marina, a district full of bars and clubs overlooking the harbour and the Mediterranean Sea. You can also enjoy a drink on the rooftop of the Hotel Las Arenas, with stunning views of the beach and the sea.

And if music and dancing are your thing, Valencia has a wide variety of discotheques and nightclubs. Some of the best include L’Umbracle, Akuarela, and Mya.

Create an image of a vibrant street in Valencia with the best restaurants displayed in colorful signage. The restaurants should have outdoor seating and be surrounded by bustling nightlife, with people enjoying drinks and music. The image should capture the energy and excitement of Valencia’s food scene, highlighting the variety of cuisine available in the city. Use vibrant colours and dynamic shapes to make the image feel lively and engaging.

But if there’s one thing you can’t miss during your visit to Valencia, it’s the gastronomic experience in one of its incredible restaurants. The city is known for its delicious food and there are many restaurants to choose from, from the most traditional to the most modern and avant-garde.

One of the best places to try authentic Valencian paella is at La Pepica restaurant, overlooking the Malvarrosa beach. You can also enjoy an elegant and romantic dinner at Contrapunto Les Arts restaurant, overlooking the impressive City of Arts and Sciences.

No matter what you fancy doing in the evening, Valencia has something for everyone! Discover the best places to spend an unforgettable night out in the city.

Beaches in Valencia

Valencia is a city with a wide range of beaches, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun and the sea breeze. In this section, we show you the best beaches in Valencia.

One of the most popular beaches in Valencia is the Malvarrosa beach. This golden sandy beach stretches for 1 km and has a large number of services for visitors, such as showers, toilets and beach umbrella and sun lounger rental. You can also enjoy a variety of bars and restaurants along the promenade.

Capture the vibrant energy of Valencia’s beaches on a hot summer day, with hints of colourful beach umbrellas, sun-kissed skin, crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Show the contrast between the bustling city in the distance and the peacefulness of the sea, while highlighting the palm trees and seafront promenade that make Valencia’s beaches so iconic.

Another recommended beach is Patacona beach. At 2.5 km long, this beach is perfect for a stroll along the coast. It also has facilities such as umbrella and sun lounger hire, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars.

If you are looking for a quieter beach away from the hustle and bustle, we recommend you visit El Saler beach. This beach is located in a protected natural environment and has a beautiful sand dune. It is perfect for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature.

• Malvarrosa Beach
• La Patacona Beach
• Beach of El Saler

Visiting the beaches of Valencia is an essential activity during your visit to the city. Enjoy the sun, sand and sea at any of these recommended beaches.

Art and culture in Valencia

Valencia is a city full of art and culture. If you like museums and art galleries, you can’t miss the City of Arts and Sciences. This modern architectural complex is an international reference and houses the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum and the Reina Sofía Palace of the Arts.

Create an image showcasing the iconic City of Arts and Sciences complex, with its futuristic and grand architecture that houses museums, theaters, and an aquarium. The image should capture the stunning reflection of the buildings on the water surrounding it, with visitors and locals alike enjoying the scene. Additionally, include one of Valencia’s many beautiful beaches in the background, dotted with colourful beach umbrellas and people soaking up the sun.

If you prefer more traditional culture, visit the Valencia Fine Arts Museum. Here you can admire works by Valencian, Spanish and international artists from the 14th century to the present day.

Another place of interest is the Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This historic building was built in the 15th century and is an example of Valencian civil Gothic architecture.

• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences for modern architecture and museums.
• Admire the works of art at the Valencia Fine Arts Museum.
• Discover Gothic architecture at the Lonja de la Seda.

As you can see, there is a lot to see and do in the field of art and culture in Valencia, so don’t miss it during your visit to the city!

Transport in Valencia

Valencia is an easy city to get around, especially if you know the transport options available. The city’s public transport system includes metro, buses and trams. The metro is an excellent option for getting around the city, especially if you are going to visit places away from the centre.

Another option is the bus, which is an economical way to get around the city. Buses reach all parts of Valencia and are especially useful for getting to the most popular tourist sites.

If you prefer a more scenic form of transport, you can opt for the tram. Valencia’s tram is a fun and unique way to get around the city. It passes through some of the most beautiful places in Valencia, such as the Malvarrosa beach and the port of Valencia.

Show a bustling street in Valencia filled with different modes of transportation, ranging from the classic tram and bus to the modern metro and bike-share program. The vehicles are all brightly colored and reflect the vibrant energy of the city. There are also people walking along the sidewalks, some carrying shopping bags while others chat with friends. The background showcases iconic Valencia landmarks like the City of Arts and Sciences and the beach.

For those looking for a more personalised experience, there are also private transport options such as taxis and rental cars. By renting a car, you can explore Valencia at your own pace and discover some of the city’s lesser-known sights.

Overall, Valencia has a wide variety of transport options so that tourists can get around the city in the way they prefer. Whether by metro, bus, tram or private car, there is something for everyone.

Shopping in Valencia

Valencia is a city full of shopping options to suit all tastes and budgets. From the most exclusive shops to traditional markets, you can find everything you need here.

In the city centre, you’ll find the famous Calle Colón, which is lined with fashion boutiques and international brands. If you prefer something more authentic, you can visit the Central Market, where you will find a wide variety of fresh, local produce.

• If you are looking for something exclusive, visit the fashion shop Bonaire, located on Calle Cirilo Amorós.
• For shoe lovers, the Manolo Blahnik shop on Calle Jorge Juan is a must.
• If you are looking for something more traditional, the Ruzafa market is the perfect place to find local and artisanal products.

A bustling street in Valencia filled with colourful shops and vendors selling local crafts and souvenirs. Tourists and locals alike are seen browsing through the wares, admiring handmade pottery, leather goods, and unique jewellery pieces. Brightly colored parasols provide shade from the warm sun, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the shopping district.

Remember that shopping hours in Valencia tend to be a little different from other cities, with a siesta break between 14:00 and 16:00. However, many shopping centres are open all day long.

Don’t leave Valencia without taking home a souvenir of your visit!

Best time to visit Valencia

Planning your trip to Valencia can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know the best time to visit. The most important thing to consider is the weather, but there are also other factors to consider.

The best time to visit Valencia is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. Also, these months are ideal for exploring the city, as there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy all the activities and attractions without having to deal with crowds.

If you don’t mind the heat and prefer to enjoy the beaches, the best time to visit is from June to August. However, be aware that during these months temperatures can exceed 30 degrees Celsius, and the city can be a little more crowded with tourists.

If you’re a fan of music and festivals, consider visiting Valencia in July during the Benicassim International Festival. If you prefer cultural events, visit Valencia in March during Las Fallas, a unique celebration where huge papier-mâché figures are burnt all over the city.

• The best time to visit Valencia is from March to May and from September to November.
• If you like the heat and the beaches, the best time to visit is June to August.
• If you like festivals, visit Valencia in July during the Benicassim International Festival.
• If you like cultural events, visit Valencia in March during Fallas.

No matter what time of year you visit Valencia, there are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful Spanish city. Plan your trip with our Valencia 2023 travel guide and enjoy all that Valencia has to offer!

Valencia with children

If you’re planning a holiday in Valencia with your children, you’re in luck, as there are plenty of activities and places for the whole family to enjoy.

One of the city’s main tourist attractions is the City of Arts and Sciences, which boasts an impressive aquarium, planetarium and interactive science museum. Children will marvel at the exhibits and shows at the City of Arts and Sciences.

If your kids love animals, don’t miss Bioparc, a zoo that focuses on recreating animals’ natural habitats. Your kids can get up close to giraffes, lions and gorillas while learning more about African wildlife.

Another option is to visit the Oceanogràfic, an aquarium that is the largest in Europe and has a wide variety of exhibits and interactive activities for children - make sure you wear comfortable clothes and a hat to protect them from the sun!

For the hottest days, Valencia’s beaches are an excellent choice for a family day out. Malvarrosa beach and Patacona beach are two of the most popular and have many services and activities for children.

Valencia also has many parks where your children can run and play. Gulliver Park is a special place for children, with a giant Gulliver structure for them to climb and explore. The Turia Garden and the Parque de Cabecera are other beautiful parks that offer green and quiet spaces for the whole family to enjoy.

• City of Arts and Sciences
• Bioparc
• Oceanogràfic

Valencia is a very child-friendly city and there are lots of fun things to do together to make your holiday in Valencia an unforgettable experience for everyone!

Conclusions

Congratulations! You now have all the information you need to explore Valencia in 2023. We hope you found our Valencia Travel Guide useful and that you make the most of all the attractions this beautiful city has to offer.

Remember to visit Valencia’s most iconic sights, such as the impressive City of Arts and Sciences and the historic Valencia Cathedral. Indulge in the delicious Valencian cuisine, especially the authentic Valencian paella, and discover the city’s lively nightlife.

Also, don’t miss out on the unique events and festivals that Valencia has to offer, such as the popular Fallas and the exciting Tomatina. And if you’re travelling with children, there are plenty of options of activities and places for them to enjoy as a family.

Remember to also take into account some useful tips before your trip, such as weather and business hours, and consider the best time of year to visit Valencia according to your interests and preferences.

In short, Valencia 2023 awaits you with open arms and our Valencia Travel Guide is here to help you plan your perfect trip - enjoy your Valencia adventure!