City of Arts and Sciences
Futuristic complex with opera house, science museum, aquarium and IMAX
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About Valencia
The Valencian Community spans three provinces — Valencia, Alicante, and Castellón — along Spain's eastern Mediterranean coast. Famous for paella, Las Fallas festival, and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, it draws millions of visitors with 300 days of sunshine, pristine beaches, and a thriving food scene. From the buzzing city of Valencia to the resort town of Benidorm and the historic port of Alicante, the region offers something for every traveller.
- Capital
- Valencia
- Largest city
- Valencia
- Population
- 5.1 million
- Languages
- Spanish, Valencian
- Currency
- Euro
- Time zone
- Europe/Madrid (CET/CEST)
Explore Valencia by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Valencia
The 3 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Valencia Cathedral & Miguelete Tower
Gothic cathedral housing the Holy Grail in the Barrio del Carmen
Mercado Central
Europe's largest covered fresh food market under a stunning Art Nouveau dome
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Valencia Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Valencia, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Valencia
- Days 1-2Valencia city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Valencia
- Days 1-3Valencia comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Valencia, departure
Where to stay in Valencia
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget €50
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range €130
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury €350
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Las Arenas Balneario Resort
Valencia's most glamorous beachfront resort, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century bathhouse on La Malvarrosa beach. Features two outdoor pools, a full-service spa, multiple restaurants, and direct beach access.
The Westin Valencia
Elegant 5-star property in a converted early-20th-century building near the Turia gardens and Palacio de la Música. Renowned for its rooftop pool, wellness centre, and impeccable service.
Hospes Palau de la Mar
A stunning boutique 5-star hotel occupying two restored 19th-century Baroque palaces. Features 66 individually decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace with city views, spa, and the acclaimed Senzone restaurant.
Meliá Valencia
Contemporary 5-star tower hotel with panoramic views of the city and mountains. Features a rooftop pool, multiple F&B outlets, congress centre, and is adjacent to the Bioparc zoo.
Where to eat in Valencia
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Ricard Camarena Restaurant
Chef Ricard Camarena's flagship restaurant holds 2 Michelin stars and 3 Repsol suns. Celebrated for its creative use of Valencian seasonal produce, the tasting menus are a journey through the region's finest ingredients.
El Poblet
The city-centre flagship of chef Quique Dacosta, holding 2 Michelin stars. El Poblet blends avant-garde techniques with deeply rooted Valencian culinary tradition. One of Spain's most creative dining experiences.
Restaurante Riff
Chef Bernd Knoller's Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined take on Mediterranean and Valencian cuisine. The tasting menus change seasonally and highlight local produce with Austrian-influenced precision.
La Sucursal
A Michelin-starred restaurant located within the IVAM contemporary art museum. Combines innovative cuisine with an artistic atmosphere, offering tasting menus and à la carte options.
La Pepica
One of Valencia's most legendary restaurants, open since 1898 on the Malvarrosa beachfront. Famous visitors include Hemingway and the Spanish Royal Family. Essential for authentic Paella Valenciana and fideuà.
Casa Montaña
One of Valencia's oldest and most beloved taverns (1836) in the El Cabanyal district, renowned for its exceptional wine list of 600+ labels and traditional tapas. A favourite among local food lovers.
Getting around Valencia
The Valencian Community has excellent transport links. Valencia city has one of Spain's best urban transport networks (metro, bus, tram, and Valenbisi bike share), while Alicante-Elche airport connects the Costa Blanca to the world. RENFE trains and ALSA coaches link all major cities. A rental car is recommended for exploring the rural interior and smaller coastal towns.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in EUR, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €20 | €75 | €200 |
| Food (per day) | €15 | €35 | €100 |
| Transportation | €8 | €15 | €30 |
| Activities | €12 | €25 | €60 |
| Daily total | €50 | €130 | €350 |
Best time to visit Valencia
Essential travel tips
- Book Las Fallas accommodation a year in advance
- Eat paella at lunch, not dinner
- Validate metro tickets before boarding
Safety information
Keep valuables in hotel safe
Be alert in crowded areas like La Malvarrosa beach
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Valencia?
Entry requirements follow Spain/Schengen rules. EU citizens need only a national ID; most Western passport holders get 90 days visa-free. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Valencia?
The currency in Valencia is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Valencia?
The main language(s) spoken in Valencia: Spanish, Valencian. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Valencia?
The top attractions in Valencia include City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María), Mercado Central (Mercat Central), La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), and Bioparc Valencia. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.