Valencia is a vibrant autonomous community on Spain's eastern Mediterranean coast, renowned as the birthplace of paella and home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. The region stretches from the Pyrenean foothills to sun-kissed beaches along the Costa Blanca and Costa del Azahar, offering a blend of ancient heritage, modern architecture, and world-class cuisine.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Mercado Central (Mercat Central)
Europe's largest covered fresh food market under a stunning Art Nouveau dome. Over 1,200 stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, Valencian orange products, saffron, olives, cheeses, and local specialities. A must-visit even if you don't buy.
Hours: Mon–Sat 07:30–15:00
Mercado de Colón
A beautiful Art Nouveau building (1916) housing an upscale food hall, café-bars, and artisan shops. More of a lifestyle destination than a produce market — perfect for gourmet gifts and breakfast.
Hours: Daily 08:00–24:00
Mercado del Cabanyal
A traditional neighbourhood market in the historic fishing district of El Cabanyal, selling some of the freshest seafood in Valencia alongside local produce, ceramics, and affordable street food.
Hours: Mon–Sat 07:30–14:30
Mercado Central de Abastos (Alicante)
Alicante's main covered food market selling fresh local produce, excellent seafood from the adjacent Alicante harbour, local cheeses, and Alicante-region specialities including nougat (turrón).
Hours: Mon–Sat 08:00–14:30
Rastro de Valencia (Flea Market)
Valencia's main Sunday flea market with vintage clothing, second-hand books, antiques, vinyl records, and curiosities. A fun Sunday morning outing.
Hours: Sundays 09:00–14:00
Artisan Market at Plaza de la Virgen
A small artisan market in Valencia's most beautiful square, selling handmade crafts, ceramics, jewellery, and local art.
Hours: Weekends 10:00–14:00 (variable)
Shopping districts
Neighbourhoods known for retail.
Calle Colón
Valencia's main commercial street connecting Plaza del Ayuntamiento to Gran Via, lined with Spanish and international chain stores, plus major department stores. Bustling and pedestrianised.
Gran Via Marqués del Turia
Valencia's elegant boulevard with higher-end boutiques, Spanish designer labels, and the impressive El Corte Inglés flagship. Lined with palm trees and Art Nouveau buildings.
Russafa Shopping
Valencia's hippest neighbourhood has a concentration of independent boutiques, vintage clothing shops, design studios, and concept stores popular with young locals.
Explanada de España (Alicante)
Alicante's iconic mosaic promenade lined with outdoor stalls selling local crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs, plus boutiques along the adjacent streets.