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València, located in the Valencian Community of Spain, is a captivating city that offers a rich cultural experience and a vibrant atmosphere. With its historic landmarks, modern architecture, and delightful cuisine, València is a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you explore the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, stroll along the beautiful beaches, or indulge in the famous paella, València will leave you with lasting memories.
I suggest staying in València for at least four to five days to fully immerse yourself in the city’s charm and explore its various attractions. Bold: four to five days.
When visiting València, make sure to take advantage of the city’s extensive bike-sharing system. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in València and offers a unique way to discover the city’s hidden gems, such as the Turia Gardens. Exploring València by bike allows you to cover more ground and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
How to best experience València?
Discover tickets, tours, and activities for València through these providers:
Most popular city pass for visiting València
Valencia Tourist Card
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Valencia Pass
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The city of València
| Country | Spain |
| Region | Valencian Community |
| Time in València | GMT+1:00 |
| Language spoken | Valencian, Spanish |
| Currency | (€, EUR) |
| Religion | Roman Catholicism (79%) Other religions (21%) |
| Airports | Valencia Airport (VLC) (6 mi / 9.7 km) |
València is popular as a tourist destination due to its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. The city boasts an impressive range of attractions, including the architectural marvels of the City of Arts and Sciences, the historic Valencia Cathedral, and the vibrant Central Market. Moreover, València is known for its UNESCO World Heritage site, the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), which showcases the city’s historical significance.
Where is València?
València is located on the eastern coast of Spain, facing the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Valencian Community and is situated in the province of València.
Distances:
Madrid – València: 219 mi / 353 km, 3 hours 30 minutes
Barcelona – València: 220 mi / 354 km, 3 hours 30 minutes
Alicante – València: 102 mi / 164 km, 1 hour 40 minutes
Is València worth visiting?
València is definitely worth visiting for its unique blend of historical charm, vibrant culture, and beautiful coastal setting. The city offers a diverse range of attractions, including stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle, València has something to offer every traveler.
History
The history of València dates back to its foundation in the year 138 BC. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. During the Middle Ages, València thrived as a major Mediterranean trading hub and was known for its silk production. The city reached its pinnacle of power and wealth during the 15th and 16th centuries when it became a prominent maritime power.
(138 BC – 711 AD) Roman and Visigothic Rule
València was initially established as a Roman colony and later came under Visigothic control. The city flourished as a regional center during this period.
(711 AD – 1238) Moorish Rule
In 711, València was conquered by the Moors, who introduced Islamic culture and architecture to the city. Under Moorish rule, València became a thriving center of trade and learning.
(1238 – 1707) Christian Reconquista and Golden Age
The Christian Reconquista led to the recapture of València by King James I of Aragon in 1238. The city experienced a period of economic and cultural growth, becoming a major maritime power in the Mediterranean.
(1707 – 20th Century) Modernization and Transformation
During the 18th and 19th centuries, València underwent modernization efforts and became an important industrial and commercial center. The city played a significant role in Spain’s history, including the Spanish Civil War and the transition to democracy in the late 20th century.
(21st Century) Contemporary València
Today, València continues to thrive as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, attracting visitors from around the world with its rich history, cultural events, and welcoming atmosphere.
Visit València
When to visit València
The best time to visit València is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The months of April to June and September to October offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. However, if you wish to experience the famous Fallas festival, which takes place in March, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Common questions
What are the top attractions in València?
València offers a plethora of attractions, including the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia Cathedral, Central Market, Turia Gardens, and the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda).
How do I get to València?
València is well-connected by air, train, and road. Valencia Airport (VLC) serves both domestic and international flights. The city also has excellent rail connections, with high-speed trains operating to major Spanish cities. If you prefer traveling by car, València can be easily accessed via major highways and motorways.
What is the local cuisine in València?
València is famous for its culinary delights, with the most iconic dish being paella. Other local specialties include horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and orxata de xufa, a sweet treat. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a traditional Valencian meal at one of the city’s many charming restaurants.
What are the popular beaches in València?
València is blessed with beautiful beaches along its coastline. The most popular ones include Malvarrosa Beach, Las Arenas Beach, and El Saler Beach. These sandy shores offer a relaxing escape and a chance to soak up the Mediterranean sun.
What is the weather like in València?
València enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. The average temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. It’s important to note that summer months can be quite hot, so be prepared with sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites in València?
Yes, València is home to the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site. This magnificent Gothic-style building showcases the city’s historical importance as a center for silk trading.
What activities can I do in València?
In València, you can explore the City of Arts and Sciences, visit museums, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, relax on the beaches, explore the historic old town, and immerse yourself in the local culture and gastronomy. There’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.
What is the nightlife like in València?
València boasts a lively nightlife scene with a wide array of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. From trendy cocktail bars to vibrant nightclubs, there are plenty of options to enjoy an unforgettable night out in València.
Are there any parks or gardens in València?
Yes, València is home to the beautiful Turia Gardens, a sprawling park that was created in the former riverbed of the Turia River. This urban oasis offers walking and cycling paths, sports facilities, playgrounds, and lush green spaces to relax and unwind.
Can I go on a bike tour in València?
Absolutely! València is a bike-friendly city with a well-developed network of cycling paths. Renting a bike or joining a guided bike tour is a fantastic way to explore the city and its attractions at a leisurely pace.
Is València family-friendly?
València is a family-friendly destination, offering a range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy a day at the Bioparc Valencia, visit the Oceanogràfic, or have fun at the Gulliver Park, a playground inspired by the famous character from Gulliver’s Travels.
Are there any museums in València?
València is home to several outstanding museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Ceramics, and the Valencian Institute of Modern Art (IVAM). These cultural institutions showcase a diverse range of art and historical artifacts.
How safe is València for tourists?
València is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to take common safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and using licensed taxis or reputable transportation services.
What is the shopping like in València?
València offers a great shopping experience, with a mix of local boutiques, department stores, and shopping centers. The Central Market is a must-visit for food lovers, while the streets of Calle Colón and Calle de la Paz are lined with international and local fashion brands.
Can I take a boat tour in València?
Yes, you can take a boat tour in València and explore the city’s coastline from the water. There are various boat tour options available, including sightseeing cruises and sailing trips.
What are some popular festivals in València?
València is known for its vibrant festivals. The most famous festival is Fallas, a spectacular event featuring enormous sculptures, fireworks, and street celebrations. Other notable festivals include Las Fallas de San Vicente, Corpus Christi, and the Valencia Jazz Festival.
Is there a hop-on hop-off bus tour in València?
Yes, València offers hop-on hop-off bus tours that provide a convenient way to explore the city’s main attractions. These tours allow you to hop on and off at various stops, giving you flexibility and the opportunity to learn about València’s history and landmarks.
What is the local transport system like in València?
València has an efficient and reliable public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro network. The city is well-connected, making it easy to navigate and explore different neighborhoods and attractions.
Can I visit the City of Arts and Sciences at night?
Yes, the City of Arts and Sciences is a stunning architectural complex that can be enjoyed both during the day and at night. The buildings are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical ambiance in the evening.
What are some day trips from València?
There are several charming destinations near València that make for great day trips. Some popular options include the historic city of Xàtiva, the picturesque village of Albufera Natural Park, and the beach town of Gandia.