6 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Valencia

As the winter months wind down, I am finding myself eagerly awaiting the opportunity to travel again. Some sunshine and a beach would be optimal…like what we had back on our honeymoon through Europe. But my next destination happens to be London…Sunshine? Maybe, fingers crossed! Beach? Umm….A few weeks ago, I shared my day trip to Segovia and my 9 things to see and do in Madrid and now, continuing through Spain, I am happy to share some things you should know before visiting Valencia. Though a smaller city, it still packs a punch with lots of exciting things to do and see. Here are a few things we really enjoyed on our short visit and some tips for any future trips that you may be considering:

The City of Arts & Sciences is Truly a City

There isn’t a bad spot or a bad photo to be taken of this beautiful collection of futuristic buildings. Words can’t really describe it! And the inside isn’t half bad either. It houses galleries, museums, an enormous aquarium and a great IMAX theatre where we cozied in for a film. Even if you aren’t interested in going in, this monument deserves your time – a walk around the grounds or even a quick bicycle ride will suffice.

The Old Town is Captivating

I could wander any city’s old town for hours on end and Valencia’s was no exception. We explored many streets, visited the gorgeous cathedral and saw the Holy Grail (one of them anyway), and found monuments around every corner.

El Mercado Central (Central Market) Shuts Down Early!

We missed this gem of a market…one of the oldest in Europe to boot…because we arrived a touch too late. Pay attention to when it is open so you don’t need to miss out on sampling some amazing local cuisine. At least we got to walk around it and marvel at the market’s gorgeous exterior.

The Beaches are Breathtaking (and best reached by bike!!)

We were within walking distance to the beach but if you aren’t, I highly recommend renting bicycles and touring the city on your way (also, Valencia is known as being one of the most bike-friendly places!!). We spent a glorious day soaking up the sun at Malva Rosa beach and spent many nights eating along the strip here. There is so much to choose from but we always made our decision based on atmosphere.

Be Prepared to Sample: Paella, Agua de Valencia, Sangria and Horchata

When visiting Valencia, no trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine…and drinks! Of course, you have to enjoy some paella on the beach! And I had many a jug of Sangria. But, you also have to try Agua de Valencia…NOT water! Trust me the name is misleading! A refreshing mix of orange juice, cava, gin and vodka, served in a huge sangria-style pitcher, Agua de Valencia is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. Another way to cool down is to drink some Horchata, a true traditional drink that almost seems like a milkshake. It is made with ground chufas (tiger nuts – similar to almonds), water and sugar – a sweet treat for sure!

And if You Go to La Tomatina…a Word of Warning

We didn’t know what to expect when it came to La Tomatina festival but we woke up so early to get to the city centre train terminal to catch our bus to Bunol for the festival. It was mayhem with thousands of others doing the same thing and zero organization. We never had a guide or anyone tell us what to do. But somehow we made it there and got ready for the fight. Again, it was absolutely crazy, with so many people flooding the streets. All the locals were out, supporting the festivities and selling beer or sangria. Once the fight started, I assumed that the tomatoes would be squishy buuuut that takes time. The tomatoes hurt a lot more than I expected!! Thank God it’s only an hour!! LOL Be prepared to stand in lines to hose off and bring a change of clothes for the ride back to Valencia! And one more thing before I go…if you are driving on from there down to Barcelona like we did, you have to stop and appreciate some old Roman architecture in Tarragona. We stopped and walked to an old Roman amphitheater where at one point gladiators battled. It was such an incredible spot right on the ocean. A must visit for sure!