These are the best places in Valencia
Valencia is such a stunning city! This third major city of Spain surprised me on every level. It is a super colorful city full of sights to see, with a pleasant beach and great hotspots. Everything you need for a perfect city trip. However, what strikes me the most about Valencia is the livelihood all around the city. I made this list with the nicest places in Valencia so you won’t have to miss a thing!
Admire the squares in the city center
Valencia has one of the most beautiful city centers that I have ever seen. The squares are very beautiful and the shopping streets are not too crowded. The most remarkable square in the center is Plaza Ayuntamiento. Here you’ll see a fountain and the most impressive buildings. Just like in Madrid the beaux-arts style is very popular here!
Further up ahead you’ll find Plaza de la Reina where the cathedral of Valencia is situated. At first this doesn’t look like a cathedral at all. The building is very remarkable though and I heard that the church tower offers a splendid view over Valencia. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to see this for myself as the tower was already closed when we visited the church.
There is another square right behind the cathedral called Plaza de la Virgen. This square is huge and there was a cultural event going on when we passed by it. Plaza de la Virgen was my favorite square in Valencia because well, almost all the buildings there are pink! Not just that, there is plenty to do around Plaza de la Virgen. You will find a fountain around here too and it’s a perfect spot to grab a drink in the sun. Furthermore, there is a basilica on the square that resembles a mini colosseum.
Wander through colorful El Carmen
When you walk away from the city center you’ll end up straight in El Carmen. This fun neighborhood has plenty of shops, restaurants and street art! Wander through the streets and admire the most talented pieces of art.
Discover lively Ruzafa
Ruzafa is another trendy neighborhood that is just minutes away from the city center. For me this was the coolest neighborhood in Valencia! Everywhere you look you’ll see colorful houses, cute stores and tasty hotspots. My special tip for you: grab lunch at La Más Bonita. It looks cute and it tastes great! All their dishes and ingredients are home made. I really recommend trying their Petite Suisse smoothie with strawberry and banana, so delicious!
Relax at Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
A visit to Valencia is never complete without admiring these modern buildings. Every building has a special function, such as a museum, aquarium and opera. But there is a lot to enjoy around the buildings as well. Not only do the white buildings look appealing in combination with the light blue water, you can also row a little boat or do some supping. Or you can just relax in the park next to the complex. Also, did you know that the palm tree terrace of l’Umbracle turns into a blazing dance club at night? There is a DJ booth on the terrace but you can also dance the night away at Mya. This club is right under the terrace.
Enjoy the beach
Beach holiday or city trip? In Valencia you can do both! The beach of Valencia has some very nice beach bars to offer. We ourselves went to Marina Beach Club to eat some sushi. This is a trendy hotspot with a restaurant, terrace, pool and outdoor dance club.
Visit the Little Venice of Port Saplaya
Port Saplaya is located just outside the city but it’s something that you must see. It is a nice beachtown with a fun boulevard. However, the port of Port Saplaya is the real eyecatcher. All the houses here are painted in bright colors and this place is also known as Little Venice. The area is small but trust me, Port Saplaya is so pretty that you will want to stop on every corner to take pictures!
Do a fun daytrip
Valencia is not only a city but a whole region of Spain. Do you happen to have a day left with no planning at all? Then I’ll sure recommend renting a car and explore the region. Drive along the Costa Blanca and discover the cutest beach towns or go swimming in the hot water springs of Montanejos.
What is your favorite spot in Valencia?
Ayo! AR x
