Valencia

Valentia Edetanorum was established as a Roman colony in the second century BCE. In the early 8th century CE the Moors invaded, and Balansiyya became the capital of the Muslim Taifa of Valencia, thriving as a trading centre for paper, silk, ceramics, glass, and silver. With a brief interlude of Christian control in the 11th century under El Cid, the city remained in Muslim hands until the Christian Reconquista led by King Jaime I of Aragon in 1238, and was incorporated as a kingdom under the Crown of Aragon.
Valencia experienced its golden age in the 15th century, with a growing population and flowering of Valencian culture and the arts. Significant monuments from this period include the cathedral’s Micalet, the UNESCO-listed Llotja de la Seda, and the Torres de Serrano (Serrano Tower). During this period it became one of the most influencial cities of the Mediterranean, and helped to fund Christopher Columbus's first voyages to the Americas.
In 1609 the Spanish government ordered the expulsion of all Jews and Moriscos from the kingdom to north Africa. Muslim descendants made up about a third of the population of Valencia and the surrounding region, and their forced removal brought about a major economic downturn, and in some nearby communities, economic collapse. It was more than a century before the city began to recover.
In the 20th century, Valencia was the capital of Republican Spain from 1936 to 1939, and during the Spanish Civil War sustained heavy bombardment by Franco’s forces, both by air and sea. Franco retaliated for Valencia’s Republican past with cultural and ideological repression, and forbade the use of the Valencian language. In 1957 the Túria River overflowed its banks leading to catastrophic flooding of the old city centre with more than 80 dead. The river was consequently diverted to the south of the city, but it was not until the return of democracy that the original abandoned riverbed was finally converted into a park – now one of the city’s most outstanding features.
In the 21st century Valencia has continued to evolve. In 2007 and 2010 the city hosted the America’s Cup, and from 2008 to 2012 hosted the Formula One European Grand Prix. Architecturally, too, the city has changed, most notably with the construction of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències (City of Arts and Sciences) by internationally-renowned Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. The 2015 election of a new leftist coalition city council, after decades of control by the conservative Partido Popular (PP), brought renewed focus on expanding and improving existing infrastructure, including adding three new metro lines and expanding the city’s already extensive bicycle path network. This ongoing transformation has turned a once little-considered medium city into a meatier and more interesting destination.

• Tourist Info ValenciaAll offices sell the Valencia Tourist Card, which is available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and allows free public transportation (including the metro to/from the airport), free admission to museums and monuments, and discounts at some shops, restaurants, and tourist services. All offices can also sell individual tickets to the City of Arts and Sciences and to the Bioparc, and can help with last-minute hotel, restaurant, and concert reservations.

• Tourist Info Valencia - Reina

  phone: +34 963 153 931
  address: Plaça de la Reina, 19

• Tourist Info Valencia - Ayuntamiento

  phone: +34 963 524 908
  address: Plaça de l'Ajuntament, s/n

• Tourist Info Valencia - Airport

  phone: +34 961 530 229
  address: Planta de Llegadas

• Tourist Info Joaquín Sorolla

  phone: +34 963 803 623
  address: Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 171

• Tourist Info El Cabanyal

  phone: +34 628 789 837
  address: Passeig de Neptú, 3

• Tourist Info Puerto

  phone: +34 963 674 606
  address: Moll de Ponent, s/n

Climate

• Summer — Like most European countries, August is a slow month as many of the residents are on vacation. At this time of year Valencia is very hot and humid with temperatures averaging between 30-35°C (86-95°F) by day and 20-25°C (68-77°F) by night.
• Fall — September and October are more active months and the weather permits beach outings. Important events take place during this season.
• Winter — Though temperatures are still relatively mild, it's too cold to sunbathe at the beach. It's not unusual though the occasional days reaching around 20°C (68°F) in the middle of this season. Some sidewalk cafés remain open.
• Spring — A lovely time to visit. The annual Falles festival unofficially marks the beginning of spring. Cafés and restaurants open their terraces and life spills out onto the street once again.

Valencia's official languages are Valencian, which is very similar to Catalán, and Spanish. In the capital of Valencia, which is the third largest city in Spain, not many people speak Valencian, nor are they offended if addressed in Spanish. However, outside the capital, Valencian is often preferred. As in Barcelona with Catalán, it helps to be sensitive to this language dynamic. However, the linguistic issue is not as controversial as in Barcelona and most people in Valencia speak Spanish as their first and often their only language. The English-speaking skills of the locals can be hit or miss. Most people under 35 speak some English and some quite a bit, but most would prefer being addressed at first in Spanish or Valencian. French is also spoken or understood by some.

By plane

• Valencia Airport

  phone: +34 961 598 500
  Major airlines serving Valencia from several domestic and European airports are Air Europa, easyJet, Iberia, Ryanair, Transavia, Vueling and Wizz Air amongst others. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal (free for the first 30 minutes), and there are a number of restaurants and duty-free shops after security.

Metro Valencia lines and go directly to the town centre and link the airport to the main train station, Estación del Norte (beside the Xàtiva metro stop), running every 8 minutes and taking about 21 minutes. A one-way ticket to the city centre costs €3.90, plus an additional €1 for the cardboard ticket with rechargeable chip; tickets can be purchased at a manned service counter (English spoken) and at automats. There are no trains between the hours of midnight and 05:30.
Fernanbus operates bus line 150, with buses departing every 15 minutes and terminating at , with a full schedule and route map online. Tickets cost €1.50 and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes.
A taxi stand is just outside the arrivals hall. A ride from the airport to Carrer de la Pau, in the heart of the historic city centre approximately 11 km away, costs around €20-23 with an additional 'airport supplement' of around €5 (Jan 2015). The tariffs are on display in the taxi in Valencian, Spanish and English but are difficult to see. The same journey back from Carrer de la Pau to the airport is half the price!
Book a taxi by calling a radio taxi company or book online at BookTaxiValencia.

• Direct Taxi Valencia

  phone: +34 960 077 705
  Reservations can be made online.

• Radio Taxi Manises

  phone: +34 961 521 155
  address: Carrer de Villafames, 56
  24 hrs.

• Radio Taxi Valencia

  phone: +34 963 703 333
  address: Carrer dels Gremis, 8
  24 hrs. Reservations can be made online, or via their smartphone app (iPhone and Android).

• Taxis de Valencia

  phone: +34 961 119 977
  Reservations can be made online.

• Taxi Valencia

  phone: +34 661 719 393
  Reservations can be made online.

By train

The main train station is València - Estació del Nord (Valencia - Estación del Norte / Valencia - North Station), which is in the city center, next to Plaza de Toros and near the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento). The main building is a well-preserved modernist structure dating from 1917, and had been declared a National Historical Building. This station is only used by suburban, commuter, regional and mid-distance trains. Facilities include a tourist information office, storage lockers, several cafés and a car rental office. The access to underground station Xàtiva, served by Metro València lines , and , is just in front of the main entrance of the train station. Being an important hub for the public transport network of the city, the location is served by several bus lines wich allow connection to any district or neighbourhood of Valencia.
Long-distance and high-speed (TGV, Euromed) trains arrive at València - Joaquim Sorolla (Valencia - Joaquín Sorolla) train station, 800 m from the main station. Facilities at this station include storage lockers, a café and car rental office. A free shuttle bus connects the station to València - Estació del Nord with a departure every 10 minutes. This station is served by Metro València lines , and , using the underground station Jesús.
The national train company is Renfe. Tickets can be booked online on their website, where significant discounts ('Web' and 'Estrella' fares) are available for early bookings. Valencia is connected with Madrid by AVE high-speed trains, that run over the Madrid–Levante high-speed rail line. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. Other major cities, such as Barcelona, are connected with Valencia by Euromed, Alaris, or Talgo trains. The journey to Barcelona takes approximately 3 hours.

By bus

Estació d'Autobusos de València

A dozen bus companies operate here, with arrivals from almost every big city in Spain and most cities in the Valencia region. Ticket offices are on the upper floor, as are a café and information booth.

By boat

• Port de Valencia

• Baleària

  phone: +34 902 160 180 (call centre), +34 966 428 700 (customer service)
  address: Estación Marítima, Moll de la Túria
  Operates daily ferries to/from Ibiza (5 hr, €49) and to/from Palma de Mallorca (7½ hr, €55). Snacks are available at the terminal, as are a taxi stand and free Wi-Fi.

• Trasmediterranea

  phone: +34 902 454 645
  address: Moll de Ponent, s/n
  Operates daily ferries to/from Ibiza (6½ hr, €64) and Palma de Mallorca (8 hr, €50), and weekly ferries to/from Maó (Mahón) (15 hr, €78). The terminal has a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a taxi stand.

Streets in Valencia have two names, Valencian and Spanish, but most street signs are in Valencian only. Maps may list street names in Valencian or Spanish and rarely both, while addresses may be given in either language, which could create some confusion. Addresses in this guide are generally listed in Valencian.
The city has begun changing some Franco-era street names to those commemorating other figures, especially women. By late 2017, about 50 streets had been renamed, with more planned; online mapping services are largely up-to-date but printed maps will likely not be.

By foot

Aside from going to the beach and the City of Arts and Sciences, exploring the hub of the city requires no public transportation. Much of this city can be done walking, stopping for a coffee or a beer, and then walking more, all very leisurely. It's not necessary to have the mindset of mastering a complex public transportation system. However, for longer trips, see below for some pointers.

By public transportation

Travellers visiting for a short period may want to consider purchasing a Valencia Tourist Card, a one-, two- or three-day pass which allows for unlimited travel on all metro and bus lines, including to/from the airport, over a period of 24 hours (€15), 48 hours (€20), or 72 hours (€25). The card also includes free admission to public museums and monuments, discounted admission for other tourist attractions, and additional discounts at some shops and restaurants. The card can be purchased at any tourist office, including at the airport, or purchased online for a discount and picked up on arrival at a tourist office.
For travellers staying longer than three days, a rechargeable Bono transbordo card, valid for both metro and bus travel, provides a flexible means of getting around. The card allows for ten journeys, which include all transfers begun within an hour of commencing your journey. These cards are sold in ticket offices in metro stations, and as of early 2018 cost €9. There is an additional one-time €2 fee for the chip and plastic card. The cards can be recharged at any metro ticket machine.
The EMT (bus) website has a very helpful route-planner, useful for planning journeys not only by bus but also by metro, bicycle, and Valenbisi (see the bicycle section below).

By metro

The Metro Valencia consists of nine lines (three of which are tramlines) and connects the suburbs with the city. This metro system is not extensive, but can get you to major points within the city. Maps and timetables can be downloaded here. As of 2018, the one-way fare for a single zone is €1.50. The ticket costs an additional €1 and contains a rechargeable chip. Make sure you keep your ticket as you must beep yourself out as well. If you want to take only the tram, you must buy a ticket from the machine (at each tram stop), and then validate it before you get on.
If you use the metro a lot, you should consider getting a Bonometro, a rechargeable chip card, available at ticket machines in metro stations, which allows for ten rides in Zone A and as of late 2016 costs €7.20. There is an additional one-time €1 fee for the chip and cardboard ticket. These same chip cards can also be used for single journeys (e.g. to the airport or outlying areas), but a card cannot contain both types of tickets – you can change the type of fare only after you've used up all of your Bonometro rides. If you plan to make a number of journeys outside of Zone A, you will likely have to purchase a second card.
Standard bicycles are permitted during the workweek only on portions of the network which operate above ground. On Saturday, Sunday and holidays they are permitted throughout, while folding bicycles may be transported at any time. No bicycles are permitted at all during Fallas and the night of San Juan. Pets in carriers and guide or personal assistance dogs are also permitted.

By bus

EMT runs buses to virtually every part of the city, both day and night. A single ticket costs €1.50 (no transfers), payable to the bus driver on entry. For frequent travellers, a more price-effective option is to purchase a rechargeable Bonobús card, available in kiosks and tobacco shops, which will allow you ten rides for €8.50 (as of early 2018). There is an additional one-time €1 fee for the chip and cardboad ticket. These cards can be recharged at kiosks or online.
For travellers with smartphones, there is a very helpful official EMT app (iPhone and Android), which has a route planner and a QRT reader.
Most bus stops now have digital displays listing the arrival times for the next bus. At those stops lacking the digital display it is still easy to find out the next arrival times, by using either a QRT reader (like the one built into the EMT app), or by sending a SMS with the unique number of the bus stop to a number displayed next to the posted route plan.

By tourist bus

Valencia Bus Turistic

In cooperation with the city's official tourism office Valencia Bus Turistic operates a hop-on, hop-off bus service which covers two routes: the Historic Route, which covers most of the centre of the city (schedule available here), and the Maritime Route, which visits the Royal Marina, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the beaches (schedule available here). Each route includes a guided commentary in multiple languages, and the two routes intersect at three locations; it is permitted to combine both routes, if desired. Tickets can be purchased at any bus stop, tourist information centre, and in many hotels.

By bicycle

Valencia is essentially flat, and cycling has become a popular way for visitors to get around. The city has established a comprehensive network of dedicated bicycle paths and lanes, and the Turia river park very conveniently cuts across the city, making it possible to get from one end to the other with minimal time in traffic. Drivers are now accustomed to interacting with cyclists in traffic, although pedestrians still occasionally wander into bike paths. Riding on sidewalks without demarcated bicycle paths is not permitted, but this is generally not enforced. At night lights are required, and a helmet and reflective vest are recommended. A bicycle route map can be downloaded here.
The city operates Valenbisi, a popular bicycle sharing program, with 275 stations distributed throughout the city. No reservation is necessary – once you have a Valenbisi card, go to the interactive station terminal, follow the instructions in Valencian, Spanish or English, and choose a bicycle. You can return the bicycle to the same or any other station with available docks.
A short-term subscription costs €13.04 and gives you access to unlimited use of the bikes for 7 days; the first half-hour of any journey is free, then €1.04 is charged for the first two additional half-hours, with €3.12 charged for every additional hour. However, if you park the bicycle in an available dock before the first half-hour is up, you can take out a new bicycle and reset the clock for no additional fees.
Weekly cards can be purchased at any station terminal with a credit card. For periods longer than one week, an annual subscription is necessary and costs €27.12, with reduced tariffs for each additional half-hour. These cards must be purchased online and are sent by mail; however it is possible to bypass this hassle and attach your Valenbisi subscription to a valid Bonometro, Bonobús, or Bono transbordo card – see the website for details.
There are also many bicycle rental shops in town, with most charging around €10-15 a day, depending on season.

• DoYouBike

  phone: +34 963 155 551
  address: Carrer del Mar, 14
  Rents bikes at relatively reasonable prices.

• DoYouBike

  phone: +34 963 387 008
  address: Carrer de la Sang, 9

• DoYouBike

  phone: +34 963 374 024
  address: Avinguda del Port, 141

valenciaGUiAS

phone: +34 963 851 740

• Valencia BIKES Pechina

  address: Passeig de la Petxina, 32

• Valencia BIKES Tapinería

  address: Carrer de la Tapineria, 14

By car

In the city, especially the centre, having a car is more of an impediment than an advantage, and visitors may well find it easier to just park it and walk.

Monuments and architecture

• Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències

  phone: +34 90 210 0031
  address: Av Autopista del Saler, 5
  This ultra-modern architectural complex on the former Turia riverbed was designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava and Spanish-Mexican architect Félix Candela. If you don't want to pay the steep admission charges to the individual sights, you can wander around the complex and appreciate the architecture from outside for free.

• El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe FelipeA science museum designed to resemble a whale skeleton, it has interactive exhibits on three floors.

• L’OceanogràficThe largest oceanarium in Europe, and the second-largest in the world, has seven sections devoted to different ecological zones. The building was designed by Félix Candela to resemble a water lily. Highlights include a dolphinarium, a walk-through shark tunnel, a shark tank (open for public diving), and spherical bird aviary. There are several restaurants on-site, and with so many attractions it’s easy to make this into an all-day affair.

• L’UmbracleA botanic garden landscaped with plants native to Valencia. The park also has the Jardí d'Astronomia (Jardín de la Astronomía / Astronomy Garden) and the Passeig de l'Art (Paseo del Arte / Art Promenade), which has permanent and temporary exhibits of large-scale contemporary art, mostly sculpture.

• L'ÀgoraA multi-use covered plaza, designed for sporting events, concerts, and special exhibits.

• Pont de l'Assut de l'OrThe striking cable-stayed bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2008, crosses the dry Túria riverbed. At 125 m high, the bridge tower is the highest point in Valencia.

Catedral de Santa María de València

phone: +34 96 391 8127

address: Plaça de la Reina, s/n

It was the site of a Roman temple, then a Visigothic cathedral, and then a Moorish grand mosque. It is now the seat of the archbishropic of Valencia. The current Gothic structure was begun in 1262 and remodeled numerous times, resulting in a structure with elements from three distinct architectural periods. Especially notable are the Puerta de los Apóstoles from the 14th century, and the Puerta del Palau, the oldest doorway of the cathedral, which is Romanesque with Moorish influences.

• Capella del Sant CalzeThe focus of this side chapel is a chalice of agate, believed by the devout to be none other than the Holy Grail. Of the handful of similar chalices with the same claim, this is deemed by many scholars to be the most likely candidate as it has been dated by experts to the 1st century BCE.

• MicaletThe unusual octagonal bell tower, with a height of 51 m, was built in the 14th and 15th centuries. It provides a pleasing view of the city.

Cripta arqueològica de la presó de Sant Vicent Màrtir

phone: +34 962 084 573

address: Plaza del Arzobispo, 3

This Visigothic chapel has on display objects discovered during its excavation including a Visigothic altar, Roman mural, Muslim artifacts, and a sculpture of the early Christian Saint Vicente Mártir, who is believed to have been buried here.

Llotja de la Seda

phone: +34 96 208 4153

address: Carrer de la Llotja, 2

This UNESCO landmark is considered to be one of the most significant secular Gothic buildings in Europe. It was built between 1482 and 1533 on the site of an earlier oil exchange. The Llotja consists of four distinct parts: the Sala de Contractació (Trading Hall), also known as the Saló Columnari (Hall of Columns); the Sala Consulado del Mar with its magnificent ceiling; the unfinished Torre (tower) with its debtor prison (temporarily closed to visitors), and the Pati dels Tarongers (Patio of Oranges). Some of the Gothic gargoyles are quite naughty.

• Església de Sant Nicolau

  phone: +34 963 913 317
  address: Carrer dels Cavallers, 35
  Established in the 13th century, the church was expanded in several phases, culminating in the current 15th-century Gothic structure. During the late 17th century extensive Baroque renovations were carried out to the interior, the most significant of them being ceiling frescoes. This remarkable set of frescoes completely covers the vault of the nave and the presbytery, and illustrates the lives of St. Nicolás and St. Peter. They were designed by the Italian master Antonio Palomino and painted by his student, Dionis Vidal, and have been completely restored. Tourists are not permitted to visit during mass or other liturgical celebrations.

• Monestir de Sant Miquel dels Reis

  phone: +34 963 874 000
  address: Avinguda de la Constitució, 284
  Founded in the 16th century, this massive Renaissance building is considered by some historians to be the early model for the more well-known El Escorial near Madrid. In 1835 the monastery was dissolved and came under control of the state; it was used for a time as a school, an asylum, and during the Franco period as a prison. It was fully restored in 1997-2000, and now houses the central library of the Valencian Community, the collection of which includes many of the original volumes kept here during the building's monastic period. Guided architectural tours of the building are offered on weekends (Spanish/Valencian only).

• Torres de Quart

  phone: +34 96 208 3907
  address: Plaça de Sta Úrsula, 1
  This medieval tower was part of the wall that surrounded the old city; the numerous pock-marks are from gun battles during the Spanish War of Independence from the French (1807-1814). Great views of the city can be had from the top.

• Torres de Serrano

  phone: +34 96 391 9070
  address: Plaça dels Furs, s/n
  Built in 1392, this gate was also part of the ancient wall and for a time also served as a prison. The gate has been massively renovated and somewhat modernized, but is still interesting. It is across the street from the park. This tower also offers excellent views.

• Almodí

  phone: +34 96 352 5478 x4521
  address: Plaça Sant Lluís Bertrán, s/n
  Constructed in the early 14th century on the site of a Moorish palace, the building is essentially Moorish in design and used to function as the municipal granary; its name is derived directly from 'almud' (Arabic: bushel). The building was fully restored in 1996 and is now a venue for temporary art exhibitions.

• Banys de l'Almirall

  phone: +34 963 152 024
  address: Baños del Almirante, 3-5
  Although constructed in 1313 after the Christian reconquista, the bathhouse was built in the Arabic style and is considered to be an excellent example of Moorish architecture. It was used continuously as a bathhouse until the 20th century, and is one of the few remaining such structures in Spain. It was fully restored in 2005.

• Drassanes del Grau

  phone: +34 96 352 5478 x4299
  address: Plaça Juan Antonio Benlliure, s/n
  These Gothic shipyards date to the early 14th century, and attained their current layout in 1500. Trade ships were built and repaired here, as well as galleys used for defense against Barbary pirates. Later the building was used as a storehouse for salt, and now functions as a venue for temporary exhibits. Due to the shifting coastline over the centuries, the shipyards are now two blocks inland from the shore.

• Palau de Cervelló

  phone: +34 963 525 478 x4496
  address: Plaça de Tetuán, 3
  Built in the 18th century as the residence of the counts of Cervelló, this palace became the official residence for visiting royalty following the demolition of the Palau Reial de València. The building now houses a museum, the Municipal Archive, and the Serrano Morales Library. On the ground floor is an exhibit (in Catalan and Spanish) illustrating the historic events which took place here, and on the upper floor are the grand ballroom and Serrano Morales Library, with original murals and furnishings.

• Casa de Sant Vicent Ferrer

  phone: +34 963 528 481
  address: Carrer del Pouet de Sant Vicent, 1
  Sant Vicent Ferrer, the principal patron saint of Valencia, was born in this house in 1350. The house was renovated numerous times, and has a chapel, well, and 18th-century ceramic tile panels depicting the life of the saint.

• Torre de l'Àngel

  address: Plaça de l'Àngel
  One of the few vestiges from Valencia's Muslim period, the semicircular 11th-century tower was once part of the Muslim city wall. It is now a private dwelling, but can be viewed through a fence.

Museums

• Centre Arqueològic de l'Almoina

  phone: +34 96 208 4173
  address: Plaça Dècim Juni Brut, s/n
  This extensive site was uncovered in 1985 during preparations for new construction, which was then cancelled. Excavations revealed archeological remains dating from the Moorish, Visigothic, and Roman periods. After completing excavations, the city of Valencia converted the site into an underground museum. Highlights include Roman baths, a Moorish courtyard, and various artifacts.

• Museu Nacional de Ceràmica

  phone: +34 96 351 6392
  address: Poeta Querol, 2
  This very ornate Baroque palace once served as the residence of the Marqués de Dos Aigües, and is now a museum. The ground and first floors showcase a collection of stagecoaches and period furniture, while the upper two floors house an extensive ceramics collection with a focus on historic Valencian pieces. Of particular note are Moorish ceramic tiles from the main mosque which was on the site now occupied by the cathedral, and six plates designed by Picasso. Photography permitted, no flash.

• Museu d'Història de València

  phone: +34 96 370 1105
  address: Camino Viejo de Chirivella, 1
  Housed in a former reservoir, this well-designed museum is dedicated to the developmental history of the city, from the Roman era until the present. Although labels are in Valencian and Spanish, booklets with English translations are available at the front desk. Constructed in 1850, the building is interesting in its own right as an excellent example of 19th century industrial architecture.

• Centre Cultural la Beneficència

  phone: +34 96 388 3565
  address: Carrer de la Corona, 36
  This 19th-century former hospice was completely refurbished in 1995, and now in addition to hosting two museums it also functions as a cultural center and venue for special exhibits.

• Museu de Prehistòria de València

  phone: +34 96 388 3579
  This museum is devoted early regional history, with collections from the Paleolithic to the Visigothic periods. A special highlight is the Guerrer de Moixent (Warrior of Moixent), an early Iberian bronze sculpture from the 5th or 4th century BCE.

• Museu Valencià d'Etnologia

  phone: +34 96 388 3614
  The focus of this museum is on cultural traditions in the Valencian Autonomous Community, with three permanent exhibits focusing on life in the country, in the mountains, and in urban areas. Rotating temporary exhibits examine historic and sociological issues.

Museu dels Soldadets de Plom L'Iber

phone: +34 963 91 8675

address: Carrer dels Cavallers, 20-22

In an old Gothic palace, this is the world's largest private collection of tin soldiers of about one million pieces. Figures represent periods of Valencian, Spanish, and world history.

Museo Histórico Militar de Valencia

phone: +34 96 369 1904

address: Carrer del General Gil Dolz, 6

Built in 1898 for an infantry regiment, the building now houses a collection of over 3,000 objects, most of them from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Museo de l'Arròs

address: Carrer del Rosari, 3

The Museum of Rice of the City of Valencia is in the refurbished and restored old Serra’s Mill. It tells the story of the industrial process of rice processing, a cereal whose growth goes deep into the wetlands of the City.

Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda

phone: +34 697 155 299

address: Carrer de l'Hospital, 7

The Moors introduced silk to Valencia, and it became a major hub of the silk trading route during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Valencian silk weavers' guild was established in the late 15th century, and in 1494 acquired this building, which remained the guild's headquarters throughout its history. The building itself was remodeled extensively during subsequent centuries, and was most recently fully restored in 2016. Now a museum, it showcases various aspects of Valencia's silk trade and production.

Art museums and galleries

• Museu de Belles Arts de València

  phone: +34 96 387 0300
  address: Carrer de Sant Pius V, 9
  This 17th-century former palace houses over 2,000 pieces of art, with a primary focus on art of the 14th to 17th centuries. Highlights include an excellent collection of medieval altarpieces, a collection of engravings by the Italian artist Piranesi, and a handful of minor works by Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya. Photography permitted, no flash.

• Institut Valencià d'Art Modern

  phone: +34 96 386 3000
  address: Guillem de Castro, 118
  This museum focuses on Spanish and international modern art and photography, and hosts regular special exhibits, workshops, and lectures. A library, gift shop, and café are onsite. Photography permitted, no flash.

• Museo del Patriarca

  phone: +34 96 351 4176
  address: Carrer de la Nau, 1
  Managed by the Seminary of Corpus Christi, this museum has a small collection of paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, with special highlights including works by Juan de Juanes, El Greco, and early Flemish masters. The collection can only be viewed with a tour, offered in a number of European languages; to be sure there is a tour in your language it is best to reserve ahead, either by phone or online.

• MuVIM

  phone: +34 963 883 730
  address: Quevedo 10 y Guillem de Castro 8
  The museum is devoted to civics and culture, with special exhibits focused on such topics as graphic design, photography, and cinema. The building and garden were designed by Valencian architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra.

• Bombas Gens Centre d'Art

  phone: +34 963 463 856
  address: Avinguda Burjassot, 54-56
  This former factory from the 1930s has been transformed into an exhibition space for Spanish contemporary art, with a special focus on photography. The building has an interesting history, as it was used to make industrial pumps, and later during the Spanish Civil War was used by the Republicans as an air raid shelter and to assemble armaments.

• Casa-Museu Benlliure

  phone: +34 963 911 662
  address: Carrer de la Blanqueria, 23
  This was once home to two generations of the Benlliure family, headed by prominent Valencian artist José Benlliure. The early 20th-century residence has been maintained in three distinct sections, including the primary house with original furnishings and artworks, a lovely courtyard and garden, and a second building with a private study and more artworks.

• Centre Cultural Bancaixa

  phone: +34 96 064 5840
  address: Plaça de Tetuán, 23
  The former 19th-century residence is a cultural centre which hosts excellent, well-curated temporary exhibits of contemporary art and photography, by Valencian, Spanish and international artists.

• Centre del Carme

  phone: +34 96 192 2640
  address: Carrer del Museu, 2
  The former convent hosts rotating special exhibits showcasing local history, and historic and contemporary artists from Valencia and outside the region.

• Fundación Chirivella Soriano

  phone: +34 96 338 1215
  address: Carrer de Valeriola, 13
  This well-preserved 14th-century Gothic palace houses a permanent collection of contemporary Spanish art, with rotating exhibits.

• Centre Cultural La Nau

  phone: +34 963 864 377
  address: Carrer de la Universitat, 2
  Built in 1498, this was once the library and main building for the University of Valencia. Today it is used by the university primarily as a venue for photography and art exhibits, and for classical music concerts.

• Galería del Tossal

  phone: +34 963 981 803
  address: Plaça del Tossal, s/n
  This unique underground gallery has been designed around the remains of a city wall from the Moorish period, complete with arches. The gallery is a venue for temporary exhibits of Spanish and international contemporary art.

Parks and gardens

• Jardí del TúriaAfter catastrophic flooding in 1957, the Turia River was diverted to the south of the city, and the former river bed was converted into a 7-km-long elongated park which spans many neighborhoods, ending at the City of Arts and Sciences. The park encompasses soccer and rugby fields, an artificial boating lake, athletics track, playgrounds, fountains, and cafés. Abundant bicycle paths make it an ideal place to get in a little exercise and sun.

• Parc Gulliver

  phone: +34 96 337 0204
  The centrepiece of this unusual playground is a 70-m-long sculpture of Gulliver (from the classic book Gulliver's Travels), who has been tied to the ground. Visitors can climb on and slide down the giant figure, much as Lilliputians might have. The sculpture was designed by Valencian artist and illustrator Sento Llobell.

• Pont de la TrinitatThe oldest bridge in the city, with the current structure dating to the early 16th century. The two 17th-century sculptures of Valencian saints used to be on another nearby medieval bridge, and were relocated to this bridge in the mid-20th century.

• Pont de l'ExposicióDesigned by Santiago Calatrava and built between 1991 and 1995, the bridge resembles a comb, hence the nickname 'La Peineta'.

Jardí Botànic

phone: +34 96 315 6800

address: Carrer de Quart, 80

Established in 1802 by the University of Valencia, this lovely garden maintains extensive collections of plants from a number of different habitats. Most of the greenhouses date from the latter half of the 19th century, while the modern research center was completed in 2000.

Jardí de Montfort

phone: +34 96 325 7881

address: Plaça de la Legió Espanyola, s/n

This formal Neoclassical garden was designed in the mid-19th century by Valencian architect Don Monleón for the aristocrat Marqués de San Juan. It was declared a 'National Artistic Garden' and is now maintained by the city of Valencia, which opened it to the public in 1973.

Bioparc Valencia

phone: +34 90 225 0340

address: Av Pío Baroja, 3 (main entrance)

As far as zoos go, this is more animal-friendly than most. Focused exclusively on African fauna, the modern zoo has been thoughtfully designed to provide maximum space in natural settings for its residents. A special highlight is the walk-in lemur exhibit (no touching or feeding).

Jardín de Viveros

phone: +34 96 352 5478 x4304

address: San Pío, V, s/n

Established by the Moors in the 13th century as gardens for the royal palace (no longer standing), this pleasant and popular park is the second-largest park in Valencia, after the Turia gardens. The park includes a rose garden, sculpture garden, bicycle track, and aviary. During the summer various festivals are held here.

• Museu de Ciències Naturals

  phone: +34 96 352 5478 x4313
  address: Av General Elío, s/n
  The museum is divided into several segments, covering Valencian contributions to the sciences, the ecology of the Valencian region, and of course paleontology with the requisite dinosaur skeletons.

• Palau Reial de València

  phone: +34 96 146 1752
  address: Av General Elío, s/n
  Established by the Moors, then rebuilt by Christians, this building served as the royal Valencian residence until its demolition in 1810. It was forgotten and then rediscovered in 1986. The partially-excavated site is now surrounded by a fence with informative panels in Valencian, Spanish, and English.

Neighbourhoods

• El CarmeIn the old centre, it is the perfect place for a stroll where you can witness the transition from a forgotten area to an up-and-coming diverse neighbourhood. Barri del Carme has many outdoor cafes and trendy shops. There is an interesting mix of people, from lifetime residents, to alternative types, hippies, gays and lesbians, and other assorted people. The neighbourhood swells at night with revelers, but please respect the neighbours who live there.

• El CabanyalEstablished in the 13th century as a fishing village, in the 19th century the town became known as a beach getaway before being annexed by Valencia in 1897. Along with easy access to the beach, it has many charming historic tiled buildings and great bars and restaurants, and is the setting of the annual Semana Santa Marinera (described below under 'Do'). For many years the area directly east of the Valencia-Cabanyal train station was badly neglected, and squatters and other nefarious types moved in. Although the related political and legal disputes have since been resolved, for the near future this specific area is still best avoided at night.

• RussafaRuzafa (from Arabic رصافة – rusafa, or 'garden') was first established in the 9th century as a Moorish pleasure garden, and evolved into a farming community. It was independent until 1877, when it was annexed by the city. Today the barrio is known for its cultural diversity, hipster shops and cafés, great restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

• BenimacletBenimaclet (from Arabic بني مخلد – bani mahlad, or 'sons of Majlad') began as an Arabic farmstead, and was an independent farming community until 1878. Preserved are its central square and parish church, and charming pedestrian alleys. Due to its proximity to the University of Valencia, it is known for its large student population, many immigrant shops, and good bars and restaurants.

Other

• Tribunal de les Aigües

  phone: +34 96 391 4445
  address: In front of the cathedral's Puerta de los Apóstoles
  The horta (Spanish: huerta), the fertile region surrounding Valencia, has relied on artificial irrigation since antiquity. The tribunal was developed to mediate disputes between farmers, and is believed to date back to Roman times; it has operated in its current form since the Moorish era. The court consists of nine representatives who meet in public and issue judgments on water rights and usage. Proceedings are conducted in Valencian and verdicts are issued orally. Although today the court is largely ceremonial, verdicts are considered legally binding by the highest court in Madrid and by the EU. In 2009 it was listed by UNESCO as an 'intangible cultural heritage'.

• Cementerio General de Valencia

  phone: +34 963 773 061
  address: Carrer de Sant Doménec de Guzmán, 27
  In use since 1807, the cemetery has some interesting mausoleums and funerary sculpture and is the final resting place for a number of notable Valencians, including members of the artistic Benlliure family, painter Joaquín Sorolla, and writer Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. For visitors with a smartphone there is a helpful app (iOS and Android; Spanish and Valencian only) which describes walking routes and gives grave locations.

• Mirador Valencia

  phone: +34 963 520 488
  address: Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 18
  The viewpoint is on the rooftop of a private social club, and offers excellent 360° panoramic views of the city.

• Street artValencia has become a magnet for street artists both homegrown and those hailing from abroad, many of them internationally-renowned. Works range in size from smaller stencils to giant murals, with the greatest concentration in el Carmen (Carme). There are also clusters of great art in Ruzafa, Benimaclet, Cabanyal, and other neighbourhoods.

• La Dama Ibérica

  address: intersection of Carrer de la Safor and Avinguda de las Cortes Valencianas
  The monumental sculpture dominating the roundabout was designed by internationally-renowned Valencian artist Manolo Valdés and completed in 2007. It was inspired by the Iberian sculpture Dama de Elche ('Lady of Elche'), which was discovered in Elche and now resides in Madrid's National Archaeological Museum. Valdés's version is an 18-m-high steel structure covered with 22,000 miniature replicas of the modern version, made of cobalt-blue ceramic by fellow Valencian artist Manuel Martin.

Falles

One of Spain’s most spectacular fire festivals, Falles (Spanish: Fallas) can be best characterised as a fire-fireworks-gunpowder street party extravaganza. The festival draws up to two million visitors annually, and is listed as a UNESCO ‘intangible cultural heritage’.
Its origins date to the Middle Ages when the city’s carpenters burned piles of scraps in the streets and plazas near their workshops on 19 March, the eve of the day of San Josep (Spanish: San José, or St. Joseph). In the 18th century, it became customary to fashion these piles of junk with papier mache into human figures and sculptures, called ninots (Valencian for 'dolls'), which were assembled to form larger fallas. Eventually these fallas began to take on a satirical nature.
Around 1870, Falles and Carnival were banned. In response to this, a popular movement arose to revive and preserve these traditions, resulting in a competiton in 1885 for the best and most artistic falla. This prompted the development of casal fallers, neighbourhood associations which work year-round raising money and designing their fallas. Today there are about 400 casal fallers which each design an adult falla (falla mayor), and a smaller children’s falla (falla infantil); more than 400 of these fallas are burned on public streets every year. Many fallas reach 25-30 m in height – the best of these are in a special category Secció Especial (Spanish: Sección Especiál) and compete for the top prize, awarded annually by the City Council.
A secondary feature of Falles are daily fireworks events, including gunpowder demonstrations (mascletàs) and large nightly fireworks displays (castillos del fuego). Along with these displays, people set off fireworks all day in the streets, beginning early in the morning and continuing throughout the day, making the city seem like a war zone and making it very difficult to catch any sleep.

Key events and dates

• La DespertàBeginning at 07:30, brass bands parade down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir to the Plaça de l'Ajuntament, followed by falleros and falleras throwing firecrackers. At noon more bands perform at the central square, and the season's first mascletà takes place at 14:00.

• Cridà

  address: Torres de Serrano
  Crowds gather along bridges and the Túria river bed to hear the fallera mayor (principal fallera) announce the beginning of the Falles season at 20:00. Fireworks conclude the event.

• Mascletà

  address: Plaça de l'Ajuntament
  This is 120 kilos of gunpowder translated into a multi-sensory ‘symphony of noise’, and must be experienced to be understood, as it includes not just the noise but also the intense smell of gunpowder as well as the vibrations which can be felt through the entire body. The event is very popular and you should arrive at least an hour in advance.

• Batalla de las LucesCasal fallers around the city decorate their streets with expensive street lighting displays, the most elaborate of which compete annually for the top prize. Three of the top contenders every year are in the Ruzafa district, with the fourth in La Roqueta.

• Falla Cuba-Literat Azorín

  address: intersection of Carrer de Cuba with Carrer del Literat Azorín

• Falla Sueca-Literat Azorín

  address: intersection of Carrer del Literat Azorín with Carrer de Sueca

• Falla Cuba-Puerto Rico

  address: intersection of Carrer de Cuba with Carrer de Puerto Rico

• Falla Convento Jerusalén-Matemático Marzal

  address: intersection of Carrer del Convent de Jerusalem with Carrer del Matemàtic Marzal

Exposición del Ninot

address: Sala Arquerías, Museo Príncipe Felipe

The current year's ninots are placed on display, with visitors voting for their favourite ninot. The winning ninot is spared the flames of the Cremà and added to the permanent collection of the Museu Faller de València (listed below).

Cavalcada del NinotThe ninots previously exhibited are now paraded through the streets, before being included in the falla monuments.

PlantàThe 15th marks the start of the assembling the elaborate 'fallas', which have been laboured over during the previous year. Construction must be completed by 08:00 on 16 March, or the falla will be disqualified for the competition. Tourist information offices have free maps available showing locations of the Selección Especiál fallas.

L'Ofrena

address: Plaça de la Virgen

The falleros and falleras from each 'casal faller' bring flowers in offering and used to decorate the mantle of an enormous effigy of the Virgen de los Desamparados in the Plaça de la Virgen. Participants are dressed in traditional clothing, and the processions follow two main routes, each terminating at the cathedral: one proceeds westward down Carrer de de Pau / Calle de la Paz, and the other northward up Carrer de Sant Vincent Màrtir / Calle San Vicente.

Els Castells

address: Passeig de l'Albereda

A nightly fireworks display between midnight and 01:30, with each night more impressive than the previous one, until culminating in the final display on the 18th, which is known as La Nit del Foc (the Night of Fire). This is also very crowded and you should arrive early to see it. The best location to view this is from pedestrian bridges crossing the Turía Park riverbed, or even better, from below the Palacio de la Musica.

Cavalcada del Foc

address: Route: Carrer de Russafa, Carrer de Colón, Porta de la Mar

A parade featuring all types of spectacles involving fire. This parade may be canceled in inclement weather.

La CremàAt the end of a week displaying the 'fallas' are burnt. The fallas infantiles are burned at 22:00, the fallas mayores are burned anytime between midnight and 01:00, and the falla at the Plaça Ayuntamiento is burned last at 01:00. The most impressive to see are the fallas in the Secció Especial, because these are the largest and most dramatic when they burn. These tend to be very crowded and one should arrive early, preferably an hour in advance. A good strategy is to visit a selection of fallas beforehand, and then to choose one to watch burn.

Falles museums

If you can't be in Valencia at the time of the festival, you can at least get an idea of what it's all about by visiting one or both the following museums.

• Museu Faller de València

  phone: +34 96 352 5478 x4625
  address: Plaça Monteolivete, 4
  Since 1934 ninots (papier-mâché figures) voted as the best of the year have been spared the final flames of the Falles festival. Along with photos and posters, these figures are showcased in a building which has served as a lepers' hospital, barracks, and prison.

• Museu de l'Artista Faller de València

  phone: +34 963 479 623
  address: Avda San José Artesano, 17

Other festivals

• Semana Santa MarineraAs elsewhere in Spain, Valencia celebrates Holy Week with street processions of penitents, organised into fraternities. Although not as well known as the more elaborate processions in Andalusia and Castile and Leon, Valencia's own unique traditions date back to the 15th century and are centred in the neighbourhood of Cabanyal, formerly an independent fishing village. Especially noteworthy are the Good Friday morning processions: two separate fraternities carry a crucifixion effigy to the beach, say a prayer for those who have lost their lives at sea, and place a laurel wreath in the ocean. This practice is unique in Spain and has been designated a 'Fiesta of National Touristic Interest' by the government.
  The processions, routes, and times may vary from year to year. The Valencia edition of ABC (in Spanish) publishes detailed routes and schedules of each day's events.

• Museo de la Semana Santa Marinera

  phone: +34 963 240 745
  address: Carrer del Rosari, 1
  This small museum has exhibits explaining the Semana Santa Marinera traditions with costumes, documents, and photographs.

Festival Internacional del Viento

address: Platja de Malvarrosa

Held annually since 1997, the two-day event includes exhibits, kite-making demonstrations, and competitions.

Festivitat Verge dels DesemparatsThe day is devoted to celebrating the Virgen de los Desamparados, Valencia's patron saint. After a formal mass at 08:00 in the Plaça de la Virgen, a ceremonial procession transfers the effigy of the Virgin from the royal chapel to the cathedral next door. A second traditional procession begins at 18:30, in which the effigy follows a more circuitous route around the city centre, accompanied by showers of flower petals and dancing in the streets. This procession proceeds along Carrer dels Cavallers, Carrer de la Bosseria, Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, Plaça de la Reina, and Carrer de les Avellanes before finally returning to the cathedral at Plaça de l'Almoina.

Festa del Corpus ChristiThe city has been celebrating Corpus Christi since the late 13th century, and holding feast day processions since 1355. The main procession, known as the Cavalcada del Convit (Spanish: Cabalgata del Convite) begins at 12:00 and follows an itinerary established in the 18th century, which begins at Carrer de la Batlia, heads south along the western side of the cathedral to the Plaça de la Reina, and then up Carrer d'Avellanes and finally terminates at Plaça de l'Almoina. The parade features several medieval dances and rituals unique to Valencia, the most famous of which is La Moma i els Momos, in which a man in white dress and white-veiled face is surrounded by seven men clothed and veiled in black; the dance represents the fight of virtue against the seven deadly sins. Also noteworthy are the dances of the Nanos (dwarves) and Gegants (giants), in which dancers wear oversized heads and costumes respectively, and La Poalà, in which participants at the end of the route are doused with buckets of water.
16:30 marks the start of a second procession, the Pas de les Roques (Spanish: Paso de las Rocas, or Parade of Carriages), the highlight of which are the antique horse-drawn carriages. This parade follows a more circuitous route along Carrer dels Cavallers, Carrer de la Bosseria, Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, Plaça de la Reina, and Carrer de les Avellanes before finally returning to the cathedral at Plaça de l'Almoina. A third procession begins at 17:30, with the same dancers featured in the 12:00 parade, and following the route of the carriage parade. The final procession, the Solemne Processó (Spanish: Solemne Procesión) begins at 19:00, with participants from parishes and guilds followed by biblical characters and finally by the monstrance.

• Casa de les Roques

  phone: +34 963 153 156
  address: Carrer de les Roques, 3
  The horse-drawn carriages used in the Corpus Christi parades, known as roques (Spanish: rocas, or 'rocks'), have been stored in this building since the mid-15th century. Eleven carriages are on display, the oldest of which was built between 1373 and 1392. Other items exhibited are costumes and historic documents, as well as a 25-minute video about the processions (in Spanish).

• Fira de JuliolHeld annually since 1871, this month-long festival includes daily free and ticketed music and dance performances in parks and plazas, open-air cinema, sporting events, and fairground rides. Every Saturday at midnight there are large fireworks (locations vary). The mid-month Gran nit de juliol, always on a Saturday, features street parades and free outdoor concerts, and most museums remain open until midnight or 02:00. The tourist office can offer a detailed schedule of all events.

• Els Focs de la Fira

  address: last Friday before the Battala de Flors; parade begins at 23:00
  In this energetic festival, which originated in medieval Catalonia and is celebrated throughout the Catalán/Valencian-speaking region, participants dressed as devils with pitchforks dance through the streets to drums, setting off fireworks and interacting with spectators. The route varies from year to year, but generally is in the area near the North Train Station and the Porta de la Mar. The many flying sparks can burn holes in clothing, so it's a good idea to wear older clothes or not get too close to the action.

• Batalla de Flors

  address: Passeig de l'Albereda
  The highlight of the July festival, the 'Battle of the Flowers' was first established in 1891. This unusual event begins with a parade of horse-drawn floats, on which are perched falleras in traditional dress. The floats circle around a closed off section of the avenue four times, and prizes are awarded for the most beautiful float. Then the fun begins: mountains of softball-sized marigolds have been distributed around the ring, and seated audience members proceed to pelt the falleras with the flowers, who defend themselves with tennis rackets and/or hurl flowers back into the audience. After the parade, the general audience is allowed into the ring, and a general melee begins.

• Nou d’OctubreThis annual public holiday has been celebrated since 1338 and commemorates the date in 1238 when King James I of Aragón entered the city, freeing it from Moorish rule. In the week leading up to the 9th there are free concerts and parades around town, including a correfoc ('fire-running') which takes place on the preceding Saturday evening in the El Carme district. During this same weekend nine governmental palaces which are ordinarily closed to the public are opened for general visitation (Sa and Su 10:00-20:00, free admission). Of these the 15th-century Gothic (Palacio de la Generalidad / Palace of the General Assembly) is the most remarkable, and is well worth the long queue to see the well-preserved interior.
  Formal festivities commence at midnight on 8 October with a fireworks display from the Túria River park by the Pont de l'Exposició (by Alameda metro station). At noon on the following day a formal procession carries the Valencian flag from the Ayuntamiento (City Hall) to the (Parque del Parterre / Parterre Park), where a wreath is laid before the equestrian statue of King James.
  The highlight of the 9th itself is the parade of Moros i Cristians (Spanish: Moros y Cristianos), which commences at and proceeds down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent, finally terminating at Plaça de l’Ajuntament. The parade starts at 18:30 but it is best to find a spot about a half-hour before the parade begins.
  The 9th of October is also the day of St. Dionysius, which for Valencians is similar to Valentine's Day. In a tradition dating to the 18th century, it is customary for men to give their sweethearts a mocadorà – a small bundle of marzipan treats shaped like fruits and wrapped in a handkerchief. Beginning a week before the 9th, these can be purchased at pastry shops and even some supermarkets.

Performing arts

• Palau de la Música

  phone: +34 963 375 020
  address: Passeig de l'Albereda, 30
  Designed by José María de Paredes and opened in 1987, this is considered to be one of Europe's most important concert halls. The building is marked by an enormous glass greenhouse-like structure which also serves as the main entrance. In addition to classical music, jazz concerts are also performed here.

• Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia

  phone: +34 90 220 2383, +34 96 197 5900
  This opera/concert house has four halls and covers an area of 37,000m². A schedule of events can be found here.

• Teatro Principal

  phone: +34 963 539 260
  address: Carrer de les Barques, 15
  Valencia's oldest theatre was opened 1832 and has a Rococo interior. It is the venue for a varied program of plays and musicals (in Spanish), modern dance, ballet, and concerts.

• Teatre Olympia

  phone: +34 963 517 315
  address: Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 44
  Built in 1915 by Valencian architect Vicente Rodríguez Martín, the theatre is a venue for plays, musicals, and flamenco performances. Tickets can be purchased online.

• Teatre Talia

  phone: +34 963 912 920
  address: Carrer dels Cavallers, 31
  The historic theatre was built in 1928 and mostly showcases local plays and actors, but is also occasionally a venue for dance and especially flamenco performances. Tickets can be purchased online.

• Café del Duende

  phone: +34 630 455 289
  address: Carrer del Túria, 62
  This café is an intimate venue for flamenco performances, with well-known dancers and musicians hailing not only from Valencia but from across Spain. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays performances begin at 23:00 and last for one hour; on Sunday they begin at 20:00. As shows are very popular, it is advisable to get there at least an hour before the show in order to secure a seat – getting to the door 15 minutes before opening is even better.

• Espai Rambleta

  phone: +34 960 011 511
  address: Bulevar Sur, esq. Carrer Pío IX
  The cultural centre is a venue for music, theatre and dance performances, and hosts rotating temporary exhibits. It also has an onsite restaurant. Tickets for events can be purchased online.

Planetarium and cinemas

• L’Hemisfèric

  phone: +34 961 974 686 (guided tour)
  Designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatravato to resemble a giant eye, this building functions as an IMAX and 3D cinema as well as planetarium. Multiple films are screened daily, with a schedule available online. For visitors interested in seeing the inner workings of the building, guided tours are available M-F at 12.00 and 16.00 in Spanish and English. The building also has a restaurant and shop.

• Albatexas Cinemes

  phone: +34 960 627 538
  address: Plaça de Fra Lluís Colomer, 4
  Screens second-run films, all in original languages, with Spanish subtitles.

• Cines Babel

  phone: +34 963 694 530
  address: Carrer de Vicent Sancho Tello, 10
  An art-house cinema which screens films in their original languages, including many current releases. The cinema has an adjoining café, and offers mid-week deals of dinner plus a movie for a reduced ticket price.

• Yelmo Cines

  phone: +34 963 173 590
  address: Avenida de Tirso de Molina, 16
  A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions (VOS: versión original subtitulada).

Beaches

There are two city beaches, and several major beaches outside of Valencia.
(Platja del Cabanyal / Playa de las Arenas), just north of the port, has a pleasant promenade with a number of traditional (and expensive) restaurants, bars, and ice cream shops. The more northern begins where the promenade ends, and is the setting for volleyball tournaments, kite festivals, and windsurfing. In the summer both beaches have lifeguards and first aid stations, toilets, and snack vendors, and are very crowded especially in the afternoons. To get there, take the metro or tram to Eugenia Vines or Arenas station, or take the metro to Maritim Serreria and continue with the tram to Neptu (all on one ticket).
To the north of and immediately adjoining Malvarossa is (Playa de la Patacona), which, although part of the municipality of Alboraya, is easily accessible from Valencia by public transport or foot. This beach is somewhat less crowded, and is also a good place to sample horchata, as Alboraya is a major producer of chufa, a key ingredient of the drink.
The beaches south of Valencia port are all part of Albufera Natural Park. They are generally well-maintained and far less crowded than the urban beaches, and easily reachable by public transport.

Spectator sports

• BullfightingBullfights are staged in Valencia only during three short seasons, including Falles (mid-March), the Fira de Juliol (July Festival), and the Nou d’Octubre (Valencian National Day in October).
  If you are put off by bullfighting, consider attending a recortes competition, an ancient nonviolent alternative practiced only in the Valencian Community, Navarra, La Rioja, and northern Castile-La Mancha. Recortadores leap, perform backflips, and occasionally pole-vault over charging bulls. The bulls are unharmed and not killed afterward, but it is very dangerous for the athletes, who are often matadors-in-training. While these events are not as well-attended as bullfights, popularity is growing. Typically there is one recortes event during each bullfighting season.

• Plaça de Bous de València

  phone: +34 902 10 7777
  address: Carrer de Xàtiva, 28
  A bullring and artistic monument, it is used for bull fighting and big shows. The stadium holds 12,884 people, and was built between 1850 and 1860 by Valencian architect Sebastián Monleón Estellés.

• Museu Taurí de València

  phone: +34 96 388 3738
  address: Pasaje Doctor Serra, 10
  Has displays illustrating the development of Valencian bullfighting since the 19th century.

Football (soccer). Two teams here play in La Liga, the top tier of Spanish football. Valencia CF play at the 49,000 1 km northeast of the city centre; they are overdue for moving to their still uncompleted stadium to the northwest. Levante UD play at , capacity 26,000; it's 2 km north of the centre, near the Machado metro stop.

Spanish

• Don Quijote

  phone: +34 963 553 174
  address: Carrer dels Cadirers, 5
  A great school where you can take 4-6 hours of courses a day. All courses including beginner courses are taught entirely in Spanish.

• Espanole

  phone: +34 96 353 0404
  address: Carrer de la Nau, 22
  A member of International House, a network of language schools all over the world. The school provides the students with lots of leisure time activities and even housing can be arranged by the school, either in a studio, in a shared apartment or in a guest family. Even the beginner courses are taught entirely in Spanish, which makes it difficult to follow the lessons in the beginning.

• Linguaschools Valencia

  phone: +34 93 176 1536
  address: Carrer Bernat y Baldoví, 11
  Organizes Spanish courses for foreigners, using the immersion method. The school is based in a real Spanish villa close to the old town of Valencia. Here, you can enjoy your classes, lounge on one of the terraces or study in the garden.

• Route 66 Idiomas

  phone: +34 96 342 7368
  address: Carrer de Moratín, 15-4
  Offers courses in both Spanish and Valencian (Catalan). Students can choose to study 10-20 hours a week, or choose a less intensive long-term option of 3-4 hours a week.

Cooking

• Escuela de Arroces y Paellas

  phone: +34 961 043 540
  address: Carrer del Bisbe En Jeroni, 8
  Offers cooking classes in English for several types of paella, including classic Valencian, seafood, and vegetarian. Morning classes on M-Sa also include a visit to the Mercat Central, and all classes include tapas, wine, paella and dessert, and a take-home paella pan with apron.

• The area around (Plaza del Patriarca) is a good place to look for the major national brands like Loewe, LLadró, Louis Vuitton, Dolores, and Farrutx.

• Plaça RedonaDesigned by Valencian architect Melchor Escrig Salvador in the mid-19th century, this unique building was constructed around a round plaza, and was noted by Valencian novelist Vicente Blasco Ibáñez in his novel Arroz y Tartana. The building has been completely renovated and now is home to a number of shops for traditional crafts as well as tapas bars. On Sunday mornings it is home to a flea market.

• Mercat de l’Escuraeta

  address: Plaça de la Reina
  This traditional market dates back to the 13th century and Jaume I, when vendors set up extra stalls by the cathedral to coincide with the annual Festividad de la Virgen (feast of the Virgin). Items sold here include crockery and traditional cooking utensils, as well as pottery and other arts and crafts.

• Frutos Secos del Carmen

  phone: +34 696 945 745
  address: Carrer de Dalt, 20
  A traditional local shop that sells all kinds of dried fruits and nuts.

Food markets

• Mercat Central

  phone: +34 963 829 100
  address: Plaça de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n
  In a restored modernist iron and glass building dating from 1928, this is one of the largest markets in Europe. See how the locals shop for food and buy some fantastic fresh produce, meat, seafood, or olives.

• Mercat del Cabanyal

  phone: +34 963 446 316
  address: Carrer de Martí Grajales, 4
  Traditionally one of the better markets in the city for fish, this also has fresh produce and artisanal products. Has free Wi-Fi throughout the building, no registration or password required.

• Mercat de Mosén Sorell

  address: Plaça de Mossén Sorell
  A smaller market, which was renovated in 2016, in the centre of the Carmen neighbourhood.

• Mercat de Russafa

  phone: +34 963 744 025
  address: Plaça del Baró de Cortés, 9
  Designed by Julio Bellot Senet and completed in 1957, the market is at the centre of the vibrant Ruzafa neighbourhood. Inside are more than 60 vendors of all types of food products, as well as a bar and café.

Street markets

• El Rastro

  phone: +34 962 084 736
  address: Plaça de Lluís Casanova, s/n
  Valencia's enormous second-hand market is a good place to pick up all sorts of odds and ends, ranging from vintage toys to Valencian ceramics to bicycle parts. Vendors are licensed and there is a police presence, but do beware of pickpockets.

• Mercadillo de Ruzafa

• Mercadillo de CabanyalOne of the larger and more colourful weekly street markets.

• Mercadillo de Benimaclet

  address: Carrer de Juan Giner and Carrer del Reverend Rafael Tramoyeres

Bookshops

• Casa del Libro

  phone: +34 902 026 411
  address: Passeig Russafa, 11
  Probably Valencia's largest bookshop and part of a national chain, it has four floors of new and used books, with a good selection of books in English and other languages. Pets are permitted.

• fnac

  phone: +34 902 100 632
  address: Carrer de Guillem de Castro, 9-11
  This branch of the French chain has a good selection of English books on the first floor, along with DVDs and computer accessories.

• Librería París

  phone: +34 963 671 958 (information)
  This Valencian independent bookstore carries new and discounted books, with a selection of titles in English and other European languages, including in the travel section. It is also a good place to pick up Spanish cookbooks. There are four branches in town.

• Librería París

  phone: +34 963 959 366
  address: Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 74

• Librería París

  phone: +34 963 520 273
  address: Plaça d'Alfons el Magnànim, 13

• Librería París

  phone: +34 963 525 440
  address: Carrer de Pelai, 7

• Librería París

  phone: +34 963 918 133
  address: Carrer de Navellos, 8

Librería Patagonia

phone: +34 963 936 052

address: Carrer de l'Hospital, 1

For visitors who read some Spanish, this travel bookshop is a good resource as it stocks a good range of Spanish and regional travel guides, maps, and other travel accessories.

Shopping centres

• Aqua Multispacio

  phone: +34 963 308 429
  address: Carrer de Menorca, 19
  Along with the usual chain shops and restaurants, this large complex has two hotels, a cinema, a bowling center, and a large gym and pool. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside.

• Centro Comercial El Saler

  phone: +34 963 957 012
  address: Avda del Professor López Piñero, 16
  Has a full range of standard international chain stores as well as restaurants and a Carrefour hypermarket. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside.

• Centro Comercial Nuevo Centro

  phone: +34 963 471 642
  address: Avda Pio XII, 2
  Has more than 80 shops and restaurants as well as a branch of Corte Inglés. Also has a children's playground, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. There is a taxi stand outside.

• La Galería Jorge Juan

  phone: +34 963 524 966
  address: Carrer de Jorge Juan, 21
  Has 40 shops and a restaurant. Parking available.

• PaellaThere are several versions of this tasteful rice dish: paella valenciana, with meat (chicken and/or rabbit usually), paella de marisco, with fish or seafood, or even paella mixta, with meat and fish at the same time, the least popular among locals. It is very difficult to say which is the 'real' paella, as every person has his/her own version (though no paella that deserves this name contains sausage, ham or meat broth, for instance). If you want to eat an authentic paella, try it at the Malvarrosa beach area; you will find there are several good restaurants. The authentic Valencian paella is made only with fresh ingredients, in a special iron pan and using a fire made with wood (not gas or electricity). Vegetarian paella is called paella vegetal or paella de verduras. Authentic paella can be rather dry, it's not a soup and shouldn't look like gumbo. Don't be shy about scraping the caramelized rice from the bottom of the pan, it's delicious!

• Arròs a bandaA side dish of rice cooked in fish stock, usually served with alioli.

• Arròs negreAlso cooked in fish stock, this rice dish is black because it contains squid ink, as well as squid or cuttlefish, peppers, and paprika.

• FideuàThis paella-like dish, with short noodles and fish, was invented in Gandía and can be usually found in paella restaurants. It deserves a try too.

• All i pebreA stew made of eel, a snake like fish typical from the Albufera, a lagoon near Valencia. You can drive to El Palmar and taste it there. Delicious, but a very special taste. You can find good paella, and other traditional dishes at the restaurants there too.

• Llet merengadaA kind of milk-based soft ice cream with a cinnamon-lemon taste.

• BunyolsFried doughnuts, sometimes round shaped, sometimes like rings. Widely available only during March during the Falles celebration. Dip them in hot chocolate. Sometimes they are too oily, so don't eat a lot of them or you will not be hungry again for several hours. If you can choose the carabasa (pumpkin) version, you should try it. They are generally tastier.

Budget

• Andalus Dolç

  phone: +34 963 254 771
  address: Carrer de Yecla, 16
  This restaurant-coffeeshop is a favorite with the local Moroccan community and serves a range of traditional Moroccan dishes, some of them vegetarian. It also has an excellent onsite bakery.

• Ca la Mar

  phone: +34 963 259 827
  address: Carrer de Just Vilar, 19
  This very small restaurant serves creative tapas, with a number of seafood as well as vegetarian options. Pleasant seating is both indoor and along a pedestrian-only street. They also have a decent selection of wine, as well as the local Turía beer.

• Casa Paquito

  phone: +34 963 926 060
  address: Carrer de Quart, 10
  This family-run restaurant serves classic, affordable home-style Valencian dishes in a comfortable setting. Very popular with locals.

• Central Bar

  phone: +34 963 829 223
  address: Plaça de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n
  One of a trio of restaurants owned and operated by famed Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, this tapas bar is a good place to sample his food without breaking the bank. The menu changes daily depending on what's available in the market. Reservations are not accepted, so if you plan to visit for lunch be prepared to wait awhile for a seat.

• Cerveceria Alhambra

  phone: +34 963 843 057
  address: Carrer de Calixt III, 8
  This small sidewalk eatery is known throughout the city for its excellent tortillas de patatas in a number of flavours, many of them vegetarian. Tortillas can be eaten either with a fork (pincho) or in a sandwich (bocadillo). Meatballs (albondigas) are also served here, but the real draw is the tortillas.

• Hostería El Vizio

  phone: +34 963 727 778
  address: Carrer d'Eugènia Viñes, 107
  Situated one block away from the beach (and without the view), this restaurant serves better food for much more reasonable prices than those places along the beach. The specialty here is pizza; the tapas and sandwiches are equally tasty.

• Kiosco La Pérgola

  phone: +34 963 699 079
  address: Passeig de l'Albereda, 1
  This is a very popular lunch spot for delicious and cheap bocadillos. Their signature bocadillo is the Super Bombon, piled high with steak, jamón, lettuce, dressing, and french fries. The Bombon, which omits the french fries, is a slightly lighter version. Getting a table requires some patience, or reservations.

• La Lluna

  phone: +34 963 922 146
  address: Carrer de Sant Ramon, 23

• La Más Bonita Patacona

  phone: +34 961 143 611
  address: Passeig Marítim de la Patacona, 11
  Good for breakfast, lunches, fresh juices, coffee and cocktails; this place is especially known for its cakes. There is seating in two areas: on the beach side with a view, or in an interior patio with garden. It is very popular, so if you don't have reservations be prepared to wait awhile.

• Mercat de Colom

  phone: +34 963 371 101
  address: Carrer de Jorge Juan, 19
  Built in 1916 as a marketplace, this excellent example of modernist architecture now houses a number of cafés and tapas bars. Every Sunday at noon there are free classical music concerts.

• La Pascuala

  phone: +34 963 713 814
  address: Carrer d'Eugenia Viñes, 177
  This is a very popular place for almuerzo (late breakfast or early lunch), and is especially known for its very large bocadillos. No reservations are accepted, but it's worth the wait for a table.

• Portland Ale House

  phone: +34 96 381 0406
  address: Carrer de Salamanca, 10
  Owned and operated by an American from Portland, Oregon, this place serves classic American bar food and burgers, along with a good range of local beers. For those looking to improve their Spanish (or English) there is an intercambio (language exchange) open to all Wednesday evenings beginning at 20:30.

• Taberna El Olivo

  phone: +34 963 917 087
  address: Carrer del Pintor Fillol, 1
  This is a very popular, informal Andalusian-style tapas bar, in a pleasant plaza right by one of the few trees in the barrio. The tapas portions are large.

• Tasca Ángel

  phone: +34 963 917 835
  address: Carrer de la Puríssima, 1
  This tiny but very popular tapas bar is known for its sardinas (grilled sardines), served with garlic infused olive oil and white bread. Other specialties include champiñones a la plancha (grilled mushrooms) and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). The place only has a handful of tables with additional seating at the bar, and tends to get very packed after 21:00.

• Tasquita La Estrecha

  phone: +34 961 441 322
  address: Plaça de Lope de Vega, 12
  This tapas bar is named after the neighbouring La Casa Más Estrecha, which, at a mere 107 cm wide, is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the narrowest house in Europe (although only the facade remains, as the interior of the house has now been annexed to the bar). The bar is a good bit wider, but still small enough that most seating is outside. Despite its location in a tourist area it is popular with locals, and serves a good selection of wines and beers, agua de Valencia, along with a range of traditional and creative tapas.

• Yukmi Korean Cuisine

  phone: +34 963 787 022
  address: Carrer de Salabert, 24
  One of only two Korean restaurants in Valencia, this family-operated restaurant is highly-regarded in the Asian community for its authentic home-style Korean cooking. Dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarians, and diners can request how spicy (or not) they prefer their meal.

Mid-range

• Alquería del Pou

  phone: +34 963 737 706
  address: Entrada Rico, 6
  A favourite with locals, this hidden gem specialises in all types of traditional Valencian rice dishes and seafood, served in a garden setting.

• Bar Ricardo

  phone: +34 963 226 949
  address: Carrer del Dr. Zamenhof, 16
  Operating since 1947, the restaurant serves traditional Valencian seafood, tapas, and sandwiches. It is also especially known for very good patatas bravas and ensalada rusa.

• Boatella Tapas

  phone: +34 963 154 071
  address: Plaça del Mercat, 34
  A very small, friendly place which serves a good variety of tapas. The specialty is grilled artichokes, but the other tapas are just as tasty. Seating is primarily outdoors on the sidewalk, with very limited seating indoors at the bar.

• Bodega La Rentaora

  phone: +34 670 396 302
  address: Plaça del Mossén Sorell, 11
  Serves simple, creative and high-quality tapas, along with a full range of drinks.

• Café Infanta

  phone: +34 963 921 623
  address: Plaça del Tossal, 3
  Bar and cafe with outdoor seating, decorated with Hollywood memorabilia. Watch and absorb the spirit of the neighborhood.

• Canalla Bistro

  phone: +34 963 740 509
  address: Carrer del Mestre Josep Serrano, 5
  This is the second of a trio of restaurants owned by star Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, with an eclectic menu that varies seasonally. Reservations can be made online.

• El Poblet Restaurante

  phone: +34 961 111 106
  address: Carrer de Correus, 8
  Operated by star chef Quique Dacosta, the restaurant serves his most famous dishes from his eponymous three-starred Michelin restaurant in Dénia, but without the sky-high prices. This restaurant was awarded its own Michelin star in 2013. Reservations can be made online.

• Refugio Restaurante

  phone: +34 690 617 018
  address: Carrer de Dalt, 42
  Across the street from an air raid shelter from the civil war, it serves very innovative fusion cuisine. Reservations can be requested online.

• Restaurante Balansiya

  phone: +34 963 890 824
  address: Passeig de les Facultats, 3
  A highly-regarded Moroccan restaurant which has been reviewed in the New York Times and has an extensive menu. Reservations can be made online.

• Restaurante El Bobo

  phone: +34 963 550 292
  address: Paseo Marítimo 3
  This long-established place serves traditional Valencian dishes and is directly off the beach, with a pleasant outdoor terrace and ample indoor seating.

• Restaurante Montes

  phone: +34 963 855 025
  address: Plaça del Bisbe Amigó, 5
  This very popular restaurant offers traditional Valencian dishes in a relaxed and friendly setting. The arroz meloso is especially highly regarded. Reservations recommended.

• Restaurante Navarro

  phone: +34 963 529 623
  address: Carrer de l'Arquebisbe Mayoral, 5
  Serves classic Mediterranean dishes using ingredients from the Mercat Central and Mercat de Russafa, with a number of vegetarian options and a good wine selection. Paellas and other Valencian rice dishes must be reserved in advance. Reservations are required, and can be made online.

• Swagat Valencia

  phone: +34 963 041 742
  address: Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 44
  Probably the best and most authentic of the few Indian restaurants in the city, Swagat serves a range of dishes from both northern and southern India. Diners can request dishes be spiced for the Indian, rather than the blander Spanish, palate. Reservations strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

• Taberna Comer Beber Amar

  phone: +34 96 337 5237
  address: Passeig de l'Albereda, 38
  Serves paella, fideuà, and meat and seafood. Does not serve tapas, but does have a good wine selection.

• La Tastaolletes

  phone: +34 963 921 862
  address: Carrer de Salvador Giner, 6
  Vegetarian.

• Vuelve Carolina

  phone: +34 963 218 686
  address: Carrer de Correus, 8
  A modern, creative and comfortable tapas bar operated by star chef Quique Dacosta. Reservations can be made online.

Splurge

• Bodega Casa Montaña

  phone: +34 963 672 314
  address: Carrer de Josep Benlliure, 69
  Established in 1836, this is the oldest tapas bar in Valencia. All classic dishes here are prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, accompanied by an enormous selection of wines. The setting is informal and friendly. Reservations are recommended and can be made online.

• Casa Roberto

  phone: +34 963 951 528
  address: Carrer del Mestre Gozalbo, 19
  A favourite with Valencians and those wishing to avoid the tourist traps, it serves great traditional rice dishes with a focus on paella. The place is packed at lunch, so it's best to arrive early, or even better, to have a reservation.

• La Pepica

  phone: +34 963 710 366
  address: Passeig de Neptú, 6
  Known for paella, this family-run restaurant has been open since 1898, and has served the likes of Ernest Hemingway as well as contemporary and modern celebrities. Reservations are recommended especially on weekends, and can be made online.

• Restaurante Lienzo

  phone: +34 963 521 081
  address: Plaça de Tetuán, 18
  This modern, creative avant garde restaurant is operated by chef Maria José Martinez, who formerly worked for Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta.

• Restaurante La Principal

  phone: +34 963 606 348
  address: Carrer de Polo y Peyrolón, 5
  The very popular restaurant is known primarily for traditional Valencian rice dishes, and is also a great place for tapas with a very good wine list and excellent service. It's especially busy at lunchtime – reservations recommended.

• Restaurante La Salita

  phone: +34 963 817 516
  address: Carrer de Sèneca, 12
  Established nine years ago, the restaurant became famous when master chef Begoña Rodrigo won the first edition of Top Chef España in 2013. Reservations can be made by email or online.

• Restaurante Vertical

  phone: +34 963 303 800
  address: Carrer de Luis García-Berlanga Martí, 19
  Operated by chef Jorge de Andrés, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves innovative updates of traditional Valencian cuisine, in a setting with some of the best views of the city. Reservations can be made online; free parking (3 hrs) available in Centro Comercial Aqua.

• Rías Gallegas

  phone: +34 963 512 125
  address: Carrer de Ciril Amorós, 4
  Serves traditional cuisine from Galicia.

• Ricard Camarena Restaurant

  phone: +34 963 355 418
  address: Carrer del Dr. Sumsi, 4
  Ricard Camarena's flagship restaurant earned him his third Michelin star in 2012, just three months after opening. Dishes are wildly creative, and guests have a good view of the kitchen to watch the master in action. Reservations can be made by email or online.

• RiFF

  phone: +34 963 335 353, +34 671 875 975
  address: Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 18
  Internationally-renowned chef and owner Bernd Knöller earned a Michelin star in 2009. Reservations can be made by phone or online. Occasional classes and cooking workshops are also offered.

Traditional regional drinks

• Aigua de València'Valencia water' is a very famous mixed drink, invented in 1959 and based on a mix of orange juice and cava, the local sparkling wine. Many modern versions also include gin and vodka as well as sugar. Be careful, as this drink packs a punch!

• OrxataA drink made from tigernut (Valencian: xufa, Spanish: chufa), which was first created during the Moorish period. Being cold and sweet, it is especially popular during the summer months, and can be ordered in orxateries or horchaterias as well as in most cafés and bars. When ordering an orxata, you will most probably be asked whether you would like to have a fartón, a small pastry for being dipped in orxata, as well.

• CibadaAn iced malt drink.

• Llima granizadaIced lemonade.

• Café del tempsA popular summer drink, this is espresso served with a glass of ice along with sugar and a slice of lemon. Usually sugar is mixed first into the hot espresso, which is then poured over the ice.

• Blanc i negreIced coffee with leche merengada, which is blend of milk, egg white, sugar, and cinnamon.

Cafés and horchaterías

• Horchatería Daniel

  phone: +34 961 858 866
  address: Avda l´Orchata, 41
  Established in 1949, this is the largest and most well-known horchatería in Alboraia (Spanish: Alboraya), a small agricultural town on the outskirts of Valencia whose primary crop is tiger nuts (chufa), the key ingredient in horchata. There is a second branch in the Mercat de Colóm (listed under 'Eat').

• Horchatería Els Sariers

  phone: +34 963 693 879
  address: Carrer Sarcet, 6
  A very large and popular horchatería with artisanal fartóns. Takeaway available.

• Horchatería Fabián

  phone: +34 963 349 317
  address: Carrer de Císcar, 5
  Serves hot chocolate with churros, horchata, granizada, ice cream, and pastries. This is one of the only places which sell bunyols (buñuelos) outside of the Fallas season, and in winter and during Fallas it is so popular the queues can stretch a block down the street.

• Horchatería Mari Toñi

  phone: +34 963 601 249
  address: Carrer d'Alboraia, 23
  Along with horchata, this classic Valencian place offers homemade hot chocolate and, during Fallas, bunyols (buñuelos).

• Horchatería Santa Catalina

  phone: +34 963 912 379
  address: Plaça de Santa Caterina, 6
  The oldest horchatería in Valencia, this classic place serves not only horchata with fartons, but hot chocolate, churros, and ice cream. The interior has a cafeteria atmosphere, and is ornamented with Valencian tiles.

• Café de las Horas

  phone: +34 963 917 336
  address: Carrer del Comte d'Almodóvar, 1
  This popular café-bar is a good spot for coffee or cocktails with light snacks, in a Baroque-styled interior with eclectic music.

• Café Lisboa

  phone: +34 963 919 484
  address: Plaça del Doctor Collado, 9
  In a charming square which was once the site of Valencia's Lonja del Aceite, or olive oil market. The primary draw is the expansive terrace seating by an olive tree, making this is a good spot for people-watching with a coffee or cocktail.

• Café Negrito

  phone: +34 963 914 233
  address: Plaça del Negret, 1
  Relaxed café with outdoor seating.

• Café Rialto

  phone: +34 963 940 877
  address: Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 17
  A classic café-bar in the historic Rialto Theatre, with a small terrace. It also has a well-priced set lunch menu for €10.50.

• Chocolatería Valor

  phone: +34 963 152 198
  address: Plaça de la Reina, 20
  One of two Valencia branches of the Villajoyosa-based chocolate company, this is a good place for hot chocolate with churros.

• Mayan Coffees

  phone: +34 722 788 433
  address: Carrer de Murillo, 54
  The owner roasts his own coffee locally. Very friendly. Relaxed and calm environment in a nice neighborhood.

• Ubik Café

  phone: +34 963 741 255
  address: Carrer del Literat Azorín, 13
  The combination bar-café-bookshop has become a favourite haunt in the neighbourhood, with a good selection of craft beers as well as tapas and other light fare. Also hold exhibits and sponsors other cultural events.

Bars and bodegas

There are many bodegas and tapas bars where you can get typical Spanish dinner for quite good prices. If you arrive early (the Spanish early) at about 20:00 they usually have special offers like tercio y tapa for about €1. To find them orient more to the parallel streets to Carrer de Doctor Manuel Candela. Later to drink something occupying the time between dinner and going out there are many bars with different kind of music present.
Turia, a toasted lager, is the best-known local beer. It was first made in 1935 but didn't go into full production until 1947, due to the Spanish Civil War.

• Bodega Fila 'El Labrador'

  phone: +34 963 727 530
  address: Carrer del Doctor Manuel Candela, 58
  This very casual, classic old-school tavern has been operating since 1973, and is popular with students. It is a good place to sample local wines accompanied by simple tapas including jamón, cheese, and sausages. It gets very popular especially later in the evening, so if you want a seat be sure to arrive before 19:30, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Nightclubs

Barrio del Carmen is a major nightlife destination in Valencia. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and dance joints, which tend to cater to a youngish crowd, in particular along Carrer dels Cavallers (Calle Caballeros). (Plaza del Cedro) is a nice area where all possibilities are given to spend a night partly o complete in less touristic ambiance than in the center. Additionally there is typical Spanish nigh-life feeling on the plaza itself. Different kind of people enjoying the mild Mediterranean clime to sit outside talking, drinking and playing guitar often until the sunrise. Other centres of are night-life are (more upscale), along Carrer de Joan Llorenç (young also, less "alternative"), around the main campus of the University of Valencia (for students), and increasingly in the area near the beach and port.
If you feel like dancing there are four famous pubs where especially at the weekends a lot young people can be found. The entrance is normally for free and they are almost neighbors in Carrer de Campoamor. The music is more alternative (Rock, Indie, Pop) than general in Spain but it changes depending on the DJ. So just have a look to all of them to find the one you like most. They close at half past three in the morning and if you don't want to be alone maybe the best time to arrive is between half past one and half past two.

• Blue Iguana

  phone: +34 616 941 162
  address: Carrer del Almirante Cadarso, 30
  This is one of the best nightclubs in Valencia. New and old good music all night offered by Dj Moisés.

• La Fábrica de Hielo

  phone: +34 963 682 619
  address: Carrer de Pavia, 37
  The once abandoned ice factory is home to a nightclub and cultural centre, and is a good place for drinks and tapas (some vegetarian). There are nightly concerts by mostly local musicians, with Sundays devoted to jazz. Dogs permitted.

• Marina Beach Club

  phone: +34 961 150 007
  address: Carrer Marina Real Juan Carlos I, s/n
  Beach club and restaurant by day, this is a popular music hotspot at night with live performances and visiting international DJs.

• No Hay Nada Mejor Que 27 Amigos

  address: Carrer de la Reina, 186
  A classic old-school bar in a 1920s era house. Has nightly musical acts in a range of genres, with electronic music on Saturdays and jazz sessions on Sundays.

• Radio City

  phone: +34 963 914 151
  address: Carrer de Santa Teresa, 19-2
  A popular bar-cum-club with a crowded dance floor playing a variety of danceable world music. The crowd is mixed locals and travellers, mostly under 30. Aggressive bouncers.

• Sala Matisse

  phone: +34 963 555 444
  address: Carrer de Campoamor, 60

• El Tornillo

  phone: +34 639 403 148
  address: Carrer de Campoamor, 42

• L'Umbracle Terraza

  phone: +34 671 668 000
  address: Av del Saler, 5

• Velvet Club

  address: Carrer de Campoamor, 58

• Wah Wah Club

  phone: +34 963 563 942
  address: Carrer de Campoamor, 52

Staying in or near Old Town means you will hardly need transport, unless you go to the beach.

Budget

Hostels

• Hôme Backpackers Hostel Valencia

  phone: +34 963 913 797
  address: Plaça de Vicent Iborra, s/n
  In town center and specialised in backpackers and groups. The cheapest one in Valencia, and claims to be the 'best'. Free Wi-Fi and bed linens, wheelchair accessible, nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi. Towels €1.

• Innsa Hostel

  phone: +34 963 917 751
  address: Carrer de Baix, 48
  Free Wi-Fi, has onsite bar/restaurant.

• Purple Nest Hostel

  phone: +34 963 532 561
  address: Plaça de Tetuán, 5
  A good budget hostel in Valencia hostel in the city center. Has free Wi-Fi, family room, rooftop terrace and barbecue, and bar.

• Red Nest Hostel

  phone: +34 963 427 168
  address: Carrer de la Pau, 36
  A good budget hostel Valencia in the city center. Has a large kitchen free lockers, free bed linen, and free Wi-Fi; towels €1.

• The River Hostel

  phone: +34 963 913 955
  address: Plaça del Temple, 6
  Has nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hr front desk.

• Valencia Lounge Hostel

  phone: +34 963 923 425
  address: Carrer dels Cadirers, 11
  11 rooms (double, triple, quadruple) with balconies, aesthetically decorated, no en-suite bathrooms, in a quiet alleyway.

Hotels

• Hospedería del Pilar

  phone: +34 963 916 600
  address: Plaça del Mercat, 19
  Operating since 1886, the hostal has nonsmoking rooms with private baths, and a 24-hr desk. Free Wi-Fi.

• Hotel Beleret

  phone: +34 963 640 505
  address: Carrer del Campament, 80
  On the northern outskirts of the city, the hotel has nonsmoking rooms, an onsite restaurant and bar, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request, free nearby parking.

• Pensión El Rincón

  phone: +34 963 916 083
  address: Carrer de la Carda, 11
  These guys claim to have been around for over 400 years! Free Wi-Fi, safe parking, nonsmoking, pets permitted (no extra charge).

Mid-range

• Ayre Hotel Astoria Palace

  phone: +34 963 981 000
  address: Plaça Rodrigo Botet, 5
  Has an onsite fitness centre, bar and restaurant. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, no parking available.

• Bed & Breakfast Almirante

  phone: +34 963 916 551
  address: Almirante, 3
  In a quiet area of the center of Valencia, 2 minutes' walk from the cathedral.

• Eurostars Gran Valencia

  phone: +34 963 050 800
  address: Carrer de la Vall d'Aiora, 3
  A modern hotel with gym, fitness centre, and rooftop pool, as well as onsite restaurant and bar. Free Wi-Fi available; private parking €12/day.

• Expo Hotel Valencia

  phone: +34 963 033 600
  address: Avda Pío XII, 4
  Has a roof-top swimming pool and onsite bar/restaurant, with free Wi-Fi. Private parking available for €19/day.

• Holiday Inn Express Valencia-Ciudad Las Ciencias

  phone: +34 963 162 530
  address: Carrer de l'Escritor Rafael Ferreres, 22
  Limited service hotel part of the IHG family, with 100 rooms. Has a bar, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €14.50/day.

• Hostal Antigua Morellana

  phone: +34 963 915 773
  address: Carrer d'En Bou, 2
  A family-run operation with 18 rooms. Free Wi-Fi, paid public parking nearby.

• Hotel Ad Hoc Monumental

  phone: +34 963 919 140
  address: Carrer de Boix, 4
  In a tastefully decorated 19th-century mansion in a residential area. Free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle (by reservation), pets accepted; no parking available.

• Hotel Dimar

  phone: +34 963 951 030
  address: Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 80
  A modern hotel with an onsite bar/restaurant, gym, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking nearby (€14/day). Pets permitted on request.

• Hotel Miramar

  phone: +34 963 715 142
  address: Passeig de Neptú, 32
  Has non-smoking rooms, an onsite restaurant, pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €20/day.

• Hotel NH Valencia Las Artes

  phone: +34 916 008 146
  address: Avinguda de l'Institut Obrer de Valèncià, 28
  Has non-smoking rooms, and onsite restaurant, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request; private parking €20/day.

• Hotel Villacarlos

  phone: +34 963 375 025
  address: Avinguda del Port, 60
  Has non-smoking rooms and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €16/day.

• ILUNION Aqua 4

  phone: +34 963 187 100
  address: Carrer de Luis García-Berlanga Martí, 19-21
  Has an onsite restaurant, fitness centre, non-smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking available (€14/day).

• Meliá Valencia

  phone: +34 963 030 000
  address: Avda de Les Corts Valencianes, 52
  In a modern building, facilities include a spa, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€17/day).

• Orange Habitaciones

  address: Carrer del Trinquet de Cavallers, 3
  A nice boutique hotel 15 minutes' walk from the center. Rooms are decorated in orange, which gives you the feeling of Valencia as soon as you check in.

Splurge

• Barceló Valencia

  phone: +34 963 306 344
  address: Avda de França, 11
  Has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, and non-smoking rooms as well as free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€16/day).

• Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Resort

  phone: +34 963 120 600
  address: Carrer d'Eugènia Viñes, 22-24
  A five-star hotel facing the sea. Has two onsite restaurants, an outdoor pool, spa, and gym. Offers an airport shuttle (with surcharge), free Wi-Fi, and parking (€19/day).

• Hotel Hospes Palau de la Mar

  phone: +34 963 162 884
  address: Avinguda de Navarro Reverter, 14
  A restored 19th-century palace with non-smoking rooms, Turkish bath, fitness centre, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request. Private parking €26/day; electric car charger available.

• MYR Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa

  phone: +34 963 153 367
  address: Plaça del Mercat, 45
  A small hotel with suites. Has free Wi-Fi, nonsmoking rooms, and onsite restaurant. Private parking €20/day.

• One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria 04

  phone: +34 963 513 984
  address: Carrer de les Barques, 4
  In a building from the late 19th century, the hotel has 85 rooms and offers free Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant. Public parking is available (€24/day).

• The Westin Valencia

  phone: +34 963 625 900
  address: Carrer d'Amadeu de Savoia, 16
  This modernist building has been converted into an exclusive luxury hotel, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and art. Facilities include a spa, indoor pool and Turkish bath, fitness centre, two onsite restaurants, and a bar. Free Wi-Fi available throughout the building; pets permitted. Private parking available (€22/day).

The city of Valencia has set up more than a hundred free Wi-Fi hotspots in public parks, libraries, and some municipal buildings and cultural centres. For visitors the most accessible are in the Jardí del Túria (11 spots between the Palau de la Música and the Museo de Ciencias Príncipe Felipe), Palau de la Música (2 spots), Jardín de Viveros (5 spots), Plaça de l'Ajuntament (6 spots), Museu d'Història de València (1 spot), Mercado Colón (1 spot), and at the seasonal (on Platja del Les Arenes near the Hotel Balneario, Aug-Sep).
The McDonald's in the Plaça de la Reina and many other restaurants and cafés also offer free WiFi.

• Biblioteca Pública

  phone: +34 962 564 130
  address: Carrer de l'Hospital, 13
  Housed in a former public hospital built in the late 15th century, the library carries a number of international periodicals. For visitors, free internet and Wi-Fi is available; for either, visitors must register and present a passport at the front desk. For Wi-Fi access, visitors are given a password for unlimited duration, with access throughout the building. Computer terminals must be reserved in advance and can be used for a maximum of 50 minutes.

• United States Consular Agency

  phone: +34 963 516 973
  address: Carrer del Dr Romagosa, 1, 2ª planta, puerta J

• Tourist Info Comunitat de València

  phone: +34 96 398 6422
  address: Carrer de la Pau, 48
  Can offer advice and information about other destinations within the Valencian Community, including day trips from the city.

Outskirts

• Albufera Natural Park — A fresh water lake which is part of the protected natural space, composed of the lake and surrounding marshy areas, as well as the pinewood and sandy dunes and beaches of El Saler. Rice is cultivated in the surrounding area of the lake. The Albufera also hosts many interesting varieties of migratory birds. The village of El Palmar is also a good place, if not the best, to try some paella or other local dishes.
• Manises – 15 km northwest of Valencia, it is not only the site of Valencia's airport, but is also an important center for pottery. The city can be easily reached by Valencia's metro lines 3 and 5.
• Paterna – This bedroom community 5 km to the northwest is known for its cave dwellings, Moorish tower, and Moors and Christians Festival.
• El Puig – 15 km north of Valencia, this village is best known for its impressive Gothic monastery, and is easily visited as a half-day trip from the city.
• Torrent – 9 km southwest of Valencia, the second largest city in Valencia province has a couple of interesting sights.

Further afield

• Rent a car and do a day trip to any number of picturesque villages or small cities in the region, including Chulilla, Sot de Chera, Xàtiva, and Sagunto, among others.
• La Tomatina, hosted by nearby Buñol on the last Wednesday of August. A festival that involves thousands of participants throwing ripe tomatoes at each other. Make sure you wear clothes that you can throw out after wards, as it gets very messy.
• Cullera, is the nearest beach resort from the city, apart from the more aimed at locals Pobla de Farnals, and worth a day visit from Valencia if you have time. It is settled down an isolated mountain (with a big white sign saying "Cullera" on it) beside a beautiful bay. It has crowded and quiet beaches. The most quiet ones are along the lighthouse road. There is also a naturist beach right North of Cullera, in Playa del Dossel, with a tricky road to access it. There is a castle on top of the mountain from which to enjoy stunning views.
• Gandia, 65 km south of Valencia and easily accesible by regional train, is the historical capital of the ancient Dukedom of Gandia, origin of the infamous Borgia (Borja) family, whose Ducal Palace is worth the visit, and birthplace of fideuà.
• Montanejos, with its scenic mountains, gorges, and hot springs.