Is Valencia Worth Visiting?
Walking the streets and main square in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Valencia is known for its distinct mix of historic charm, futuristic architecture, and relaxed, blue-collar beach vibe – making a trip to Valencia the perfect blend of sunny calm and invigorating charm.
Furthermore, Valencia is where Paella was created – meaning if you’re taking a trip to Spain, it’s better to skip Paella in more touristic cities like Madrid and Barcelona and opt to have it here instead.
Often kept off the tourist radar, a lot of people visiting Spain tend to skip over Valencia – but they really shouldn’t, as this small city as a lot to offer anyone visiting it.
View of Valencia from the top of El Micalet; May 2026
From climbing to the top of El Micalet for views or photographs, lounging at the local beach in La Malva-Rosa for hours on end, or even just slowly wandering around the city – Valencia has a special mix of typical European charm, sunny and sporty beach activities, and both old and futuristic museums to enjoy.
If you’re wondering if Valencia is worth visiting, look no further – I’m going to break down our entire trip to you, as I visited Valencia with my family of 5, where we all have very different personalities and desires for what to do when traveling.
I’ll cover it all, from the best beaches in Valencia to museums and to more off-the-radar things to do in Valencia.
Is Valencia Worth Visiting?
Yes, Valencia is absolutely worth making the trip for – as it has some of the most unique, colorful, and intricate architecture I have seen throughout all of Spain. Plus, it’s only a two-hour train ride away from Madrid and a 3-hour train ride from Barcelona – making Valencia a perfect city to visit while on a bigger trip to Spain.
Honestly, I was very pleasantly surprised by Valencia – as the city center as a small, charming feel to it but also has moments where the architecture felt as grandiose as in cities like Rome. It’s functional, clean, and simply put – extremely beautiful nearly everywhere you turn.
Want to see my trip to Valencia in action? Check out my Valencia travel vlog below!
Spain’s Most Underrated City: What Makes Valencia Special
Valencia is truly a hidden gem in Spain. From its colorful buildings, narrow cobble stone streets, rich history, and clear vision for the future with its more modern neighborhoods – there’s truly something for everyone in Valencia.
It’s also far less touristic than other cities in Spain like Barcelona or Seville, making it perfect if you want to experience authentic Spanish food, culture, and architecture without the crowds.
How Do I Get to Valencia?
Getting to Valencia is pretty easier if you’re familiar with how trains work in most Eurpoean countries, but you may be caught off guard by the disorganizing of Spain’s railway system.
Having lived in France for years, and extensively having traveled in other European countries like Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom – I can indeed confirm that Spain’s train system is a little less developed than its neighboring European countries.
That being said, don’t let it deter you from getting to Valencia – as it’ll still be faster than driving from cities like Barcelona or Madrid (which will take around 4 hours by car each way).
The overview cards below will reveal how to get to Valencia from a few of the major cities in Spain, as well as if you’re flying in internationally:
🚆✈️ Getting to Valencia
🚄 From Madrid
Getting from Madrid to Valencia is incredibly convenient, as the high-speed train ride takes just under 2 hours. This makes Valencia one of the easiest beach-city escapes from the Spanish capital.
🚆 From Barcelona
We personally traveled from Barcelona to Valencia by train and, honestly, it wasn’t the smoothest experience. Between delays, disorganization, and overall chaos, even locals on the train jokingly referred to Renfe as “Renfe Denfe.”
✈️ Flying Internationally
If you’re flying into Valencia Airport internationally, getting into the city center is thankfully very easy. The metro ride takes around 25–30 minutes and costs roughly €5 depending on your ticket type and destination within the city.
El Micalet with lights strung around it in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
How Many Days Should I Spend in Valencia?
You could see all of the main attractions in Valencia in a single day if you really wanted to, as the city is pretty small in size – but I strongly suggest staying in Valencia for at least 2 full days to really soak up the atmosphere and see everything calmly.
Valencia vs. Seville: Which One Should You Visit?
Valencia definitely reminded me of Seville, as both cities are very colorful with beautiful Spanish buildings.
The overview cards below will help you decide whether you should visit Valencia or Seville on a trip to Spain:
☀️🌴🇪🇸 Valencia vs. Seville — Which Spanish City Should You Choose?
Valencia is much better connected to larger Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid, making it easier to combine into a broader Spain itinerary.
Valencia has beautiful sandy beaches directly connected to the city, making it ideal for travelers who want both city charm and beach time in one trip.
Valencia feels calmer, cleaner, and less tourist-heavy overall, with a softer and more relaxed energy compared to Seville.
Travelers who want a slower-paced vacation with beach access, charming streets, and a more local atmosphere.
Seville is located much further south in Spain, making it feel hotter, more colorful, and more traditionally Andalusian overall.
Seville is definitely more touristy than Valencia — especially during spring and summer when visitors flock there for flamenco, tapas, and historic landmarks.
Seville feels more historic and dramatic overall, with colorful buildings, orange trees, flamenco culture, and beautiful Moorish architecture around every corner.
Travelers who want sunshine, Andalusian culture, historic architecture, and a more traditionally “Spanish” feeling trip.
Red Clock Tower in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Valencia vs. Barcelona: Which One Should You Visit?
Locals in Barcelona told us that Valencia is very similar to Barcelona, except smaller. I wouldn’t entirely agree, but the general gist is the same – as both cities are on the water, offer lively
The overview cards below will help you decide whether you should visit Valencia or Barcelona on a trip to Spain:
☀️🏖️🇪🇸 Valencia vs. Barcelona — Which Spanish City Should You Choose?
Underneath El Micalet in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
10 Best Things You Should Do in Valencia (2026)
1. Marvel in El Micalet
As a truly stunning city, even as I spent 3 days in Valencia – I couldn’t stop marveling in El Micalet, which is the main church in the center of the city.
Torre del Micalet in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Also known as Torre del Micalet, it essentially serves as Valencia’s primary bell tower – which was built from 1381 to 1429. If you get lost while in Valencia, this is the monument you’ll want to walk towards anytime you want to get back to the heart of all the action.
You can go inside for free, just be sure to be respectful and quiet.
Pro-Tip: I would plan to go inside El Micalet and if you’re interested, climb up the tower at the same time – that way you kill two birds with one stone.
2. Shop at Mercat Central de Valencia
Serving as Valencia’s primary local market, you’ll be able to find all sorts of Spanish goodies to take back home with you here – from turron, dried fruits, ceramics, and other souvenirs.
Outside the central market in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Pro-Tip: If you have a hotel with a kitchen like we did, this is a great place to buy fresh product, meat, and seafood to cook at home like to locals in Valencia!
3. See Torres de Serranos
Although it looks more like a mini “castle” in the center of Valencia, these towers were essentially used as gates to protect the ancient city – which is very reminiscent of the walls in Avignon.
Serranos Tower at dusk in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Pro-Tip: You can walk up to the top of Serranos Towers as long as it’s not raining, which will offer beautiful views of Valencia with the iconic El Micalet in it!
4. Eat Paella (It Comes from Valencia!)
When you’re in Valencia, you have to try Paella – as it’s the best Spanish city to try it in! In fact, did you know that Paella actually started in Valenica?
The first official Paella is thought to have been created by Valencian farmers back in the 15th century, when they needed a quick-and-easy meal to cook with rice and whatever else they had on hand, which in Valencia – was often seafood due to being so close to the water.
If you’re looking for a great place to try Paella, I strongly recommend Barravas – which is right behind the Cathedral of Valencia.
Trying Paella in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Pro-Tip: We saw that many restaurants in Valencia, which I have never seen elsewhere in Spain – offered vegetarian and vegan paella, meaning everyone can get a chance to try this classic Spaniard dish while on a trip to Valencia.
5. Wander the Town
One of the best things to do while in Valencia is to simply wander around, as it really is one of those cities where something enchanting is on every corner.
Wandering the colorful streets of Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Photographers, beware: you’ll definitely want a back-up battery and memory card for your trip to Valencia – as it’ll be challenging to stop taking pictures!
Pro-Tip: Start at El Micalet and make your way in until you find yourself having made one big circle through the small and magical streets of Valencia.
6. Visit the Ancient Silk Stock Exchange
If you’re interested in a bit of history while in Valencia, then you’ll definitely want to go to Llotja de la Seda, which is better known as the Valencia Silk Stock exchange.
Old Stock Exchange in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Pro-Tip: Remember to be quiet while walking around here, as there is a common area where they will be projected a video lesson with captions in English!
7. Enjoy the Beach at La Malva-Rosa
Valencia is known for being similar to Barcelona is at resides on the water and is home to many beaches.
Locals at our hotel suggested we check out La Malva-Rosa, which is a very laid-back, blue-collar style beach oriented to families and friends spending time together without commercial fluff.
La Malva-Rosa Beach in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Pro-Tip: There aren’t that many restaurants and shops along La Malva-Rosa’s promenade, as it’s truly just a strip of flat beach. Therefore, I’d plan your visit to the beach in Valencia accordingly if you don’t plan on having a true “beach day” where you simply bask in the sun for hours.
8. Take Pictures at Plaza de la Virgen
While in Valencia, you won’t want to miss out on one of the prettiest squares in the city – which is Plaza de la Virgen.
Plaza de la Virgen in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
With El Micalet surrounding the area near the fountain, this is a sight for sore eyes.
Pro-Tip: This place gets very crowded near the end of the day and empties out at night, so feel to walk by closer to dusk if you want to enjoy it in peace and quiet.
9. Climb to the Top of the Towers for Views of Valencia
If you’re able to, it’s worth the 3€ ticket and 207 step climb up to the top of El Micalet for the stunning views of Valencia.
View of Valencia from the top of El Micalet; May 2026
Just keep in mind that since there are only stairs that go up one way for El Micalet, that they only let people up and down in 30 minute increments – so don’t be surprised if you end up waiting in line for a while.
You can also go up the Serranos Towers or Quart Towers, but beware that both of these towers close easily due to rain – even if it wasn’t pouring the night before.
Pro-Tip: If you want gorgeous views of Valencia but can’t make the climb to the top of any of these more ancient monuments, there’s a beautiful rooftop bar called Athena Sky less than a 10 minute walk away from El Micalet!
10. Explore Valencia’s Unique Museums
Valencia has a rustic, historic old city center – but did you know that it also has a futuristic area lined with museums and even a zoon to take your kids to?
The overview cards will help you decide which museum in Valencia might be right for you:
Overview cards to decide which museum to visit in Valencia, art, science, add a third major one if I am missing them add prices and warn about opening hours, as I know the science one closed by 2pm on Sunday.
🧪🎨🌊 Which Museum Should You Visit in Valencia?
🧪 City of Arts & Sciences Museum
If you enjoy interactive museums, futuristic architecture, or are traveling with kids, this is probably the best museum experience in Valencia. The Museu de les Ciències is part of the famous City of Arts & Sciences complex and usually costs around €9–10 for adults.
Important: Opening hours vary a lot depending on the season and even the day of the week — and some Sundays or winter dates can close surprisingly early. I would strongly suggest checking the hours ahead of time and going earlier in the day. :contentReference[oaicite:0]
🎨 Museo Nacional de Cerámica
If you prefer elegant interiors, history, and beautiful old buildings, the National Museum of Ceramics is one of the prettiest museums in Valencia. It’s located inside the stunning Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas and is perfect for artsy travelers who enjoy slower-paced museums.
Tickets are usually around €3, and entry is free during certain hours and Sundays. :contentReference[oaicite:1]
🌊 Oceanogràfic Valencia
Technically an aquarium rather than a traditional museum, the Oceanogràfic is still one of the most impressive “museum-style” attractions in Valencia — especially for families. It’s the largest aquarium in Europe and can easily take half a day to explore.
Adult tickets are generally around €35–40, depending on the season and package. Like the science museum, hours can change seasonally, so double-check before going. :contentReference[oaicite:2]
Pro-Tip: Make sure the museum you want to visit in Valencia is open, especially if it’s a weekend – as museums in Spain and the rest of Europe often have odd opening and closing hours that international tourists may not expect or plan for in advance.
Building lit up at night in Valencia, Spain; May 2026
Still have unanswered questions about visiting Valencia? Find out the answers to everything you need to know about the city in the FAQ table below.
☀️🏖️🥘 Valencia FAQs 🥘🏖️☀️
Need help planning the rest of your trip to Spain?
I’ve been traveling all over Spain for almost a decade, having visited almost every major city in the country – meaning I can help you plan the perfect trip to Spain.
Additional articles you might find helpful include:
Last updated: May 16, 2026