Valencia, with its combination of beaches, vibrant culture, and excellent cuisine, offers a wide variety of activities for expat professionals looking to balance work and leisure. Whether you’re looking to explore the city, relax, or socialize, here’s a comprehensive guide to what to do in Valencia to make the most of your free time.
1. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
One of Valencia’s main attractions is the City of Arts and Sciences, an impressive architectural complex that houses the Oceanographic, the Hemispheric, the Science Museum and the Agora.
- Recommendation: Purchase a combination pass to access all attractions and don’t miss the dolphin show at the Oceanographic. Visit the Hemispheric to enjoy an IMAX movie or a planetarium show.
2. Enjoy Malvarrosa Beach
Malvarrosa Beach is a favorite destination for relaxing and soaking up the sun. With its long stretches of golden sand and a wide variety of bars and restaurants along the promenade, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
- Recommendation: Try one of the beach restaurants like La Pepica to savor an authentic paella while enjoying the sea view. You can also rent a bicycle to explore the promenade.
3. Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Central Market
The Central Market is a vibrant covered market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, from fruits and vegetables to seafood and cured meats. It’s a great place to experience local culture and buy fresh ingredients.
- Recommendation: Visit the market in the morning to avoid the crowds and take the opportunity to sample local products such as Iberian ham and horchata. Join one of the guided tours to learn about the market’s history.
4. Explore the Old Town and its neighborhoods
Valencia’s old town, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, offers a charming experience. Neighborhoods like El Carmen and Ruzafa are full of history, art, and nightlife.
- Recommendation: Take a walking tour of the old town, visiting Valencia Cathedral, the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda), and Plaza de la Virgen. In Ruzafa, explore its bars and cafes to enjoy dinner or drinks.
5. Participate in Local Events and Festivals
Valencia is famous for its festivals and cultural events. Las Fallas, celebrated in March, is one of the most important festivals, featuring large cardboard figures and fireworks.
- Recommendation: If you move before March, be sure to experience Las Fallas. Also, the Valencia Marathon in November is another exciting event, both for runners and spectators.
6. Enjoy the nightlife in the El Carmen neighborhood
El Carmen is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs. It’s the perfect place to socialize and enjoy a night out on the town.
- Recommendation: Visit Café de las Horas for unique cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. For a livelier experience, head to La3 Club, one of Valencia’s most popular clubs.
7. Relax in the Turia Gardens
The Turia Gardens is a large urban park that runs through the city, perfect for exercising, strolling, or simply relaxing. It offers green spaces, bike paths, and playgrounds.
- Recommendation: Explore the park by bike or on foot, and visit the Cabecera Park, where you’ll find a lake and ample picnic areas. You can also enjoy a cultural event at the Music Palace within the park.
8. Explore Contemporary Art at the IVAM
The Valencian Institute of Modern Art (IVAM) is one of the leading contemporary art museums in Spain. It offers exhibitions of local and international artists and boasts a diverse cultural program.
- Recommendation: Purchase a discounted ticket to visit the IVAM’s temporary and permanent exhibitions. Participate in one of the workshops or talks that are regularly organized.
9. Discover Valencian Gastronomy
Valencia is known for its cuisine, especially paella. Besides trying this traditional dish, explore the city’s rich gastronomic offerings, which include tapas, rice dishes, and desserts.
- Recommendation: Don’t miss a meal at Casa Roberto or El Rall to enjoy an authentic paella. You can also join a food tour to sample a variety of local dishes.
10. Do Outdoor Activities in the Surrounding Area
Valencia offers many opportunities for outdoor activities in its surroundings. You can explore the Albufera, a natural park near the city, or go hiking in the Sierra de Espino.
- Recommendation: Take a boat trip on the Albufera lagoon to enjoy nature and the views. For hiking, choose routes in the Sierra de Espino mountains for a day of adventure and panoramic vistas.
Valencia is a city rich in culture, leisure, and entertainment, ideal for expat professionals who want to balance their work life with recreational activities. We hope this guide helps you explore and enjoy everything the city has to offer. Enjoy your time in Valencia!
