About Valencia

Valencia, Spain's vibrant eastern coastal region, captivates travelers with its perfect blend of historic charm and futuristic innovation. The capital city, also named Valencia, is home to the stunning City of Arts and Sciences—a breathtaking architectural complex featuring an opera house, science museum, and Europe's largest aquarium. Beyond the city, the region offers 500 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline with golden beaches, the serene Albufera Natural Park with its traditional rice fields and lagoon, and charming inland villages producing world-renowned wines and oranges. Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and visitors can savor authentic versions in the very region where this iconic dish originated. The annual Las Fallas festival in March transforms the streets with enormous satirical sculptures that are dramatically burned in spectacular pyrotechnic displays. From the Gothic Silk Exchange (a UNESCO site) to the futuristic architecture, from mountain monasteries to coastal resorts, Valencia offers a rich tapestry of experiences where ancient traditions meet contemporary design.

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Travel Tips for Valencia

Getting Around

Valencia has an efficient public transport system including metro, buses, and trams. The EMT bus network covers the city extensively. The Valencia Tourist Card offers unlimited travel and discounts. Biking is popular with extensive bike lanes and the Valenbisi bike-sharing system. Taxis are metered and reliable; use official taxi ranks or apps like Free Now. Ride-sharing services like Uber operate. For exploring beyond the city, regional trains (Cercanías) and buses connect towns. Renting a car is useful for visiting rural areas and coastal towns.

Best Time To Visit

March to May and September to November offer pleasant temperatures (18-25°C/64-77°F), fewer crowds, and lower prices. March is ideal for experiencing Las Fallas festival. Summer (June-August) is hot and crowded but perfect for beach holidays. Winter is mild but can be rainy.

Local Customs

Valencians typically eat late: lunch around 2-3 PM, dinner after 9 PM. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is customary for good service. Dress modestly when visiting churches. The local language, Valencian, is widely used alongside Spanish; learning basic phrases is appreciated. During Las Fallas, expect loud firecrackers (mascletàs) daily at 2 PM. Greet with a handshake or two kisses on the cheek among acquaintances.

Safety Information

Valencia is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions against pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas like the City of Arts and Sciences, Central Market, and during festivals. Be cautious with belongings on public transport, especially buses and the metro. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, particularly in some parts of the old town. Common scams include distraction thefts and overcharging in some tourist-oriented restaurants (always check menus for prices). The Cabanyal neighborhood has improved but can still be sketchy at night. Emergency services are responsive and reliable.

Health Information

Valencia has excellent public and private healthcare facilities. The Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe in Valencia is a major public hospital. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations. Summer brings high temperatures (often above 30°C/86°F), so hydration and sun protection are essential. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available for minor ailments.

Languages Spoken

Spanish (Castilian)Valencian (Catalan)

Quick Facts

Currency

Euro (EUR)
€

Timezone

Europe/Madrid +01:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+34

Electricity

Type C, F; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

5.1 million

Area

23255 km²

Government

Autonomous Community with its own Parliament and President

ISO Code

ES-60

About Valencia

Things to do in Valencia

Valencia Paella & Tapas Home Cooking Class with Local Chef Jose

Singular Valencia Wine Tour Utiel Requena Wineries

Hiking Cliffs & Old Fishing Trails around Moraira OFFICIAL GUIDE

Valencia Arts and Sciences Segway Tour

Small-Group Wine Tour with Local Expert (7 max)

All-in-One Valencia Private E-Scooter Tour

Valencia Complete Full Private Day with Hotel Pick up

Private Wineries Tour from Valencia (morning tour)

Valencia Port Private Segway Tour

Chill and Sail in Valencia

Valencia Bike Tour: Top Sights and City of Arts & Sciences

Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Valencia

Pub Crawl Valencia: Bars, Free Shots & Club Entry

Private Boat Rental Pedal Cruises Valencia Cycle Boats

Walking tour through the old town with a Dutch-speaking city guide

Places to visit in Valencia

Casa De La Cultura De La Pobla De Vallbona

Hotel Iris

Mirador de la Reina

Casbah

Monument a Joaquim Sorolla

Saman Hotel Boutique

Flamencos

Recuperem la Punta

Malcom & Barret

NH Las Artes

B&B

Arena Zone Hotel

Arena Select

Hotel Villacarlos

Barceló Valencia