Valencia is enjoying something of a moment. Recently awarded World Capital of Design, European Green Capital, and voted best place to live for expats, Spain’s third city is coming into its own as visitors discover a blend of golden beaches, futuristic architecture, historical treasures and sumptuous cuisine.
We’re proud that our agency, Contese, is based in this fabulous city. Our founder, experienced travel journalist Sarah Gordon, has a passion for exploring and writing about Valencia, always searching for new trends and hidden treasures in the city and the surrounding region.
The recent floods, Spain's worst natural disaster in modern history and Europe's worst storm-related disaster in more than five decades have put the city in the headlines. And in the aftermath of this tragedy, the resilience and character of the city and its people shine through. With the city centre untouched by the floods, now is the time to visit Valencia and show support for its wonderful community.
Here’s our ultimate Valencia city break guide, with advice on where to stay, where to eat and what to explore during your trip. We hope you come to love this city as much as we do!
Best hotels in Valencia
From regal beachfront hotels to charming little boutique spots, here’s our selection of the best places to stay in Valencia.
Originally a 19th-century mansion, this five-star boutique hotel on the fringes of the old town features art deco-inspired rooms and suites, striking views and exquisite cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients. During renovations, the remains of a third-century Roman perfumery were discovered – straight out of the pages of history.
Located in the heart of the historic centre, close to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, this glitzy hotel offers a bistro, chic cocktail bar, a florist and Salvaje – a lively fusion Japanese eatery. Sleek and sophisticated, Only You Valencia carries the immaculate reputation of its brand, offering guests a special experience down to the smallest detail.
Five-star luxury leads the way at one of the top hotels in Valencia. Gaze out across the endless blue of the Mediterranean, while enjoying a sundowner on your private terrace. Since opening in 1898, this resort has earned its reputation as a luxury, grand property with stylish suites and a well-equipped spa.
Set in Valencia’s old town, just a stone’s throw from the lush Turia Gardens, this majestic property is the former palace of the Marqués de Caro. Combining a chic, contemporary interior while showcasing the historic city walls, this cool boutique hotel switches on the style and offers a splash pool, sunbeds and Michelin-starred restaurant Sucede.
Where to eat in Valencia
With the huerta on one side and the sea on the other, Valencia has access to an amazing array of fresh food and local produce. There is a booming food culture here, with exciting chefs creating a diverse array of fabulous dishes from traditional paella to intriguing experimental dishes. Just remember, Valencians love to eat out, so for any of these restaurants, you’ll need to book in advance.
Best for paella
Of course, we can’t talk about Valencian cuisine without mentioning its most famous export. From its origins as a versatile dish enjoyed by farmers and day labourers, authentic paella Valenciana has come to consist of bomba rice, chicken, rabbit, French beans, Valencian white beans, tomato, saffron, olive oil, water and salt.
Here are some of the best eateries to find the perfect paella.
In the heart of Canovas near the old town, this Michelin guide-noted restaurant offers an amazing selection of 21 rice options. Make sure to order your paella ahead of time (it’s cooked in advance), then start your evening with the Goya-style squid mayonnaise and smoked salmon and aubergine.
You’ll be greeted by a combination of traditional design – white-washed walls and polished wooden furniture – and stylised contemporary touches, before being bewitched by classic starters and exquisite rice dishes. This charming restaurant in El Carmen is a must if you’re staying in the old town.
Specialising in mouthwatering paella and other Valencian specialities such as esgarrat, titaina, steamed clóxines (mussels), tellines (clams) and grilled squid, this traditional, whitewashed farmhouse serves rice dishes in clay pots. Only 500 metres from the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, it has seen modern Valencia evolve around it.
A local favourite found in the village of Roca, just outside of the city. The wine cellar stores over 500 local and international wines. Having been converted from a well-known village bar to an elegant restaurant, Ca Pepico lost nothing in aura, ambience and authenticity. One of the top restaurants in Valencia.
Other great Valencian cuisine
In the waterfront neighbourhood of El Cabanyal, La Sastrería offers a sublime menu of Mediterranean favourites, highlighting the variety and potential of Valencia’s delicious produce. The ceramic tiled walls and colourful facade make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Housed in a former fisherman's cottage in El Cabanyal, this charming bodega serves up small plates inspired by its local history and seaside surroundings. In this intimate setting, enjoy a mix of simple Spanish and Valencian classics and unique cuts infused with mesmerising flavours.
For something a little different, Central Bar in the buzzing Mercado Central is a must. Soak up the atmosphere, take in the ornate Modernist facade and striking architecture with an exquisite menu of delicious tapas, paired with a cool beer or refreshing glass of red.
A romantic Michelin-star eatery helmed by chef Begoña Rodrigo in thriving Ruzafa, La Salita is set in a reformed 18th-century palace but with a bright, open terrace that opens up the restaurant. Wicker installations and plants create a bright aesthetic, or you can opt for a more formal dining experience indoors.
The glass walls and minimalist design only serve to emphasise the sweeping views of the marina and the exquisite fresh fish dishes. Combining food from the countryside and sea, this relatively new restaurant has become a fast favourite for locals and is great for meloso rise dishes, a more soupy version of paella (think risotto).
Valencia’s bustling marina is home to a wide range of excellent restaurants, but this cantina is a particular favourite. The fabulous aroma of freshly cooked seafood and shellfish entices you as soon as you enter. It might be slightly out of the way if you’re not by the marina, but well worth the effort.
On the shores of El Saler beach, this family-style restaurant is something of a hidden gem, crafting mouthwatering plates from land and sea. The easy coastal charm and disconnect from the buzzing city makes Mikkonos Beach Club a perfect lunch break during a lazy day relaxing among the dunes.
There are plenty of stylish bistros and restaurants in sophisticated Eixample, but Fum de Llum stands out as one of the top restaurants in Valencia for fantastic fusion dishes, cosy ambience and welcoming service. It’s a culinary experience that makes a big impact – a sublime showcase of contemporary Spanish cuisine.
Best things to do in Valencia
There are so many museums, activities and experiences in Valencia that a first-time visitor might feel spoilt for choice. As long-time residents of the city who write about it for top publications, here's a little insight into our favourite things to do.
Cycle through Turia Gardens
The city’s original green belt, Turia Gardens is one of Spain’s largest urban parks, unwinding through nine kilometres of green space including footpaths, sports areas and romantic picnic spots. Built where a riverbed once flowed, it’s impossible to imagine Valencia without its lush green central thread.
Walk the El Carmen neighbourhood
Taking its name from the church of Carmen Calzado, El Carmen is part of Valencia’s old town with a thousand years of history and heritage behind it. Traverse its winding streets, past medieval architecture and ancient city walls, taking in the Moorish Quarter, Mercado Central and the splendid Plaza de la Virgen.
Explore the Valencia Museum of Fine Arts
Spain’s second-largest art gallery forms a magnificent collection of 15th to 19th-century art, featuring works from Valencian painter Joaquín Sorolla, as well as the masters Goya, Velázquez, El Greco and more. The building itself is a historic monument, a Baroque construction that dates back to the 1700s.
Enjoy a drink at Colon Market
This striking example of Valencian Art Nouveau rivals the impressive Mercado Central, with an extraordinary decorative facade and ornate interiors furnishing a bright, airy space. It’s especially crowded on weekends, full of locals and visitors alike enjoying the outdoor cafes, food stalls and people-watching.
Sip coffee in Ruzafa
The eclectic neighbourhood of Ruzafa has transformed over the past few years to a cultural hub of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants with a youthful energy and pace of life. Among the artisan breweries and Ruzafa Market, you’ll find plenty of great coffee spots to enjoy a refreshing cup, perhaps with a delicious pastry too.
Discover Albufera Natural Park
South of the city, this natural park is centred around a freshwater lagoon, meaning a colourful variety of flora and fauna thrive across the wetlands. This is the fertile home of Valencia’s rice-growing industry. With a network of walking trails and bike tours, it’s perfect for getting off the beaten path and discovering a different side to Valencia.
Visit Valencia
Spain’s third city is stepping out of the shadows – a Valencia city break offers something you can’t necessarily find anywhere else. The sunshine dream of pristine beaches, the buzzing marina and the Mediterranean lifestyle meet the beautiful medieval old town and lush city parks. With beguiling Modernist architecture and flourishes of Moorish history meeting stylish, contemporary chic, Valencia is a city that knows its past but is always aware of its exciting future.