15 Famous Places in Valencia Spain You Shouldn’t Miss
Looking for the most famous places in Valencia to add to your itinerary? You’re in the right place!
As a travel blogger that lives in Spain, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring Valencia and checking out its top attractions.
From modern landmarks and golden beaches to centuries-old sites in the old town, Valencia offers a great mix of things to see and do without feeling too touristy.
In this post, I’m sharing 15 famous places in Valencia you shouldn’t miss whether it’s your first visit or you’re planning a return trip. Let’s get started!
Famous Places in Valencia Spain
Here are the most famous things to see in Valencia you shouldn’t miss:
1. City of Arts & Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is hands down the most iconic place to visit in Valencia.
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic complex features several eye-catching buildings that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie.
On the grounds you’ll find the largest aquarium in Europe (L’Oceanogràfic), a science museum (Museu de les Ciències), an IMAX cinema (L’Hemisfèric), and even an opera house (Palau de les Arts).
You can easily spend a good part of the day here walking around the turquoise pools, taking photos, and exploring the exhibitions inside.
Tickets for the attractions can be purchased individually or you can buy a combo ticket to save a bit of money.
It’s located just a bit outside the city center, but you can get there in about 15-20 minutes by bike, bus, or taxi.
2. Central Market
Valencia’s Central Market (Mercado Central) is one of the oldest running food markets in Europe and definitely one of the most beautiful.
The building itself is a work of art, with colorful tiles, stained glass windows, and a huge iron dome alongside both indoor and outdoor stalls.
You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and produce to jamón, spices, and snacks like horchata and fresh fruit.
It’s a fun spot to grab a bite or just wander through and check out what the locals are buying.
3. Valencia Cathedral
Another one of the most famous places in Valencia you shouldn’t miss is the Valencia Cathedral, located right in the center of the old town.
This Gothic-style cathedral is known for its mix of architectural styles and for housing what they claim to be the actual Holy Grail!
Don’t skip the climb up El Micalet (the bell tower), where you’ll get some of the best panoramic views of the city from the top.
4. La Lonja de la Seda
Another famous spot in Valencia worth checking out is La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site right across from the Central Market.
This former silk exchange dates back to the 15th century and is one of the best examples of civil Gothic architecture in Europe.
The twisted columns and vaulted ceilings in the main hall are seriously impressive, and you can explore the entire building on a quick self-guided visit that only costs around €2.
5. Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart
Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart are two medieval towers that once guarded the entrances to Valencia’s old city.
Built back in the 14th and 15th centuries, they’ve been used as everything from military defenses to prisons.
These days, you can climb to the top for just a couple of euros. The stairs are steep and narrow, so be ready for a bit of a climb!
The panoramic views over the Old Town, Turia Park, and beyond make it well worth the effort.
6. Plaza de la Reina
Plaza de la Reina is one of the main squares in Valencia and a popular spot to relax, grab a coffee, or do some people-watching.
It’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings including the Valencia Cathedral, which sits right at the edge of the plaza.
The square was recently renovated, so it’s more pedestrian-friendly now with shady spots and seating areas.
7. Plaza de la Virgen
Just a short walk from Plaza de la Reina, Plaza de la Virgen is another must-see square in Valencia.
Visiting this square is one of the most popular things to do in Valencia and where you’ll find the large Turia Fountain depicting the Roman god Neptune surrounded by eight female statues.
You’ll also see the other side of the Valencia Cathedral, a small orange garden, and historic buildings all around.
8. Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Plaza del Ayuntamiento is one of the largest and busiest squares in Valencia, home to the town hall and some of the grandest buildings in the city.
The architecture here feels a bit more formal, with wide boulevards, elegant facades, and a big central fountain surrounded by flowers.
It’s a popular spot during festivals like Las Fallas, when the whole plaza fills with people for firecracker shows and parades.
On a regular day, it’s a nice place to walk through, snap some photos, or stop for a drink at one of the nearby restaurants.
9. Turria Park
Turia Park is a massive green space that runs right through the middle of Valencia, built in the old riverbed after the Turia River was diverted.
It’s one of those places where there’s always something going on whether it’s people jogging, riding bikes, walking their dogs, or just laying in the grass.
The park stretches for miles and goes all the way to the City of Arts and Sciences and Bioparc Valencia. If you’re up for a bit of a walk, it’s a nice way to get there!
10. Mestalla Stadium
Mestalla Stadium is the home of Valencia CF and one of the oldest football (soccer) stadiums in Spain.
Even if you’re not a huge soccer fan, catching a match here is an exciting experience since the energy from the fans is next level.
You can also take a stadium tour to see the locker rooms, pitch, and learn more about the club’s history.
11. Mercat de Colon
Mercat de Colón is another one of the most famous buildings in Valencia and worth a visit just to admire the architecture.
This market was inspired by Antoni Gaudí and features colorful mosaic tiles and beautiful arched ironwork.
While the actual market area downstairs is fairly small, the upstairs has stands selling cute jewelry, clothing, sunglasses, and other accessories from local designers.
It’s also a great place to grab a drink or bite to eat, with several restaurants, bars, and cafes throughout the building.
12. National Ceramics Museum
The National Ceramics Museum is probably one of the most ornate buildings in Valencia, housed inside the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas.
Even if you don’t go in, the entrance alone is really beautiful, with crazy-detailed sculptures and a giant marble doorway.
Inside, you’ll find everything from traditional ceramics and tiled rooms to pieces by Picasso and a peek at how fancy homes used to look.
13. Playa de la Malvarrosa
Hitting the beach is another thing that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Valencia!
Playa de la Malvarrosa is Valencia’s main city beach, known for its wide stretch of sand and chill atmosphere.
It’s about 30-40 minutes from the Old Town by public transportation, but worth the trip if you want a beach day.
There’s a long boardwalk with restaurants and beach bars where you can grab a drink or try some paella with a sea view.
14. La Estrecha
La Estrecha is one of the narrowest buildings in Europe, and you might walk right past it if you’re not paying attention.
It’s just over a meter wide, and a whole family used to live there–each person had their own floor!
You can’t go inside, but it’s a fun little photo stop, and the building definitely stands out once you spot it.
15. Church of San Nicolás
The Church of San Nicolás is hidden away in the old town and totally worth a look inside.
People call it the “Sistine Chapel of Valencia” because the ceiling is covered in colorful, over-the-top paintings.
It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but once you’re in, the artwork is seriously impressive.
Final Thoughts: Top Places to Visit in Valencia
I hope this list helps you narrow down the top tourist attractions in Valencia Spain and makes planning your trip a little easier.
Whether you’re into architecture, local food, city views, or beach days, Valencia has a great mix of things to check out.
It might not get as much attention as destinations like Barcelona or Madrid, but it definitely holds its own.
Leave a little time to explore without a plan and you’ll probably end up finding a few favorites of your own.
READ NEXT:
- Where to Stay in Valencia: Best Areas & Hotels
- Valencia 2 Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do, See, & Eat
- 30 Fun Things to Do in Valencia Spain for First Timers
