What to Do in Valencia: Must-See Places, Free Things & Local Tips
You're thinking about going to this beautiful city, but don’t know what things to do in Valencia. This city was the capital of Spain, is the birthplace of paella Valenciana, and claims to possess the Holy Grail in its cathedral. Going there, you will see a perfect Valencia sightseeing mix of ancient historic landmarks and modern architecture. The city has an incredible historic center packed with UNESCO World Heritage sites, numerous museums you can visit for free, outdoor attractions — beaches like Las Arenas and local markets like Mercado Central, and many more. When you ask yourself what to do in Valencia, just remember that what really can get you is how the destination just works. This place is one of those cities that surprises most visitors. It's got everything you'd want from a European city break destination without the overwhelming crowds of Barcelona or Madrid.
Taking free tours in Valencia, you will visit one of the area’s most interesting attractions. La Lonja de la Seda (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a must see in Valencia. This well-kept and beautiful space, with its exceptional halls, is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture.
Among the beautiful things to see in Valencia is this cathedral that combines several architectural styles, including Baroque, Romanesque, and Gothic architecture. The Holy Grail, from which, according to tradition, Jesus drank during the Last Supper, is kept here. If you book tours near the Cathedral, you will learn more about this story.
This isn't just a local market to buy food in a total area of 8,000 square meters. Over 1,200 vendors sell everything — from fresh produce to seafood that came in that morning. Today, it's one of those Valencia attractions that actually gives you a real taste of Mediterranean lifestyle and local tips on what's fresh.
It is the origin of this Spanish city. Every Thursday, when the bell on the Migalete tower strikes noon, the "Water Tribunal" begins at the Apostolic Gate. There are also many things to do near Plaza de la Virgen, even if you want to take a break from walking. For example, you can visit a local cafe, whose terraces are popular among locals and visitors alike. Street life in Valencia is on full display from there.
These are impressive gateway towers from the 14th century that used to protect the old city and were the main gates of the city. You can take a guided tour and explore Valencia from the Serranos Towers area, as city viewpoints from the top are pretty excellent, and they're way less crowded than some other spots.
Without a doubt, visiting this place is also one of the best things to do in Valencia. It's where Calle San Vicente and Calle de la Paz meet, filled with antique shops, art galleries, and a variety of jewelry stores. This square also has a number of tourist attractions, including the best restaurants and bars, which welcome visitors 24/7.
You can be torn between what to see in Valencia first — something old or modern. But the interesting thing about the city is how the old and new don't feel at odds with each other. Instead, they complement each other really well.
Valencia historic center is genuinely walkable. You can spend a full day just wandering around without getting bored. One of the most charming places to visit in Valencia is Barrio del Carmen. Situated in the historic center, the area is quiet and virtually deserted during the day. But in the evenings, it transforms into one of the main nightlife hubs.
Walking there, you find layers of history in the historic landmarks, Roman walls, Moorish influences, and Christian architectural styles. They are telling this complex story of how different cultural attractions shaped the area. Sightseeing on foot here is incredible, so you will not even have time to ask yourself what to do in your free time.
The Old Town is the central district, which perfectly illustrates its centuries-old history of conquests, rises, and falls. It’s definitely recommended to join a guided Old Town stroll in Valencia to get the real story behind what you're seeing. A local guide will point out details you'd totally miss on your own, and it enriches the experience way more than just wandering around with a map.
A modern part of the town can surprise you too. The City of Arts and Sciences is a biotech, modern architecture, and cultural complex, consisting of five exclusive buildings, and located in the dry bed of the Turia River. It covers 350,000 square meters, surrounded by artificial ponds, sculptures, parkland, and cozy cafés.
The Turia River Park (Jardín del Turia) is an urban green space and one more place for those who don’t know what to visit in Valencia. It is one of the largest parks in Spain, covering nine kilometers. This is one of the city highlights,divided into 12 sections. The first sections feature cyclocross and cycling trails, as well as sports facilities. The latter sections feature more traditional green spaces. Turia Park stretches across the entire city, connecting the historic center to the City of Arts and Sciences.
Walking through this town really shows you how the old and new sit side by side. You'll be in these narrow medieval streets with ancient stone buildings, then turn a corner and suddenly you're looking at futuristic white structures. It's wild how they don't feel out of place together.
There are many public spaces and urban green spaces where you can just hang out for free. For example, Cabecera Park (Parque de Cabecera) is one of the largest and least crowded green spaces. It features vast meadows, artificial lakes, and unobstructed views. It's one of the best spots for watching the sunset. What’s more, city viewpoints are spread throughout the historic center, where you can get gorgeous perspectives on the town highlights. The street life in Valencia is colorful, and you'll see locals living their actual lives. People grab coffee, read books on benches, and kids play.
Sometimes, coming up with a program on your own can be exhausting. That is why it is best to turn to local guides who can tell you everything about the region for free. Yes, free walking tours operate on a tip basis. It means you tip what you think it's worth at the end. And if you didn’t like the excursion, you don’t have to pay at all. For example, you can join a tip-based history tour of Valencia. You will have up to three hours with a local guide who actually knows the city and, in particular, any historic district inside out. You can also choose more specialized tours to discover what other guides won't tell you. There are tours covering everything from the Old Town to local neighborhoods. Of course, self-guided walking routes are fun, but having someone explain what you're actually looking at elevates your trip to another level.
If you are already there, hit the historic center first. Start at Plaza de la Virgen, visit the Valencia Cathedral, and walk through Barrio del Carmen. Grab lunch at a local café. Head to the Mercado Central in the afternoon, then either chill in the Turia Garden or catch the City of Arts and Sciences at sunset. When you're visiting this region for only one day, try to see as many historic landmarks as you can, plus at least one modern architecture attraction. This is a solid Valencia sightseeing program for a single day.
In case you wonder what to do there this weekend, you've got more options:
Visiting this town for a weekend ideally means balancing cultural attractions, nature, and local flavor without feeling rushed. This travel itinerary gives you a balanced experience.
Sundays have a different rhythm. Local markets are busy in the morning, Mercado Central especially. Museums tend to be less crowded, but there are more people on beaches. So, it works best if you just explore the city at a slower pace. Locals aren't rushing, so don't either.
Your first visit should hit the major things to do in Valencia that define the city. So, come up with city sightseeing routes in advance. Start with the UNESCO sites and historic landmarks. It can be the Valencia Cathedral or La Lonja de la Seda. Also, spend time exploring the historic center. Visit at least one modernist architecture place, for example, the City of Arts and Sciences. Add to your route the Mercado Central for authentic local flavor and culture. Climb the Torres de Serranos for city viewpoints you won't get anywhere else. This travel itinerary gives you a genuine feel for why this place matters.
If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, then you should try the budget-friendly activities. There are free museums on designated days (check schedules ahead), public spaces and urban green spaces, and Valencia beaches (city access) on the Mediterranean coastline. All of these are free cultural experiences. Also, you can book free walking tours on a tip basis. Free things aren't inferior to paid experiences. They're actually the most authentic. If you plan to visit a large number of museums, interesting tourist sites, and frequently travel around by metro, get a Valencia Tourist Card. Budget travel in Spain doesn't mean missing out on this beautiful city.
This Spanish town is home to numerous iconic sights that will captivate both adults and children. But children aren't particularly interested in strolling through historical monuments or modern architecture in Valencia, nor are they drawn to monotonous stories about famous figures. Here, the City of Arts and Sciences is essential when traveling with kids. It has aquariums and interactive museums that kids genuinely love. Also, the Oceanarium is one of the best places to spend a few hours. It's home to around 45,000 different types of marine life. Local Bioparc is also worth visiting, where wild animals and exotic birds live in the open air. Check out the local events calendar in advance to have the greatest experience with your family.
The best approach is to combine visits to historic landmarks with at least one modern attraction. Valencia Cathedral, La Lonja, exploring Barrio del Carmen, walking the Turia Garden, and visiting the City of Arts and Sciences cover the essentials. Add museums, local markets, and beaches depending on your interests.
Yes. There are free museums on designated days, all parks and public spaces, beaches, and local markets. They are free to explore, and there are also many other authentic sightseeing spots. Also, free walking tours operate on a tip-based system, so you pay what you think it's worth.
Explore the historic center, visit a free museum, like Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia, walk through Barrio del Carmen, hang out in Plaza de la Virgen, stroll the Turia Garden, and visit the Mercado Central. These are the best things to do today, or if you visit this destination for the first time.
Three days. One day is too rushed, and you'll feel pressured to skip things worth seeing. Two days is better, as you can visit major attractions like the historic center, the Cathedral, and the City of Arts and Sciences. Three days is perfect for experiencing the region properly without constantly checking your watch.
Yes. Free walking tours, beaches, parks, and many museums with designated free-entry days make exploring the area genuinely affordable. You can eat well at affordable local restaurants and markets, find cheap accommodation, and enjoy tons of activities and attractions for significantly less than you'd spend in Barcelona or Madrid.
Spring (March-May) and early fall (September-October) are perfect for visiting it. During these seasons, the weather is pleasantly warm without the intense summer heat, crowds are manageable, and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and exploring outdoor attractions. Summer gets scorching hot and extremely crowded, while winter brings occasional rain.
First-Time Visitor Highlights
Landmarks You Shouldn’t Miss
La Lonja de la Seda
Taking free tours in Valencia, you will visit one of the area’s most interesting attractions. La Lonja de la Seda (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a must see in Valencia. This well-kept and beautiful space, with its exceptional halls, is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture.
Valencia Cathedral
Among the beautiful things to see in Valencia is this cathedral that combines several architectural styles, including Baroque, Romanesque, and Gothic architecture. The Holy Grail, from which, according to tradition, Jesus drank during the Last Supper, is kept here. If you book tours near the Cathedral, you will learn more about this story.
Mercado Central
This isn't just a local market to buy food in a total area of 8,000 square meters. Over 1,200 vendors sell everything — from fresh produce to seafood that came in that morning. Today, it's one of those Valencia attractions that actually gives you a real taste of Mediterranean lifestyle and local tips on what's fresh.
Plaza de la Virgen
It is the origin of this Spanish city. Every Thursday, when the bell on the Migalete tower strikes noon, the "Water Tribunal" begins at the Apostolic Gate. There are also many things to do near Plaza de la Virgen, even if you want to take a break from walking. For example, you can visit a local cafe, whose terraces are popular among locals and visitors alike. Street life in Valencia is on full display from there.
Torres de Serranos
These are impressive gateway towers from the 14th century that used to protect the old city and were the main gates of the city. You can take a guided tour and explore Valencia from the Serranos Towers area, as city viewpoints from the top are pretty excellent, and they're way less crowded than some other spots.
Plaza de la Reina
Without a doubt, visiting this place is also one of the best things to do in Valencia. It's where Calle San Vicente and Calle de la Paz meet, filled with antique shops, art galleries, and a variety of jewelry stores. This square also has a number of tourist attractions, including the best restaurants and bars, which welcome visitors 24/7.
Historic & Cultural Highlights
Valencia Historic Center & Old Town
You can be torn between what to see in Valencia first — something old or modern. But the interesting thing about the city is how the old and new don't feel at odds with each other. Instead, they complement each other really well.
Valencia historic center is genuinely walkable. You can spend a full day just wandering around without getting bored. One of the most charming places to visit in Valencia is Barrio del Carmen. Situated in the historic center, the area is quiet and virtually deserted during the day. But in the evenings, it transforms into one of the main nightlife hubs.
Walking there, you find layers of history in the historic landmarks, Roman walls, Moorish influences, and Christian architectural styles. They are telling this complex story of how different cultural attractions shaped the area. Sightseeing on foot here is incredible, so you will not even have time to ask yourself what to do in your free time.
The Old Town is the central district, which perfectly illustrates its centuries-old history of conquests, rises, and falls. It’s definitely recommended to join a guided Old Town stroll in Valencia to get the real story behind what you're seeing. A local guide will point out details you'd totally miss on your own, and it enriches the experience way more than just wandering around with a map.
Modern Valencia & Architecture Highlights
A modern part of the town can surprise you too. The City of Arts and Sciences is a biotech, modern architecture, and cultural complex, consisting of five exclusive buildings, and located in the dry bed of the Turia River. It covers 350,000 square meters, surrounded by artificial ponds, sculptures, parkland, and cozy cafés.
The Turia River Park (Jardín del Turia) is an urban green space and one more place for those who don’t know what to visit in Valencia. It is one of the largest parks in Spain, covering nine kilometers. This is one of the city highlights,divided into 12 sections. The first sections feature cyclocross and cycling trails, as well as sports facilities. The latter sections feature more traditional green spaces. Turia Park stretches across the entire city, connecting the historic center to the City of Arts and Sciences.
Walking through this town really shows you how the old and new sit side by side. You'll be in these narrow medieval streets with ancient stone buildings, then turn a corner and suddenly you're looking at futuristic white structures. It's wild how they don't feel out of place together.
Free Activities & Experiences
Museums in Valencia
- Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia. This is definitely one of the best museums to visit in Valencia for free admission. Here you can admire a collection of paintings, including works by Goya, Velázquez, Sorolla, and other prominent artists. The exhibits also include sculptures, archaeological finds, architectural fragments, photographs, and decorative and applied art.
- Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània (CCCC). One of thefree things to do in Valencia is visit CCCC. It is located in a former monastery. The design features Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements. The center's program features contemporary art, experimental theater, film screenings, music, and educational projects. Open only during exhibitions, and the entrance is free.
- IVAM (Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno). Opened in 1989, it features works by the most outstanding contemporary artists, from the early 20th century to the present day. The permanent collection comprises approximately 11,000 items. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are free museum days, but only during certain hours. So, plan your visit accordingly to get into one of the most popular Valencia attractions.
Parks, Squares & Outdoor Spots
There are many public spaces and urban green spaces where you can just hang out for free. For example, Cabecera Park (Parque de Cabecera) is one of the largest and least crowded green spaces. It features vast meadows, artificial lakes, and unobstructed views. It's one of the best spots for watching the sunset. What’s more, city viewpoints are spread throughout the historic center, where you can get gorgeous perspectives on the town highlights. The street life in Valencia is colorful, and you'll see locals living their actual lives. People grab coffee, read books on benches, and kids play.
Free Walking Tours & Local Experiences
Sometimes, coming up with a program on your own can be exhausting. That is why it is best to turn to local guides who can tell you everything about the region for free. Yes, free walking tours operate on a tip basis. It means you tip what you think it's worth at the end. And if you didn’t like the excursion, you don’t have to pay at all. For example, you can join a tip-based history tour of Valencia. You will have up to three hours with a local guide who actually knows the city and, in particular, any historic district inside out. You can also choose more specialized tours to discover what other guides won't tell you. There are tours covering everything from the Old Town to local neighborhoods. Of course, self-guided walking routes are fun, but having someone explain what you're actually looking at elevates your trip to another level.
Suggested Itineraries by Time
Things to Do in Valencia Today
If you are already there, hit the historic center first. Start at Plaza de la Virgen, visit the Valencia Cathedral, and walk through Barrio del Carmen. Grab lunch at a local café. Head to the Mercado Central in the afternoon, then either chill in the Turia Garden or catch the City of Arts and Sciences at sunset. When you're visiting this region for only one day, try to see as many historic landmarks as you can, plus at least one modern architecture attraction. This is a solid Valencia sightseeing program for a single day.
Things to Do in Valencia This Weekend
In case you wonder what to do there this weekend, you've got more options:
- Friday evening, explore the historic center and have dinner in a local neighborhood restaurant to try Valencian cuisine and its popular horchata and fartons.
- Saturday, hit the museumsin the morning (especially if it's a free day), walk the Turia Garden, and maybe head to the beach in the afternoon.
- Sunday morning, check out the local markets, have a Sunday sightseeing, explore a neighborhood you haven't seen, and do some shopping. These are also great weekend activities if you don’t knowwhat to visit on the last day.
Visiting this town for a weekend ideally means balancing cultural attractions, nature, and local flavor without feeling rushed. This travel itinerary gives you a balanced experience.
What to Do in Valencia on Sunday
Sundays have a different rhythm. Local markets are busy in the morning, Mercado Central especially. Museums tend to be less crowded, but there are more people on beaches. So, it works best if you just explore the city at a slower pace. Locals aren't rushing, so don't either.
Valencia Attractions for Different Travelers
Valencia for First-Time Visitors
Your first visit should hit the major things to do in Valencia that define the city. So, come up with city sightseeing routes in advance. Start with the UNESCO sites and historic landmarks. It can be the Valencia Cathedral or La Lonja de la Seda. Also, spend time exploring the historic center. Visit at least one modernist architecture place, for example, the City of Arts and Sciences. Add to your route the Mercado Central for authentic local flavor and culture. Climb the Torres de Serranos for city viewpoints you won't get anywhere else. This travel itinerary gives you a genuine feel for why this place matters.
Valencia for Budget Travelers
If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, then you should try the budget-friendly activities. There are free museums on designated days (check schedules ahead), public spaces and urban green spaces, and Valencia beaches (city access) on the Mediterranean coastline. All of these are free cultural experiences. Also, you can book free walking tours on a tip basis. Free things aren't inferior to paid experiences. They're actually the most authentic. If you plan to visit a large number of museums, interesting tourist sites, and frequently travel around by metro, get a Valencia Tourist Card. Budget travel in Spain doesn't mean missing out on this beautiful city.
Valencia for Families
This Spanish town is home to numerous iconic sights that will captivate both adults and children. But children aren't particularly interested in strolling through historical monuments or modern architecture in Valencia, nor are they drawn to monotonous stories about famous figures. Here, the City of Arts and Sciences is essential when traveling with kids. It has aquariums and interactive museums that kids genuinely love. Also, the Oceanarium is one of the best places to spend a few hours. It's home to around 45,000 different types of marine life. Local Bioparc is also worth visiting, where wild animals and exotic birds live in the open air. Check out the local events calendar in advance to have the greatest experience with your family.
Practical Tips for Visiting Valencia
- Getting around and walking distances. Public transport in Valencia is solid — buses, trams, metro, even though Valencia is a walkable city. It means you're never more than 20 minutes from the most interesting things.
- Best season. The best time to visit Valencia for sightseeing is in the spring. Summers are hot and crowded. Also, the first two months of autumn are very warm, and the beach season is still active. Winters are mild but can be rainy.
- Safety. This is a genuinely safe destination. Safety for tourists is a priority in this city. Just use common sense in crowded places like markets and public transport.
FAQ
What are the best things to do in Valencia?
The best approach is to combine visits to historic landmarks with at least one modern attraction. Valencia Cathedral, La Lonja, exploring Barrio del Carmen, walking the Turia Garden, and visiting the City of Arts and Sciences cover the essentials. Add museums, local markets, and beaches depending on your interests.
Are there free things to do in Valencia?
Yes. There are free museums on designated days, all parks and public spaces, beaches, and local markets. They are free to explore, and there are also many other authentic sightseeing spots. Also, free walking tours operate on a tip-based system, so you pay what you think it's worth.
What are the best free things to do in Valencia today?
Explore the historic center, visit a free museum, like Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia, walk through Barrio del Carmen, hang out in Plaza de la Virgen, stroll the Turia Garden, and visit the Mercado Central. These are the best things to do today, or if you visit this destination for the first time.
How many days do you need in Valencia?
Three days. One day is too rushed, and you'll feel pressured to skip things worth seeing. Two days is better, as you can visit major attractions like the historic center, the Cathedral, and the City of Arts and Sciences. Three days is perfect for experiencing the region properly without constantly checking your watch.
Is Valencia good for budget travel Spain?
Yes. Free walking tours, beaches, parks, and many museums with designated free-entry days make exploring the area genuinely affordable. You can eat well at affordable local restaurants and markets, find cheap accommodation, and enjoy tons of activities and attractions for significantly less than you'd spend in Barcelona or Madrid.
When is the best time to visit Valencia for sightseeing?
Spring (March-May) and early fall (September-October) are perfect for visiting it. During these seasons, the weather is pleasantly warm without the intense summer heat, crowds are manageable, and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and exploring outdoor attractions. Summer gets scorching hot and extremely crowded, while winter brings occasional rain.
Article Author:
Antoine Dubois
FREETOUR.com Partnerships & Outreach Coordinator
06
February,
2026
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