Top 10 things to do in Valencia

Completing your TEFL Trainer internship in Valencia and wondering what to visit or do in your spare time? We have compiled a list of top 10 things to do in Valencia during your stay.

Valencia is the third biggest city in Spain but not as popular with the tourists as Barcelona and Madrid, which makes it cheaper and calmer than its sister cities. But this doesn’t stop the fun happening! Valencia has some of the best nightlife in Spain and not to mention the architecture and museums and of course, the beach!

What are the top 10 things to do in Valencia?

1/ City of Arts and Science

Built on the city’s old riverbed, the City of Arts and Science is an impressive example of modern architecture. Consisting of 5 main buildings, including an aquarium and an IMAX cinema, these buildings are definitely worth a visit, even just to see the architecture.

2/ Go up the Miguelete tower

Located in the old town, this is Valencia’s gothic bell tower, made in the 15th century. Climb the 207 spiral steps and enjoy beautiful views of the city from the top. 2€ entry fee, a bargain!

3/ Visit the port

This is the 5th biggest seaport in Europe and located right next to the beach, therefore worth a quick visit if you’re nearby. There are a number of interesting bars located along the port and it’s a peaceful place to walk along in the evening to enjoy the sunset.

4/ Cycle along the Turia river

The Turia river (now not so much a river) is Valencia’s dried out river bed which runs alongside the city. These 9 km of greenbelt are perfect for running, cycling, long boarding or walking. There are cycle lanes located over most of the city but it is a much nicer route through the gardens.

5/ Go to the Malvarossa beach

One of the main attractions in Valencia is the beach! There are 3 in total and all very close to the city centre, just short tram or bike ride away. In the summer, they can get very busy, but you will always find space, as Malvarossa (the main beach) stretches over 1000 metres!

6/ Visit Valencia’s Biopark

Valencia’s new zoo with a more natural approach. The aim is too fit the visitors into the animal’s natural habitats and not vice versa. There are fewer cages and railings and more ponds, streams and rocks to make it more comfortable.

7/ Explore the famous nightlife

Valencia is renowned in Spain for its vibrant nightlife, which is known to last all night long! Valencians often start there night very late, after botellon, sometimes not heading to the clubs until 3am and then partying until the daylight hours. One of the most famous clubs is Akualera, located right on the beach, it is a huge discoteca with both indoor and outdoor areas, and full of dancers and palm trees, a must visit for tourists in the summer!

8/ Go to the Parque Natural de la Albufera

This natural park, located just a short bus ride from Valencia, is where they grow the rice for the famous paella! It also contains the largest lake in Spain, making it the home to lots of interesting wildlife! A great day out and also a way to get away from city life and explore some nature.

9/ Take a stroll through the old town El Carmen

El Carmen, Valencia’s old town, is the heart of the city and where you can find the clubs, bars, cathedral and beautiful architecture. If you are in Valencia this is one of the most beautiful places to visit. Plaza de la Virgen is the main square and where you will find Valencia Cathedral, the Miguelete Tower and the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados.

10/ Visit the Institution of Modern Art

This gallery explores the 20th century through contemporary vision. Julio Gonzalez, an artist specialising in cubism and abstract art, is what the institution was made after. Some festinating sculptures here and its only 2€ entrance!