This city is of huge importance for the Spanish economy and is the busiest container port in the Mediterranean and the 5th busiest in Europe. Since the Roman era, Valencia has been an important settlement and has been ruled by the Romans, Moors, Christians, and Habsburgs and was eventually incorporated into the Kingdom of Spain during the 19th century.

Today Valencia is a thriving city that boasts some fantastic cultural and artistic establishments together with a plethora of historical sites and architecture. As one of the most prominent cities in eastern Spain, Valencia is a great place to visit; the following list constitutes some of its best attractions and places to visit.

The best attractions and places to visit in Valencia

La Lonja de Seda

This impressive Gothic structure was constructed in the 15th century and is one of the most well-known structures in Valencia. La Lonja de Seda originally housed the cities silk exchange marketplace and traders from all over Europe would come here to find a bargain. The exterior looks like a medieval castle and is topped with crenulations and ornate stonework. Furthermore, it is possible to climb to the top of the main tower for fantastic views of the city of Valencia.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

As mentioned, Valencia features a plethora of cultural landmarks and attractions and the center for arts and sciences is the most well-renowned. Located next to the far reaching Jardin Del Turia, the park includes some amazing modernist architecture and a series of interesting attractions. Within this park, you can visit the high-quality Hemisferic IMAX Cinema, the Principe Felipe Science Museum, the Oceanografic Aquarium and the Agora Concert Space.

Valencia Cathedral

The Cathedral of Valencia is the finest religious structure in the city and features some jaw-dropping architecture and interior design. Located in the heart of the city next to the Place de la Reina, the cathedral features a myriad of styles including Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The interior is simply sublime with a plethora of gorgeous artwork and holy shrines such as the chapel of the Holy Chalice. Even for those people who are not religious, this building will leave you amazed!

Torres de Serranos

Valencia used to have a defensive network containing city walls and guard towers and the Torres de Serranos is a relic of this fortification. Constructed in the 14th century, the towers were built in a Gothic style and create an imposing fortification on the once fertile river. Today you can admire the detailed architecture of the towers and also climb to the top of the turrets for panoramic views of central Valencia.

Mercado Central

This amazing structure combines some beautiful 19th-century architecture together with the hustle and bustle of a busy marketplace. Created in the late 1800’s/early 1900’s the marketplace features a stunning front façade with some gorgeous colors and patterns. Inside the hall, you can find a staggering amount of stalls selling fresh fruit and veg, meat, fish, souvenirs, and clothes. This is a great place to visit to find a bargain and to watch the local’s trade and work.

Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas

Not only does this establishment feature some sublime 18th-century architecture, but it also contains the intriguing National Ceramics Museum. Located only a short walk from the cathedral this building has a hugely ornate façade that is covered in lavish stucco and alabaster carvings. Inside the palace, the Ceramics Museum houses over 5000 pieces of pottery from Valencia and the surrounding region. The pieces span a range of cultures including Roman, Arabic, Greek, Chinese and Japanese and even work from Picasso.

Platja Del Cabanyal

As Valencia lies on the eastern coast of Spain it stands to reason that it has a large stretch of beach. If you are exhausted from sight-seeing the Platja Del Cabanyal is the main beach located next to the busy commercial port. This beautiful stretch of golden sand has a host of amenities and world class hotel complexes plus several beach clubs and bars. With acres of space, the beach is rarely overcrowded and you will easily be able to find a spot to sunbathe and relax.

Valencia Biopark

This 10-hectare zoo is a place of wonder and has a large collection of animals and African fauna. The Biopark differs from traditional zoos as it has a minimal amount of railings and fences – the animals are instead segregated from the public by streams, rivers, and rocks. Animals you will see within this diverse park include zebras, giraffes, lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, lemurs and more. The enclosures are beautiful and it is clear to see that the animals are impeccably looked after.

If these 8 attractions haven’t wowed you then we don’t know what will! As you can see, Valencia is a city of contrasts and has a fantastic combination of history, culture, arts, and nature – there is something for all the family to enjoy.

When traveling in Valencia and the surrounding region why not consider using a hire car service? Drivalia has a host of quality cars available for rental at our regional office in Valencia – hiring a car gives you freedom and allows you to make the most of your holiday.