Valencia has plenty of attractions and sights, so make sure you don’t miss out on the beautiful and historical sights the city has to offer and the impressive modern architecture complex “City of Arts and Sciences”, when doing some sightseeing! If you are just staying in Valencia for a couple of days, this list is perfect.
America’s Cup
The unique design of the Veles e Vents building which is surrounded by the sea and the harbour make the America’s Cup a must see when you are visiting Valencia. For the sport enthusiasts it might be even more special because of the sailing history the America’s Cup has. You can enjoy the sun with a drink and some dancing or experience a luxurious night out at La Sucursal. For more information go to America’s Cup.
Cathedral
One of the highlights of Valencia is the Cathedral, built in 1238. The cathedral is centrally located on the Plaza de la Reina and has three entrances. Left of the main entrance is the bell-tower of the cathedral, el Micalet. Built in 1381, el Micalet is the highest religious structure in Valencia. Climb the stair to the top for a spectacular view! For more information go to Cathedral.
La Nau
When you are looking for a beautiful building with a lot of history in the city centre of Valencia, La Nau is a place you should visit. This former university has changed into a cultural centre, but the traditional style is still like it used to be. Readings, debates, courses and more cultural activities are being organized here nowadays. For more information go to La Nau.
Lonja de la Seda
Absolutely worth visiting is the Lonja de la Seda attraction, the old silk market. The building built in Gothic dates back to 1483 and is listed on the World Inheritance List of UNESCO. Nowadays the Lonja de la Seda is used for expositions, but the beautiful monument is open for visitors. For more information go to Lonja de la Seda.
Mercado de Colon
The beautiful Mercado de Colón, or Columbus Market, is designed by architect Francisco de Mora y Berenguer and constructed between 1914 and 1916. It was completely renovated in 2003 which costed about 33 million euros. The market is located in neighbourhood L’Eixample, between Calle Colón and Gran Vía Marqués de Turia and includes shops, bars, cafés, restaurants and underground parking. For more information go to Mercado de Colón.
Santa Catalina
Close to the Cathedral of Valencia, you’ll find the ‘Iglesia de Santa Catalina,’ or the Church of Santa Catalina. Originally a Gothic church, it gained the status of a parish in the thirteenth century. Later on, between 1688 and 1705, it’s bell tower was constructed. Interestingly, this tower is often referred to as the ‘wife’ of El Micalet, the Cathedral’s iconic bell tower, due to their visual connection and historical ties. For more information go to Santa Catalina.
Torres de Serranos
Valencia used to be surrounded by a city wall and to only way to enter the city was to go through one of the twelve city gates. The Torres de Serranos was one of these twelve city gates built in the 14th century, which remained intact for a different purpose later on. Between 1586 and 1887, the tower was used as a prison, and later, in 1936 during the Civil War, it served as a storage room for 525 paintings from the Museo del Prado in Madrid. Today, however, you can climb this historic attraction, the Torres de Serranos, for only €2.00. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view over the historic city and the Turia Park, making it well worth the visit. For more information go to Torres de Serranos.
Estación del Norte
The modernist ‘Estación del Norte,’ or North Train Station, was opened in 1917. It was designed by architect Demetrio Ribes and is a great example of early 20th-century architecture. Moreover, the station features beautiful Valencian mosaics on it’s facade, adding a local artistic touch. Inside, near the entrance doors, you’ll also notice a charming detail: the words ‘pleasant journey’ displayed in various languages, all crafted in mosaic. This makes the station not only functional but also culturally rich and welcoming. For more information go to Train station.
Palacio de Correos y Telégrafos
On Plaza del Ayuntamiento, also known as the Municipal Square, you’ll find the main post office of Valencia, called ‘Palacio de Correos y Telégrafos.’ The building, designed by Miguel Ángel Navarro in 1914, was not completed until 1922. Moreover, make sure to take a look inside this impressive structure, it’s definitely worth the visit! For more information go to Post office.
City of Arts and Sciences
The ‘Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias,’ or City of Arts and Sciences in English, is a stunning complex designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. It consists of six artistic buildings and projects, namely L’Umbracle, Palau de les Arts, L’Oceanogràfic, L’Hemisfèric, Museo de las Ciencias, and Agora. Each of these architectural wonders offers a unique experience, making the entire complex a must-visit destination in Valencia. The City of Arts and Sciences is situated at the end of the former riverbed of the river Turia, which was drained and rerouted after a catastrophic flood in 1957. The Turia is now a beautiful park. For more information go to City of Arts and Sciences.
Turia Park
El Jardín del Turia, or Turia Park, is a green park that was once a riverbed. After a big flood in 1957 that damaged the city of Valencia, the government decided to change the river’s course and turn the old riverbed into a park. The park stretches for about 9 kilometers and is home to several cultural places, such as the City of Arts and Sciences, the Palau de la Musica, and a space between the ‘Puente de las Flores’ and ‘Puente de la Exposición,’ where events are held all year. The park also has trees, plants, flowers, fountains, playgrounds, and more. Plus, the bridges still cross the river, so there are no cars to disturb the peaceful environment. For more information go to Turia Park.