Tips From Locals - Things To Do In Valencia!

It is the third largest city in Spain and plays a significant role in tourism for people who want to embrace Spanish traditions, cuisines, and nightlife. When on a trip to Valencia there is nothing more helpful than getting some tips from the locals since they will be able to show you some not-so-touristy places and things to do. 

Stroll the Historical ‘Barrio del Carmen’

This area is one of Valencia’s oldest districts and it is situated right in the heart of the city, just a stone’s throw away from the most popular tourist sites. The twisted roads of typical Spanish design with cobbles, old buildings of the 15th century, and picturesque plazas offer a true perspective of the culture of old Valencia. Take a stroll around and have a break at one of the countless tapas bars and cafés to eat a snack or drink something. The people suggest simply roaming around the barrio to discover various interesting shops, galleries, and other stores on your own. When in Valencia don’t fail to visit the Plaza del Tossal and the Plaza de la Virgen to marvel at the gothic Valencian structures.

City of Arts and Sciences and chill

This is a contemporary architectural marvel envisaged and built by the world-renowned Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava and is a must-visit icon of Valencia. People from the area enjoy spending time in the beautiful gardens that are around or inside the strange-shaped architectural facilities including the eye-shaped planetarium and oceanarium. For instance, interesting science exhibits, films, and even music events are available and can be accessed often. If a person has time, he should try the working exhibits; it is fun going with the family. Looking at the arts complex that mimics the old city skyline across the blue pond is great, especially in the evening when the structures stand out like torchlights.

Cycle the Jardines del Turia

The 9-kilometer-long cover park in the city was an actual river that went through Valencia. However, in 1957 the river side flooded the area and the river was shifted to another side the remained park area was converted into gardens, fountains, playgrounds, Cafes, etc. Residents enjoy riding their bikes through the park going for a morning jog or even having a picnic with their friends. The biking from one end to the other enables one to have a look at the city skyline and some of the most preferred attractions. But if you are interested in a more leisurely and serene walk surrounded by trees and flowers within the city itself, there are playgrounds and areas with paved paths for walking.

As for the Central Market

Central Market also known as Mercado Central is one of the most iconic landmarks that every visitor to Valencia should visit. This is one of the most characteristic food markets in Valencia with more than 400 stalls offering sea products, fresh meat, cheeses, spices, fruits, and vegetables depending on the season. The Early twentieth-century structure with its artistic and fascinating domed ceiling, tall windows, and elaborate center courtyard is breathtaking as soon as one sets foot on it. According to the residents, the best way to taste the traditional products is to walk around different food stalls and narrow counters with standing tables offering such delights as paella, horchata, Ajoarriero cod, and others. Another interesting stall that you must try is Naturalqua with its fresh juices and smoothies. It allows visitors to have a sample of what to expect in Valencian cuisine without having to travel to different places.

The Ruzafa neighborhood

Although the overall style of Valencia can be described as rather conservative, there is one district that can be classified as bohemian – Ruzafa, located on the other side of the river. This place was the industrial area which over the past decade was developed into the hippest area in the city as stated by the local people. Just stroll along its tagged walls and you’ll find yourself in front of a great coffee shop, stylish and hip clothing store, antique shop, stylish and trendy restaurant, and quite several excellent nightspots. For brunch, there are several restaurants to include, such as Mood Ruzafa, Agua de Luna, and Eco. Then shop home décor in Zylum, and indie fashion in the Fashion Room among other places. As the sun sets, walk with the locals enjoying their drinks while seated on the outdoor terraces of various restaurants and moving to the rhythms emanating from different bars and clubs that play jazz, and house music among others throughout the night.

Las Arenas Beach

When it comes to recreation, locals of Valencia especially enjoy the warm summer days which they spend at Las Arenas beach in the Cabanyal district. It is over a kilometer blue Mediterranean and undoubtedly there is enough space on the beach to put your towel on. This is one of the largest and longest golden sandy beaches that have been revamped over the recent past; with a palm tree-lined walkway. For food and drinks, there is a beach bar and restaurant and if one wants to rent a lounger or an umbrella, there is provision for it too. This indicates that it is perfect for families, given the serene nature and the shallow nature of the waters. People suggest ordering seafood paella or arroz at restaurants, for example, Marcelina or El Cabanyal. And do not forget to drive around to see the stunning sunsets on the sea together with other people, both residents and tourists.

Valencia Viewpoints Trails.

Expect to take some photographs especially whenever the locals take you to some of the best vantage views within the city. Start your trek at the Bioparc Zoo and then make your way to the L’Hort de Feliu gardens, and end it at the Monte Tossal viewpoint. Hear the breeze from this ancient fortified castle atop a hill constructed during the Roman period over two millennia prior! The second successful viewpoint which is enclosed by pine trees is situated in the 18th-century Ermita de Santa Lucía chapel. Ascend the bell tower to gain a birds-eye view of the medieval Santa Catalina tower, domed churches, and the city skyline below. Last, visit the Jardines de Monforte and take pictures in front of a wall with two openings that allow you to look directly at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia.

The Fallas Festival

The Las Fallas Festival which is held in March features firefighting shows, concerts, food sellers, and colorful parades to welcome the onset of spring. People build hundreds of satirical ninots or dolls crafted out of papier-mâché which are then judged and later burnt in flambeau on the last week. Before the burning of the effigies, you can witness a minor firework display at Mascletàs held at Plaza de Ayuntamiento, check out the exhibited ninots, listen to free music performances all over the city, and many more activities. Locals enjoy parading dressed in fancy costumes and moving through the numerous, temporary street events or dance and firework festivals that occur in Valencia over several days. It is a festival, setting people to discuss with their friends and families long after the event!

Savor Authentic Paella

If there is one thing you must not miss in Spain, it is, of course, the original paella valenciana which is Lucero's specialty. People are very picky about how this saffron rice dish is cooked with local ingredients, short grain rice, fresh chicken and rabbit meat, garrofón beans, and more. Here are some more highly-rated paella restaurants that are popular with the locals, La Riua, El Rall, and Casa Carmela. Some also recommend the place that is Plaza del Ayuntamiento in the city center where the paella is cooked on the streets so you get to see them cook it over charcoal while you sip on some local wine. It is wise to visit these places because they are preferred by the residents and ensure that you are served with a nice paella prepared the Valencian way.

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