New to Valencia? 6 Cool Things You Must See & Do!

Have you just arrived in Valencia and would like to explore the city? Valencia, the third biggest city in Spain, is known as the capital of paella where you can enjoy great weather all year round. We have picked out our top 6 things to do in Valencia, especially if you are a newcomer and want to discover this city.

Things to See:

1. The City of Arts and Sciences

La Ciutat de las Arts i les Ciències is an architectural complex that is an absolute must while visiting or staying in Valencia. The complex is made up of several buildings including the Hemisfèric, El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, and Umbracle. The most famous one is the Oceanografic, the largest aquarium in Europe with more than 45 thousand examples of 500 diverse marine species. Sharks, penguins, sea lions, dolphins and many more all in one place.

2. Barrio del Carmen

The most spectacular neighborhood in Valencia full of historical buildings and monuments is the Carmen neighborhood. In the old quarter of the city you can visit lovely museums and art galleries. You definitely should not miss out on the two city gates (Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart) which you can climb up to enjoy the beautiful city views. Of course you also need to see the Catedral de Valencia and Lonja de la Seda.

3. The Central Market of Valencia

Enjoy fresh local food while admiring a magical Art Nouveau building. Located in the historical centre, the Mercado Central combines great architectural work and delicious food which together create a unique atmosphere. From the best fruits, vegetables and juices to fresh seafood, special types of cheese or the typical horchata drink, you will want to try everything you see!

Things to Do:

1. A language exchange

When you arrive to a new place it may be more difficult at the beginning to get to know new people. One of the best ways to meet and talk to someone with similar interests or in the same situation is by attending a language exchange (or el intercambio de idiomas in Spanish). Either you want to practice your Spanish or just want to get to know other expats and newcomers in the city, a language exchange is a great opportunity that is worth a try.

2. Outdoor gym at the beach or the park

People in Valencia don’t have to go to the gym – they can just stay outside, go to the Turia park or to the beach and exercise there while watching the sunset and enjoying the nice weather. During the summer you can join many activities such as yoga, pilates or cross training that take place at the beach. If you prefer running, cycling or exercising then you will fall in love with the Jardín del Turia which runs throughout the city along nine kilometres.

3. Join sports and cultural activities

How about learning how to cook paella, trying to handle a paddleboard at the beach or going to see a sunset in La Albufera, the largest lagoon in Spain, that is located outside the city center of Valencia and surrounded by rice fields? Also why not to try practicing yoga on the rooftop or join a kayaking trip in the river Cabriel? All of these activities are super fun and you can always meet some new people to talk to there!