Things to do in Valencia Old Town

Navigating Valencia’s Old Town

There are so many great sites to see in Valencia Old Town that it’s hard to know where to begin. While some areas are easily identified, many hidden paths exist in the Old Town. 

One popular area in Valencia is Calle de los Caballeros, a street home to many prominent landmarks. If you’re looking to experience nostalgic charm, these streets offer an authentic experience in Valencia.

Marques de Dos Aguas Palace will strike visitors with its romantic architecture, while Plaza de la Virgen offers Gothic architecture. One of the most popular places to visit is Valencia Central Market, a masterpiece of Valencian modernism. 

Valencia Cathedral

I had the best visit to Valencia Cathedral this October, soaking in more on the history of this impressive Roman Catholic church. While the architectural details are impressive, the ambiance of the cathedral has always been my favorite experience. It’s hard to describe the experience of visiting as anything other than illuminating. 

Dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, its mix of details and interior items is an interesting mixture of multiple eras. One of the most unique parts of a visit to the Valencia Cathedral is seeing the Holy Grail, a Holy Chalice kept behind glass. It feels like watching a movie unfold when visiting this unique chapel in Spain!

The light through the stained-glass windows immediately invites guests in, but it’s not just the stained-glass that welcomes visitors inside. Valencia Cathedral houses some of the world’s most interesting paintings, some by Goya of San Francesco de Borga and other notable artists. 

Torres de Serranos

Built in the 14th century, Torres de Serranos is considered the largest Gothic city gateway in all of Europe. It is built in Valencian Gothic style and is located in the northeast area of the old city center in Valencia.

Torres de Serranos is considered one of Spain’s most important and best-preserved monuments. The main intent behind the construction of Torres de Serranos was to defend the city from attack, but it was also regularly used for special ceremonies for weddings and other gatherings. This monument is consistently cleaned and preserved to maintain its beautiful presence in Valencia Old Town.

Some of the most beautiful views in Valencia are from atop the towers of Torres de Serranos, drawing many visitors there annually. Splendid views of Valencia can be seen from the towers, including the nearby river Turia. 

By blending the history of Torres de Serranos and views of modern-day Valencia, visitors are in for a treat: a combination of old and new. 

Palau de la Generalitat

The design of this palace also dates back to the early 1400s, when it was originally built as a tax office for the Crown. With many centuries of enhancements and restorations, Palau de la Generalitat is now an important building in the Old Town of Valencia but is no longer used to conduct business. 

It is known affectionately as one of the most beautiful buildings in the Plaza of Valencia. Although the building can be used now and again still for local government meetings, it has now been opened to tourists to visit to enjoy its beautiful Gothic architecture at no cost.

Over time, one of the best enhancements to Palau de la Generalitat was an enlarged courtyard, providing more space for visitors to roam and enjoy the sites. When I visited, I enjoyed the architecture and unique government history shared at this site. 

Visiting Mercado Central

A visit to Valencia’s Old Town wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Mercado Central, the city’s main public market. One of the largest in Europe, this market covers more than 8,000 sq meters, with a unique domed roof that gives it a Valencian-styled twist.

Having been completely renovated in 2010, the Mercado Central still boasts impressive 20th-century architecture. A visit to this market involves searching for some of the most local food offered in Valencia. 

Local citrus fruit, for example, is one of the best finds at Mercado Central, along with plenty of fresh fish, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and wines. This is one of Valencia’s best markets, with incredible, locally sourced products. 

When I visited this vibrant scene, I noticed unique stands, from one offering snails to stands dedicated to saffron, the spice commonly found in paella dishes. Jamón (ham) is a product that is taken very seriously, with cured hams being central to many Spanish dishes.

Exploring Art and Craftsmanship in Hidden Corners

While food is king in Spain and especially in Valencia, art and craftsmanship are also prominent offerings throughout the city. Valencia has a rich history of art of all kinds, including a more laid-back version of street art. 

Hand-crafted items are made locally and offered in boutiques and through workshops on the streets of Valencia, inviting visitors to learn more about the beautiful city and its residents. 

While many trades, from silk to wool to ceramics and wicker, are found in Valencia, the Ceramics Museum is one of the most visited art institutions. This notated museum has collections of ceramics dating back to the 18th century, including items created by Picasso.

Valencia’s Street Art

Don’t limit yourself to the main streets in Valencia to observe art, as plenty of street art can be found in small alleys. Murals throughout the city boast impressive pictures and colors.

Valencia is home to many talented artists! The most striking attribute of the city’s street art is the quality of the drawings, attracting crowds of viewers who stop daily to admire this impressive art.

One historic neighborhood offering eccentric street art is Barrio El Carmen, with art found on doors, roller shutters, and really flat surfaces on the streets. Another great street option to see street art in Valencia is the neighborhood of La Xerea.  

Because of this, Valencia is considered an open-air museum, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy art without entering a building.

Local Workshops and Boutiques

Visitors can explore handmade crafts in Valencia by visiting local workshops and boutiques, establishing a true connection with local artisans. Throughout this province, visitors can discover unique products crafted by locals.

In Aldaia, for example, artisans craft specialty fans. Handkerchiefs and other silk products are found throughout Valencia. In northern areas of Valencia, porcelain is the specialty product of many artisans.

What makes a visit to a local workshop in Valencia unique is learning the stories behind the people there. These artisans have been working for decades to specialize in their craft, and they invite tourists to experience their skills and gifts when visiting Valencia. 

From goldsmithing to silk painting, visitors to Valencia can support locals by learning a new skill through a trained artisan there. 

Festive Spirits and Nightlife 

History is one trait that Valencia doesn’t lack, yet despite it being a historically rich site, it is also known for its vibrant nightlife. With a deep-rooted music culture, Valencia has one of the liveliest party scenes in Spain. 

Throughout the Old Town, cafes, bars, and clubs line the streets, inviting party-goers to let loose in the city. There are also several festivals in Valencia, where costumes, dancing, and fireworks delight locals and guests. 

Night at Plaza de la Virgen

To experience an extra special night in Valencia, consider watching the sunset at Plaza de la Virgen, where the mood changes immediately. The streets around the plaza come alive at night with people.

People can be spotted lining the streets, dining al fresco, and enjoying the Valencian views. In the evening heat, locals and visitors frequent local bars to meet with friends or take an after-dinner stroll. 

Conclusion: Valencia Old Town

The collective experiences and treasures discovered during the journey through Valencia Old Town take visitors from ancient history to modern delights. 

If you’re looking for a Spanish city that highlights impressive history while offering modernized bars and tours, Valencia is a wonderful location for you. With a combination focused on culture, culinary arts, and lively spirits, it’s hard to find another Spanish city that rivals its unparalleled exploration. 

Is Valencia worth visiting while in Spain? Absolutely, and make sure to also pay a visit to the Old Town.