What to Do in Valencia: Complete City Guide
Discover the best route to explore the city
Are you visiting Valencia soon? Take the opportunity to explore every corner of a unique city on the Mediterranean coast, famous for its architecture, gastronomy and rich cultural heritage. Let yourself be surprised by everything Valencia has to offer.
From Museo Iluziona, we have prepared a route to help you discover the most iconic places in the city, perfect for exploring Valencia on foot.
1. Plaza de la Virgen: the monumental heart of Valencia
Plaza de la Virgen is one of the most historic and representative places in Valencia. Built on the site of the ancient Roman forum of Valentia, it is surrounded by three key landmarks: Valencia Cathedral, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken and the Palau de la Generalitat.
If you visit on a Thursday around 12:00 pm, you’re in luck: at the Apostles’ Gate you can witness the famous Water Tribunal, a centuries-old tradition that settles irrigation disputes in the Valencian countryside. At any time of day, the Turia Fountain is well worth a stop.
How to get there:
- Metro: Colón or Alameda (10–15 minutes on foot)
- Bus: lines 4, 6, 8, 11 and 16
2. Plaza de la Reina: the Cathedral and El Micalet
Just a short walk away is Plaza de la Reina, recently renovated into a wide pedestrian-friendly space. It is one of the busiest and most vibrant squares in Valencia’s historic centre.
From here you can enter Valencia Cathedral and climb El Micalet, the city’s iconic bell tower. With its 207 steps, it offers spectacular panoramic views over the old town, well worth the effort.
Prices:
- Cathedral + Museum: €10 general / €6 reduced
- El Micalet climb: €3 general / €2 reduced
- Free entry for children under 8, official guides, religious visitors and companions of people with disabilities
3. Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda): UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Silk Exchange, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important examples of civil Gothic architecture in Europe. It reflects Valencia’s commercial power during the 15th century and is an essential visit to understand the city’s history.
Prices:
- General admission: €2
- Reduced admission: €1 (groups, students, pensioners and large families)
- Free entry on Sundays and public holidays
4. Central Market: Valencian food and local products
Right across the street you’ll find the Central Market, a must-stop for food lovers. For centuries, this area hosted open-air markets, and today it continues that tradition with high-quality local produce.
The market is open Monday to Saturday from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm and is the perfect place to discover fresh, seasonal Valencian products.
5. City Hall Square: the city’s epicentre
Just a seven-minute walk away is City Hall Square, considered the true centre of Valencia.
From Monday to Friday, between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm, Valencia City Hall offers free guided visits with no prior booking required. Visitors can explore iconic spaces such as the Crystal Hall and step out onto the famous balcony overlooking the square.
6. Colón Street and the Bullring
Continue the route along Colón Street, Valencia’s main shopping avenue. It’s ideal for strolling, shopping and enjoying the lively urban atmosphere.
At the end of the street stands the Valencia Bullring, which can be visited together with its museum.
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
7. Casa Judía: a unique façade
Just behind the bullring you’ll find one of Valencia’s most distinctive buildings: Casa Judía, located at Calle Castelló, 20. Its colourful façade, decorated with mosaics and tiles featuring geometric and floral motifs, makes it a true architectural gem.
8. Keep exploring the city: Museo Iluziona
On the ground floor of Casa Judía, you’ll find a different and original way to continue discovering Valencia: Museo Iluziona. This interactive museum combines history, culture and fun through optical illusions, creative photo scenarios and engaging legends.
It’s a unique experience where learning, entertainment and photography come together.
