The Spanish beach city that's becoming a big hit: Love Barcelona? Then you need to head to Valencia
- Peregryn travel writers
- 6 days ago
- 10 min read
Spain’s “third city” is rising in the ranks, with a surge in popularity largely driven by American and Canadian tourists. Valencia’s charm lies in having retained its authentic Spanish nature alongside a quietly modernising update to ensure that it is friendly to travelers seeking a well-rounded, luxury European experience.
It’s been so successful in welcoming foreigners, that it was voted the best city in the world to live in by InterNations, the largest online community of expats. Both born Valencians and those who have adopted it as their home are rightly proud.
Imagine a less crowded version of Barcelona, where traditional culture and Modernist architecture is merged with cutting-edge technology and some of the best food in the country. Still stylish yet more relaxed than Madrid, and very eco-conscious, things to do in Valencia include exploring the green city parks and cycle lanes, local beaches, and nearby nature parks. And don’t forget the spring Fallas fiesta, where the whole city becomes a riot of color, laughter, parades, and dancing in the streets.
What makes Valencia special?
Located on the same coastline as Barcelona, some 350 km to the south, Valencia is perfectly accessible by high speed train – from both Barcelona and Madrid. Its coastal setting makes it ideal for beach-loving sun-seekers, with a 25 km coastline that’s studded with sensational beaches and palm-lined promenades, perfect for basking in the average of 2,696 hours of sunlight per year.
Running along the spine of the city, the sprawling Turia Gardens delivers ample green space. Built upon a former river bed and packed with orange trees, leafy palms, colourful rose bushes, waterways and perfect picnic spots, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Then there’s the stunning architecture. From the gothic stylings of the Old Town to the breathtaking futurism of the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia’s juxtaposition of old and new, of tradition and innovation, is a true feast for the senses. Climb the tower of the cathedral, built on an ancient Roman temple, before walking on to explore the soaring columns of La Lonja, the old Silk Exchange building. Roam the medieval city walls before grabbing lunch in the domed covered Central Market, with traders offering exquisite local jamón and calling out their wares.
Speaking of feasts for the senses, a visit to Valencia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the city’s wonderful cuisine. The home of paella and host to an array of incredible restaurants and cafes, Valencia is also surrounded by fertile farmland known as ‘La Huerta’ (the garden), where vegetables, rice and fruit are grown in abundance. The rice paddies of La Albufera are renowned throughout the country for the quality of the grains; and like most places in and around the city, it’s easily accessible by metro, bus or via local cycle networks.
When it comes to the areas with the best hotels in Valencia, there are two main choices. The city’s main accommodation offerings are split between the Old Town, in the heart of the city, and the beach distinct, some 5 km from the centre. Both are easily accessible by foot, bike, tram or bus.
Here’s a selection of the best hotels in Valencia, from unique Old Town gems to luxury beachside boutiques.
Elegant white, black and gold art deco style meets opulent five-star grandeur in this 18th-century palace where the hotel restaurant is built on the site of a former Roman perfumeria. Located on a picturesque square beside the city’s cathedral, there are options to dial up the indulgence, with some suites including four-poster beds, marble bathrooms and private balconies affording panoramic views.
An effortlessly elegant offering in the city’s Old Town, Only YOU delivers tastefully decorated interiors and ultra comfortable rooms, together with an excellent restaurant and cocktail bar. Aimed at the city’s young, hip crowd, the likes of hair straighteners and nail dryer lamps come as standard, while the in-house tailor caters to the hotel’s typically fashionable clientele.
Part of the Marriott Bonvoy Autograph Collection, this hotel is located in the historic old quarter in a striking Art Deco building. A beautiful blend of the spirited 1920s optimism of the city with modern luxury, The Grand Hotel Centenari also holds a timeless lobby bar, complete with artisanal cocktail and grand piano.
A sprawling 253-room resort, Las Arenas Balneario brings seaside glamour in an unbeatable location. The outdoor pools and on-site spa offer ample opportunity to kick back and unwind, while comfortable rooms come with large balconies with views over the Mediterranean Sea.
Tour the neighbourhoods
Valencia is made up of dozens of neighbourhoods, each with its own indelible character. The city’s heritage is deeply rooted in these barrios, some of which used to be villages separate from the city. Over the years, as Valencia has grown, they’ve become part of the city.
Although it’s one of Spain’s main cities, with a population of around 800,000, Valencia doesn’t feel overcrowded. This makes wandering the city’s eclectic neighbourhoods a pleasure. Here are some of the best.
Ciutat Vella/El Carmen
One of the most atmospheric parts of the city, Valencia’s old town is a blissful trip in time, with cobbled streets, romantic plazas, historic buildings and culture on every corner. Here you’ll find marvelous museums, the city’s cathedral, the famous La Lonja de la Seda and the fabulous Mercado Central.
Canovas
Located close to the center of the city, this is the perfect place to get the best out of Valencia’s cuisine. You’ll find wonderful restaurants and cafes, together with some upmarket shopping streets and the famed Colon market, not to mention some of the city’s most magnificent Modernist buildings.
Ruzafa
A hipster’s paradise, Ruzafa is all bright buildings, buzzing terraces, eclectic restaurants, ultra cool cafés, art galleries and thrift stores. There’s an artistic vibe that runs through everything in this neighborhood. With the streets and lanes radiating out from a lively marketplace and historic church, Ruzafa has a unique small town feel to it in the middle of the city.
The City of Arts & Sciences
The sprawling City of Arts & Sciences is a scientific, cultural and natural leisure complex. In fact, it’s so big that it defines its surrounding area. Designed by famous Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava, wandering around this collection of jaw dropping spaces and buildings is like stepping into the future.
Cabanyal
The old fisherman's quarter, Cabanyal was once a separate village. Some 5 km from the city center, it’s retained a unique charm and, having once fallen on hard times, it’s now the hottest spot in the city. You’ll find charming colorful fishermen's houses, delightful cafes and restaurants, and quirky bars, all just a short stroll from the beach.
Valencia rewards a curious traveler, with lots of things to see and do beyond the city, as well as some amazing local celebrations that visitors can’t afford to miss.
Albufera
Speaking of tranquil escapes, Albufera is the ultimate place to unwind. An incredible nature park around a freshwater lagoon, just 10 km from the city, this oasis of wetlands is home to more than 300 bird species, including flamingos. Climb the observation tower to see how many you can spot or take a boat to the biodiversity reserve to view one of the epic sunsets over the lake. It’s also a culinary paradise – Albufera is the birthplace of paella, making it a must visit for any self-respecting foodie.
Valencian Beaches
An idyllic spot on the outskirts of Valencia, Patacona Beach has become a popular place for locals and visitors alike. Here you’ll find some great restaurants and cafes, as well as chiringuitos – beach bars where you can sample tapas, beer and wine, while basking in the Mediterranean sun.
But that’s just one of almost 20 kilometers of idyllic sandy beaches in and around Valencia. Cabanyal and Malvarrosa, are even closer than Patacona, within walking distance and have watersports, beach volleyball and other activities on offer, making for a vibrant and fun day on the coastline.
If you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter, head to one of the smaller beaches further away from the city where pine groves give way to narrow sandy dunes. La Devesa de El Saler is a jewel, a quiet and undeveloped stretch of calm peaceful seafront.
Turia Park
One of the largest urban parks in Spain, Turia Garden is planted on the site of a former riverbed, and stretches along nine kilometers of lush greenery between the Cabecera Park and the City of Arts and Sciences. A completely unique blend of fountains and pine woods, ponds and sports facilities, manicured rose beds and of course, Spain’s ubiquitous palm groves and orange trees, Turia is the outdoor playground of the whole city. You can roam from children’s playgrounds to the opera auditorium, go boating on the lake, or simply wander at will, taking in the architecture of the 18 still-standing historical bridges that once crossed the river.
Las Fallas
Valencia’s biggest event of the year, La Fallas is a big, boisterous celebration of all things Valencian. If you’re lucky enough to be in the city between the 1st and 19th March, don’t miss it. Expect a kaleidoscope of colour in the streets and in the skies, with bonfires, fireworks, music, dancing, costumes and, of course, paella.
Every year, Valencian workshops build enormous wooden figures, often with a satirical or political theme, and compete in a parade for the best mascot of the year. Every afternoon, the mascletá, a cannon fusillade complete with colored smoke, starts off the celebrations, which continue into the night with street parties and firework displays. Many Valencians dress up in traditional costumes and dance in the street to live music.
Did you know? The Camino del Cid is a legendary route across the Castilian steppe, following in the tracks of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar. A frontier knight and mercenary of medieval times, his truth has long since been absorbed into heroic legend, most famously depicted by Charlton Heston in the film El Cid. The route in Valencia features two distinct themed trails. These paths invite travelers to explore various historical and natural sites tied to the life and legend of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, including castles, wild landscapes, wetlands, marshes, and medieval villages that were already significant in the 11th century.
Fabulous food
A Masterclass in Mediterranean Gastronomy
As the proud birthplace of paella, Valencia’s culinary identity is a storied celebration of land and sea. While the dish officially traces its roots to the tranquil shores of Albufera Lake and the village of El Palmar, its influence permeates every corner of the city. This commitment to culinary excellence was recently cemented on the global stage, with Valencia being crowned ‘City of the Year’ at the Food and Travel Reader Awards 2025—a prestigious accolade voted for by discerning travelers and gourmands.
Whether you are seeking the traditional Paella Valenciana—a rustic blend of rabbit, chicken, and butter beans—or the salt-kissed paella de mariscos, the city’s standard is unparalleled. This quality is born from the Huerta, the lush fertile plains surrounding the city that yield breathtakingly fresh produce. To see this bounty in its most spectacular setting, a visit to the Mercado Central is essential; this modernist masterpiece is a true "cathedral of food" and the beating heart of Valencia's award-winning food culture.
Today, the city's dining scene is being redefined by a visionary new generation of chefs who fuse inherited traditions with ingenious, modern flair. From historic taverns to avant-garde Michelin-recommended spots, Valencia’s status as a premier European travel magazine highlight is well-deserved. Discover these culinary wonders for yourself by exploring our curated ElJourney Recommendations: best restaurants in Valencia.
Perfect paella
Both this modern restaurant and its nearby sister, historic 100-year-old Casa Carmela serve up sensational seafood and traditional rice dishes in a wonderfully setting in Patacona. Their menus celebrate the traditional tastes of the past, reinterpreting them and using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the market and the fish auction. Order the paella de marisco, try the delicious wines, then take a post lunch seaside stroll.
Located in the sophisticated Eixample district, Goya Gallery is a culinary landmark that perfectly balances contemporary elegance with deep-rooted Valencian tradition. While it is a sophisticated destination for visitors, it remains a steadfast favorite among discerning locals who value its consistency and authentic atmosphere
Situated just moments from the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences, Alqueria de l'Horta serves as a rustic sanctuary amidst the lush paddy fields of the Huerta. This traditional farmhouse offers an idyllic, authentic dining experience where expert paellas are the star attraction, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage. Despite its distinctively rural charm, the restaurant remains surprisingly accessible, allowing visitors to easily cycle or walk from the city center to enjoy a true taste of the countryside.
Modern marvels
A visual and culinary stunner in the heart of the maritime Cabanyal neighborhood, La Sastrería offers a truly immersive dining experience. The space is an architectural love letter to Valencia’s ceramic tradition, featuring walls draped in vibrant tiles and whimsical lighting. The kitchen reimagines local catches with artistic flair, serving creative seafood dishes that are just as inventive as the setting
Nestled in the vibrant Ruzafa district, 2 Estaciones is a fabulous fine dining destination where seasonality dictates the narrative. Every dish is meticulously crafted, showcasing a commitment to evolving flavors and fresh ingredients. The tasting menus are simply sensational, guiding diners through a gastronomic journey that changes with the calendar to highlight the very best local produce
High-end gastronomy meets an edgy, industrial aesthetic at this Michelin-recommended standout. Yet, the real magic lies in the outstanding service from the two owners. This 'ultra host attention' transforms the meal into a unique performance, where hyper-personalized care meets cutting-edge Mediterranean flavors. It is a dining experience that feels both rebellious and wonderfully intimate.
Old school delights
Set in a restored fisherman’s house in maritime Cabanyal, Bodega Anyora is a charming tribute to tradition. The vintage interior, rich with rustic warmth, creates a cozy backdrop. The kitchen excels at classic Valencian tapas, supporting local products. These authentic flavors are perfectly accompanied by a curated list of exceptional wines and traditional vermouth.
Don’t be deceived by the modest exterior; Bar Ricardo is a culinary institution. Lauded by the city’s top chefs, this buzzing spot serves arguably the most fabulous tapas in Valencia. It is loud, chaotic, and utterly charming, offering a masterclass in fresh market produce. From grilled seafood to perfect patatas bravas, the food is serious, making it an essential stop for any true food lover
Founded in 1836, Casa Montaña is a historic treasure in the maritime Cabanyal district. This vintage tavern, lined with massive ancient barrels, oozes charm and hints at a truly world-class wine selection. It is not just about the drink; the kitchen serves exquisite traditional tapas using top-tier ingredients, making this atmospheric spot an essential stop for a taste of old Valencia
Pack your bags
With a beguiling alchemy of old-fashioned elegance and contemporary cool, Valencia is a traveler’s paradise finally getting its due. The city seamlessly threads together historic treasures, world-class museums, and dazzling beaches with lush green spaces that breathe life into the streets. The world is waking up to this Iberian hotspot, discovering that Spain’s 'third city' offers a richness that rivals the capital. It is, in fact, the new number one.
