Valencia has something for everyone – a beautiful historic city center, futuristic architecture, colorful neighborhoods and a stunning coastline. However, beyond the typical tourist spots there are also plenty of alternative things to do in Valencia that let you discover the city’s rich local culture and hidden treasures. Here are our favorite non-touristy activities for the best holiday in Valencia!
Top Alternative Things to Do in Valencia
1. Discover the Turia Gardens
Did you know that Valencia has a park running through the city’s center? Now a sprawling urban park, the Turia Gardens was once a river. Stretching out for several kilometers, the park is home to different activities at any hour of the day.
From tranquil yoga classes and long runs, to families gathering for birthday picnics, there is so much life in the Turia. It is also home to the iconic City of Arts and Sciences – Valencia’s futuristic complex with incredible architecture and plenty to discover.
Enjoy the park like a local – rent a bike to enjoy the endless winding paths, grab fresh food from a market to enjoy a sunny picnic or simply take a long walk to soak up everything the gardens have to offer.
2. Valencia Wine Experience
Looking to discover the best local wines in Valencia? Look no further! This Valencia wine experience takes you to the heart of Valencia’s vineyards to explore regional wines. From visiting a family bodega to seeing the stunning countryside of Valencia’s wine region, this experience lets you sample the flavors most typical to the region. If you’re looking for alternative things to do in Valencia, this experience combines wine, local snacks and exploring a new area of Valencia!
Find out more about the Valencia Wine Experience!
3. Visit the Fallas Museum
Las Fallas festival is Valencia’s most famous celebration, attracting crowds from all over the world. At the Fallas Museum, you can discover everything to know about this iconic event. Here, you can discover the ninots (the large papier-mâché figures displayed throughout the city) that have been spared from the flames over the years.
It’s also a great place to understand Valencia’s most famous festival and learn the history behind it. Discovering the ninots, you can also gain a greater insight into the amazing craftsmanship that defines Fallas and learn more about Valencian culture.
Curious about Las Fallas? Discover our most famous celebration with a local!
4. Sample the Central Market Valencia
The largest fresh produce market in Europe, Valencia’s Central Market is a must-see when visiting Valencia. Housed in a beautiful building dating back to the modernist period, the marketplace features impressive iron structures combined with stunning stained glass and beautiful illustrations.
Spend the morning getting lost in the market aisles, discovering amazing smells and delicious flavors. From freshly baked pastries to juicy seasonal fruits and the highest quality hams, there is so much to sample at the market.
Top tip: try a traditional Valencian horchata (a drink made from tiger nuts) to be enjoyed with a farton (a long pastry finger that you can dip in the drink).
The market is also home to Central Bar – the informal tapas bar of Valencian Michelin-star chef, Ricard Camarena. This is a place to have a glass of wine and try some of the highest-quality tapas. Get there early though as it always has a huge queue!
5. Explore Valencia Street Art
Did you know that Valencia is home to some amazing street art? In certain areas, the city’s walls are graced with colorful and creative murals by both local and international artists.
El Carmen has the majority of amazing graffiti and street art. Spend some time discovering the area’s winding streets and see what you can spot!
6. Do a Paella Cooking Class
Want to learn to cook Valencia’s most famous dish? Take a cooking class and learn how to make an authentic Valencian paella! With a professional chef to guide you along the way, you can learn step-by-step how to perfect this dish before sitting back and enjoying your paella with some prize winning wines from the region.
7. Visit an Art Museum
From art dating back to the Middle Ages to the most avant-garde digital art, Valencia is home to some amazing art galleries for all kinds of art lovers.
If you’re more of a classic art lover, you’ll love the Museo de Bellas Artes (The Museum of Fine Arts). Housed in a beautiful baroque, it has an impressive collection of Spanish art dating back to the Middle Ages. From Goya and Velázquez, to El Greco and Sorolla, the museum is a perfect activity for those looking for alternative things to do in Valencia.
Modern art more your thing? There is always a new exhibition to discover at the Bancaja, a free collection at the CCCC, or some truly mind-blowing modern art at the Hortensia Herrero collection.
8. Escape the City
If you want to escape the tourist traps, the surrounding Valencia has so much to explore. Whether you’re looking to get into nature, or want to learn more about the local culture of small-town Valencia, getting out of the city for a day could be a good option.
Try Something New – Alternative Things to Do in Valencia
There are plenty of alternative things to do in Valencia beyond the classic tourist traps. Uncover the hidden gems and experience the city like a local. Whether you’re discovering the vibrant street art scene, or exploring beyond the city these activities will add something unique to your visit.