Welcome to Valencia, Spain’s very own orange-scented paradise. This city has it all: sweet-smelling orange trees lining the streets, jaw-dropping futuristic buildings and golden beaches that practically beg you to kick off your shoes. It’s a place full of contrasts. Old-world charm meets space-age design, lazy beach days blend with buzzing city vibes. And in this blog, I’m taking you along to all my favorite spots for a city trip that’s sunny, cozy, and (trust me) totally unforgettable.
- Scooter like it’s hot: Turia Park
- Torres de Serrano: climbing for a next level view
- El Carmen: get lost in Valencia’s most colorful neighborhood
- Mercat Central: foodie heaven on earth
- Oceanogràfic: deep diving without getting wet
- Mya and more: Valencia by night
- Beach mode on: metro line to the sun
- Valencia: the city you must see
Scooter like it’s hot: Turia Park
Why make things hard when it can be easy and fun? Skip the hassle and go for the fun option: rent an electric scooter and let yourself glide through the green heart of Valencia — the stunning Turia Park. Once a flowing river, it’s now a nine-kilometer-long urban oasis winding its way right through the city. As you silently zip along the paths, the scenery keeps shifting around you. Kids are laughing and chasing after footballs, a yoga class stretches peacefully under the shade of tall trees, and soft guitar music drifts from a nearby street performer. The sweet scent of orange blossoms hangs in the air. Bridges arch gracefully overhead, connecting different parts of the park like chapters in a story. And then — boom — there it is: the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. All sleek curves, glass, and water reflections, it looks like it landed straight out of a sci-fi movie. So what are you waiting for? Ready, set … scoot!
Torres de Serrano: climbing for a next level view
After all that scootering and strolling, it’s time to catch your breath. And the perfect spot? Torres de Serranos — two massive medieval towers that once stood guard over Valencia. These days, they mostly guard one thing: the most epic view in town. Sure, there are quite a few stairs to climb, but once you’re at the top? Totally worth it. From up there, you can see Turia Park snaking its way through the city like a green ribbon, the winding streets of the old town, and — if the weather’s on your side — even the sparkling sea in the distance. Time to grab your phone and snap that perfect shot. Filter? Please. You won’t need one here.
El Carmen: get lost in Valencia’s most colorful neighborhood
After all that climbing, it’s time to drop back into city life and there’s no better place than El Carmen. This is Valencia’s most creative, colorful and let’s be honest, slightly chaotic neighborhood. But that’s exactly what makes it so much fun. Here, you don’t need a plan. Just wander. Get lost in the maze of narrow streets filled with charm, history and buildings that have seen things. Around every corner, you’ll find bold street art, hidden gems, and little surprises that make you stop and smile. Need a break? Grab a seat on a cozy terrace and cool down with an ice-cold smoothie — or even better, try a horchata. Creamy, slightly sweet, it’s the local favorite. And yes, you have to order some tapas. No question about it. And when the sun goes down? El Carmen really comes alive. The terraces fill up, music drifts through the streets and locals mix effortlessly with travelers.
Chances are, you won’t want to leave. And honestly? You don’t have to.
Mercat Central: foodie heaven on earth
Food lovers, this one’s for you. If you love food — and really, who doesn’t? — then you have to visit Mercat Central. This buzzing market hall is packed with color, scent and flavor. The kind of place where your stomach starts growling the moment you walk in. There are juicy oranges, olives in every shape and size, mouthwatering cheeses, and slices of that famous jamón ibérico that seem to call your name. Everywhere you look, something delicious is waiting to be tasted. So what do you do? Easy — start sampling, sniffing and collecting your dream picnic. Once you’ve got your goodies, head straight to Turia Park, find a sunny spot and dig in. Honestly? Might just be the best lunch you’ll have all trip.
Oceanogràfic: deep diving without getting wet
In the mood for a whole different world? Then you’ve got to check out Oceanogràfic. It’s the biggest marine aquarium in all of Europe — and seriously, it’s next-level amazing. You walk through glass tunnels with sharks and massive manta rays gliding right above your head. Dolphins leap and play in their lagoon, and the adorable beluga whales (yes, the ones that always look like they’re smiling) are guaranteed to steal your heart. Bonus? It’s beautifully cool inside — the perfect place to escape the blazing Spanish midday sun while being totally wowed at the same time.
Mya and more: Valencia by night
Ready for a legendary night out? Then Valencia is calling your name! Whether you’re into chill cocktail bars or want to go all out in an underground club — this city’s got everything for a night you won’t forget. My personal fave? Mya. This club, hidden beneath L’Umbracle — that futuristic pavilion filled with palm trees and modern art — is a full-on experience. The beats are loud, the light show is insane, and before you know it … the night’s flown by. It honestly feels like stepping into another world where time just doesn’t exist. But Mya’s not the only option. Want something a bit different? Head to Radio City for a cool, alternative vibe. Or check out the bars in Ruzafa if you’re in the mood for a more laid-back, local night out. So throw on your best outfit, grab your crew, and dive headfirst into Valencia’s nightlife. You won’t regret it.
Beach mode on: metro line to the sun
Almost forgot — Valencia has a beach too! The metro is your fast pass to Playa de la Malvarrosa or Playa del Cabanyal. Just hop on, slap on some sunscreen and before you know it, you’re stepping off with the sea right in front of you. Grab a delicious ice cream or a cold agua de Valencia, roll out your towel, and … hola playa!
Valencia: the city you must see
I zipped through the lush green Turia Park on my scooter, discovered the coolest street art in vibrant El Carmen, came face to face with sharks at Oceanogràfic, and stuffed myself silly with amazing tapas. And then … that beach. Feet in the sand, sun warming my face. Pure bliss. Trust me, you need to experience this too. So … when are you booking your flight to Valencia?
Nomad Notes 