The center of Valencia: where the city was born
More than 2,000 years of history coexist in its streets, from the Roman layout and the Andalusi legacy to the splendor of the Gothic. The most practical way to discover the origin of everything.
Neighborhoods with history, character, and a life of their own.
Valencia's city center is best experienced through its neighborhoods. In Ciutat Vella, as the oldest part of the city is known, historic streets and charming squares shape areas with their own distinct personality, such as El Carmen. Just a few steps away, the Ensanche brings an elegant and dynamic vibe thanks to its shopping and dining options, featuring neighborhoods like Ruzafa, the most creative and multicultural spot in the area.
What to see in the centre of Valencia
Unique monuments that tell the story of the city
The Silk Exchange. UNESCO World Heritage
This Valencian Gothic-style civil building was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996 by UNESCO and it is a surprising and essential visit when in Valencia.
Cathedral and Holy Chalice
The Cathedral is a beautiful mixture of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic styles. The Holy Chalice is preserved inside the Cathedral and if you go up the 207 steps of the Miguelete tower you will be able to enjoy a 360º view of the city.
Hortensia Herrero Art Centre
Discover the private collection of Hortensia Herrero at the old Valeriola Palace. More than 50 internationally renowned contemporary artists.
Serranos Towers
It is one of the two gates that the city preserves from its old wall and a true icon of Valencian Gothic architecture. Climb up to one of its terraces to contemplate one of the best panoramic views of Valencia.
Colón Market
A jewel of Valencian modernism offering 3,500 m² of bright space devoted to gastronomy and leisure. Iconic architecture, terraces and gourmet experiences in the heart of the Ensanche district.
Church of San Nicolás de Bari and San Pedro Mártir, Valencia
Known as the Valencian Sistine Chapel. Open your eyes wide to admire its spectacular frescoes depicting the lives of Saint Nicholas of Bari and Saint Peter Martyr — a must-visit.
Central Market
Valencian cuisine has many things to boast about and you can find them all at the Central Market, the biggest market with fresh produce in Europe full of Mediterranean flavours and aromas.
City Hall
Discover this emblematic neoclassical building, seat of the municipal government and epicentre of the Las Fallas festival. Visit the Crystal Room, the balcony, the History Museum and the air-raid shelter.
The National Museum of Ceramics. Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace
Discover its spectacular façade sculpted in alabaster and enter the magnificent rooms of the palace where authentic artisanal jewels from the National Museum of Ceramics await you.
IVAM- Valencian Institute of Modern Art. Centre Julio González
Explore a unique collection in the historic centre, from early avant-garde to contemporary masterpieces.
Church of the Santos Juanes
Discover the Church of Santos Juanes after its restoration. Tickets now available with audio guide and videomapping show.
Unforgettable plans in the heart of the city
Authentic experiences to feel Valencia like a local
Hop onto a true Valencian icon to enjoy the best views.
Nothing says Valencia quite like the Miguelete. The Cathedral's bell tower has been the city's most recognizable symbol for centuries. The views from its viewpoint completely make up for the strenuous climb.
Follow the trail of the Holy Grail
What is the Holy Grail doing in València? If you want to know how it got here and appreciate its significance, you can take a themed guided tour or stop by the Visitor Reception Center.
Take a journey through 2,000 years of history
With so much to see, it's hard to know where to start. Let yourself be guided through the historic center on a guided tour to make sure you don't miss a thing. You're sure to discover a secret or two along the way.
Marvel at the frescoes of San Nicolás and Los Santos Juanes
The restoration of its spectacular frescoes earned the Church of San Nicolás the nickname "Valencian Sistine Chapel." Those at the Church of Los Santos Juanes have absolutely nothing to envy them for.
Perfect the art of outdoor dining
Sitting down for a drink with friends on an outdoor terrace and watching the world go by is a favorite Valencian pastime. Choose between intimate hidden corners or grand pedestrian spaces like the Plaza de la Reina.
Do your shopping at the Central Market
Lose yourself in a sea of aromas and colors, and let the calls of the vendors guide you to savor the most delicious local products. All this while you admire this modernist jewel.
Savor València on a tapas tour
Having tapas in the city center is a delight. Enjoy fresh products from the sea and the market garden, along with typical Valencian tapas like esgarraet, clóchinas (local mussels), tellinas (clams), or all i pebre.
Where to eat in the centre of Valencia
Traditional flavors and creative proposals on every corner
Shopping in the centre of Valencia
Shops with personality in streets full of charm
Stay in the centre of Valencia
Wake up surrounded by history and Mediterranean life
Explore the centre of Valencia
Discover the old town on a tour of about 2 hours. The route starts at the Torres de Serranos and ends at the Torres de Quart, passing through some of the most emblematic places in the historic center.
Route type: Walking. Duration Approx: 2 hours.
Activities to discover the centre of Valencia
Guided tours, monuments and experiences to experience the history of the city and its secrets