Valencia, Spain cruises

Valencia lies on Spain’s south-eastern coast, where the Turia River meets the Mediterranean Sea.

With history, art, culture, and culinary surprises at every turn, Valencia boasts an exhilarating mix of activities. Get ready to discover this Spanish city and the beauty it beholds.

Valencia port guide

Being one of the busiest seaports in Europe, Valencia warmly welcomes thousands of guests each year who seek to explore the wonderful delights it has to offer. Valencia Port is located in the heart of the Valencia region and is just a short walk south of swaying palm trees, golden shores, and glistening blue seas.

As you sail into port, be sure to appreciate the sights, sounds, and smells that introduce you to the ancient city. Here is when your immersive journey around the Mediterranean really begins.

Here is our guide on everything you need to know about exploring the wondersome city of Valencia.

Top landmarks and sights in Valencia

Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral is a Gothic-style building built on an ancient Roman temple. This Roman Catholic church is home to many 15th-century paintings, including important pieces from the Spanish Renaissance, and the Holy Chalice, the cup believed to have been used by Jesus at the Last Supper.

Valencia Old Town

Built over 2000 years ago, Valencia's old town has been home to Roman, Visigoth, and Muslim populations since founded in 130 BC. It is one of the largest historic centers in Europe and brims with history, art, and intellectual activity. Valencia’s rich Hispanic culture is visible everywhere in the city’s old town. From its architecture to art forms, masterpieces throughout the city reflect Roman, Visigoth, Moorish, and Aragonese traditions.

La Lonja (The Silk Exchange)

Located in the city center, La Lonja (The Silk Exchange) is one of the most famous Gothic monuments in Europe. With great artistic value and great significance to the city, La Lonja was announced as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. This unique center is steeped in history waiting to be discovered.

Plaza de Toros de Valencia

An old bullfighting ring, the Plaza de Toros de Valencia is lauded for its architectural achievement and attributes to the city. Inspired by the famous Roman Colosseum, the building features over 300 arches. Brave spectators who climb the 200 steps to the summit of the amphitheater can enjoy panoramic views over the orange rooftops and blue-domed churches.

Things to do in Valencia

The Central Market

The Central Market in Valencia is the largest market selling fresh produce in Europe. It has been declared a ‘Heritage of Cultural Interest’ site by the Spanish Ministry of Culture and is best known for its rich and varied cuisine. A modernist market for food lovers, the Central Market is a highlight within Valencia’s old town.

City of Arts and Sciences

Valencia may be best known for its art and science contributions. The City of Arts and Science Complex pay homage to the efforts and is recognized for its avant-garde architectural style. Six impressive buildings complete the complex and often organize conferences, exhibitions, projections, tours, and workshops related to art, science, technology, and design.

Malvarrosa Beach

Valencia’s coast is flanked by beautiful beaches and infinite blue seas. Malvarrosa Beach is a wide city beach stretching one kilometer. A bustling promenade bursting with shops, restaurants, and a beach bar makes Malvarrosa Beach the ultimate destination to enjoy a day under the sun.

Eating and drinking in Valencia

Perhaps Valencia’s most notable invention is paella. The original birthplace of the famous rice dish, Valencia serves paella in its most authentic and traditional form. Paella in Valencia features seafood, sausage, chicken, and a range of other flavors.

Valencia is a coastal city where fish and seafood are fresh and plentiful. Caught from the thriving coastline each day, salmon, trout, bass, eels, and pike are common fish species you can expect to enjoy from the menu.

A unique fisherman’s dish, fideua is paella's humble cousin. Combining noodles with monkfish, squid, shrimp, and more, this is one of the most popular dishes from Valencia and a great alternative to paella.

Getting around, Valencia transport

The main tourist areas and attractions can easily be explored on foot and ample public transport links run throughout the city.

The Valencia Tourist Card can be purchased and used on the bus, metro, and tram. This card also allows free entrance to some museums and monuments.

The port is around five kilometers from the city center and a shuttle bus service is available.

Valencia port facilities

The port facilities at Valencia Port include a tourist information center, duty-free, souvenir shops, internet access, toilets, and a restaurant.

Valencia quick tips

Currency

The Euro is the local currency in Valencia, Spain. Card payments are widely accepted but there may be a foreign transaction fee.

However, some small shops and bars may not accept card payments, so it is recommended you carry some cash during your visit.

Tipping is not required in Valencia but a small bonus for exceptional service is greatly appreciated.

Weather

Valencia has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and long hot summers. With an average of over 300 days of sunshine, Valencia is popular among sun-seekers.

Temperatures are expected to reach highs of 31°C during the summer in Valencia while the winter months reach lows of 5°C.

For ample sun, events, and festivals, the high season, between June and August, is the best time of the year to visit Valencia. For sightseeing, March to May and September is considered the best time as the weather is warm and crowds begin to thin.