There are dozens of landmarks in Valencia that are worth seeing. But for most tourists – you’re only here for a few days. Which means you need to prioritize seeing the best of the best. So in this article, I’ll tell you which are the most important things to see in València. We’ll narrow it down to 10 of the most emblematic landmarks in the city. And I’ll specifically choose some places that are unlike anywhere else in Spain. Valencia has its own history, style, and culture – so these are the landmarks you can’t miss!
10 Landmarks in Valencia, Spain
The following are going to be the most emblematic landmarks in Valencia, Spain. All of them are 100% visitable on your own. And most of them are free, too!
So I’ll explain a bit about each of them. But if you want some extra guidance, here is a tour I highly recommend:
And feel free to check out my full guide on the best tours in Valencia for more options.
But if you prefer going DIY – or just want to learn some more before committing to a tour – let’s look at the top 10 landmarks in Valencia.
City of Arts and Sciences
This futuristic complex represents València’s bold step into the 21st century with its striking architecture and cultural significance.
It’s a truly unique blend of futurism, while still sticking to Valencian motifs. For example, the white tiles you see that make up the entire area are called trencadís. This is a style that’s often used in classic Valencian ceramics and art.
But the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències truly is a city on its own. You’ll be able to walk around for well over an hour, just taking in the sights. It’s made up of a few buildings:
- Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia
- L’Hemisfèric
- Museu de les Ciències Príncep Felip
- L’Umbracle
- L’Agora
- Pont de l’Assut de l’Or
Each of these (except for the last two) are visitable on the inside, as well.
Note: But even if you choose NOT to go inside, it’s 100% worth visiting the outside
Oceanogràfic
Europe’s largest aquarium complex offers an immersive journey through the world’s marine ecosystems.
This is one of the best things to do with kids in Valencia. Ooooor if you’re visiting in the summer and you need an escape from the heat!
It’s a fun experience and is by far one of the most important Valencia landmarks.
I’ve been to a lot of aquariums in my lifetime, and it really is worth the hype. It’ll take 3–4 hours to see everything.
Plus, the Oceanogràfic plays a big role in the research and protection of Mediterranean marine life, with all the ethical certifications to go along with it. So you can rest easy there, as well!
La Seu
València’s magnificent cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s religious and architectural history. La Seu means “The Seat”. This is the main cathedral of the city and the “seat” of the church here in the old Valencian Kingdom.
You do have to pay to get in – but I actually think it’s worth it. Maybe I’m biased, but it is one of the few cathedrals that I think are worth paying for.
Inside you’ll find a history museum, archeology museum, access to the Micalet tower (which have GREAT views for 2€), PLUS the holy grail.
That’s right, the real holy grail is (allegedly) found within La Seu de València. Now I won’t sit here and pretend I’m an expert in this sort of thing. Buuuut there are scholarly articles that show that Valencia is one of the most likely locations to host the real deal.
Regardless – it’s still worth a visit anyway.
PS – this is the last “expensive” landmark in Valencia.
La Llotja de la Seda
This Gothic masterpiece showcases València’s medieval economic power and architectural excellence. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site we have in the city.
It’s also my favorite Valencian landmark!
This Silk Exchange was built to host the economic leaders during the Valencian Golden Age. And when you head inside, you can absolutely tell how important Valencia was during the 15th century.
To get in, you’ll actually head around the back (not on the market side). It only costs 2€ – and is free on Sundays.
This is also a great spot for selfies, so highly recommend heading inside
Torres dels Serrans
There are only two surviving sections of the medieval wall that used to surround the city of Valencia. The Torres de Quart, and the Torres dels Serrans.
Both are visitable and both offer spectacular views of the city. They’re one of my favorite things that Valencia is famous for.
But if you have to choose, I’d recommend going up the Torres dels Serrans, since you also get a view of the Turia Gardens.
Built at the end of the 14th century, these enormous guardians are one of the most emblematic landmarks in the city.
Just like La Llotja – they cost 2€ to go up and are free to visit on Sunday mornings.
Mercat Central
This is Spain’s largest enclosed food market. It’s also one of the most important symbols of Valencian Art Nouveau.
I really love this market because it’s something you don’t really see anywhere else. The entire design is very uniquely Valencian.
It’s been continuously operating for over 100 years and serves as a gathering point for a very agricultural society.
But if you go in, please do me a favor.
➡️ Actually purchase something.
Don’t just block the aisles trying to take pictures. Remember that these are real agricultural families that are trying to make a living. So do your best to support local farmers and bakeries by actually purchasing when you
go in.
Estació del Nord
The next Valencian landmark on the list is the Estació del Nord – the Valencia Train Station.
Now, many cities in Spain end up looking similarly. All the gothic and baroque architecture just starts to blend together.
But when you see the Estació del Nord. It can ONLY be from València. Landmarks like this are very clearly made to belong here.
You’ll find oranges and vegetables decorating the façade. The coat of arms spread throughout. You’ll even see mosaic art depicting cultural scenes.
It’s a truly Valencian landmark that you have to see — even if you don’t take the train anywhere.
Jardins del Túria
The green heart of València, created from the former riverbed of the Túria. These gardens are longer than Central Park in New York City and are now known as the “lungs” of the city.
This is the perfect spot for a picnic, a morning run, or just a lovely walk through the park.
It’s a lovely green space that everyone should see. So when you get tired of seeing architecture and you just want to relax in the shade, head down here.
L’Ajuntament
València’s city hall stands proudly in the heart of the city, showcasing neo-classical architecture.
And something not many people know is that you can actually visit the inside of the city hall for free! The downside is that it’s only open from M–F from 8–3.
This square is one of the most important in Valencia. You’ll often see major events happening here, including the Mascletà during Les Falles. So of course, you have to come see the City Square.
If you’re able to see the inside, you’ll get to see:
- The Sala de Cristalls
- A museum of the history of Valencia
- La Senyera from the conquest of Valencia (the original flag from 1238)
Pluuuuus you can go on the balcony and take a selfie!
La Plaça de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats
If I had to choose, this would probably be my favorite square in the entire city. The Square of Our Lady of the Forsaken – also known as the Virgin’s Square.
At this Valencia landmark, you get a view of the Basilica, the Cathedral, the President’s Palace, and a huge fountain that represents the Turia River.
It’s an amazing spot to see both during the day and at night. This is usually where I come when I go for an evening walk. So years later and I still love seeing this landmark.
How To See All the Landmarks
As I mentioned before – it’s totally doable to go ahead and see all of these landmarks in Valencia by yourself. Except for the first two on this list, they’re all relatively close to each other.
But if you want to dive deeper and get a more comprehensive experience, I do recommend going on a tour. This way, you’ll get a better idea of what you’re actually looking at.
Here are a few tours I recommend:
And if you need some more help getting around, I recommend taking a look at these articles:
Valencia Travel Resources
I hope this guide has helped you understand what the most important landmarks in Valencia are! If you have any questions or concerns — just send me a message! I always try to help people as much as I can.
Aaaaaand if you want some expert support, go ahead and book a travel planning service with me. I offer both consultations (to answer any burning questions) – and full, personalized, and done-for-you itineraries.
Thanks for visiting, and bon viatge!
Kevin
Other Free Valencia Travel Resources:
- Best hotels to stay at
- My restaurant recommendations
- How to book flights
- Top things to do
- Fun facts about Valencia
Need help planning your trip to Valencia?
Here are the tools I use for the cheapest (and most reliable) vacation planning:
- 🏠Booking – Affordable hotels and apartments
- 🏠Hostel World – Safe and budget-friendly hostels
- ✈️Skyscanner – My favorite tool for cheap flights
- 🚗Discover Cars – Best place for car rentals
- 🚄Trainline – The easiest way to book local trains in advance
- 📶Airalo – eSim cards for easy internet access while traveling
- 🦺Safety Wing – The #1 travel medical insurance
- 💸Airhelp – Cancelled flight compensation (it’s free!)
- 💱Wise – Easiest low-fee way to transfer currency
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