The Valencia Christmas markets are a festive, family-friendly event that runs for a full month. Come visit the city in the winter and enjoy artisanal goods, tasty holiday treats, and a lively atmosphere. The Christmas Markets in Valencia are a great way to enjoy this Mediterranean city — even in the winter months.
Valencia Christmas Markets Overview
The city of Valencia has multiple Christmas markets worth visiting. This is because they’re mostly planned out for the locals to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.
So whether you’re in La Ciutat Vella or even down towards El Cabanyal, you’ll be able to see the bright lights in action.
The Christmas markets in Valencia usually open the first week of December and will continue until January 7th. So you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see them while visiting.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about the Valencia Christmas markets – plus some tips on extra things to do while visiting during the holidays.
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Information for Visiting the Valencia Christmas Markets
There are multiple Christmas markets in Valencia. The most popular ones are at the City Hall Square and the Columbus Market (Mercat de Colom).
But practically everywhere you go, you’ll find decorative lights. The entire city fills up with the holiday spirit – not just the historic center.
Though in this guide – I’ll be focusing primarily on the Christmas Markets in the city center. (Unless I specifically mention a different one, of course)
So let’s look at important things to know about these holiday markets!
And please remember: the Christmas markets are made up of dozens of individual vendors. So this information will be general, but just remember some things might change!
Opening Times
As a general rule, the Christmas Markets in Valencia are open from 11 AM to 11 PM.
On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, they might close a bit earlier, though.
And as I mentioned, these are made up of a ton of individual vendors. So maybe one vendor will pack up early — or stay out later — if they need to. So even if these are the general opening hours, I would try to avoid running there at the last minute.
This is for the outdoor markets that you’ll find near the Mercat Central and the City Hall Square.
Weather
Typically Valencia in December is not very rainy. If you’re from a cold region, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the winter weather.
At night, you’ll definitely want a warm jacket and some gloves – but it’s not super cold.
Although it is relatively humid in the winter, so the sensation is colder than the temperature lets on! Plus if it gets windy, you’ll feel a strong chill. I recommend keeping gloves and a scarf just in case!
But during the day, you’ll likely be fine with a sweater and a light coat, you won’t likely need the heavy winter coat when the sun is out.
Where to See Them
You’ll be able to find the Valencia Christmas markets spread throughout all the best sightseeing spots in the city.
Here’s where we usually see the markets every year:
- City Hall Square
- Plaça de la Reina
- Mercat de Colom
- Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències
- El Cabanyal
The one at the City Hall Square is the most famous. It’s where you’ll see the giant Christmas Tree and the Ice Skating Rink!
However in recent years, the city has also set up a “Santa’s Workshop” at the City of Arts and Sciences.
So if you’re traveling with kids – make sure you head down there, too.
It’s a craft’s market that teaches kids how to make soaps, candles, and even chocolate! There are food trucks and even a place to send letters to the Three Wise Men.
It’s a fun, family-friendly event.
What To Buy
The markets all have artisanal crafts for you to buy. You’ll be able to buy everything from soaps and candles to handmade ornaments.
So make sure to walk through the markets to finish off your Christmas gift shopping.
I recommend looking for artisanal turró (nougat) and castanyes (chestnuts) for a traditional treat. Both of these are the classic flavors of a Valencian Christmas!
And don’t forget to grab some handmade toys or ornaments as a souvenir from the artisans.
What to Expect
Despite the cold weather, you should expect the streets to be full during Christmas.
Valencians love walking around the city – even during these chillier nights.
So you should expect a lively atmosphere, tons of city lights, and some crowds at the Christmas markets. Don’t expect to see an empty city!
Even the restaurants are going to be full. This is a common time for people to get together with friends, family, and even coworkers. So restaurants will often fill up quick!
And yes – even outdoor seating will get filled up quickly!
So make sure to come ready to enjoy a lively scene with both locals and tourists. Because at this point — tourism never slows down in Valencia.
How To Get There
Most of the Christmas Markets should be fairly accessible, as they are in the city center.
However, you can always take the metro or the bus system if you’d prefer to move around that way.
If you want to get to the City of Arts and Sciences, then I’d recommend taking the bus – as it tends to be the easiest way to get there.
It only costs €1.50 per person – and it’s free with the Valencia Tourist Card!
Other Christmas Markets in the Valencian Country
The City of Valencia has a pretty festive atmosphere, but if you’re able to explore other areas – there are tons of places you can go to. You can also visit other parts of Spain if you’re looking to have a more complete tourist experience.
So whether you’re looking to go on a day trip or to travel throughout the Valencian Country, here are some suggestions:
València:
- Nàquera (And their Natural Park)
- Requena
- Roca (L’Eliana)
Nàquera is known for having a lovely Christmas Market filled with workshops. Requena is great if you’re a wine lover, as its the perfect place to get a locally crafted bottle during their Christmas Fair.
And Roca in L’Eliana is known for having an enormous Nativity Scene. It’s a super impressive one! You can take the C6 local train to get here.
Castelló:
- Azuébar
- Alcalà de Xivert
- Peniscola
- Benicàssim
- Castelló de la Plana
All of these towns to the north have lovely holiday markets filled with sweet treats and local products. It’s a great option if you’re looking to drive around Valencia and explore some nature.
Peniscola is easy to get to for a day trip, so this is a great option if you want to see some castles during your Christmas holiday.
Alacant:
- Benidorm
- Altea
- Xixona
- Alacant
Xixona is known as the birthplace of turró (nougat). So this is a great place to visit if you love making desserts. And of course – Benidorm has become a famous destination for beach-seeking tourists.
Things to Do in Valencia During Christmas
Once you’ve explored the Valencia Christmas markets to your heart’s content, let’s talk about some other things you can do.
Besides the normal things to see in Valencia, there are plenty of festive activities you can take part in. Because whether you want to go on some tours or just explore the city on you’re own, you’ll have no problem finding things to do.
So here is a quick list of some things to do in Valencia during Christmas.
See the City Hall lights
The light display at the City Hall Square is one of the best ones to see!
With a giant Christmas tree with the iconic buildings surrounding it, this is the perfect space to enjoy some magical Christmas vibes.
Whether you’re just coming to take a quick selfie or you want to enjoy sit on a bench and enjoy roasted chestnuts — this is a must-see.
Visit nativity scenes
A lot of Valencian families will go throughout the city to see the Betlems. These are nativity scenes that are set up in churches and even storefront displays.
Even if you’re not religious, it’s still a lovely artwork display.
These are the most famous ones to see:
- The City Hall
- The Ceramics Museum
- Columbus Market
- The Cathedral
- Sant Joan de l’Hospital Church
- Sant Nicolau Church
Those are just a few to see! But as you walk around the city, feel free to take a peak in any of the churches to see the nativity scenes set up.
Go ice skating
Valencia isn’t exactly a winter wonderland. The city hasn’t seen snow since 1946.
But that doesn’t stop the City Hall from setting up an ice skating rink in the main square.
It’s a fun, family-friendly event. So whether you’re coming with kids or you’re trying to have a romantic time, this is a great way to spend some time outdoors.
In 2023, it cost €9 for 30 minutes – and this includes the ice skates.
Note: It’s usually open from 11:00 AM — 11:00 PM, with a lunch break from 2—4 during the week.
Three King’s Parade
Traditionally, the Three Kings Day was more important than Christmas Day. In fact, many families still choose to give out more presents on Jan 6 than on Christmas.
So naturally, the parade is a big deal for the little ones in the city!
They get to see the Three Wise Men march through the city, throwing candy and other goods to people as they walk by.
Personally, I think the one the city of Valencia is a bit … corporate/commercial. It doesn’t feel as traditional as the parades you’ll see in smaller towns.
But still – if you’re coming with kids, they won’t forgive you for missing the Three Wise Men!
Check out the Columbus Market
Just like the City Hall Square has a fantastic light display — so does the Mercat de Colom.
They have a giant nativity scene, Christmas tree, and lets hung throughout the market. It’s one of my favorite scenes to see during the holidays!
The market is mostly full of restaurants and places to grab a drink, but during Christmas there are also some local vendors. So during the holiday season, it has a completely different feel to it.
If you want to grab a drink with a festive vibe – this is a great place to go.
Try your luck at the lottery
The Christmas Lottery is a famous tradition that practically everyone takes part in.
The normal lottery ticket costs €20, all in the hopes of hitting it big with the “gordo” — the half million euro prize.
Even people who don’t usually bet will buy a lottery ticket. The proceeds go to non-profit organizations, so even if you don’t win – at least you’re still in the holiday spirit!
The winners are announced on the 22nd of December with an interesting show to accompany it. Children will go on a golden stage to sing each number as it’s announced. Definitely a unique tradition!
➡️ You can check the winning numbers here.
Finish up your Christmas shopping
And of course – what Christmas holiday vacation is complete without some shopping!
The most common shopping area is down the Carrer de Colom. This is where you’ll find all of the famous brands. This is where most people will go get their Christmas gifts.
But if you head down the perpendicular streets, you’ll find a lot of boutique and local shops, as well. So don’t be afraid to go exploring!
Where to stay during Christmas
If you’re staying in Valencia in Christmas, I highly recommend sticking to the city center.
There’s a few reasons for this.
First – you’ll want to be in this area anyway, to see all of the Christmas Markets.
Secondly – the beach generally isn’t the best place to go in winter, so there’s no point in staying in El Cabanyal.
Finally – It’s better to have quick access to your lodging. If you’re out and about all day, it’s a good idea to be close to your hotel. This way if you start to get too cold or the weather turns, you’ll be close to your hotel.
➡️ Check out my full guide on where to stay
Valencia Travel Resources
Enjoy your time seeing all the Valencia Christmas markets! It’s a fun, festive time and — despite the colder weather — is a great time to see the city.
People are constantly walking around, meeting with friends, and having a good time. So the atmosphere is unique and lively!
Have any questions about visiting Valencia?
Here are some more resources to help you plan your trip:
- Weather in Valencia in December
- Best restaurants in Valencia
- Free weekend itinerary
- Travel insurance for Valencia
- Where to get train tickets
- Where to get cheap flights
FAQS
Yes, most vendors will take card at the Christmas markets — but not all of them. So bring some cash just in case.
Yes! Valencia has several Christmas markets spread throughout the historic center. They’re fun to visit and even have family events to take part in.
Need help planning your trip to Valencia?
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