Practice makes perfect, and that couldn’t be any more true when it comes to learning a new language. So, why not practice your Spanish in one of the most vibrant cities that Spain has to offer?! Famous for its fascinating Roman history, modern architectural wonders, sunny beaches, and mouth-watering foods, Valencia is the ideal destination for this. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s plan for you to visit Valencia this summer.
More than just a Mediterranean gem
Valencia’s appeal goes far beyond the sunny Mediterranean climate, although it certainly does not take away from it. Boasting over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s a destination that’s equally pleasant in Spring as it is in Winter.
However, the local attractions are what really captivate its visitors. For instance, the iconic City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic-style architectural complex that features leisure facilities and museums. Including one of Europe’s largest aquariums. Spanning a whopping 136 hectares, Turia Gardens is another must-visit, perfect for an afternoon stroll. For history enthusiasts, the Valencia Cathedral, also known as St Mary’s Cathedral, will not fail to amaze with its intricate details.
These are just a few examples of the many remarkable attractions in the city that you include in your list when you visit Valencia, some of which are UNESCO-listed. So, with lots to do and see, even a long stay will not get boring here.
Immersing in Valencian culture
Valencia is a city pulsing with culture. It’s a dynamic place that offers activities and experiences for those from all walks of life. Whether you like to try your hand in watersports, join a social networking group, celebrate at the Las Fallas festival, or simply make friends at the local café, you’ll find yourself fully immersed in Valencian culture. Not just that, this provides opportunities for authentic Spanish interactions with friendly locals, helping you practice your spoken language.
Even the food can be something to bond over, with Valencia being the birthplace of paella as well as many other mouth-watering dishes, famous across Europe. Foodies should not skip a visit to the Central Market for fresh local produce and delicious street food. With over 250 stalls full of Valencian seafood, meat, cheese, and spices, it’s the largest fresh produce market in the whole of Europe.
From classroom theory to real-world practice
To complement your explorations and cultural immersion with some professional guidance, consider the Españolé International House. Housed in a stunning 13th century Gothic palace and located in the heart of the city (near the aforementioned Central Market), Españolé is a reputable language school providing high-quality Spanish courses to international students.
They offer a comprehensive range of courses, including semi-intensive and intensive programs as well as exam preparation for DELE and SIELE. The courses are suitable for students of varying ages, ranging between 1 and 48 weeks in length.
What’s more, they follow a teaching methodology that emphasises the communicative approach, fostering active participation in small class sizes. Beyond the classroom learning, they organise weekly activities and excursions, where you can apply your Spanish lessons in the real world scenario.
Places to see and things to do in Valencia
There are many charming places to see and exciting things to put on your list when you visit Valencia. Some of these include –
City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)
A modern architectural masterpiece and a must-visit. City of Arts and Science includes the following must-experience places:
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L’Hemisfèric: IMAX cinema and planetarium.
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Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe: Interactive science museum.
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L’Oceanogràfic: Largest aquarium in Europe.
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Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia: Opera house and performing arts center.
Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia)
It is a great place for cycling, walking and jogging. And also it connects several important landmarks of Valencia through it’s different gates. No wonder it acts as a pass-through for the daily commuters to different parts of Valencia. A must on your list when you visit Valencia.
Malvarrosa Beach
The most popular beach of Valencia, Malvarrosa Beach offers long, sandy beach with a lively promenade. It is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying paella at a beachfront restaurant. The beach is highly accessible, easily reached by tram, bus, bike, or even a long scenic walk through the Turia Gardens and the Port area. It’s key features include
- Fine golden sand: Wide and clean, with plenty of space for lounging or beach games.
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Gentle waters: Ideal for swimming; shallow near the shore and usually calm.
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A non interrupted stretch of about 1 km
- The beach enjoys a blue flag status. Which means it has clean water, good facilities like restrooms and changing rooms, and environmental care.
Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete
At the Valencia Cathedral, you can Climb the Miguelete tower for panoramic views. The Cathedral is believed to house the Holy Chalice, or Holy Grail — the cup Jesus used at the Last Supper.It is situated in Plaza de la Virgen, at the heart of Valencia’s old town. And built on the site of a former mosque, which itself was built over a Roman temple. The unique thing about this cathedral is that it’s architecture style spans across multiple including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassic.
Notable Features Inside:
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Main altar and choir: Richly decorated with Gothic and Renaissance paintings.
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Frescoes: Discovered during restoration in the main dome — stunning Renaissance art by Italian painters.
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Chapel of the Holy Grail: A simple but spiritually significant space.
Visitor Experience
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Self-guided tours with audio guides available.
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Museum inside the Cathedral showcases religious artifacts and ancient manuscripts.
You must not miss the cathedral when you visit Valencia.
La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)
It is a historical world heritage site which has stunning Gothic architecture symbolizing Valencia’s golden age of trade. La Lonja was built during Valencia’s Golden Age, a period of great wealth and commercial power in the 15th century when the city was a major Mediterranean trading hub. It served as a mercantile exchange, where merchants—especially silk traders—conducted business and signed contracts under a strict code of conduct.
The building represents the ideals of commerce, wealth, and civic pride during Valencia’s peak economic period. It’s main attractions are:
- Sala de Contratación (Contract Hall) with it’s twisted columns
- Torreón (Tower) which served as an archive and even a prison for merchants who broke trade laws.
- Pabellón del Consulado del Mar (Consulate of the Sea) which is a Russian style building
- Orange Tree Courtyard (Patio de los Naranjos). Which, as the name suggests, is a peaceful courtyard with orange trees, surrounded by beautiful Gothic arches. And a great place to take some rest and appreciate the architecture around.
Visiting tips
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Opening Hours: Typically 10:00–19:00 (may vary by season or day of the week).
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Admission: Around €2–€3. Free on Sundays and public holidays.
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Audio Guides: Usually available in multiple languages.
Mercado Central
One of the oldest and largest food markets in Europe. It makes for a great spot for tasting local products like jamón, cheese, seafood, and fresh fruit.
El Carmen Neighborhood
These are Historic quarter full of street art, tapas bars, and medieval buildings. Here you must visit Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart — remnants of the ancient city walls. Reminds me of the ancient city walls we climbed up to and walked upon while on our walking tour around Lucerne on our 4 days trip to Switzerland. These city walls always give the best panoramic views of the city and beyond.
IVAM (Institut Valencià d’Art Modern)
It is a premier museum for modern and contemporary art.
Albufera Natural Park
Just outside the city lies the Albufera Natural Park. It is a peaceful lagoon with boat rides, birdwatching, and stunning sunsets. Also, it is the birthplace of the famous paella Valenciana — try it in a local village like El Palmar. A unique place to add to your list when you visit Valencia.
The full package to visit Valencia
Real-world application of a new language undoubtedly builds confidence and fluency, reinforcing your skills in scenarios and contexts that classrooms alone cannot replicate. And, Valencia truly is the full package for this: a charming Mediterranean city, inviting climate, delicious food, rich cultural experiences, and the ideal environment to learn Spanish!