Guide to Arts & Culture in Valencia

The City of Arts & Sciences is a must for all ages as there's always something incredibly cool to experience between the science museum, Europe's largest aquarium and the Palace Of The Arts.

From there, you can enjoy a walk in the Turia, which is part of a river that flowed though the city before it was diverted to prevent floods in 1969. The riverbed is now a lush green space that's well-loved by runners and dog owners alike.
Just outside the Turia's walls sits the Museu de Belles Arts, which is worth a stroll through and is totally free to visit.

Then skip over to Valencia's Botanical Gardens for a blend of science, culture and nature that offers insight into local and global flora. Get up close to the world's beautiful biodiversity any time of the year.

Day trips from Valencia, Spain

If you're interested in diving into all things Valencian ceramics, do yourself a favor and skip the Ceramics Museum and head out to Manises instead. It is easy to access via the metro (as is the VLC airport, by the way), just walking around the center will provide loads of centuries-old eye candy. Head inside their museum for more!

Here's my restaurant and cafe roundup to date:

Federal Cafe: Central, great vibe, food and coffee. Bright and airy. Laptop friendly.

Cult Cafe: Really sweet, corner cafe with a variety of vegan and gluten-free items. My husband loves the acai bowl, while I love their oat milk latte.

Dulce De Leche: Whether craving sweet or savory, this is a popular spot. I prefer the vibe of their Russafa location, where you can sit outside or inside the modern, plant-filled space.

La Romana Gelato: Modern cafe with a wide variety of gelato flavors, including delicious vegan options.

Boa Beach: Super casual, relaxed boho atmosphere. I took friends here over the summer and they loved it. Great for breakfast, brunch or lunch.

Habitual: Refined dining, located in the lower level of Mercado de Colon, without the high prices you might expect from celebrated chef Ricard Camarena. You can have a wonderful dinner here on a menu that's rooted in Spanish culture with global influences. Just outside the restaurant, you'll find Camarena's Bar X, which is a great option for fresh tapas and drinks.

Masa Madre: In the mood for authentic Roman-style pizza? This is the spot.

Latte & Farina: Great for casual Italian with delicious pastas and pizza.

La Gobernanta (Carrer de la Conquesta, 8): Walking through busy Placa del Tossal and trying to find a cute spot for our small group, we stumbled on this great little bistro in a quiet alley. I recommend for tapas and a drink - or stay for dinner. You can sit at a table in the alleyway, but they have a lovely interior space.

Casa Carmela: Renowned for their paella and confirmed by foodie friends as one of the best places to eat this traditional dish... It's also on the beach! Lunch-only (Tues - Sat); reservations required.

Navarro: his is basically my Whole Foods (various locations). Drop by if you need super healthy snacks, supplements, essentials oils, etc.