Curator’s statement
Valencia is a perfect family-friendly destination in Spain. It’s located 90 minutes by train from Madrid and 3.5 hours by train from Barcelona. It’s got a vibrant city, beautiful beaches, plenty of green space and lots of history. Public transportation is affordable, reliable and plentiful. Here are just a few of my picks for the best things to do in Valencia with your children. Get in touch to customize an itinerary that’s perfect for your family!
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Things to do in Valencia
Explore Turia Gardens (Jardin del Turia)
Turia Gardens is a former riverbed that has been transformed into a beautiful sprawling park. It’s nine kilometers long and runs right through the heart of the city. Here you can enjoy a leisurely walk, rent bikes, play games like ping-pong and chess, have a picnic and more.
Play in Gulliver Park (Parque Gulliver)
One destination within Turia Gardens that families shouldn’t miss is Gulliver Park! Kids can climb, slide and explore this massive playground that brings the story of Gulliver’s Travels to life. Note that in July and August, the park closes between 1:30 and 5:30pm (This is likely because the play structure gets pretty hot! I suggest visiting this playground toward the beginning or end of the day during the summer months.)
See the animals at Bioparc Valencia
This extraordinary zoo is unlike any other. Bioparc Valencia uses the concept of “zooimmersion” in its design to replicate the natural habitats of its animal residents. You’re meant to feel like you’re encountering animals in the wild rather than behind an enclosure. The Bioparc is home to giraffes, leopards, zebras, lions and many more amazing animals. Be sure to check the Bioparc schedule on the day of your visit to find educational events, feeding times and more.
City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)
The City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic complex housing several incredibly family-friendly attractions. You could spend an entire day here! Visit the three-story, interactive Science Museum (Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe) where there are interesting things to see and do around every corner. Watch an IMAX or 3D movie inside L’Hemisfèric. Don’t miss Oceanogràpfic, Europe’s largest aquarium and home to over 500 different species of marine life.
Enjoy a day at the beach
Valencia has many beautiful beaches to choose from, and they are popular places for families to go. Let your children build sandcastles, speech in the ocean and soak in the Spanish sunshine. When they get hungry, pop into one of the many beachfront cafes for traditional Valencian paella. Don’t forget to end the day with helado (ice cream)!
Other amazing things to do in the city with children include visiting the Central Market (Mercado Central), taking a paella-making class and exploring the historic city center. If you’re considering a visit to this incredible Spanish city, I’d love to help plan a trip designed just for your family’s unique interests and preferences. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
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Chantel Lanier
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Spain. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Sara Graham-Baldi guide, Guide to Arts & Culture in Valencia.