Valencian Community Travel Guide

Discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, best things to do, food scene, local culture and customs, and logistics of Valencian Community.


Introduction to Valencian Community

Located in Eastern Spain, Valencian Community is a region with an extensive Mediterranean coastline, including the Costa Blanca and Costa del Azahar. Its capital, Valencia, is a lively and energetic city, bursting with culture and gastronomy. The region is also home to many natural wonders, including stunning cliffs, coves, and mountain ranges. With its perfect weather, water,sports, well-maintained beaches, quaint villages, and charming cities, it’s no wonder it has become one of the most renowned destinations for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Valencian Community

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Valencian Community is rich in culture and history, and that is reflected in its architecture and museums. Visitors can visit the City of Arts and Sciences, a modernist architectural masterpiece comprising science and art museums, an opera house, and marine world, all in one complex. The Old Town of Valencia has the Central Market, where you can find a broad selection of fresh food, the Serrano Towers, the Glorieta Gardens, and the Gothic Valencia Cathedral. Locals also recommend visiting The Silk Exchange (Llotja de la Seda) and its Baroque features and Gothic structures.

Natural Attractions of Valencian Community: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From the saline Lagoon at Torrevieja Natural Park to the raging rapids of the Turia River, Valencian Community provides endless opportunities for recreation. For those interested in nature, the Albufera Natural Park is a gem that offers tranquil water landscapes where you can rent a boat, paddle-board, or kayak.

If you prefer to hike, the Montgo Natural Park and Sierra Calderona Natural Park have various trails to choose at different levels of difficulty. Alongside these parks are beautiful mountain vistas, an array of rice paddies, crystal clear waters, and heavenly beaches like the Port de Sagunt Beach and Playa Gandia, perfect for watersports and beach activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valencian Community

Valencian Community is also a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Montgo Natural Park is an excellent option for experienced hikers with its lengthy trails and challenging terrain. For those seeking more leisurely activities, the greenways, the Vias Verdes, are railway tracks converted to trails and pathways, weaving through scenic green pastures, valleys, and tunnels.

Best Things to Do in Valencian Community: Activities and Tours

The region abounds with exciting activities and tours to choose from. Try rock climbing and canyoneering in the cliffs of the Serra d’Aitana, an unforgettable experience. For outdoor enthusiasts, why not rent a mountain bike and tour the surrounding countryside, or sea kayaks for a peaceful and serene experience along the coast? A visit to the Valencian Community also offers a variety of exciting events and cultural festivals all year-round, including the Fallas, which is a traditional celebration marked with fireworks, food, and music during mid-March.

Week-Long Itinerary for Valencian Community

Day 1: Valencia Old Town, Central Market Day 2: City of Arts and Sciences Day 3: Albufera Natural Park Day 4: Gandia Beach Day 5: Turia Gardens Day 6: Montgo Natural Park Day 7: Xativa Castle

Food and Drink Scene of Valencian Community

Must-Try Dishes

Dos, seafood stew, and Arroz a la banda are traditional dishes in Valencian Community, while the world-famous paella originates from this region. This dish of rice, saffron, and a selection of meats and seafood is served in different varieties. And do not forget horchata, an earthy, sweet drink made from tiger nuts.

Local Beverages

Whether it’s the D.O. Utiel-Requena, the wine region known for its traditional Bobal grape, or the artisan beer scene starting up in Valencia, Valencian Community offers a broad range of drink options. And for those searching for the sweet and refreshing side of Valencian Community, try Agua de Valencia, a mix of cava, gin, vodka, and orange juice.

Where to Stay in Valencian Community: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Valencian Community provides various accommodations, catering to all sorts of budgets and preferences. Whether you’re after an upscale hotel on the beachfront, a budget hostel in the middle of the city, or a cozy guesthouse in a traditional village, the choices are endless. Check out Valencia’s historic center or beachfront and immerse yourself in the abundant offerings.

What to Buy in Valencian Community: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For a true taste of Spain, we recommend taking home a bottle of the traditional horchata drink or spices like paprika or saffron, which are harvested in the region. And for a sweet tooth, the turrón, a nougat made from almond, honey, and egg whites, and also dates soaked in anise, are perfect souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Valencian Community

The locals of Valencia are proud of their cultural heritage, celebrated through museums, the Valencia Language, history, traditions, and cuisine. The people are particular about mealtime and always indulge in a leisurely lunch, which typically includes an appetizer, main course, dessert, and coffee.

Best Time to Visit Valencian Community

Valencia is great to visit during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November); winters in the region are typically mild, while the summers are hot and packed with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valencian Community

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases before heading to Valencian Community
  • Savor paella, regional wines, and typical sweets
  • Try the local port of Sagunto and historical locations, such as the castle or the Roman theatre
  • Visit the Albufera lagoon and take a boat ride
  • Wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothing during the summer period

Don’t:

  • Associate the region with heavy drinking, particularly in tourist areas like the beaches
  • Disrespect local culture and customs
  • Leave your belongings unattended on the beach
  • Carry large sums of money when walking around at night

Safety and Health

Safety in Valencian Community

Valencian Community is known to be one of the safer regions in Spain. Watch your belongings in crowded tourist areas like the beachfront, but in general, it is safe to explore the streets of Valencia and the small towns around the region.

Health in Valencian Community

You can safely drink the tap water in Valencian Community without any issues. However, be careful when spending time under the hot sun. Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and wear protective clothing.

Getting to Valencian Community: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valencian Community

The main airport in Valencia, Manises Airport, connects to many European cities and destinations. Other airports that service the region include Altet Airport for Alicante, Castellón-Costa Azahar Airport, and Murcia-San Javier Airport.

Bus Stations Near Valencian Community

Valencia has a central bus station, Estacion Central de Autobuses. The company Alsa provides various bus lines that can transport travelers across the region.

Other Options

Travelers can drive to Valencia from other locations in Spain or Europe or take the train from other Spanish cities. However, traveling by train will most likely involve arriving at Valencia’s high-speed rail station and transferring to another station to access the regional railways.

How to Get Around in Valencian Community

Travelers can access public transportation in Valencian Community, including buses, trains, and taxis; however, renting a car is an excellent option to explore the region and get to its unique places.

Where to Go Next from Valencian Community: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Valencian Community offers access to another region worth exploring after a prolonged stay, like Catalonia. The cities of Barcelona, Girona, and Tarragona are accessible by train or bus. Madrid, Spain’s capital, is also accessible by train or bus.

Conclusion

Valencian Community has it all, from pristine beaches and breathtaking mountain ranges to fantastic cultural sites and culinary delights. The best part is that everything is within reach, making it the perfect destination for all types of travelers. Whether it be a couple’s getaway or an adventure with friends, Valencian Community never feels crowded despite its bustling scene, so come and enjoy the best Spain has to offer!

The beaches and waters of the Costa Blanca attract millions of tourists to the region each year The beaches and waters of the Costa Blanca attract millions of tourists to the region each year Paella Valenciana is a regional dish popular around the world Paella Valenciana is a regional dish popular around the world The Roman city of Valencia was founded over two millenia ago The Roman city of Valencia was founded over two millenia ago Alicante Airport is the fifth busiest in Spain Alicante Airport is the fifth busiest in Spain A map of the mainline railway network in the region A map of the mainline railway network in the region ''Cercanias Valencia'' commuter rail services in the Valencia and Castellon metropolitan areas. ''Cercanias Valencia'' commuter rail services in the Valencia and Castellon metropolitan areas. ''Cercanias Murcia/Alicante'' commuter rail services in southern Alicante and Murcia (province) ''Cercanias Murcia/Alicante'' commuter rail services in southern Alicante and Murcia (province) The Palm Groves of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site The Palm Groves of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site The castle and city walls of Morella The castle and city walls of Morella The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia Penyal d'Ifac Penyal d'Ifac La Tomatina festival in Buñol. La Tomatina festival in Buñol.


    Alicante (province)
    Castellón (province)
    Valencia (province)