Tour Director Travel Guide: Valencia, Spain
History, culture, nature, and food. Manu, an EF Ultimate Break Tour Director, shares his love for one of his favorite cities.
Valencia, a Mediterranean city on Spain's eastern coast, holds a special place in my heart. It’s a city that perfectly combines history, culture, nature, and an amazing atmosphere. Walking through its streets, you can feel the mix of old and new—one moment you’re exploring the historic Old Town with its stunning cathedral, and the next you’re admiring the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences.
But what makes Valencia truly unique is its connection to nature. The Turia Gardens, a beautiful park built on a former riverbed, runs through the city like a green lung, perfect for walking, cycling, or just relaxing. And then there’s the beach! Unlike many other Spanish cities, Valencia has a beautiful coastline right next to the city center, so you can enjoy the Mediterranean Sea without ever leaving the city.
Of course, I can’t talk about Valencia without mentioning the food. This is the birthplace of paella, and tasting an authentic one here is an experience in and of itself. Add to that the vibrant local markets, delicious horchata, and fresh seafood, and you have a food lover’s paradise.
Valencia’s best-kept secret: The “Sistine Chapel” of Valencia
One of my favorite hidden gems in Valencia is the Church of San Nicolás de Bari, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Valencia.” While many visitors focus on the city’s more famous attractions, this breathtaking church remains a lesser-known treasure that truly deserves more attention.
From the outside, it may seem like just another historic building, but once you step inside, you’re surrounded by a masterpiece of Baroque art. The ceiling and walls are covered with stunning frescoes that tell the story of Saint Nicholas and Saint Peter Martyr, filling the space with color, movement, and an almost magical atmosphere. The level of detail and the vibrant colors are simply mesmerizing—it’s like stepping into a painting.
Unlike other famous sites in Valencia, San Nicolás still feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. It's not as crowded as the cathedral or the City of Arts and Sciences, which makes the experience even more special—you can take your time, admire the details, and truly appreciate the beauty of this hidden masterpiece.
How to spend 24 hours in Valencia
Visit the City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural masterpiece with futuristic buildings, museums, and the stunning Oceanogràfic.
Explore the Plaza de la Virgen, the Cathedral of Valencia, and Plaza del Ayuntamiento in the historic city center.
Stop at Central Market (Mercado Central), a paradise for food lovers with fresh, local products.
Learn about Valencia’s medieval silk trade at Lonja de la Seda—A UNESCO World Heritage site
Walk Turia Gardens and the different bridges (Flowers Bridge, especially)
Try Authentic paella—you can’t leave Valencia without trying the city’s most famous dish.
No trip to Valencia is complete without experiencing its incredible local food and drinks
This city is a paradise for food lovers, offering unique flavors that reflect its history, culture, and Mediterranean soul. Valencia’s food is all about fresh ingredients, tradition, and bold flavors.
Paella Valenciana
Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and there’s no better place to try the real thing. Unlike the seafood versions found elsewhere in Spain, authentic Paella Valenciana is made with rice, chicken, rabbit, green beans, garrofó (a local white bean), saffron, and rosemary. It’s traditionally cooked over an open fire, giving it that perfect smoky flavor. For the best experience, enjoy it at a seaside restaurant!
Horchata and fartons
On a hot day, nothing beats a refreshing glass of horchata (different than Mexican horchata), a traditional drink made from tiger nuts. It’s naturally sweet, creamy, vegan, and full of nutrients. The best way to enjoy it? With fartons—light, soft pastries perfect for dipping.
Agua de Valencia
For a taste of Valencia’s nightlife, order an Agua de Valencia. This delicious cocktail is a mix of fresh orange juice, cava (Spanish sparkling wine), vodka, and gin. It’s refreshing, sweet, and dangerously good! The best place to try it? Head to Café de las Horas, where it was first made famous.
Indulging in paella by the beach, sipping on horchata in a historic café, or toasting with Agua de Valencia are experiences that anyone visiting Valencia should try.
So there you have it, one of my favorite cities in my favorite country on Earth. There's so much more to be said, so much more to see and do—but i'll leave that to do. See you in Valencia!
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