Valencia City Guide

Famous for paella and excellent international cuisine. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Dinner starts late and tapas bars stay open late.

Nightlife includes tapas bars, pubs, clubs, and live music mainly in El Carmen, Ruzafa, and around the City of Arts and Sciences.

Coffee culture is improving with more specialty cafes alongside traditional Spanish coffee spots.

Tipping is optional and usually small. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and taxis.

SIM cards are available at Orange, Vodafone, Movistar, and Yoigo stores, including the airport. eSIMs are offered by major providers. ID is needed for registration.

Streets are generally clean with good waste management and recycling.

Some pharmacies rotate 24/7 shifts. Convenience stores are often open late or all night. Hospitals have 24/7 emergency services.

Supermarkets like Mercadona, Consum, Carrefour, and Lidl sell local and international products. Central Market offers fresh foods. Most close Sunday and holidays.

Cards are widely accepted in most places. Carry some cash for small shops and markets.

ATMs are common at banks and commercial areas. Major banks include CaixaBank, BBVA, and Santander. Use your bank's network to avoid fees.

International schools like British School, American School, and Cambridge House teach in English. Local schools use Spanish and Valencian.

The digital nomad scene is growing with meetups, co-living spaces, and active online groups.

Turia Garden and other parks offer shaded areas for walking, running, and relaxing.

Turia Garden and beachfront are popular running spots. The city is safe for runners and hosts a well-known marathon.

Several gyms and fitness centers including chains and local spots.

Many tennis and padel clubs with court bookings and coaching available.

Padel is popular with many clubs offering courts and lessons.

Numerous yoga studios and wellness centers offering classes for all levels, often with English-speaking instructors.

Various martial arts gyms offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo with some English instruction.

Nearest ski resorts are 1.5-2 hours away in Teruel and the Pyrenees with mixed terrain and equipment rentals.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing available at the marina and beaches with rentals and tours in warmer months.

Limited surf spots in the city. Better waves 20-40 minutes south at El Saler, Cullera, and Gandia. Suitable for beginners to intermediate surfers.

Diving spots are better outside the city near marine reserves. Several dive centers offer certification and rentals.

Public and private healthcare are high quality. Major hospitals include La Fe and General Universitario. English-speaking staff available mainly in private hospitals.

Tap water meets European standards and is safe to drink, though some prefer bottled water due to taste.

Many playgrounds and family-friendly cafes. Popular attractions include Bioparc, Oceanogràfic, and Gulliver Park.

Very LGBTQ+ friendly with many safe spaces, events, and strong legal protections.

Pet-friendly with many dog parks, vet clinics, and pet-friendly cafes. Most parks allow dogs on leash.