The 7 best free activities to do in Valencia

1. Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia

No kidding, this museum is ranked as one of the best museums in Spain. Enjoy masterpieces from Spanish artists such as Goya, Perez, and Battista, all free of charge. As you wander through the halls, you'll encounter works that capture the essence of Spanish culture, history, and innovation. Each piece tells a story, from Goya's powerful depictions of social realities to Battista's delicate engravings. 🖼️

The museum's serene atmosphere provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the art and take a moment to appreciate the incredible talent of these artists. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for a peaceful and inspiring way to spend an afternoon, this museum is an absolute must-visit!

2. Jardines del Turia

Unwinding in nature is always good. Get some fresh air in the Turia gardens; 110 hectares full of trees and ponds. Find a spot to have a picnic, jog or bike through it, use the sport attributes, or sit down and meditate for a bit. Did you know that this urban park used to be a river before? It flooded in 1957, which was a tragedy to the city, so the riverbed was drained and they turned it into a park. 🌳

3. Do a free city tour

Spot all the famous monuments, trendy hotspots, and colorful street art during a free city tour! Explore the neighborhood El Carmen, the local market Mercado Central and the famous Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. You can find free tours websites such as Buendía, Freetour, and Strawberry Tours. They have graffiti trips, mystery tours, and cultural walks, all for the sweet price of €0! Keep in mind, although these tours are free, it’s appreciated to reward the guide with a tip.

4. Las Fallas fiestas

This is a traditional experience that you don’t want to miss out on! It’s a spectacular street festival combining art, tradition, and satire. Held every March (for almost the whole month), enormous crafted sculptures called "fallas," fill the streets, captivating both locals and visitors. On the last day of Las Fallas, they burn the enormous sculptures during "La Cremà" and light up the whole sky with fireworks. Throughout the festivities, the city pulses with energy, featuring parades, music, and traditional Valencian costumes. Las Fallas offers an unforgettable immersion into the culture of Spain. 🎊

5. Torres de Serranos

One of the most famous hotspots in Valencia: the Torres de Serranos, which was a prison before. You can climb this tower for free on Sundays and holidays, from 10 am to 2 pm. It’s a whole experience; you climb 139 steep steps (happy workout) on medieval stairs, to get rewarded with a stunning view over the whole city. It’s one of our favorite hotspots in Valencia!

6. Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània

This building is definitely worth a visit. It’s a Gothic cloister with serene courtyards, built in the 13th century and now turned into an art center. Here, you will find a lot of contemporary art, exhibitions, performances, workshops, and events. Step into a world of creativity and enjoy an artsy afternoon! Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, the Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània promises to inspire and captivate your imagination.

7. Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados

No visit to Valencia is complete without stepping into the awe-inspiring Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados. As one of the city’s most cherished landmarks, this stunning basilica is dedicated to the Virgin of the Forsaken, the patron saint of Valencia. The basilica is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Valencia's deep-rooted history and culture. Whether you come for the art, the architecture, or a moment of peace, this place will for sure leave a lasting impression. ⛪

Luckily, discovering the magic of Valencia won’t break the bank. For many museums and hotspots in Valencia, you only need to pay a few euros. And don’t forget, a day at the beach is also free! Wanting to explore Valencia all year round? Start working in Valencia, and make the city your new home!