Valencia’s Top 10 Free Activities
As Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia has the perfect combination of art, culture, nightlife, beaches and modern architecture. There is so much to see and do in this wonderful city, where does one start? We thought, let’s start with the free stuff. Without further ado, here is Encantada’s top ten free things to do in Valencia:
The City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is a place that you absolutely must visit when in Valencia.
We recommend taking a leisurely bike ride through Turia Park and then hopping off to take in the fascinating architecture.
You can then either head to the Oceanográfico or, why not pack yourself a picnic, take a bottle of wine (or any other drink of choice) and enjoy the feel of the sun on your skin whilst you wait for day to turn into night for a spectacular sunset that will illuminate the curves and shapes of the wonderful buildings.
With so many things to do and see, the possibilities really are endless in this incredible place…
2. La Lonja de la Seda
Located right next to Mercado Central, this National Historic and Artistic Monument boasts magnificent halls and has its very own garden filled with orange trees...what could be more ‘Valencia’ than that?
The three buildings that make up the Silk Exchange were, you guessed it, originally used for the trading of silk and due to what this place represents, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996.
Entrance is usually €2 and is only €1 for groups, students, the elderly and large families however, if you make your way to La Lonja de la Seda on a Sunday or a public holiday, you can enter for FREE!
3. Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporania (CCCC)
The Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània (the CCCC) is a repurposed 13th century convent which is now home to a revolving selection of contemporary art exhibitions whilst also being the host of numerous cultural events.
Along with its beautiful courtyards, the CCCC is a fantastic day out for all.
Make sure to put this place right at the top of your Valencia bucket list when visiting the city. And don’t forget to stop off a Plaza del Carmen, which is right next to this centre, for a quick drink and to soak up the sunshine.
4. Torres de Serranos
The Torres de Serranos is just one of the two fortified city gates in Valencia and forms the largest Gothic city gate in Europe.
This incredible historical landmark has been around since 1398 and is now open to anyone who wishes to climb up to the top and take in the views from above (which we highly recommend you do).
Entrance is usually €2 however, if you go on a Sunday or a public holiday entrance is free.
5. Bombas Gens
Another museum and this one is Bombas Gens!
Bombas Gens was once an old family workshop but, in 2014, it was transformed into an incredible contemporary art museum!
Make your way through the galleries and exhibitions and when you're done, you can relax in the peaceful gardens.
Bombas Gens is arguably one of our favourite museums in Valencia so we highly recommend that you go and check this one out and thanks to its spaciousness, it’s also incredibly kid friendly.
6. Jardines de Montefort
Jardin de Monteforte is a neoclassical-style garden named after Don Joaquín Monforte Parrés.
This garden is full of beautiful statues, ornamental fountains, blossoming flowers and a multitude of ponds where you can find frogs leaping on lily pads and dragonflies gliding over the water.
It’s no surprise that in 1941 the garden was declared a National Artistic Garden and is now one of the most important neoclassical gardens in Spain.
The garden was acquired by the City Council in 1971 and in 1973 they were opened to the public so that everyone has the chance to marvel at its beauty.
7. Institut Valencia d'Art Modern (IVAM)
There are so many amazing museums in Valencia and the Institut Valencia d'Art Modern is no exception!
Within the 7 galleries of this family-friendly, modern art museum is a permanent collection of Julio González's work and a multitude of temporary exhibitions meaning that there is something for everyone.
And what's more, if you go during 2021, entrance is free.
8. Palacio del Marques de Dos Aguas
The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas is a remarkable building that dates back to the 15th century and was named a historical-artistic monument in 1941.
Perhaps the most jaw-dropping part of this building is the outstanding marble Rococo facade which never fails to stop people in their tracks.
However, that’s not all there is to this incredible palace. It is also home to the National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts and was founded in 1947 after a donation from Manuel Gonzalez Marti.
This building truly is a brilliant example of the magnificence of the Baroque and Rococo period.
Entrance is usually €3 for adults but on Saturday evenings and Sundays you can visit this wonderful place for free.
9. Parque Central
If you’re looking for an escape from city life during your time in Valencia, Parque Central is a hidden gem located just on the outskirts of Ruzafa.
Parque Central is filled with an abundance of gorgeous flowers, palm trees and vibrant colours and is absolute heaven for plant lovers.
Take a book and relax under the shade of the trees or lay out on the grass and soak up the rays and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle.
10. Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia
The Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia art gallery was founded in 1913 and houses more than 2,000 pieces of work from artists such as Sorolla, Goya, Velazquez, Murillo and many more iconic artists.
It is the second largest art gallery in Spain and even has sections dedicated to sculpture, contemporary art and archaeological findings.
But perhaps the most special part of this museum is the courtyards that can be found inside. The one that stands out in particular is El Patio del Embajador Vich (The courtyard of Ambassador Vich) with its incredibly rich blue colour, pictured above.
This museum is open from Tuesday – Sunday and is free every single day, so be sure to visit when in Valencia.
So there you have it, we hope you enjoy these very special places.
