Explore the architecture of historic Valencia
Explore the architecture of historic Valencia

Historic Art & Architecture Walk, Valencia

Explore Valencia's vibrant art and architecture with an expert guide, visiting landmarks like the cathedral and silk market.

Overview

Not everyone knows that the city of Valencia is home to a rich artistic and architectural heritage. With a local guide leading the way, you'll discover the city's most notable works of art, architectural landmarks, and a few hidden corners on an immersive walk. Some iconic sites you'll see include the famous City of Arts and Sciences and the Central Market. Your expert guide will lead you through Valencia's historic center, sharing fascinating insights and anecdotes about the city's cultural history and contemporary art scene.

Highlights

  • Visit Valencia's iconic landmarks, including the Central Market and the City of Arts and Sciences
  • Discover hidden architectural gems tucked away in the city's narrow streets and alleys
  • Explore Valencia's buzzing contemporary art scene and visit local galleries
  • Learn about Valencia's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions

Know before you go

Duration
3 hours
Recommended for
All ages
Group
Small group, 15 people or less

What you'll do

Embark on a journey through Valencia's vibrant art and architecture scene in this guided walking experience. After meeting your local expert at your designated meeting point, the Torres de Serranos, you'll stroll through Valencia's historic center, starting with its ancient walls and the evaluation of the Turia River.

Next, walk through the weaving streets and make your way to the Gothic Church of San Nicolás. This Catholic church has a Baroque interior and some of the most beautiful ceiling frescoes in the country. So, don't forget to look up and admire the art, all painted by Dionís Vidal. You'll quickly earn why the church is known as the “Valencian Sistine Chapel."

Continue to the Lonja de la Seda, a beautiful building and UNESCO heritage site. Constructed in the late 15th century, the building was a hub for silk trading, a major industry in Valencia at the time. The architecture is a fine example of Gothic style, reflecting Valencia's power and wealth during the Middle Ages. You'll admire the monument's exceptional interior with columns and a beautiful geometric roof.

Not far from the Lonja de la Seda is the stunning Central Market, where you'll admire the intricate Modernist architecture and colorful mosaics that adorn the building's facade. Built in the early 20th century, the market, also called Mercado Central, has since become a symbol of the city's history and culture. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and bustling stalls offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, and traditional Valencian products, such as horchata and paella ingredients. 

After perusing the market, you'll walk to Plaza de la Reina, where the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, also known as Valencia Cathedral, awaits. This Roman Catholic church dates back to the 13th century, with its construction beginning in 1262 on the site of a former mosque. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several renovations and additions, blending architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and neoclassical. Once you've enjoyed the exterior, it's time to head inside. The cathedral's interior features numerous artworks and treasures, including frescoes by Goya and the Holy Chalice, believed to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. 

Just behind the cathedral are the Roman ruins of Almoina, a collection of Valencia's most relevant archaeological remains. And just around the corner is the Plaza de la Virgen, home to the Turia Fountain and many picturesque buildings. Finally, you'll make your way back to your starting point, stopping along the way to explore more hidden architectural gems and discover Valencia's rich cultural heritage.

Start times

  • Monday
    Not available
  • Tuesday
    10:00 am
  • Wednesday
    10:00 am
  • Thursday
    10:00 am
  • Friday
    10:00 am
  • Saturday
    10:00 am
  • Sunday
    Not available

What's included

  • Professional local guide
  • Tickets to all sites

Itineraries with Historic Art & Architecture Walk

Best of Barcelona & Valencia - 9 days

Experience the best of eclectic Barcelona and València on this nine-day itinerary, featuring tapas, beaches, and guided city tours. Start in Barcelona, where you'll explore Gaudí's whimsical architecture with La Sagrada Família, Parc Güell, and Casa Milà before heading to the mountains to discover the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. You'll then ride the high-speed EuroMed to València, the home of paella, to immerse yourself amid medieval buildings, future-forward structures, and golden-sand beaches.

Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & the Costa del Sol - 16 Days

Fall in love with Spain on this epic 16-day family tour that starts in Barcelona and finishes in one of the world's oldest seafront towns, Málaga. You'll tour the Royal Palace in Madrid, introduce the kids to Gaudí's famous works, and discover the kid-friendly attractions in Valencia and Seville. You'll even fit in fun at Spain's gorgeous beaches and an off-road tour across ancient towns in the Sierra de Grazalema mountains.

Explore the Cities & Culture of Spain: Madrid, Valencia & Barcelona - 8 Days

This eight-day tour takes you through the historic districts of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, starting with a tapas tour and a visit to the famous El Prado Museum in Spain's capital. Enjoy a day trip to a medieval city near Madrid before driving to the coast and eating paella in Valencia. End the trip in Barcelona by sailing its coastline and exploring its culinary scene.

Family-Friendly Spain: Barcelona & Valencia - 6 Days

There's fun for the whole family on this relaxed six-day tour of eastern Spain. Starting in Barcelona, you'll ascend Mount Montjuïc via cable cars, take a sunset sail around the harbor, and wander the cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter. After a day trip exploring the wonders of surrounding Catalonia, head down the coast to finish your trip in Valencia, where all ages can marvel at underwater wonders in Europe's largest aquarium and sample the city's signature dish of paella.