Discover free attractions, cheap eats and budget tips for exploring Valencia
How do you experience the best of Valencia without spending a fortune? Whether you’re wondering how to explore the city’s vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and golden beaches on a budget, we’re here to show you it’s absolutely possible. Being based here in Valencia ourselves, we’ve come to know firsthand that you don’t need to spend lots and lots of money to enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer. From world-class architecture and historic gems to beach days and vibrant neighbourhoods, Valencia is packed with affordable ways to experience its magic. Whether you’re flying solo or with mates, here’s how to make the most of Valencia on a budget.
Top 10 Cheap Things To Do in Valencia
1. Stroll Through the Old Town (Ciutat Vella)
Start at Plaza de la Virgen, where Roman ruins lie beneath the square and lively cafés spill out across cobbled streets. At its heart stands the iconic Turia Fountain, a striking sculpture representing the Turia River and its eight irrigation channels, each symbolised by female figures surrounding a reclining male river god. Designed by Manuel Silvestre Montesinos in 1976, it’s a popular meeting spot and a beautiful backdrop for photos – especially when illuminated at night. Just off the square is the Basílica de la Virgen de los Desamparados (Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken), one of the most beloved religious buildings in the city. Its ornate frescoed dome, richly adorned altars, and elliptical floor plan make it architecturally unique in Valencia. It’s a peaceful, beautiful place worth stepping into, whether for quiet reflection or to admire the artistry.
Nearby stands the majestic Valencia Cathedral, a striking blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles. Inside, you’ll find what many believe to be the Holy Grail – the cup said to have been used by Jesus at the Last Supper – housed in a small but solemn chapel. Entry to the Cathedral and the Holy Grail Chapel typically costs around €8 and includes an audioguide. For panoramic views of the city, climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete (El Micalet) bell tower, where the effort is well rewarded.
Cost of Entry
Free
Opening Times
Open 24 hours – this is a public district, best visited during daylight.
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Start early to enjoy the peaceful vibe before the crowds arrive. If you fancy trying Agua de Valencia, why not stop by Café de las Horas nearby – it’s a charming, slightly eccentric spot known for serving up one of the city’s best versions of this zesty local cocktail.
2. Marvel at the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)
This architectural icon is like walking through a sci-fi set. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, its sleek white arches, blue pools, and sweeping glass curves make it one of the most futuristic-looking complexes in Europe. The design has become symbolic of modern Valencia and has been used as a dramatic backdrop in various films and TV series, including ‘Doctor Who’, ‘Tomorrowland’, ‘Westworld’ and ‘Andor’.
The complex includes several major buildings – the Hemisfèric, Museu de les Ciències, and the Oceanogràfic – each surrounded by shallow pools that mirror the dramatic lines of the architecture. It’s not just for show either: the surrounding gardens and open spaces are ideal for a relaxed picnic or afternoon stroll. We’ve lost count of how many photos we’ve taken here – every time we visit, it feels like a new perspective opens up.
Whether you’re capturing your Instagram moment, relaxing in the Umbracle gardens, or admiring the symmetry of the buildings reflected in the water, the City of Arts and Sciences is a place we never get tired of returning to. It features white curves, glass panels, and shimmering water. While ticketed entry to the science museum or aquarium is optional, strolling the exterior is an experience in itself. Be sure to check out L’Umbracle – a long garden with palm trees and sculptures – and the reflections in the shallow pools that turn every photo into art.
Cost of Entry
Free to walk around the exteriors
Opening Times
Outdoor areas are accessible 24/7 while indoor attractions vary – typically between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
Website: City of Arts & Sciences
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Visit at sunset and watch the colours of the sky change and reflect beautifully on the water and buildings – it’s one of the most photogenic moments you can catch in Valencia.
3. Relax at Malvarrosa Beach
Malvarrosa Beach offers golden sands, calm waves, and wide promenades lined with seafood restaurants. It’s one of the cleanest and most popular beaches in Valencia, prized for its well-maintained sands and excellent facilities. The beach sits close to the trendy El Cabanyal district, known for its colourful old fishermen’s houses and lively atmosphere. This makes Malvarrosa an easy destination to pair with a stroll through local culture.
The promenade is always buzzing – lined with cafés, bars, and terraces where you can enjoy a cocktail or a cold beer with a sea view. If you plan on staying for a while, you can hire a deck chair and umbrella for a small fee, making it easy to enjoy a full day by the water in comfort. Whether you’re sunbathing, people-watching, or taking a dip in the Mediterranean, Malvarrosa is the city’s go-to spot for a beach day that doesn’t feel like a compromise. It’s clean, safe, and perfect for a beach day without leaving the city. Don’t miss a walk to the nearby Marina Beach Club for a stylish vibe, or continue to Patacona Beach for a quieter local scene. In summer, the beach comes alive with volleyball games, music, and beach bars.
For more information about Malvarossa Beach and how to get there, check out our blog on Valencia Beach Walking Tour (Part One) and Valencia Beach Walking Tour (Part Two).
Cost of Entry
Free
Opening Times
Open 24 hours and best enjoyed during daylight for safety and facilities.
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Grab a picnic from the nearest supermarket or convenience store and eat on the sand for a true local experience.
4. Unwind at Jardines de Monforte
One of our favourite hidden gems in the city, Jardines de Monforte offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Valencia. Tucked just behind the Museu de Belles Arts and accessible from the Turia Gardens via a short walk across the Puente del Real, this garden feels more like a secret retreat than a public park. Its neoclassical design is unique among Valencia’s green spaces, with a geometric layout that leads you through sculpted hedges, ornamental fountains, and elegant marble statues.
Originally designed in the 19th century, the garden reflects a French-inspired sense of symmetry and serenity. The central fountain, flanked by lion sculptures, adds to the tranquil atmosphere, while the colonnaded pavilion and trellised walkways invite quiet wandering. Unlike the expansive Turia Park, Monforte is compact and quiet – perfect for a meditative stroll or a romantic pause.
Look out for the rose garden in spring and the playful cat statues scattered throughout the space. It’s this garden’s mix of history, charm, and intimacy that makes it a favourite of ours, especially when you need a peaceful moment in the heart of the city. Stroll among perfectly trimmed hedges, marble statues, and reflective pools. The rose garden bursts into colour in spring, and the quiet, formal layout makes it feel worlds away from the city buzz. Look out for the playful lion sculptures guarding the entrance – they’re a favourite photo spot.
Cost of Entry
Free
Opening Times
Daily 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Visit during late morning for ideal lighting if you’re into photography – these gardens are some of Valencia’s most photogenic.
5. Explore the Flavours and Architecture of Central Market (Mercat Central)
Mercado Central is more than just a market – it’s a cultural landmark and architectural marvel. Officially opened in 1928, it was designed by architects Alejandro Soler March and Francisco Guardia Vial in the Valencian Art Nouveau style, featuring colourful mosaics, stained glass windows, and a stunning iron-and-glass dome that floods the market with natural light. Its structure is both beautiful and functional, with its grand entrances and tiled interiors making it one of the finest examples of market architecture in Europe.
Inside, over 1,000 stalls sell everything from vibrant seasonal fruit and fresh vegetables to cured meats, cheeses, herbs, and local vermut. Fishmongers offer up the day’s catch from the Mediterranean, and you’ll find butchers, bakers, spice traders, and even gourmet olive oil vendors. One of the most beloved stops is Central Bar by Michelin-starred chef Ricard Camarena, serving up tapas made with ingredients sourced directly from the stalls.
Whether you’re shopping or just wandering, Mercado Central offers an unforgettable taste of Valencian life and flavour.
Don’t forget to check out our vlog about Central Market for more specific details, including Central Bar by Ricard Camarena.
Cost of Entry
Free
Opening Times
Monday – Saturday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Closed Sundays
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Go in the morning to watch locals shop for fresh produce and sample affordable local snacks.
6. Admire the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda)
Also known as La Llotja de Mercaders, the Silk Exchange is one of Valencia’s most iconic buildings and a masterpiece of civil Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1483 during Valencia’s golden age of commerce. The building is made up of three distinct sections: the grand Contracts Hall with its soaring twisted columns, the Tower which once served as a prison for merchants, and the Pavilion of the Consulate of the Sea, where maritime trade laws were once administered.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, La Lonja is celebrated for its intricate stonework and its role in the city’s economic history. Visiting the Silk Exchange feels like stepping back into a grand and opulent past. The Contracts Hall, with its soaring twisted columns and vaulted ceilings, offers plenty of photo opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to admire the enormous medieval doors and intricate stone carvings. You can also watch short video clips inside the Pavilion about the building’s original construction and ongoing preservation. The orange garden courtyard outside is a serene and fragrant space – a beautiful spot to pause, framed by historic walls and the scent of citrus trees.
Cost of Entry
€2 per adult; €1 for groups, students, pensioners and large families. Free entry on Sundays and public holidays. It’s very easy to buy tickets at the entrance.
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sundays 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
If you’re in Valencia on a Sunday, enjoy free entry and take your time admiring the Gothic architecture.
7. Discover Street Art in El Carmen
El Carmen is Valencia’s bohemian heart, where crumbling walls double as art galleries. Murals range from political statements to surreal fantasy scenes, often changing month to month. Some of the most well-known street artists in the city have left their mark here. Keep an eye out for Disneylexia’s satirical pieces, Julieta’s dreamy and feminine characters – often influenced by Japanese pop culture and manga aesthetics, David de Limón’s masked figures, Deih’s colourful comic-style characters, and Escif’s thought-provoking minimalist works.
As you explore, look out for the quirky little details that make El Carmen so special. Spot the cherubic “caras del agua” (water pipe faces) hidden around buildings – often adorned with knitted accessories in a form of urban yarn bombing. Another must-see is the charming Casa de los Gatos (House of Cats) on Carrer del Museu – a miniature stone house built into a wall as a tribute to the neighbourhood’s feline residents.
For standout street art locations, head to Carrer de Dalt where massive murals cover entire building façades. Plaza del Tossal and the lanes around it feature rotating pieces and tags, while Carrer de Blanqueries near the Turia Gardens often hosts layered paste-ups and stencil work. El Carmen is a living canvas, and no two visits are ever the same – you’ll always find something new.
Cost of Entry
Free
Opening Times
Open 24 hours – it’s a public neighbourhood, but best explored during the day.
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Take your camera. El Carmen is bursting with bold murals and graffiti.
8. Climb Torres de Serranos
Built between 1392 and 1398 by architect Pere Balaguer, the Torres de Serranos served as one of twelve gates in the city’s ancient walls and stands as a prime example of Valencian Gothic architecture. Originally used for defence and ceremonial purposes, the towers also functioned as a noble prison between the 16th and 19th centuries. During the Spanish Civil War, they played a key role in protecting artworks from Madrid’s Prado Museum.
Climbing the towers takes around 10 to 15 minutes at a relaxed pace. The stairs are steep but manageable, and once at the top, you’re rewarded with some of the best panoramic views in the city – from the Turia Gardens below to the spires of the Old Town. As you ascend, take note of the old bullet marks still visible on the walls – small scars from Valencia’s turbulent past that transport you back in time and make the experience even more atmospheric. Today, they offer one of the best free viewpoints in town. At the top, you’ll see rooftops stretching out to the sea and the spires of the Old Town rising above the skyline. Spot the Cathedral, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and the green stretch of Turia Gardens from above.
Cost of Entry
€2 per adult; Free entry on Sundays and public holidays.
Opening Times
Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Sundays and public holidays 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Closed on Mondays
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
To avoid crowds and heat, aim for an early morning visit on a weekday. Late afternoons on weekends can get busy, but the golden hour light is perfect for photography.
9. Sample Horchata at an authentic Horchatería
Horchata is Valencia’s signature drink – sweet, nutty, and ice-cold. It’s made from chufas (tiger nuts), which are small tubers rich in fibre, healthy fats, and minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. Horchata is naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, and contains no caffeine, making it a refreshing and nutritious alternative to sugary drinks or coffee.
The drink traces its roots to ancient Egypt, but it became part of Valencian culinary identity through Moorish influence. Tiger nuts thrived in the fertile Valencian soil, and over centuries, horchata became a summertime staple. Traditionally served ice-cold with fartons (long, light pastries perfect for dipping), it remains a beloved refreshment.
For the most authentic experience, visit Horchatería Santa Catalina near the Cathedral. The vintage tiled interior and faithfully preserved recipes have made it a local institution for more than 100 years. The staff are friendly and very welcoming. Without a doubt, this is where you’ll get authentic horchata.
Cost of Entry
Around €2 – €3 for a glass of horchata.
Opening Times
Typically 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM; varies by horchatería.
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Pair your horchata with a “farton” pastry for the full local experience. Perfect snack or merienda when you’re wanding near the Old Town part of Valencia.
10. Wander Around Ruzafa Neighbourhood
Ruzafa (or Russafa) is Valencia’s trendiest neighbourhood, where creatives, locals, and digital nomads gather. It’s known for its vibrant cultural scene and bohemian flair, with streets that buzz day and night. Browse a mix of artisan shops, concept stores, second-hand boutiques, and independent bookshops, all scattered around the area. Bike hire shops are also plentiful, making it easy to explore the neighbourhood on two wheels.
Some of the most iconic streets include Calle Sueca, Calle Cádiz, and Calle Cuba – each brimming with bars, cafés, and terraces that come to life in the early evening. For bars, we perosnally love the vibe in Cafe Ubik, Cafe Berlin and La Bella de Cadiz.
Don’t miss the Ruzafa Market building, where art installations often share space with fresh produce stalls and pop-up events. From relaxed brunches to late-night wine bars, Ruzafa has a little something for everyone, all delivered with an effortlessly cool charm.
Cost of Entry
Free
Opening Times
Open 24 hours. It’s best visited during daylight or early evening for cafés and bars.
💡Travel Gentlemen Tip
Grab a coffee on one of the corners of Calle Sueca or Calle Cuba and enjoy some people-watching. It’s a simple pleasure and a great way to take in Ruzafa’s laid-back charm.
About Valencia
Valencia is one of Spain’s most inviting destinations, combining a stunning Mediterranean coastline, rich culture, and vibrant local life. It’s a place where you can enjoy paella in its birthplace, marvel at futuristic architecture, or relax in lush gardens – all without breaking the bank. For men aged 30 plus who want more from their travels than just ticking off tourist hotspots, Valencia delivers with its easygoing atmosphere, impressive architecture, and an endless list of wallet-friendly experiences. From wandering through historic streets to relaxing on the beach, this city offers value-packed adventures at every turn.
When to Visit Valencia for the Best Weather
It’s true that Valencia boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it one of the sunniest cities in Europe. This means you’re almost guaranteed good weather whenever you visit – perfect for long beach days, outdoor terrace dining, and strolling through the historic streets without worrying about rain. The mild winters and hot summers make it a year-round destination, and even in the colder months, the skies often stay blue and inviting.
- Spring (March–May): 18–24°C (64–75°F)
- Summer (June–August): 28–34°C (82–93°F)
- Autumn (September–November): 18–28°C (64–82°F)
- Winter (December–February): 10–18°C (50–64°F)
Summer is hot but the sea breeze helps keep things comfortable. Spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities, while even winter is mild compared to much of Europe.
How to Get to Valencia: Travel Tips
Valencia is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
By Air: Valencia Airport (VLC) is just 8 km from the city centre. Direct flights run from major European cities. A Metro ride into the city takes about 20 minutes. There are regular flights using Ryanair or Easyjet to get to Valencia from the United Kingdom and Europe.
By Train: High-speed AVE trains connect Valencia with Madrid and Barcelona, making it easy to combine cities on your trip. Other reliable companies like OUIGO and Iryo also offer comfortable and affordable high-speed services, giving you more options for travelling to and from Valencia.
By Bus: Affordable coach services, like ALSA, link Valencia to other Spanish destinations if you’re travelling on a budget. ALSA is a reliable and popular choice for comfortable long-distance travel across Spain.
Getting Around: Valencia’s public transport is reliable and cheap, with single tickets from around €1.50. The city is very flat, making it incredibly easy to explore either on foot or by bike. There are plenty of bike hire shops scattered across the city, and cycling is one of the most enjoyable ways to see Valencia at your own pace. Walking is just as rewarding, especially through the old town, the Turia Gardens, and along the beach promenades.
In Summary
While Valencia is often overlooked in favour of Barcelona or Madrid, it holds a charm and authenticity that’s hard to beat. It may not be as famous internationally, but that’s part of its magic – it feels more inviting, more accessible, and more real. With its stunning beaches, rich layers of history, beautiful local food, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe, Valencia effortlessly draws you in.
Valencia is packed with brilliant things to do that won’t drain your wallet. From exploring historic landmarks to sampling local flavours and soaking up the Mediterranean sun, this city has something for every budget-conscious traveller. Pack light, bring your sense of adventure, and let Valencia surprise you – we know you’ll want to come back for more.
