Valencia – Between Light, Flavor, and Slow Moments

Valencia isn’t a city that tries to impress you right away. It draws you in with its warm light, relaxed atmosphere, and small everyday moments that stay with you.

Arriving in Valencia

There’s something warm about Valencia. From the very first day, I noticed how calm and welcoming the city feels. The morning light, the quiet streets, and the friendly atmosphere around Hotel Puerta Serranos made it incredibly easy to settle in. The hotel is right next to the old city gate, modern in design, with a great breakfast — a perfect starting point for exploring the city on foot.

First Steps Through the City

During my first walk, I immediately sensed Valencia’s relaxed rhythm. People sit on benches chatting, drinking coffee, walking their dogs. Nothing feels rushed here. Valencia doesn’t try to overwhelm you — it simply shows itself as it is: open, sunny, and easy to enjoy.

Jardín del Turia – Peace in the Middle of the City

One of the best places to feel Valencia’s calm side is the Jardín del Turia. Once a river, today it’s a long park that runs through the entire city. I spent a lot of time there: under palm trees, on bridges, in the shade of tall trees. You hear children playing, bikes passing by, and that unique blend of city and nature. It’s a place that naturally slows you down.

Cafés That Stay With You

Cafés always play an important role for me when traveling, and Valencia has plenty to offer. VUKA Café was my first stop for a good coffee. Later, at OFF LINE Café, I tried their matcha-strawberry drink — modern, fresh, and served with genuinely friendly hospitality.

My personal favorite spot became Cult Café. Delicious brunch, cozy outdoor seating, and a really good iced dalgona. It’s the kind of place where you can sit in the sun, watch people go by, and enjoy the easy vibe of the city.

Evenings: Tapas & Agua de Valencia

In the evening, the atmosphere shifts — the light gets warmer, the streets get busier. A glass of Agua de Valencia at Los Gómez, San Vicente was the perfect way to start the night. Afterwards, I headed to Bar Los Picapiedra for a variety of tapas. Simple, tasty, and exactly what you expect from a relaxed night out in Valencia.

Valencia’s Markets – The Heart of Local Flavor

If you want to understand Valencia, visit its markets. The Mercado de Colón is bright and elegant — that’s where I tried a traditional horchata at Casa Orxata. Sweet, refreshing, and a real part of local culture.

The Mercat Central is the complete opposite: louder, more vibrant, full of colors and smells. Jamón Ibérico, olives, fresh fruit, cheese, wine — everything you imagine when you think of Mediterranean food is here in its best form.

Places That Define Valencia

The Plaza de la Reina is one of the best places to simply observe the city. People strolling, enjoying the sun, having a coffee — Valencia shows its heart here.

The Queen Sofia Palace of Arts represents the modern side of the city. Its architecture is striking and creates a beautiful contrast to the historic districts.

And of course, I couldn’t leave without stopping at Gelateria La Romana dal 1947 — definitely worth it.

Valencia in One Sentence

A warm, friendly, and relaxed city — one you don’t just see, but experience with all your senses.

Quick Guide – For the Lazy Ones

My Highlights at a Glance

Here you can find all the places I mentioned in the article: