25 Interesting things to do in Valencia in winter | Spain
If you are looking for a warmer winter escape, you should know that Valencia is the right choice. Spending winter in Valencia, you will forget what it looks like wearing layers of layers, gloves, scarves and wool hats. The temperatures in Valencia in winter are mild, like any other Mediterranean city. Thanks to the advantaged position, the town in Southern Spain is one of the most popular winter retreats in Europe.
Scrolling down this post, you will discover our selection of 25 things to do in Valencia in the winter. A guide to some of the city’s best attractions and a few hidden gems. The principle about what to do in winter in Valencia shows you the best tapas bars, enjoy the local wine, where to spend Christmas and New Year and much more helpful information about Valencia.
Discover the best time to explore Valencia in winter and what to expect in the city while visiting it in December, January or February. Visiting Valencia in the cold months means fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices.
Valencia winter activities
Fewer Tourists Around
This is one of the main reasons we travel a lot during winter, especially to popular destinations like Valencia, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca. With fewer tourists around, we feel much more engaged with the city. We are tourists too, but you understand what it feels like to have the whole town for yourself.
Also, walking from one place to another in your planned itinerary in Valencia will be much faster.
Lower accommodation prices
Valencia is a summer location, and this is commonly known, so while spending winter in Valencia, you might get that life bargain.
If you are looking for an Airbnb in Valencia, it might be valuable to check also that hotel that is too pricey at other times of the year. However, sometimes the margins are so short that you can choose between regular cheap alternatives and more luxurious ones.
Charming promenade in winter
Coming from a seaside city, we always get that nostalgic profile that only the promenades in winter have. The Paseo Maritimo of Valencia is one of the most beautiful places in the city; this part covers the famous urban beaches of La Malvarrosa and Las Arenas. During winter and especially on the weekend, you can find stands selling craft items and typical goodies, an excellent place to get your next souvenir from Spain (By the way, check out our post about the next destination in winter Valencia or Malaga?).
Chase the sun
While it is cold and freezing in the rest of Europe, Valencia has some of the warmest temperatures on the continent. The average temperature in winter in Valencia is about 15°C/18°C. So head to the nearest beach and enjoy the little sunshine. Recently Valencia has been named the best destination to visit in Europe by CNN Travel.
In March you can swim
In late winter, the temperatures rise to the area’s standards. Finally, with Spring Approaching in Valencia, locals begin to go to the beach, and you can swim.
Definitely, the water temperature is not ideal, but the average is about 20°C/22°C. So even if you don’t go swimming, lay down on the beach and enjoy a relaxing time in Valencia.
Where is Valencia?
The city of Valencia is in Spain and is part of the autonomous Valencian Community. This is one of the largest cities in Spain and well connected to Barcelona and Malaga on the same coast.
Valencia is fronting the Bay of Valencia, part of the Mediterranean Sea, and is one of the best ferry links to the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca and Menorca.
How to go from Valencia airport to the city centre
There are many ways to reach the city centre of Valencia from the airport. The city’s central hub is reasonably close to the city centre, and the longest journey takes about 30 minutes.
Winter Temperatures in Valencia
Valencia is one of the warmest places to travel in winter in Europe, and we will remark this point over and over in this guide. The average temperatures in winter are moderate with a low of 15°.
In winter Valencia is never too cold, and also it doesn’t rain a lot. On average there are about three rainy days per month, with almost 300 days of sun. Even if it is very dry year-round, it is windy and partly cloudy in winter.
Valencia weather winter
Valencia in December
In winter, the weather in Valencia is perfect for enjoying the city with the sea breeze. Unfortunately, it gets a little frigid from time to time, with temperatures average of about 12°C. You can leave the warmest jacket at home at the beginning of December and pack a windproof jacket in your bag, but by the end of the month, you should fill something warmer.
It is chilly at night in December in Valencia, especially by the end of the month with Christmas approaching. It’s hard to see temperatures dropping below five °C, but this might be an excellent excuse to shop. December is the perfect time to explore the city, and enjoy reading through all the best things to do in Valencia in winter. In this post, we have also included some of the best things to do in Valencia in December, according to the weather forecast.
Valencia in January
The first month of the year continues on the exact steps of December with an average temperature of 14°C/16°C and chill nights. The temperatures in this part of the year are very unpredictable due to the sea breeze, which makes the wind-cold or hot by the influence of its direction. The average lowest temperature is about 7°C.
February in Valencia
The temperatures start rising, with an average of 15°C/17°C. However, February is also the month when it is most common to get rain compared to December and February. This should not stop you, and you still, get your Valencia winter break.
Valencia in March
Definitely, the best of the winter months because we are heading to springtime. March has an average temperature of 18°C/22°C, and you will see locals on the beach diving in the blue sea.
Valencia in March is beautiful, the sun shines again, and the wind is calm with moderate temperatures. Leave warm jumpers and jackets at home and start to wear more spring clothes.
What to do in Valencia in winter
Relax in the sun
Valencia is the right spot to chase the sun in winter in Europe. The beaches of Valencia are at a fair distance from the old town, which makes these two separate entities. If you want to enjoy the beaches, book your accommodation in the area of Malvarrosa Beach, or organise your journey through public transport. The Metro is very efficient and takes to the beachside about 20 minutes from the city centre.
Chase the sun on a bit of bar on the promenade, sipping a local beer and some tapas. This is the best way to cheat on winter with the slight taste of summer.
Tapas bar tour
Talking about food, why not go on a tapas tour. If you don’t know, tapas are tiny portions of local food served with a drink or alone just as an appetizer.
There are bars and pubs dedicated to tapas, with many kinds of specialties and some gourmet dishes ready for you. Going on a tapas tour is the best way to understand local traditions and feel like a local.
These are the tapas tour we suggest in Valencia
Enjoy local wine
There is no food without drinks, and Valencia has it all. We recently discovered that Valencia has a good production of local indigenous wine, and we couldn’t miss indulging in it while visiting Valencia in winter.
Historically the region is identified with the local Moscatel and specifically with the Moscatel de Alejandria. Not only wine but also bubbles with the unique sparkling Cavas, specially produced in the Turia Valley.
Exploring Valencia, you should take advantage of local tours, exploring the wine valley with a guide. We selected this Wine tour for you in Requena, taking you to explore the Pago de Tharsys Winery and the Murviedro Winery on a day tour from Valencia. Let us know if you like it.
The main square of Requena, about 1 hour by car from Valencia, is built on an old Muslim cellar dated back to the 12th and 13th centuries, used to store wine until the 17th century.
Spend Christmas in Valencia
Valencia should be on top of your list when you look for destinations to visit in Spain in winter. Spending Christmas in Valencia will give a completely different feeling of the city compared to other times of the year. The whole town is filled with Christmas trees, glamorous lights and festive decorations.
The most magical place is the Town Hall Square, with the main building completely decorated, an incredible ice rink in the centre, food stands and stalls all around, and a fun Christmas train that will take you around to admire the lights and the shop’s windows.
Valencia hosts many other Christmas Markets, but one of the most beautiful is the one in Plaza de la Reina, in the old town. Give it a try. Visiting Valencia at Christmas, you should also check out the Nativity scene hosted in the main churches. These masterpieces are unmissable and are mainly found in downtown Valencia.
Valencian Christmas Treats
Talking about the holiday season in Valencia, we can’t miss introducing you to some delicious dishes and typical food. With Christmas approaching, locals are mainly focusing on the sweet stuff. You can discover this delicatessen in Valencia and the countryside in every bakery, bar, or restaurant.
The typical holiday food in Valencia is Turrón, the Pumpkin Buñuelos and the Pastissets. Of course, you can add these to the traditional Churros sipping hot chocolate. For the best Turrón visit the Turrones Ramos; instead, for the best churros in Valencia, try the Buñolería Churreria El Contraste in Ruzafa.
Enjoy the Christmas Fair and Markets
We have already introduced you to this topic, the Christmas markets in Valencia. It’s now time to talk in-depth about that. From Mid-November to the end of January, a temporary Christmas Fair theme park pops up in the city centre. This is the classic Christmas Market with local vendors, attractions and games.
One of our favorites is the market in Plaza de la Reina. This spot hosts about 25 stalls, all regarding craft products, selling clothes, jewellery, handmade products and many others. If you are looking for the perfect souvenir from Spain, this is the right place. This is a strategic location to visit in Valencia, nearby many sightseeings of the city. You can plan a visit to El Micalet, Placa de la Mare de Deu and Valencia’s Cathedral while roaming around the stands of the Christmas Market.
Follow the tradition by spending New Year’s Eve in Valencia
In December, you might spend New Year’s Eve in the city by staying in Valencia. The local council goes crazy with parties and fireworks, so be ready to party till the following day.
The best place to celebrate the new year is in front of the Town Hall. Many locals meet up here to cheer together at midnight. The tradition in Spain wants you to eat 12 single grapes, one at each bell strike at midnight of December 31, to welcome the new year. This tradition is called the “twelve grapes of luck”.
The celebrations don’t finish with the first day of the year but continue until the 6th of January with “llegada de Los Reyes Magos”, the three Kings’ arrival visiting the newborn Jesus. These are all public holidays in Spain.
Enjoy the festive celebrations.
All the period that goes before and after Christmas in Valencia is just a continuous party. With the last part taking place on the 5th of January all the celebrations end. One of the most spectacular winter festivals in Valencia is the Three Kings Parade on the evening of the 5th of January each year.
At the end of January, there is also the San Vicente Martir Festival, the Saint Protector of the city. This is another public holiday. In the morning, a procession begins around the streets of the city centre, starting from the Cathedral.
Ice Skating in Valencia
Winter isn’t the same for us without going ice skating; even when travelling abroad, we always look for places to enjoy some crazy activities. There are a few places to go Ice Skating in Valencia, and some are breathtaking locations.
The most popular is in the Town Hall Square; check out for Plaza de Ayuntamiento. However, this is often too busy. Instead, head to “Nuovo Centro” shopping centre, getting out at Turia Metro station. This mall has beautiful Ice Skating, which is mainly popular among locals. If you go shopping, you might get a ticket for free.
Try the best Paella
It’s impossible to leave Valencia without trying the traditional local paella. It is different, and we can assure you, nothing similar to what you have tried before.
Paella originates from Valencia and is today one of the most famous Spanish dishes worldwide. Of course, there are many different ways to cook it, different ingredients and variety, but the Valencian one is the best.
Paella is a rice dish mixed with various vegetables and can be with fish, chicken, and seafood. We suggest you take a Paella food tour in Valencia to try different preparations with a local guide.
We suggest the tour with our favourite operators, check the best for you
Go on a Valencia Paella Cooking Class + Market Visit
If a food tour in Valencia is not enough to satisfy your curiosity, why don’t you go on a Paella Cooking Class?
This will allow you to experience preparing one of the tastiest foods, understand the secrets and learn from a chef. We couldn’t imagine how much this helped us to impress our friends back home.
Through this unique tour, you will discover one of the most vibrant markets in Valencia, in the Ruzafa district. Pick only the best ingredients for your paella. Hear the stories from locals and understand the secrets behind the best paella in the world. Book your Valencian Paella Cooking class.
Go on a bike tour
Valencia is a great city, totally built on the citizens’ needs. We enjoyed our little tour around the city on a bike. The tour activated our muscles and took us from the old town to the City of Art and Science through the Turia Gardens.
The bike tour is cheaper than other tours, and you will have more fun. Not only that, we often go for this option while exploring a new city, because you get on one side the learning from a local guide, but moving faster in the between.
What are you waiting? Book your bike tour of Valencia!
Walking tour of the World Heritage Sites in Valencia
Arriving here, we understand that the bike tour might not be your kind of soup, so why don’t you book a walking tour of Valencia?
There are many options, from a traditional and basic free walking tour to more detailed guided ones. The World Heritage Sites walking tour in Valencia is our first suggestion for you. The city has a rich historical and cultural heritage, coming from an old legacy and many cultures passed by. Three things in Valencia are on the Unesco list. Two locations are recognised and protected: the Tribunal de las Aguas and the Silk Exchange, which is also on this list. The other thing on the list is a celebration, Las Fallas, in springtime, and now part of the World Heritage for the “exceptional universal value”.
We will introduce each of these in the following few paragraphs. In the meantime, look at the Walking tour of the World Heritage Sites in Valencia and book your spot.
The silk exchange or the Merchant’s Exchange | La Lonja de la Seda o de Los Mercaderes
For a photo enthusiast, this place is just mind-blowing. The Silk Exchange holds part of the soul of Valencia and of what made it one of the most famous cities in the world at the time of the trade with the East.
La Lonja de la Seda is a masterpiece of late Gothic formerly used by merchants to trade silk. From that came the name “Silk Exchange”. Visiting Valencia in winter, we suggest many indoor places which is unmissable sightseeing of Valencia to discover even if it rains.
El Tribunale de las Aguas
Another masterpiece building of Valencia with a great history at the back. The Tribunal de las Aguas de la Vega de Valencia is another Unesco World Heritage site.
This is the old court that was called to resolve issues between farmers regarding the use of water for the fields. From that is the name. Although it is not clear the origins of this court, with some placing the institution in the Roman empire, the decision room is still active today, following the tradition and deciding about irrigation matters for the local farmers.
Las Fallas
Las Fallas of Valencia is the most famous parade. The party time is in Mid-March and attracts more than half a million visitors. This festival sees giant wooden effigies called ninots made by the various neighbourhoods, or fallas, going on a parade around the city centre. The fantastic puppets can be seen on Valencia Day in October if you can’t make it in March. There is also the Fallas Museum, which is open Monday to Saturday all year.
Las Fallas is protected by UNESCO; the city is crowded in March, with the accommodations fully booked.
Free Walking tour of Modernist Valencia
There is always space for free stuff in an itinerary. Why don’t you book a free walking tour of Modernist Valencia? This tour can open your eyes to the history of the city and the revolution of the 20th century. The influence of Modernism in Valencia is not second to the closest Palma de Mallorca or Barcelona.
Many buildings are in the modernist style, with a concept totally different compared to the others. One of the most beautiful districts of Valencia in this style is Ruzafa, the old town. We stayed there, and it was amazing to walk through these incredible masterpieces.
Valencia Modernism is different from the most famous Barcelona one, but from its origins, it takes some classic elements. The constructions in Valencia use a mix of iron and ceramics and associate the concrete to the glass with a decorative touch.
We suggest you book this walking tour in advance, as it is often sold out.
Valencia old town suggested tours
Wild night in Valencia
Valencia is beautiful, with stunning architecture and unique history, but what makes the holiday memorable is also the wild night. Someone might say the city that never sleeps. However, you might not know that Valencia is also a famous Erasmus city, chosen by students everywhere in Europe and overseas. With over 70,000 students in the town, the night must be wild.
There are many places to enjoy the nightlife of Valencia. Check out the Upper Club, the Cafe de las Horas and the Umbracle. Also, recently, the long list of nightclubs and bars added the new Laboratorio bar and the club Mya.
Some of these clubs offer free entry before 1.30 am, but the ticket is never too expensive, a sign that the city is designed for students.
Then again, maybe it’s the agua de Valencia. Find out for yourself at fabulous bars such as the magnificent Cafe de las Horas or its little sister, the new Laboratorio bar, in the historic city centre, or in clubs such as Upper Club.
Flamenco Show and Dinner
Visiting Spain in winter, you should make the best of the local culture. Enjoy a unique experience attending a spectacular Flamenco session with a local dinner in a traditional restaurant.
Flamenco is typical of the Andalusia Region, but we witness many variations of this art while travelling around Spain, depending on the location. It is fantastic to enjoy a show in person. This, in particular, takes you 3 hours and a half of pure magic for a low price. (Check this) For 50€ you will have dinner and the show at “La Buleria”. Book it now!
Book your flamenco show in Valencia
Explore the city of arts and sciences
The most popular attraction in Valencia. Exploring the City of Arts and Sciences during the holiday season, you will feel the vibration coming from this area. Winter in Valencia is magic, and many locals and tourists head here to feel the atmosphere.
There are food trucks and attractions all around the park, and next to the Hemisfèric, an Ice Rink is fabulous at night. This place is perfect for every traveller, including families with kids.
If you are not visiting Valencia in the festive season, you can still go and discover the museums or the Oceanographic, one of the most beautiful in the world. You can book the entrance ticket in advance. (Book Here) You can also go on a tour of the city of arts and sciences (More info here!), or the entrance only to the Principe Felipe Science Museum. (Book Here).
Take your entrance ticket
Observe marine life at the Oceanographic of Valencia
BUY YOUR ENTRANCE TICKET IN ADVANCE
Get a Bite at Mercado Central (Central Market)
Walking through colours and flavours, you will make close contact with the local traditions. Enjoy a stroll around the stands of the Central Market of Valencia.
This old market is in the old town in front of the Llotja de la Seda. The beautiful structure is free to enter, is open from Monday to Saturday from 7:30 am to 3 pm, and is closed on Sunday.
Mercado Central is a must visit during your in Valencia in winter. The building itself, made in Art Nouveau style mixed with the architectonic influence of the nearby buildings, is a feast for the eyes. Inside, you can find anything from fruit to cheese, meat and fish and dishes ready to eat.
Enjoy the Turia Gardens
We briefly introduced you to the Turia Gardens, but what really is this park, and why is it so crucial for the city?
This long green stripe runs through the city for 9 kilometres. Inside their green space, there are leisure and sports parks, footpaths, a cycle path, a kids’ area, and an open-air cinema in summer. Once upon a time, through these 9 kilometres was flowing the Turia River. However, in 1957 the stream flooded again, and the local council decided to divert south of the river’s course.
No other locations have a former riverbed turned into a beautiful public park. Take a tour of the Turia Gardens with a local guide and discover the secrets and legends of this beautiful place. Check the Tour!
Step into San Nicholas Church
A hidden gem of Valencia is the San Nicholas Church, not often on the tourist maps. However, the beautiful church is often called the Valencian “Sistine Chapel” thanks to the beautiful frescos.
The history of this church is even more enjoyable. The worship place built-in 1242 as a parish church was subject to restyle in pure Gothic between 1419 and 1455. However, between 1690 and 1693, this was recoated in Baroque style, including some frescos which portrayed scenes of the life of San Nicolás de Bari (Saint Nicholas) and San Pedro Mártir (Saint Peter Martyr), designed by Antonio Palomino and painted by Dionis Vidal.
Discover Mysteries and Legends of Valencia
The Church of San Nicolas is not the only one with secrets and legends. The old town of Valencia is full of exciting stories. Winter is the perfect time to explore some unique locations and less known ones. Through the streets of Valencia, on a walking route at night, you will get into the city’s skin, learning about the nearly 2200 years of history.
From the things that happened near the Cathedral to the details of the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda).
Visit the Silk Museum of Valencia
Once upon a time, Valencia was one of the significant cities talking about silk. Today you can track back in time, walking through the steps of old, old wayfarers and merchants at the Valencia Silk Museum.
The flourishing silk industry left a considerable mark on the city, making it one of the most powerful on the Mediterranean coasts. The museum is housed in the former Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda, the school of the Silk Makers Guild. The stunning building is a beautiful mixture of Gothic and Baroque styles dating back to the 15th century. A visit to the building itself pays off the ticket.
If you find a rainy day in Valencia in winter, the Silk Museum is the right sightseeing place to visit and spend a few hours indoors.
GET THE MOST SUITABLE TICKET FOR YOU
Go on a FREE street art tour in Valencia
Another fascinating free tour to consider while exploring Valencia in winter is a street art guided tour. Roaming around the picturesque streets of Valencia’s Old town, you will notice the delicate murals and art.
Many artists leave their mark on the city’s walls, increasing their value and recognition. Head to El Carmen, a maze of streets in one of the most famous neighbourhoods of Valencia North.
Book your FREE street art tour of Valencia.
Climb to the top of Torres De Serranos
If you follow us and our guides, you might already know that we suggest a few places where we can snap the best photos of Valencia for every itinerary. (Check our guide about the most instagrammable spots in Valencia).
It’s now time to suggest one of the city’s best views, from Torres de Serrano. This was once part of the boundary walls of Valencia, protecting the city from enemies. The old gates secured the city; however, today, only one is still standing and is perfect for climbing for an ideal view of Valencia.
One of the cheapest things to do in Valencia is climbing the Torre de Serranos costs only 2€. But visiting Valencia on a Sunday, you can access it for free.
Get some suggestions for the caption for your next stories on Instagram with our guide to captions about Spain.
Day Trip to Valencia’s Caves
Not only activities in the city, but also some incredible adventures outside. The surrounding of Valencia is stunning, with valleys, hills and a few mountains not so high.
One of the best day tours from Valencia in winter is discovering the St. Joseph’s Caves, often called Coves de Sant Josep, in the local language. You will be taken on a riverboat, cruising for about 35 minutes on a hidden marvellous underground waterway. This is the longest underground river in Europe.
The scenery down there is incredible, with dramatic stalactites and iconic places.
Discover more about this Day Trip.
Explore Inland picturesque towns
While exploring Valencia for a bit longer, you should book a day trip to the surrounding area to taste the real Spain.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR VALENCIA
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What to pack for Valencia in winter
When planning your trip to Valencia, you should pack a pair of good waterproof shoes and windproof outerwear. Considering that precipitation is indeed rare, storms might take place, and these are very intense.
Pack a raincoat and a small umbrella, just in case. However, the umbrella needs to be sturdy as the wind pressure is very high.
If you want to experience more of the surrounding mountains, pack accordingly.
Where to stay in Valencia
If you are looking for accommodation in Valencia, you should consider our suggestions
A 4-star accommodation in the heart of Valencia centre. The perfect place to stay in Valencia, on a budget and with all the comforts.
Q&A Valencia Winter
Is Valencia worth visiting in winter?
Yes. Winter is the best time to visit Valencia. Thanks to the many festivals and celebrations, this season’s atmosphere is unique, especially at Christmas. Temperatures are moderate, and the days are clear and bright with lots of sunshine. It rarely rains in winter in Valencia, which is perfect as a winter getaway in Europe.
How cold does it get in Valencia, Spain?
Winter in Valencia can get cold and windy. However, the weather is dry all year, and the temperatures in winter range between 1°C and ten °C depending on the month.
Does it snow in Valencia, Spain?
In the city centre of Valencia, it is unusual; however, it is possible in the surrounding area. In some parts of the Valencian Community, it is possible to see the snow at higher altitudes. The last snowfalls in Valencia can be dated to 1960 and 1983.
What is Valencia like in February?
Valencia in February gets very cold, with the lowest temperatures about one °C to 6°C. However, it is unusual to have temperatures below 0°C.
Is Valencia worth visiting in December?
Yes. In our opinion, Valencia is beautiful in December, more than ever. The city is less crowded, and mainly locals are around. The festive atmosphere adds that romantic touch that makes a trip to Valencia worth the cost.
Is Valencia Spain affordable?
Valencia is affordable. We were astonished to see that it is cheaper than other big cities in Spain. We often include Valencia in our guides about budget destinations in Europe. Your money goes far in Valencia, from accommodations to restaurants and many free things to do.
What Language is spoken in Valencia?
Mainly Spanish. However, the Valencian Community has its language, the Valencian, spoken in the city and region. You will be surprised that street signals and names are written in two languages.
Is Valencia Spain a safe city?
Yes. Valencia is a safe and peaceful city. We walked at night in the old town without fear or trouble.
Is there bullfighting in Valencia?
Yes. The bullfight ring of Valencia is not only one of the most beautiful buildings but also the most active theatre. Despite the worldwide dispute about this, the show continues throughout the year. The most noteworthy bullfight is held during Las Fallas, attracting thousands of people.