I spent five days in Valencia, Spain. It was an easy 2 hours train ride from Barcelona. A lot of people recommended me to check out Valencia, so I had to checked it out myself.

I stayed at an AirBnB. I rented a room for $15 per night. I think that’s the cheapest room I’ve ever got out of an AirBnb. The room was small but it was clean and comfortable enough for one person. I got lost on the way to the AirBnb. I read the address incorrectly and I ended up at the other side of the city. Then I had to take another cab to the correct address.

I didn’t do much during this Valencia trip because I found out that my grandfather passed away. He lived in Indonesia, he was struggling with Alzheimer for a few years. It was hard for me dealing with grief and also tried to enjoy my trip. I ended up did some writing on this blog and edited some videos for my YouTube channel. I guess the way I am dealing with grief is to work through it.

I spent quite a bit of time on the historic side of Valencia, El Carmen. I love the old historical places in that neighborhood and also there are museums in that area. Some of them are even free depending on the days and time.

Here are a few of my favorite spots in Valencia for sightseeing and attractions:

Church of San Nicolas

This church is so beautiful inside. It cost 7 euros to get in and I think it’s worth it. I am a big fan of Gold and extravagant style of art so this was a treat for me to see.

The Marques de Dos Aguas Palace

This palace built in 1740 by an aristocratic family, is famous for its stunning façade. The palace has been home to the Ceramics Museum since 1954, where you can see an impressive ceramics collection donated by Manuel González Martí. It’s free on Saturdays starting at 4 pm and on Sundays.

The Quart & Serranos Towers

These two sets of landmark city gate towers are remnants of the ancient walled city of Valencia. They were two of many parts of the walls fortifications, protecting the city from intruders. The towers have stood alone since the walls and other gates were demolished at the end of the 19th century to make way for the city’s rapid expansion. Today you can walk up and explore both towers, and enjoy the great views from the top.

Lonja de La Seda

In English the meaning is Silk Exchange. This building is a late Gothic style building in Valencia where they used to do Silk exchange in this building. Now it’s a museum. It’s free to get in, with 3 euros we can get the audio tour guide and I highly recommended it. The building is gorgeous inside and out.

Graffittis & Murals all over Valencia

I love how there are so many graffittis, murals & street arts all over Valencia. However in the historic district, El Carmen there are more of them.

Mercat Central

This is the central market of Valencia. You can find everything you need/want here from fresh produce, jamon, seafood to some premade food/treats. It feels more local than the Mercat de La Boqueria in Barcelona. However, I still prefer the Mercat de La Boqueria in Barcelona better but this one is something that you must see if you are in Valencia.

Besides sightseeing & checking out attractions, you must also try Valencia’s famous food. Paella & Horchata came from Valencia. My favorite Paella is from Es.Paella. They have menu of the day (Menu del dia) where you can get a plate of Paella, dessert, and a drink for 12.95 euro. It’s a very good deal and also they are oh so delicious. If you just want to get a plate of Paella, it’s so affordable at 7.95 euro a plate.

I definitely recommend a few days for you to visit Valencia when you are in Spain. I like the time that I’ve spent there and I think you will love it too.