Valencia: Uncover The City of Light and Las Fallas

Logistics & Local Secrets

• The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences: Discover the state-of-the-art science complex set within a landscaped park with a huge aquarium & IMAX screen. Take your time walking around this futuristic place (also featured in the Star Wars series Andor (2022), among other movies/series).

• Rent a Bike: Valencia is remarkably flat and has an extensive network of bike lanes. Use the Valenbisi bike-sharing system or local rental shops to traverse the Turia Gardens from the city centre all the way to the beach.

• Siesta is Real: Unlike larger hubs, many local shops in Valencia still close strictly from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Use this time for a long lunch or a siesta.

• Free Sunday Entry: Many municipal museums and towers, such as La Lonja de la Seda and the Serranos Towers, offer free entry on Sundays.

• Sunset Getaway: Head to Albufera for sundown vibes. It can get pretty crowded, so be there a little early, take some wine/beer, chips and get yourself a little corner for a mini-picnic with an impeccable view. You can also choose to go on a boat ride there.

A Must-Experience Festival: Las Fallas

Las Fallas is Valencia's most explosive and artistic festival, a UNESCO-recognized celebration where the city is transformed by massive sculptures, rhythmic gunpowder displays, and a final "rebirth" through fire.

While events occur throughout March, the most intense festivities for 2026 take place between March 15 and March 19.

I experienced it twice. The last time I was there (March 2026), it was impeccable.

Here's a breakdown of the key traditions:

• The Mascletà (Sound Symphony): Every day at 2:00 PM (March 1–19), the Plaza del Ayuntamiento vibrates with a rhythmic, deafening barrage of firecrackers designed to be felt as much as heard.

• La Plantà (The Setup): On the nights of March 15 and 16, hundreds of massive satirical monuments (fallas) are fully assembled in the streets, turning the city into a giant open-air gallery. Catch it from the Atenea Sky ✢ Rooftop (make sure to book your spot online, and early on).

• Ofrenda de Flores (The Flower Offering): On March 17 and 18, thousands of locals in traditional silk dress parade to Plaza de la Virgen to create a 15-meter floral "tapestry" on the cape of the Virgin Mary.

• Nit del Foc (The Night of Fire): The festival's largest and most spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the sky at midnight on March 18 over the Turia Gardens. Be there early for the best views!

• La Cremà (The Burning): On March 19, every single monument in the city, except for one saved by popular vote, is set on fire in a staggered schedule, starting with the children's fallas at 8:00 PM and culminating with the main City Hall monument at 11:00 PM.

PS: Getting around in a car is almost impossible during Fallas as most roads are closed and/or disrupted throughout the day, so you'd better get your feet ready for walking.

Dining & Nightlife Tips

• Market Dining: Instead of a sit-down restaurant, try a new setting and experience at Central Market (Mercat Central) or Mercado de la Imprenta.

• Traditional Sips: Try out Horchata (tiger nut milk) with fartons (sweet pastries) at Horchatería Santa Catalina (or elsewhere - they're almost everywhere).

• Home of Paella: Valencia is the birthplace of paella. Here, the paella valenciana is a must-try. Not like any other across Spain, and you don't want to miss it. Don't worry if you're vegetarian or pescatarian, you can still get a taste of paella your way.

• The "Tardeo" Trend: Embrace the local habit of afternoon partying, or "tardeo," especially at the Marina Beach Club.

• Ruzafa for Foodies: Head to the Ruzafa (Russafa) district for the city’s most creative and international gastronomy scene.