Long ignored in favour of acquainted go-tos like Barcelona and Andalucía, Valencia, the birthplace of paella, has lastly captured the world’s consideration. It’s been ranked by expats as one in every of the best places to live for the previous 4 or so years, and its customer numbers proceed to extend, reaching a file 30 million vacationers in 2024.
The fiery spring competition, Las Fallas, celebrates its tenth anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage website in 2026. While it often takes the highlight as the fundamental cause to go to, 2026 has a brand new contender for the fundamental occasion of the yr: Spain’s first total solar eclipse since 1905. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona might be neglected of the path of totality, however Valencia will expertise the eclipse totally for nearly two minutes, making the Mediterranean city the best place to view it. The city is planning a number of occasions round the eclipse, from conferences to organised viewing experiences. Western viewpoints will supply the greatest visibility, which in Valencia means discovering a spot on the seashore to observe the solar set over the water shortly after being coated by the moon’s shadow round 8.32 pm on 12 August 2026.
Other causes to go to this yr embody the city internet hosting the twelfth version of the worldwide Gay Games from 27 June to 4 July , which can be part of mainstay sporting occasions like the Ironman competitors on 19 April, the half-marathon in October, and the marathon in December. This may even be the first of three years through which the Sail Grand Prix, a prestigious worldwide crusing competitors, will happen in Valencia (5-6 September).
But what is it about Valencia that makes it such a particular place to go to past these occasions? Its proximity to the Mediterranean grants it a laid-back coastal vibe, whereas its medium dimension makes it decidedly walkable. The Turia Gardens, a inexperienced artery traversing the city, together with ever-expanding inexperienced areas and a flat terrain, make it simple to get round on two wheels. Add to {that a} culinary scene happy with its native produce and traditions, from the aforementioned paella to horchata (a milky drink comprised of tigernuts) and esmorzaret (Valencia’s tackle brunch).
Below, discover our final information to Valencia – the greatest locations to sleep, eat, drink, and discover in 2026.
The greatest inns Valencia
Grand Hotel Centenari
Grand Hotel Centenari
Opened in 2025, this trendy newcomer takes its identify from the constructing’s centennial and is the city’s second Autograph Collection resort, following the equally stylish Palacio Santa Clara. With privileged views of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the city’s city sq., the resort’s Art Deco type echoes Twenties Chicago with French influences, from its tastefully embellished rooms in muted beige and gray to its foyer bar-restaurant, Soul of 1927, the place dwell piano performs every night. Its spacious rooftop is certain to be one in every of the city’s most coveted spots to expertise a mascletà (a thunderous noon firecracker present) throughout Las Fallas.