Valencia is dotted with popular attractions and bucket-list-worthy things to do, but the city hides its share of secrets as well. Here are 21 hidden gems in Valencia that will help you uncover a lesser-known side of it.
The more time I spend in Valencia, the more hidden gems I discover. Whether it’s a quirky building, a tiny museum few people know about, or an independently-owned shop that remains in business in spite of all odds, these off-the-beaten-path nooks and crannies make Valencia extra special for me.
In This Article
1. Cervelló Palace
What is it? An 18th-century palace and the official residence of the Spanish monarchs in Valencia.
Why go? Recently opened to the public, Palacio de Cervelló is one of the most beautiful secret places in Valencia. Secret for now, at least. Much of the interior has been remodelled over the years and the period furniture on display is not the original one. However, the rooms open to the public, and the ballroom in particular, are breathtaking. The palace also hosts temporary exhibitions, the municipal archives, and some really old and valuable books.
Address: Plaza de Tetuan, 3, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10am to 2pm & 3pm to 7pm. Sunday & public holidays: 10am to 3pm. Monday: Closed
Entrance fee: Free
2. El Asilo del Libro Bookshop
What is it? A curious bookshop selling second-hand, out-of-print, and rare books, vintage prints and engravings.
Why go? Concealed behind one of the most beautiful shopfronts in Valencia, this hidden gem is a book collector’s dream. At first glance, it may appear a tad chaotic, but it’s all part of the charm. Personally, I can easily lose half an hour browsing the towering shelves brimming with books and prints that have found refuge here. If you’re looking for a particular antique book don’t hesitate to enquire about it in this magical place.
Address: C/ de Sant Ferran, 14, 46001 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 9am – 2pm and 4pm to 9pm. Sunday: 11am to 3pm
Entrance fee: Free
3. Centro del Carmen Exhibition Center
What is it? An eclectic art center in a former convent founded in the 15th century.
Why go? Located in the historic district of El Carmen, this museum hosts some of the most thought-provoking temporary exhibitions in Valencia. The icing on the cake is the two cloisters –one Gothic and the other in Renaissance style. In the Renaissance one there is a well surrounded by orange trees and lounges, creating a beautiful secret spot ideal for relaxing on a hot summer day.
Address: C/ del Museu, 2, 4, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 11am to 9pm. Monday: Closed
Entrance fee: Free
4. Oldest Shop in Valencia
What is it? La Tienda de Las Ollas de Hierro is Valencia’s oldest shop – it has been in operation for over two centuries!
Why go? This is one of the most unique shops in Valencia. It was established in 1783 by French refugees fleeing the French Revolution and during all this time it has preserved its original name, furniture, and checkered floors. These days, they don’t sell iron pots anymore but the merchandise is far from the ordinary, including religious artifacts, nativity scene figurines, and a wide array of traditional accessories. If you or someone you know are into this kind of stuff, this is a great place to look for a unique gift or souvenir.
Address: C/ Derechos, 4, 46001 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 10am – 1:30pm and 4:30pm to 8pm. Sunday closed
Entrance fee: Free
5. La Almoina Archeological Museum
What is it? A unique archaeological museum where you can appreciate the remnants of the Roman city of Valentia still in situ.
Why go? La Almoina is a truly hidden gem… hidden underground, that is! Located just a stone’s throw away from the cathedral, Almoina is an unusual place that offers an immersive and unparalleled experience. Take your time and walk the old roads of Cardus and Decumanus Maximus and see the remnants of buildings dating back to the Roman, Visigoth, and Muslim eras. On sunny days, the glass ceiling, which is covered with a pool of water, creates an interesting visual effect.
Address: Plaza de Dècim Juni Brut, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday: 10am to 7pm
Entrance fee: €2 (free on Sundays & public holidays)
6. Devil Records
What is it? A charming record store with a nostalgic atmosphere.
Why go? If you’re a music enthusiast and own a working record player, this quaint little shop in the city center is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. The place is packed with rare vinyl records, cassettes, CDs, and merchandise for rock fans and collectors. Personally, I find it nearly impossible to leave empty-handed whenever I visit. The ambiance is fantastic, and the selection of LPs is staggering. While some of them are pre-owned, they can still make for remarkable and unique souvenirs from Valencia.
Address: C/ Cerrajeros, 5, 46001 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 11am to 2pm and 5:30am to 8pm. Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Entrance fee: Free
7. Convent of Santo Domingo
What is it? A former 13th-century convent and one of the most imposing buildings in Valencia.
Why go? The first stone of this convent was laid by King Jaime I of Aragon back in 1239, just one year after he reconquered the city from the Moors. Following the secularization process that took place in Spain during the 19th century, the convent was repurposed as a military headquarters. Daily masses are still held in the church, offering an opportunity to admire the beautiful Chapel of Kings. But what very few people know is that you can book a free guided tour and see the two beautiful Gothic cloisters and the impressive Chapter House as well.
Address: Plaza de Tetuán 22, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Guided visits available prior appointment by emailing [email protected] or calling +34 961963237.
Entrance fee: Free
8. The Jewish House
What is it? A colorful residential house in Valencian Art Deco style dating back to the 1930s.
Why go? Jewish House (Casa Judía in Spanish) is one of the most surprising buildings in Valencia. Every time I pass it by it makes me think of a wedding cake. Yum! The building is inhabited, so you cannot go inside, but the facade is stunning and I think you’ll love it. This hidden gem is located close to the bullring and is decorated with Hindu, Arabic, and Egyptian elements. Its name comes from the Star of David above the entrance.
Address: C/ Castellón, 20, 46004 Valencia
Opening hours: Interior not accessible to the public
Entrance fee: n/a
9. San Juan del Hospital Church
What is it? The oldest church in Valencia, built in the 13th century, right after the Reconquista.
Why go? San Juan del Hospital is one of the most interesting churches in Valencia. It has an austere Romanesque style, but also a surprisingly beautiful Baroque chapel. It hosts the only medieval cemetery in Valencia and the remains of the Roman circus. From the street, you can hardly guess this is a church and even after entering the peaceful and secluded courtyard you might be none the wiser. The fact that not many locals know about it either makes it one of Valencia’s best-kept secrets.
Address: C/ del Trinquet de Cavallers, 5, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday & Friday: 11:00am. Sunday: 5:30pm. Opened daily for mass
Entrance fee: €8
10. La Botiga de L’Artesania Crafts Center
What is it? A handicraft center showcasing gorgeous and unique objects created by artisans and makers from all four corners of the Valencian Community.
Why go? La Botiga de L’Artesania (Centro de Artesanía de la Comunidad Valenciana) is an easily overlooked exhibition center, in spite of being situated between the Silk Museum and MuVIM, two major museums in Valencia. If you’re looking for something different and for a moment all to yourself, head inside this beautiful space. The exhibitions might change, but the creativity and beauty you’ll encounter here are everlasting.
Address: C/ Museo de la Seda, 46001 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10am to 7pm. Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Entrance fee: Free
11. José Benlliure House & Museum
What is it? The former residence of the Benlliures, one of the most prominent families of artists in Valencia.
Why go? This bourgeois house hidden behind an uneventful facade is one of Valencia’s best-kept secrets. It was built towards the end of the 19th century and on the ground floor you can see many paintings and the original family furniture. This is all nice, but what totally caught me by surprise the first time I visited was the walled garden – I had no idea such oases of peace and quiet even existed in Valencia. Be sure to take a peek inside José Benlliure’s studio at the very end – it’s a true hidden gem.
Address: C/ de la Blanqueria, 23, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10am to 2pm & 3pm to 7pm. Sunday & public holidays: 10am to 2pm. Monday: Closed
Entrance fee: €2 (free on Sundays & public holidays)
12. Sala Alfons el Magnànim
What is it? A striking Neo-Byzantine chapel dating back to the late 19th century located inside the courtyard of Centre Cultural La Beneficència.
Why go? This stunning chapel features a unique architectural style not found anywhere else in Valencia. In spite of this, it remains in relative obscurity, probably because it only opens for special events. I’ve been to several (free!) concerts here and all I can say is that if you’re ever presented with the opportunity to go, don’t hesitate. The massive building surrounding it was originally a convent and a community support center before becoming a cultural hub, but the chapel remains every bit of a secret.
Address: C/ de la Corona, 36, 46003 Valencia
Opening hours: Opened for special events only
Entrance fee: Free
13. Cabanyal Market
What is it? A large indoor market in the old fishermen’s village of El Cabanyal now part of Valencia.
Why go? This market’s architecture may not be as noteworthy as that of other markets in Valencia but it’s worth visiting for the seafood stalls selling some of the freshest and highest quality fish in the area. Stop by Oiled & Salt to grab some takeout of the local dish, titaina de Cabanyal, made with salted tuna belly, or try one of their cod dishes.
Address: C/ de Martí Grajales, 4, 46011 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 7am to 3pm. Sunday & public holidays: Closed
Entrance fee: Free
14. Lindala Restobar
What is it? An eclectic restaurant in a beautifully restored building, once a brandy and lamp factory.
Why go? This is my go-to place after a day at the beach. I just love everything about it, from the relaxing vibe and welcoming staff to the name inspired by a local legend about a girl lost at sea. The restaurant is tucked away on a nondescript street behind a large and heavy wooden door. I usually come here to relax with a drink in their secret garden.
Address: C/ d’Ernest Anastasio, 46, 46011 Valencia
Opening hours: Tuesday: 10am to 6pm. Wednesday – Saturday: 9am to 12am. Monday: Closed
Price range: $$
15. The Rice Museum
What is it? An atypical museum housed in an early 20th-century rice mill in the El Cabanyal neighborhood.
Why go? You might question the allure of a museum about rice, the ubiquitous white grain so many of us consume on a weekly basis. I mean, how interesting can it be? Very interesting, to be honest. And it’s not only because rice is the star ingredient in paella, the most iconic Valencian dish, but also because you get to see the colossal machinery spanning three floors in operation – it’s absolutely hypnotizing if you ask me. This is a must if you’re looking for alternative things to do in Valencia.
Address: C/ del Rosari, 3, 46011 Valencia
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10am to 2pm and 3pm to 7pm. Sunday: 10am to 2pm. Monday: Closed
Entrance fee: €2
16. Old Campanar village
What is it? The last few remaining streets of the old Campanar village now engulfed by the city.
Why go? Honestly, it took me a long time to discover the old village of Campanar so I consider it one of Valencia’s best-kept secrets. The small cluster of winding narrow streets organized around a 16th-century church offers a glimpse into a bygone era before the city expanded and replaced single-family homes with high-rise apartment buildings. The place is cozy and peaceful and it’s a miracle that it remained unchanged for so long. This is a hidden gem in Valencia, but once there you won’t feel like you’re in the city at all.
Address: The streets around Plaza de la Iglesia de Campanar, 46015 Valencia
Opening hours: Free to wander around at any hour of the day or night
Entrance fee: n/a
17. Marxalenes Park
What is it? A large green lung that feels more like a forest than any other of the parks in Valencia.
Why go? This park is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The oak, elm, and poplar trees provide ample shade and along the peaceful walking paths, you will find plenty of benches and secret nooks. This is one of the best hidden gems in Valencia and it also features a skating park and a large playground.
Address: C/ de Reus, 46009 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday: Sunrise to sunset. Opening and closing times differ depending on the season
Entrance fee: Free
18. San Miguel de Los Reyes Monastery
What is it? A grand building with an interesting history considered the prototype for the El Escorial.
Why go? Originally a Cistercian monastery, this site came under the ownership of the Hieronymites in the 16th century. Some three hundred years later the monastery was seized by the state and transformed into a prison, then a school, and more recently, a library. Off the beaten path of tourists 364 days a year, San Miguel de Los Reyes literally takes the spotlight every September 29th when a ray of sunshine illuminates the secret resting place of the Duke of Calabria and his spouse.
Address: Avenida de la Constitució, 284, 46019 Valencia
Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10am to 2pm & 5pm to 8pm. Saturday, Sunday & public holidays: 11am to 1:30pm. Monday: Closed
Entrance fee: Free (free guided tours offered on Saturdays, Sundays & public holidays)
19. Espai Verd Residencial Complex
What is it? A residential complex with floating floors and Escher-inspired stairs – one of the most intriguing hidden gems in Valencia.
Why go? This fascinating place was built in the 1980s on the edge of the Benimaclet neighborhood and at first glance, it looks inspired by a sci-fi movie. On a closer look, however, the dystopian aura becomes obvious. As vines are taking over and plaster is falling off the walls, people continue to live here, even though this innovative housing project pretty much failed.
Address: C/ del Músic Hipòlit Martínez, 16, 46020 Valencia
Opening hours: Not accessible to the public
Entrance fee: n/a
20. General Cemetery of Valencia
What is it? A monumental cemetery with many beautiful sculptures and imposing mausoleums that serve as the final resting place of prominent aristocratic figures from Valencia’s past.
Why go? You might not be in the habit of going for a stroll through the graveyard when in a new city, but Valencia’s General Cemetery is actually worth venturing off the beaten path (and out of your comfort zone). This place is like an open-air museum! Among the most famous residents are painter Joaquin Sorolla, novelist Blasco Ibañez, and singer Nino Bravo. But the cemetery’s best-kept secret is the colony of adorable felines that you can spot resting on tombstones or frolicking amidst the graves. I promise this is no Halloween joke!
Address: C/ Santo Domingo de Guzmán, 27, 46017 Valencia
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday: 9am to 6pm
Entrance fee: Free
21. Miracle dels Peixets Hermitage
What is it? A little-known whitewashed chapel in Neo-Gothic style located close to the sea.
Why go? According to the legend, a local priest on the way to see the sick slipped and dropped the Communion wafers into the water. Later on, he managed to retrieve them with the help of three little fish. Ermita dels Peixets was built in 1901 and commemorates this miracle that took place in this very spot almost seven centuries ago. A beautiful palm grove surrounds the pretty little chapel – definitely worth going off the beaten track to see this hidden gem!
Address: Camí Sèquia de la Mosquera, 2, 46128 Valencia
Opening hours: Rarely opened
Entrance fee: n/a
Map of hidden gems in Valencia
Disclosure: The opening hours and fees mentioned in this blog post were accurate at the time of publication. However, please verify the current hours on the attraction’s official website or by contacting them directly before your visit, as they may change due to various reasons.
