Gay Guide • VALENCIA | What to See, Where to Stay, Best Gay Bars and Restaurants | LGBT Guide
- World Mappers
- Jun 30
- 10 min read
GAY VALENCIA
Discover this City with our Quick and Practical Guide to Visit the Best Attractions, Savor Typical Dishes and Have Fun in the Best Gay Bars. All this through the Rainbow Eyes of the World Mappers
What to See, Best Places to Sleep, Where to Eat and to Have Fun in VALENCIA?
Find it out with the World Mappers !
WHAT TO SEE in VALENCIA?
10 THINGS TO SEE in VALENCIA
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
An iconic futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava, combining art, science, and architecture in a single, breathtaking experience. Here you can visit the interactive Science Museum, the Hemisfèric with its cinema and planetarium, and the Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium. Strolling among bridges, fountains, and artificial lakes, every corner is perfect for spectacular photos. It is the symbol of modern Valencia and a must-see for those who love design, innovation, and unique cultural experiences.
Lonja de la Seda
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Silk Exchange is one of the greatest examples of Gothic civil architecture in Europe. A historic silk market, today it is a symbol of the city's medieval wealth and trade. The interior, with twisted columns and majestic vaults, is spectacular, while the central courtyard offers an elegant and evocative atmosphere. Strolling here is like stepping back in time, admiring art and history in every detail.
Plaza de la Virgen (Plaça de la Mare de Déu) & Cathedral
One of Valencia's most famous historic squares, the beating heart of the old city. Surrounded by historic buildings, elegant fountains, and outdoor cafés, it's the ideal place to observe the daily life of Valencians. The Valencia Cathedral, the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados, and the Palacio de la Generalitat (Generalitat Palace) are located here, making the square one of the most important historical, religious, and cultural sites. Strolling through its streets allows you to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the old town.
Iglesia de San Nicolás
Known as the "Sistine Chapel of Valencia," this Baroque church is famous for its interior frescoes rich in detail and vibrant colors. Each wall tells biblical stories through stunning, jaw-dropping paintings. The architecture, with its stucco and ornamentation, makes for an incredible visual experience, while natural light enhances the paintings. It's a must-see for lovers of sacred art and photography.
Mercado Central
One of the largest and liveliest covered markets in Europe, perfect for savoring Valencian cuisine. Among colorful stalls selling fruit, vegetables, fresh fish, and spices, you can breathe the city's authentic energy. The modernist building, with its stained glass windows, ceramics, and decorations, is an architectural masterpiece worth admiring beyond the products for sale. It's the ideal place to discover local flavors, purchase gastronomic souvenirs, or simply stroll amidst the irresistible aromas and colors.
Ayuntamiento de Valencia
Valencia's historic town hall dominates the main square with its imposing façade and decorative towers. Inside, elegantly furnished rooms recount the city's administrative history and host official events. The surrounding square is lively, with fountains, cafés, and popular events throughout the year. It's a landmark for orienting yourself in the city center and observing city life between history and modernity.
Barrio del Carmen y Torres de Serranos
Barrio del Carmen is the medieval heart of Valencia, with cobbled alleys, hidden squares, and colorful murals that combine history and urban art. The Serranos Towers, the ancient city gates, offer spectacular panoramic views of the neighborhood and its historic rooftops. Here, you'll find LGBT+-friendly bars, restaurants, and clubs, making it the perfect place to experience culture, nightlife, and an authentic atmosphere. Strolling through its streets immerses you in the city's historic and vibrant soul.
Jardín del Turia (Turia Garden)
The former Turia Riverbed, transformed into an urban park spanning over 9 km, offers green spaces, lakes, fountains, and sports areas. Ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing outdoors, it runs through the city, connecting many of its main attractions. Themed spaces, historic bridges, and children's play areas make it suitable for everyone. It is Valencia's green lung and a place where nature meets urban planning, creating perfect settings for photography and recreation.
Plaza Redonda
A unique square, perfectly circular and surrounded by arcades and quaint shops. The center is enlivened by small stalls selling crafts, souvenirs, and local products, creating a picturesque and lively atmosphere. Strolling through the adjacent streets, you can discover hidden corners of the city and appreciate the unusual structure of the square. It's an ideal destination for those seeking authentic experiences and unique photo opportunities.
Estadio Mestalla & Estadio Ciudad de Valencia
The Mestalla Stadium is home to Valencia CF and one of La Liga's most iconic stadiums, renowned for its history and the passion of its fans. The City of Valencia Stadium is home to Levante UD, another historic club in the city. Both stadiums offer guided tours and tours for football enthusiasts, allowing them to learn about the sport's history and
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this city at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
Giorno 1 / Day 1 - Valencia Completa - Google Maps
Extra - Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències (by Taxi or Uber) - Google Maps
Extra - Playa de la Malvarrosa (by Taxi or Uber) - Google Maps
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
3 BEST EXCURSIONS from VALENCIA
We advise you to book the best excursions here: Viator - Musement - Get Your Guide
Sagunto
Segorbe
Bejís & Jérica
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WHERE TO SLEEP in VALENCIA?
10 BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS in VALENCIA
WHERE TO EAT in VALENCIA?
10 BEST RESTAURANTS in VALENCIA Quality / Price
€€€ - Racó del Túria
€€€ - Restaurante Rocalla ® Tested by World Mappers
€€€ - Casa Montaña
€€ - Puerta del Mar
€€ - Portolito Playa ® Tested by World Mappers
€€ - Los Gómez, Correos
€€ - Gran Mercat
€ - Regla de DOS
GAY NIGHTLIFE in VALENCIA
BEST GAY PLACES, BARS & CLUBS in VALENCIA
Deseo 54 (Gay Club) ® Tested by World Mappers
The Muse Valencia (Gay Club)
BUBU (Gay Bar)
Nunca Digo No (Gay Bar)
Tête-à-tête (Gay Bar)
La Boba y el Gato Rancio (Gay Bar)
Sexbar Homens (Gay Bar)
Sauna masculina Olimpic (Gay Sauna)
TRAVEL TIPS about VALENCIA by World Mappers
The Valencia Tourist Card is the ideal solution for exploring the city conveniently and affordably. It includes unlimited travel on public transportation (bus, metro, and tram), airport transfers, free admission to some municipal museums and monuments, as well as discounts on numerous attractions, guided tours, shops, and restaurants. Available in 24-, 48-, or 72-hour versions, it saves you time and money, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions during your stay.
Don't order paella in the evening! Authentic Valencian paella is eaten for lunch, not dinner. If you find it on the evening menu, it's often reheated or made for tourists. Look for restaurants that only prepare it to order, and wait for the right amount of time. It's even better if you travel outside the city center, to less touristy areas: higher quality, an authentic atmosphere, and significantly more reasonable prices.
Valencia boasts over 20 km of beaches overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, easily accessible from the city center by public transport or bicycle. The most famous are Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas, featuring wide stretches of golden sand, calm waters, and a lively promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and chiringuitos. For those seeking a more natural and relaxed atmosphere, the beaches of the Albufera Natural Park, such as El Saler, offer dunes, pine forests, and pristine landscapes, ideal for a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Thanks to the mild climate throughout much of the year, Valencia's beaches are perfect for sunbathing, water sports, or simply strolling at sunset.
Stop for a horchata, try the traditional horchata de chufa accompanied by fartons, one of the most beloved specialties of Valencians.
Café de las Horas is one of Valencia's most iconic and evocative venues, located just steps from the Cathedral, in the heart of the historic center. Famous for its elegant Baroque interior, complete with chandeliers, frescoes, and period furnishings, it's the perfect place to enjoy a break in a unique atmosphere. It's particularly well-known for its Agua de Valencia, the famous cocktail made with orange juice, cava, vodka, and gin, which originated in the city and is a must-try during a visit to Valencia.
Always check to see if the cover charge is included (it's not a given). In Valencia, many establishments don't charge a cover charge like in Italy, but they may add bread, tapas, or water without you specifically requesting it. Always check your receipt and ask beforehand if there's an additional charge. This will help you avoid surprises and better understand the local service, which is less "standardized" than in Europe.
Visit the Central Market in the morning; it's the best time to soak up the local atmosphere, enjoy breakfast with typical products, and purchase gourmet specialties.
Enjoy the sunset at La Albufera, just a few kilometers from the center, the Albufera lake offers one of the most spectacular sunsets in Spain.
If you're planning a trip to Valencia, attending Las Fallas is a unique experience. This famous festival, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, takes place every year in mid-March and transforms the city into a vast open-air museum. The stars of the show are the fallas, gigantic papier-mâché sculptures depicting satirical figures, politicians, and scenes from everyday life. During the event, Valencia comes alive with parades, fireworks displays, concerts, and the famous Mascletà, an incredible firework display that attracts thousands of visitors. The highlight is the Cremà, when all the fallas are burned on the night of March 19, creating one of the most evocative and spectacular events in Spain.
Bring a water bottle with you, as there are numerous public fountains in the city where you can fill it up for free, especially in the Turia Gardens.
Among the most fascinating attractions to visit in Valencia is the Church of San Nicolás, known worldwide as the "Spanish Sistine Chapel". This extraordinary building combines an elegant Gothic structure with a magnificent Baroque interior completely covered in frescoes.
Don't miss the Palacio de las Comunicaciones, one of the city's most elegant historic buildings, in the heart of Valencia. Built in the early 20th century as the headquarters of the post office, it stands out for its imposing eclectic-style façade and the spectacular glass dome that illuminates the main atrium.
Visit the Museu de Belles Arts de València, one of Spain's most important art museums, housing a rich collection of paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Among the most famous works are those by Joaquín Sorolla, Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya. Admission is free, making it a must-see for art and culture lovers visiting Valencia.
"SECRET VALENCIA"
Unusual and Particular Places to See in Valencia
Outside of the usual tourist attractions, there's a "Secret Valencia" that simply captivated us.
Here are the 5 Things and Places to See in Secret Valencia:
Casa dels Gats - it is a tiny, decorative "house" nestled in a wall in the El Carmen neighborhood. Built for stray cats, it has become a curious tourist attraction beloved for its history and unusual charm.
Parco Gulliver - it's a giant playground in the shape of a reclining Gulliver, inspired by Jonathan Swift's novel. Visitors can climb and slide on the statue's body, a fun and original experience loved by adults and children alike.
Tiny house La Casa Estrecha - one of the narrowest houses in Europe, about one meter wide. Located in the center of Valencia, it was once inhabited and is now an architectural curiosity that surprises visitors with its incredibly small size.
Dama Ibérica (Iberian Lady) - a modern sculpture inspired by ancient Iberian female figures. With its massive, stylized forms, it combines historical references with a contemporary language, becoming a symbol of art and culture in the heart of Valencia.
Edificio Espai Verd Arq Brutalista - an example of Brutalist architecture, featuring exposed concrete and massive volumes. Its geometric lines and robust structure highlight the functionality and monumental character typical of the style.
INSTAGRAMMABLE VALENCIA
Instagrammable Places to See in Valencia
Don’t miss the best instagrammable places in Valencia, here are our favorites:
Parco Oceanografico di Valencia
The MOST BEAUTIFUL VIEWPOINTS in VALENCIA
Enjoy the city from one of its fantastic Best Photo Spots. Our favorites are:
The MOST BEAUTIFUL STREET ART in VALENCIA
Could we not mention Street Art in Valencia? Of course not! This city is home to some fantastic masterpieces. Here are the main areas to discover and explore:
Mural di Plaza de la Botxa
One of the largest works in the city, created during the Intramuros festival by artists such as PichiAvo, Deih, and Julieta. It celebrates the neighborhood's history, with references to agriculture and the silk tradition, combining contemporary art and historical memory.
Mural con frase di Estellés
Near the Lonja, it incorporates a quote by Valencian poet Vicent Andrés Estellés: "You are nothing if you are not the city." The work fuses street art and literature, evoking Valencian identity in the streets of the historic center.
Murales di Deih
Deih is known for his futuristic, cartoonish images, which explore inner worlds and imaginative scenarios. The works combine refined technique and visual storytelling, creating a unique atmosphere somewhere between dream and urban reality.
Murales di Julieta XLF
Spread throughout the Barrio del Carmen neighborhood, they depict colorful, psychedelic female figures in a kawaii style. They convey hope, fantasy, and a connection to local urban culture, becoming recognizable symbols of Valencian creativity.
“Mediterraneus” di Dulk
Located in Cabanyal, it celebrates the Mediterranean's marine biodiversity. The spiral of marine species highlights environmental issues such as the threat to vulnerable species and pollution, with a strong educational and ecological awareness message.
The MOST BEAUTIFUL MARKETS in VALENCIA
Mercado Central de Valencia
One of the largest covered markets in Europe, in Modernist style, with over 1,000 stalls. Here you'll find the freshest produce, tapas, and authentic Valencian specialties in a lively and colorful atmosphere.
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 7:30 AM–3:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
Mercado de Colón
An elegant, restored Modernist market, now a refined gastronomic space with restaurants, cafés, and tapas bars. Perfect for a chic break in the heart of the city.
Opening Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–12:00 AM and then 12:30 AM–2:00 AM
Mercado de Ruzafa
An authentic and multicultural neighborhood market, popular with locals. It offers fresh produce, spices, and international flavors in a lively, less touristy atmosphere.
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM (closed Sundays)
Mercado de Cabanyal
Located near the sea, it's the perfect place to discover fresh fish and Valencian seafood traditions. It offers a genuine atmosphere and affordable prices.
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM (closed Sundays)
Mercado de Benimaclet
Small and quaint, in the university district. Less crowded, it's perfect for experiencing local life among fresh produce and traditional stalls. It's a flea market.
Hours: Every Friday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
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