Valencia is Spain's laid-back third city, where futuristic architecture meets a walkable medieval old town, golden Mediterranean beaches and orange groves that scent the air. Best of all for food-loving travellers from Gujarat and Surat, this is the genuine birthplace of paella, cooked over wood fires in the surrounding rice fields for centuries. If you want the charm of Spain without the crowds of Barcelona or Madrid, Valencia deserves a firm place on your itinerary, and our team can help you fold it into a wider Spanish holiday through our tour packages from Surat.
Getting there and the best time to visit
There are no direct flights from India to Valencia, so most travellers connect via a Gulf hub or a major European city such as Madrid or Barcelona, then take a short onward flight or the fast train. From Surat you can begin your journey easily once we arrange your flight booking in Surat with a sensible connection. The most comfortable months are April to June and September to October, when the weather is warm but not scorching; July and August are hot and busy, while winter stays mild and pleasant. Remember that Spain is part of the Schengen area, so you will need a Schengen visa before you travel, and our visa agent in Surat can guide you through every step.
The City of Arts and Sciences
The Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències is Valencia's signature sight, a dazzling complex of white, wave-like buildings designed by Santiago Calatrava. Here you can explore an interactive science museum, wander the Oceanogràfic (Europe's largest aquarium), catch a film in the hemisferic planetarium or simply photograph the sculptural architecture reflected in shallow blue pools. It is genuinely family-friendly and easily fills half a day; we can build guided visits and tickets into your itinerary through our packages so you skip the queues.
The old town, the Cathedral and the Central Market
Valencia's historic centre is compact and made for wandering on foot. Climb the Miguelete bell tower beside the Cathedral for sweeping rooftop views, admire the Gothic silk exchange of La Lonja, and lose yourself in the lanes around Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen. Just nearby, the Mercado Central is one of Europe's finest food markets, a Modernista hall bursting with fresh produce, spices, olives and juices under a stained-glass dome, and a wonderful spot to sample local flavours. For more Spanish city inspiration, read our Barcelona city guide and Madrid city guide.
Turia Gardens and the beaches
After a devastating flood, Valencia diverted its river and turned the old bed into the Turia Gardens, a nine-kilometre green ribbon of parks, fountains, palm groves and cycle paths that curves right through the city. Hire a bicycle and pedal from the old town all the way to the City of Arts and Sciences. When you crave sea and sand, the long Malvarrosa and Cabanyal beaches sit just a tram ride away, lined with promenades and seafood restaurants that are perfect at sunset. A relaxed base makes all the difference, and we will sort your hotel booking in Surat to keep you well placed.
Food, the home of paella, and veg or Jain options
Valencia is where paella was born, traditionally made with rice, saffron, beans, rabbit and chicken rather than the seafood versions found elsewhere. Vegetarian and vegan paella is increasingly common, and you can also enjoy horchata (a sweet tiger-nut drink) with fartons, plus a huge range of fresh produce from the market. Strict vegetarian and Jain travellers should always confirm ingredients, ask for no meat stock, onion or garlic where needed, and consider self-catering apartments; our Jain and vegetarian friendly destinations guide has practical tips, and carrying some ready snacks from home helps. For a broader picture of dining across the country, see our Spain travel guide.
Budget, safety and practical tips
Valencia is noticeably better value than Madrid or Barcelona, though prices vary by season, so treat any figures as rough ranges and always verify current rates and rules before you book. Budget for accommodation, a few paid attractions, local transport and meals, with more for shopping and day trips. The city is generally safe and walkable, but keep an eye on your belongings in busy markets and on public transport. Comprehensive travel insurance is required for your Schengen application and simply sensible, so arrange travel insurance in Surat and read our travel insurance guide before departure. You can also combine Valencia with Seville using our Seville travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Valencia from India? Yes. Spain is part of the Schengen area, so Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa. Start early, prepare your documents carefully, and let our Schengen visa desk and our Schengen visa guide for Gujarat walk you through the process; always verify current rules with the official authorities.
How many days should I spend in Valencia? Two to three full days let you enjoy the City of Arts and Sciences, the old town, the market, the Turia Gardens and a beach afternoon at a relaxed pace. Add extra days if you want to combine it with other Spanish cities.
Is Valencia suitable for vegetarian and Jain travellers? Yes, with a little planning. You will find vegetarian paella, fresh market produce and many meat-free dishes, but strict Jain travellers should confirm ingredients and consider apartments with kitchens for full control over their meals.
Ready to see the birthplace of paella for yourself? Let Explera Vacations plan a seamless Valencia holiday with flights, hotels, visa support and expert local touches. Explore our tour packages from Surat or get in touch with our team today, and we will tailor an itinerary just for you.
