What to Do on a Rainy Day in Valencia
Valencia, on Spain’s east coast, is famous for having 300 days of sunshine a year. But rainy days can happen, especially if you visit in the winter months, or during March for the city’s huge Las Fallas festival. And when it rains in Valencia, it pours. Luckily the city has plenty of great indoor activities to keep everyone entertained, whatever the weather. Here are some of our favourites.
Explore the City of Arts and Sciences
Building, Cinema, Museum, Opera House, Aquarium, Concert Hall, Architectural Landmark
Try Horchata
One thing you really must try while in Valencia is the local drink horchata, or orxata in the Valencian language. It’s a cold, refreshing drink made from the tiger nuts that are grown locally and not found elsewhere in Spain. Horchata is usually served with long, sugar-dusted fingers of semi-sweet pastry called fartons. One of the best places to try it is at the unassuming Horchateria Fabian, also known for its great churros and bunuelos (two types of sinfully delicious fried pastry dipped in sugar).
Horchateria Fabian, Carrer de Ciscar, 5, 46005 Valencia
Visit the Museums
Museum
Valencia has some fantastic museums that are perfect for a rainy afternoon. Modern-art fans will be absorbed for hours by the collections at the IVAM (Institut Valencia d’Art Modern) or, just down the road, you can step back in time at The Museum of Prehistory.
Relax at the Spa
The vast stretch of sandy beach isn’t the only place you can go to relax in Valencia. The city also has plenty of spas, from thermal pools to pampering retreats. If you feel like splashing out, the seafront Hotel Las Arenas houses the most luxurious of them all.
Destinations Unlocked:
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
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2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
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2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
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2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
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2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Fine Dining
Bistro
This is a city that takes food seriously, and Valencian cuisine is not to be missed. Plus, lingering over a long, lazy lunch is a great (and truly Spanish) way to spend a rainy afternoon. One of the city’s best-loved restaurants is Canalla Bistro, where you can try some creative, international cuisine by Michelin-starred local chef Ricard Camerena at a reasonable price. Or for something more traditional, go for one of the city’s fantastic (and non-touristy) paella restaurants.
Canalla Bistro, Carrer del Mestre Josep Serrano, 5, 46005 Valencia
Catch a Concert
You might be surprised to find that a relatively small city like Valencia has not one but two world-class concert halls. Check the programmes of the Palau de la Musica and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia (Part of the City of Arts and Sciences) to see what’s on. If you prefer jazz, rock or something else there are plenty of great bars with live music around the city.
Palau de la Musica, Passeig de l’Albereda 30, 46023 Valencia
Palau de la Musica, Valencia | Photo courtesy of the Palau de la Musica | Photo courtesy of the Palau de la Musica
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