Valencia is a vibrant city that offers a large range of activities for families with children. From interactive museums to beautiful beaches and parks, there’s something for kids of all ages. Here are some top recommendations for things to do with kids in Valencia.
City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)
A visit to Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences with children is a journey into a futuristic world of learning and wonder. This architectural marvel captivates young minds with its interactive science museum, the largest aquarium in Europe, and a state-of-the-art planetarium. Kids are thrilled by hands-on exhibits, exploring space, technology, and the natural world.
The Oceanogràfic aquarium, with its diverse marine life and dolphin shows, is a particular highlight. The complex’s open spaces are perfect for family picnics and playful exploration. Educational, entertaining, and visually stunning, it’s an ideal destination for sparking children’s curiosity and a love for science and nature.
Bioparc Valencia
Visiting Bioparc Valencia with children is an unforgettable experience that brings the African savannah to the heart of Spain. This innovative zoo, designed under the concept of zoo-immersion, allows families to observe animals in naturalistic habitats, promoting a deep respect for wildlife. Children are mesmerised by close encounters with giraffes, lions, and gorillas, learning about conservation through engaging, interactive experiences.
The park’s layout ensures easy navigation for families, with plenty of rest spots and play areas. Educational workshops and feeding demonstrations add to the excitement, making Bioparc Valencia a must-visit for families seeking a blend of education, conservation, and fun.
Gulliver Park
Visiting Gulliver Park in Valencia with children is like stepping into a storybook. This unique playground is based on Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels,” where kids can climb, slide, and explore a giant Gulliver, tied to the ground by Lilliputians.
The park’s design encourages imaginative play, with slides representing Gulliver’s coat and ropes as his hair. It’s a safe, engaging environment for children of all ages, offering a blend of adventure and fantasy. The vast green spaces surrounding the sculpture are perfect for picnics and relaxation, making it a delightful spot for a family day out in Valencia.
Turia Gardens
Turia Gardens in Valencia offers a splendid outdoor experience for families with children. Once a riverbed, this extensive park winds through the city, providing a lush, green oasis. Kids can enjoy numerous playgrounds, each with unique themes and equipment, ensuring endless fun.
The park’s flat paths are ideal for biking or strolling, and the open spaces invite picnics and games. Educational elements, like the Gulliver Park and the Science Museum, add learning opportunities. The gardens’ safe, car-free environment makes it a perfect spot for children to play and explore, while parents appreciate the serene, natural beauty amidst urban Valencia.
Valencia Beaches
Valencian beaches are a paradise for families with children, offering a perfect blend of sun, sea, and sand. The expansive, soft sandy shores provide ample space for kids to build sandcastles, play beach games, or simply frolic in the gentle waves. Many beaches, like Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas, are equipped with playgrounds and offer calm, shallow waters ideal for young swimmers.
The clean, well-maintained beaches often have lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe environment. With numerous beachfront restaurants and ice cream stands, families can easily spend a whole day enjoying the Mediterranean’s sunny charm.
Marina Beach Club
Visiting Marina Beach Club in Valencia with children offers a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment. This stylish beachfront venue, located along the vibrant Playa de las Arenas, provides a family-friendly atmosphere. While parents can indulge in sunbathing or enjoy a refreshing cocktail, children can engage in fun activities on the safe, sandy beach.
The club often hosts family-oriented events, making it a lively spot for all ages. Its restaurant serves a variety of dishes, catering to both adult and kid-friendly tastes. The combination of stunning sea views, a relaxed vibe, and attentive service makes it an ideal spot for a family day out.
Interactive Children’s Museum (Museo de los Niños)
This hands-on museum, nestled in the heart of the city, is an enchanting experience for young minds as it is designed to ignite curiosity and encourage learning through play. Each exhibit, from science experiments to art and culture, is interactive, allowing children to touch, play, and engage directly with the displays.
The museum’s vibrant, colourful environment is both educational and entertaining, making learning fun and accessible. It’s a place where children can unleash their imagination, explore various activities, and discover new interests, making it a perfect educational outing for families in Valencia.
Valencia Boat Tour
Embarking on a Valencian boat tour with children offers a delightful blend of adventure and education. As the boat glides through the serene waters, families are treated to stunning views of Valencia’s coastline and cityscape. Children are captivated by the sea life and the gentle motion of the boat, making it an engaging experience for young explorers.
The tour guides often share fascinating stories and facts about the local marine environment, enhancing the educational aspect. With safety measures in place, parents can relax while their kids enjoy the fresh sea air and the excitement of being on the water, creating memorable family moments.
Central Market (Mercado Central)
Visiting Valencia’s Central Market (Mercado Central) with kids is an immersive, sensory experience. This bustling hub of activity captivates children with its vibrant colours, diverse aromas, and the lively chatter of vendors. Kids marvel at the array of fresh produce, from exotic fruits to colourful candy.
It’s an educational journey too, as they learn about different foods and local culinary traditions. Sampling small treats and observing the market’s Art Nouveau architecture adds to the fun. The market’s lively atmosphere and visual feast make it an engaging, family-friendly destination where kids can explore, taste, and learn in a dynamic setting.
Visit Albufera Natural Park
A family trip to Albufera Natural Park, just south of Valencia, is a delightful escape into nature. This vast wetland, with its serene lagoon, is a paradise for kids who love the outdoors. Children are thrilled by boat rides on the tranquil waters, spotting diverse bird species, and exploring walking trails.
The park offers an educational experience, teaching young ones about ecosystems and conservation. Picnicking by the water’s edge, watching the spectacular sunset, and enjoying the local dish ‘paella’ in nearby villages make it a perfect day out. Albufera’s natural beauty and calm environment create a memorable experience for the whole family.
Traditional Horchata Tasting
Introducing children to the traditional Valencian drink, Horchata, is a delightful experience. Made from chufa (tiger nuts), this sweet, milky beverage is both delicious and nutritious. A visit to a local horchatería allows kids to see how this unique drink is made, often from family recipes passed down through generations.
Tasting horchata is a fun way for children to connect with Valencian culture. The creamy texture and sweet taste are usually a hit with the young ones. Pairing it with fartons, light, fluffy pastries, makes the experience even more enjoyable. It’s a refreshing treat, especially on warm days, offering a taste of local tradition.
Climb the Torres de Serranos
Climbing the Torres de Serranos with kids is an exhilarating journey into Valencia’s history! These imposing Gothic towers, part of the city’s ancient walls, offer a tangible connection to the past. As families ascend the spiral staircase, anticipation builds with each step. Reaching the top, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Valencia, a sprawling mosaic of rooftops, streets, and distant landscapes.
The climb is both an adventure and an educational experience, sparking children’s curiosity about history and architecture. It’s a memorable activity, combining physical exercise with a unique cultural insight, perfect for families seeking a blend of fun and learning.
Valencia’s Toy Soldier Museum (L’Iber Museo de los Soldaditos de lomo):
A visit to Valencia’s Toy Soldier Museum, L’Iber Museo de los Soldaditos de Plomo, is a magical journey for kids and adults alike. Housing the world’s largest collection of miniature toy soldiers, the museum captivates with over one million tiny figures, each intricately detailed, depicting various historical eras and battles.
Children’s imaginations will soar as they explore different scenes, from ancient Rome to medieval knights. The museum’s colourful displays and dioramas bring history to life in a playful, engaging way. It’s a unique educational experience, where learning about history becomes an adventure in a world of miniature marvels.
When planning activities in Valencia with kids, it’s always a good idea to check the opening hours and any special events or workshops that might be of interest. Valencia is a family-friendly city, and many of its attractions cater to children, ensuring a memorable trip for the whole family.