Discover Why Valencia is the Mediterranean’s Green Jewel in 2025

Recognised as European Green Capital 2024 and frequently featured among Europe’s best cities, Valencia is basking in the international spotlight.

Set on Spain’s glittering southeastern coastline and blessed by 300 days of sunshine a year, Valencia is a year-round destination where urban living blends seamlessly with outdoor appreciation.

From relaxing on the beach to soaking up the historic charms of the old town, Spain’s third-largest city caters to every kind of traveller. Foodies can tuck into Valencia’s OG paella specialities, while eco-conscious travellers can appreciate the city’s eco-friendly design and sustainable lifestyles across five million square meters of green space.

Seeing you in Valencia fills our hearts

The Visit València Foundation wants to encourage travellers to come to Valencia City to discover and enjoy the city and its surroundings. Every restaurant booking, hotel stay or guided tour not only offers a unique experience in a destination rich in history, culture and gastronomy, but always contributes directly to strengthening the local economy, helping to give hope after the DANA floods in the region and showing the world why Valencia is a destination full of charm, culture and inspirational gastronomy

‘Seeing you in Valencia fills our hearts’

The ‘See You in Valencia’ campaign, with its heartwarming slogan ‘Seeing you in Valencia fills our hearts’, captures this message beautifully to support the affected region after the DANA floods in autumn 2024 and encourages travellers to find out why Valencia City is always worth a visit for an unforgettable city break. 

Valencia: one of Europe’s greenest cities

Earning the title of the European Commission’s 2024 European Green Capital for its commitment to environmental sustainability, Valencia is the perfect city break for the eco-conscious traveller. 

Under green initiatives, Valencia’s parks are expanding everyday, improving the quality of life for residents and providing a winning experience for visitors. The sprawling Turia Garden, one of Spain’s largest urban parks, runs nine kilometres across the city from Cabecera Park and to the City of Arts and Sciences, a sprawling leisure complex designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, on the former riverbed of the River Turia. 

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Walking or cycling between Valencia’s beaches and top attractions is effortless, thanks to the city’s flat terrain, mild climate, and extensive network of cycle-friendly routes and walking trails. Wide pedestrian areas and traffic restrictions in the old town also ensure sightseeing is a joy, benefiting from cleaner air and less congestion than most major European cities.

Just south of the city, Albufera Natural Park is another urban oasis, where residents and visitors alike can explore a diversity of ecosystems, ranging from Mediterranean forests to wild beaches, connected by serene walking trails. The wetlands here attract thousands of migratory birds each year, while its paddy fields supply the key ingredient for Valencia’s most famous dish: paella. 

Green energy is also at the heart of Valencia’s environmental strategy. The city is committed to electrifying 90 per cent of its bus fleet by 2028, while the “Requiem in Power” project has turned Valencia’s cemeteries into Spain’s largest urban solar farm. 

Valencian culture: a cultural treasure trove with modern motifs

Valencia’s cultural offerings are as varied as its natural landscapes. As a UNESCO Creative City, the city is a magnet for those who appreciate design and innovation. Modern architectural masterpieces stand side-by-side with an incredible array of heritage landmarks such as the fortress gateway of Serranos Towers, weaving 2000-year old legacies with contemporary flair. 

The charming streets of Valencia’s old town embody the Mediterranean lifestyle, with shopping, gastronomy and cultural events radiating out from the bustling Mercado Central. To delve deeper into local traditions, visit during March for Las Fallas, an old carpenter’s tradition which has become one of the city’s biggest and brightest fiestas, declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. 

For those seeking religious heritage, the Cathedral of Valencia, home of the Holy Grail, is an unmissable stop. In 2025, the city will celebrate the third Jubilee Year of the Holy Grail, with year-long celebrations allowing spiritual and cultural tourists to discover the stories that surround this revered relic. 

If you’re keen to explore beyond the city, day trips to nearby towns like Xàtiva or Sagunto reveal more of the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. And for those craving relaxation, Valencia’s sun-drenched beaches hold eternal appeal.

Gastronomy that nurtures the soul

Valencia, renowned as the ‘cradle of paella’, offers a culinary experience like no other. Fresh, sustainable produce and vibrant flavours are at the heart of Valencia’s dining scene, in celebration of the city’s agricultural bounty. Proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the Huerta, an agricultural area encircling the city, ensure fresh, locally sourced ingredients in every dish. 

Bustling markets like Mercado Central and Mercado de Colón invite visitors on a sensory journey to find the essence of Valencia. From the sweetness of its oranges to the earthy charm of tiger nuts used in horchata drink, every mouthful tells a story of the region’s rich heritage. 

In 2025, the city’s culinary calendar is buzzing with events celebrating innovative, plant-based gastronomy and sustainable dining. Festivals such as Cuina Oberta Restaurant Week in April and October and Valencia Food Festival in May are great ways to appreciate a wide range of local gastronomic offerings, or try any of the city’s fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants year-round for refined takes on regional cuisine. 

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Dining in Valencia is not only a way to indulge in exceptional dishes but also an opportunity to contribute to the local economy, supporting families and businesses rebuilding after the recent storm.

A city where life feels better  With average temperatures of 19°C year round and a laid-back lifestyle centred on good food and community, it’s easy to see why Valencia continues to be ranked among the best European cities to live in. 

With its exceptional quality of life, pedestrian-friendly mentality and vibrant cultural scene, Valencia opens its doors to welcome you in 2025. Whether it’s indulging in world-class gastronomy, exploring its green spaces, or immersing yourself in its culture 

Find out more over at VisitValencia.com