The Admiral’s Baths were constructed with a series of sauna-like rooms with pools for hot, warm, and cold water. While the facilities were used for bathing for hundreds of years—well into the 20th century—they now operate as more of a museum, offering a glimpse into Valencia’s multicultural past. Pick up a leaflet outlining the site’s history over the centuries, and a short video goes into even greater detail. Visit with a local guide to learn more about this hidden gem.
The baths are in Valencia’s historic center, but the entrance, located on Calle de los Baños del Almirante, can be a bit hard to find. You’ll recognize the entrance on the alley-like street by its arched, Mudéjar-style entryway.
The baths are open Tuesday through Sunday for just a few hours each day, so be sure to check the schedule before your arrival to avoid disappointment.
A visit to Valencia can be a lesson in Spanish architectural history. The Admiral’s Baths represent Moorish influence, with horseshoe-shaped arches and geometric skylights, while the La Lonja de la Seda (a UNESCO site) is one of Europe’s best examples of non-religious Gothic architecture. Head to the Colón Market for a look at a Modernist building and national monument, and don’t miss the ultramodern City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava.