Founded in 1913, the Valencia Museum of Fine Arts is home to an extensive collection, including paintings by Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, and Van Dyck. Set in a former palace built in the 17th century, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring the likes of Picasso and Sorolla, along with an extensive collection of religious art and artifacts.
The Museum of Fine Arts is located at 9, Carrer San Pío V, which runs along the edge of the Turia Gardens to the north of the Old Town. Local buses 6, 11, and 16 stop nearby, while the closest metro station is Alameda. Valencia has many bike rental options, and is easy to navigate by bike or on foot.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The interiors are generally cool, even when temperatures outside are not, which makes it a great choice on hot summer afternoons.
Foodie travelers shouldn't miss Valencia’s impressive Central Market, packed with every type of Spanish produce and delicacy you could dream of. From fresh tomatoes to artisanal cheeses, jamón ibérico, and candied fruits, you can browse the stalls and pick up a host of goodies for a picnic in the lovely Turia Gardens nearby.