El Micalet travel guide

El Micalet, also known as El Miguelete, is an iconic bell tower in Valencia, Spain, part of the Valencia Cathedral. Construction began in 1381 and took over half a century to complete, with the final touches added in 1429. The tower stands at a height of 50.85 meters (167 feet) and offers panoramic views of the city. El Micalet was designed in the Gothic style and its octagonal shape is a testament to medieval architectural ingenuity.

Originally, the tower was intended to be a free-standing structure, but it was eventually integrated into the cathedral. One of its most famous features is the massive bell, known as 'Miguel,' after which the tower is named. This bell was cast in 1539 and weighs over 10 tons, playing a significant role in the city's religious and cultural ceremonies.

Visitors today can climb the 207 steps to reach the top, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of Valencia. El Micalet not only serves as a historical landmark but also as a symbol of Valencia's rich heritage, making it a must-visit for tourists.

El Micalet, the iconic bell tower of the Valencia Cathedral, boasts several unique features that captivate visitors. Standing at 51 meters tall, it offers a panoramic view of the entire city, accessible after climbing its 207 steps. The tower's octagonal shape is a distinctive architectural element that sets it apart from other bell towers in Spain. Its Gothic style, adorned with intricate stone carvings, provides a stark yet beautiful contrast to the surrounding Baroque and Renaissance architecture.

Another remarkable feature is the bell itself, known as 'Miguel' or 'Miguelete,' after which the tower is named. Cast in the 15th century, it is the largest and most sonorous bell in the cathedral, weighing over 10 tons. The bell's tolling is an integral part of Valencia's cultural fabric, marking special occasions and traditional celebrations.

Furthermore, El Micalet's interior is equally fascinating. The narrow, winding staircase offers a unique ascent experience, revealing hidden inscriptions and centuries-old graffiti left by previous climbers. These elements collectively make El Micalet not just a viewing platform, but a historical journey through Valencia's past.

El Micalet, the iconic bell tower of Valencia Cathedral, hides some fascinating secrets. Originally designed as a defensive watchtower, its octagonal shape was intended to make it more resilient against attacks. Despite its medieval origins, the tower's bells are still rung manually by a dedicated team of bell-ringers, a tradition that dates back centuries. El Micalet stands 51 meters tall, and although it requires ascending 207 narrow stone steps, the panoramic views of Valencia from the top are well worth the effort. Interestingly, the name 'Micalet' is derived from the largest bell, 'Miguel,' which weighs over 10 tons and was cast in 1539. Additionally, during the Spanish Civil War, the bells were temporarily removed to prevent them from being melted down for weaponry.

Located in the dynamic Valencia, the popular El Micalet is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of València or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Spain.

València is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, València offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in València and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Mercado Central de Valencia, Torres de Serranos, Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria, Mercat de Colón, and Plaça de la Verge.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, València has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in València, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Spain!

The best time to explore El Micalet in Valencia is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer mild and pleasant weather, making it ideal for climbing the 207 steps to the top of the tower and enjoying the stunning panoramic views of Valencia. Springtime brings blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, typically ranging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), which create a delightful atmosphere for sightseeing.

Autumn also provides a similar climate, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, offering a more relaxed experience. Additionally, visiting during the early morning or late afternoon can help avoid the heat and provide softer, more photogenic lighting.

For those interested in experiencing local culture, visiting El Micalet during the Fallas Festival in March adds a unique dimension to your trip. The festival's vibrant parades and fireworks displays can be enjoyed from the tower's vantage point. To maximize your visit, consider weekdays over weekends, as they tend to be less crowded. By planning your trip during these favorable times, you ensure the best time to explore El Micalet and fully appreciate its historical and architectural grandeur.

El Micalet is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in València, Spain. If you're flying in, Valencia Airport is approximately 5.7 miles (9.2 km) away from València. From there, you can easily reach El Micalet by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in València, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach El Micalet, which is located 0.4 miles (0.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to El Micalet, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pça. De la Reina, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at El Micalet!

With a rental car, discovering the popular El Micalet and Spain's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Valencia Airport and the city of València, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Spain cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in València and beyond.

Conveniently explore El Micalet and plenty more captivating attractions in València by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to El Micalet and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that València has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting El Micalet below.

Aside from El Micalet, València is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around València, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Mercado Central de Valencia, Torres de Serranos, and Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria.

Mercado Central de Valencia is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in València, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Mercado Central de Valencia is Pl. De la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain.

Another appreciated attraction in València is Torres de Serranos. Like Mercado Central de Valencia, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 39,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Plaça dels Furs, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain.

Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of València. This park and top attraction in València has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Avinguda de Manuel de Falla, Tramo 2, 46018 València, Valencia, Spain.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of València below.