Valencia Cathedral travel guide

Steeped in rich history, Valencia Cathedral, also known as the Saint Mary’s Cathedral or Catedral de Santa María, is a must-visit when in Valencia. This iconic cathedral dates back to the 13th century, constructed between 1252 and 1482, and boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque.

The cathedral is said to be built on the site of a Roman temple, which was later transformed into a mosque during the Moorish period. Upon the Christian Reconquista, it was converted into a cathedral.

One of the cathedral's most famous treasures is the Holy Grail, reputed to be the chalice used by Jesus at the Last Supper, displayed in the cathedral's museum. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several restorations, with the most notable in the 18th century, adding elegant Baroque elements to its impressive façade.

Today, Valencia Cathedral continues to captivate visitors with its stunning architecture, historic charm, and the legend of the Holy Grail.

Among the striking features of Valencia Cathedral, the fusion of architectural styles is most prominent. Three main doors represent three different styles: Romanesque (Iron Gate), Gothic (Apostles Gate), and Baroque (Palau Gate). The Miguelete tower, a Gothic-style bell tower offering panoramic city views, is a standout element.

Inside, the Cathedral houses the Holy Chalice, claimed by some to be the Holy Grail, and a stunning collection of 15th-century Renaissance paintings. The highlight is a fresco by Paolo de San Leocadio, rediscovered under a dome in the 21st Century after being hidden for centuries. The Cathedral's octagonal central dome, with its beautiful blue-tiled interior, is another captivating sight, exemplifying the Moorish influences. The Cathedral's museum, with its array of religious art and artifacts, is also worth exploring.

Located in the dynamic Ciutat Vella, the popular Valencia Cathedral 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!

Valencia Cathedral 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 Valencia Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in València, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Valencia Cathedral, which is located 0.4 miles (0.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Valencia Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pl. De l'Almoina, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Valencia Cathedral!

The best time to explore Valencia Cathedral is during the spring months of April and May. During this time, Valencia enjoys pleasant weather that is not too hot nor too cold, providing an ideal atmosphere for enjoying the architectural magnificence of the Cathedral. Additionally, the city is less crowded in spring, allowing tourists to explore the Cathedral in relative peace. Another excellent time to visit is during the Celebration of Corpus Christi in June, where the Cathedral takes center stage in the city's festivities. This traditional event provides a unique opportunity to experience local culture and traditions. It is advised to arrive early in the morning to avoid midday heat and larger crowds. Plan your visit on a weekday if possible, as weekends can be busier. Regardless of when you choose to visit, the Valencia Cathedral, with its rich history and impressive architecture, is sure to leave a lasting impression.

To truly enjoy your visit to Valencia Cathedral, joining a tour that features this popular Catholic cathedral in València is highly recommended. As one of Spain's most iconic attractions, Valencia Cathedral draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Valencia Cathedral starting at just 14 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Valencia Cathedral 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 Valencia Cathedral 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 Valencia Cathedral 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 Valencia Cathedral below.

Aside from Valencia Cathedral, 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.