Discover Valencia in December
DISCOVER VALENCIA IN DECEMBER: BEACHES, HISTORY AND THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
Valencia in December is much more than a winter getaway. With a mild climate, sunny days and an important cultural offer, this Mediterranean city is perfect to visit.
Moreover, Valencia is a city of solidarity. It is helping some towns in its metropolitan area that have recently suffered floods, but the capital has not suffered any damage and is more alive than ever and ready to welcome you this December.
The DANA and Valencia's response
Although the torrential rains caused major problems in some nearby towns, the city of Valencia did not suffer any damage and has maintained its activity as normal. The Valencian people have turned out to help those affected in other localities, but the city is continuing as usual. Restaurants, shops and cultural activities are open and running smoothly. From Costa de Valencia, Spanish language school, we want to send a clear message: Valencia is still standing and ready to welcome those who wish to visit us
Valencia and its history of overcoming: from the Turia to the present day
Do you want to know why Valencia has not flooded while the metropolitan area has? The city was crossed by the river Turia, which has historically caused devastating floods. After a major flood in 1957, a decision was taken that forever transformed its urban landscape. This disaster gave rise to one of the most important engineering works in Spain: the new Turia riverbed.
The Turia River was diverted out of the city to avoid future flooding, and its old riverbed became the Turia Gardens, which offer kilometres of routes for walking, sports, cycling or simply unwinding surrounded by greenery. With its 136 hectares, it is the largest urban park in Spain and the fifth in the list of the 10 most charming parks in the world.
Thanks to this work, torrential rains no longer flood the city, but are diverted to the new Turia riverbed that surrounds the city and from there flow out to the sea. This is what happened on this occasion as well.
Beaches in December: a Mediterranean to enjoy all year round
Valencia is synonymous with the sea, and its beaches are a perfect place to enjoy even in winter. La Malvarrosa and La Patacona are ideal for quiet walks by the Mediterranean, while enjoying the sound of the waves and a warm winter sun.
But it's not all relaxation, December is the perfect time for water sports such as paddle surfing, windsurfing and sailing. The port of Valencia, one of the most important nautical centres in Spain, organises activities and events throughout the year, making it a meeting point for those who love the sea.
Christmas in Valencia: a December full of magic
December is also synonymous with Christmas, and in Valencia it is celebrated with a special touch. The streets are filled with decorations that invite you to stroll around and enjoy a unique festive atmosphere. The historic centre, with its mix of Gothic and Modernist architecture, shines like never before thanks to the Christmas markets and cultural activities.
In the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, you can visit the traditional Christmas crib and its impressive illuminated tree. In addition, the Christmas market, in places such as Plaza de la Reina or the City of Arts and Sciences, offers crafts, typical sweets such as nougat and marzipan, and endless ideas for original gifts.
If you're travelling with the family, you'll find something for everyone: ice skating rinks, children's workshops and shows in different parts of the city, making December a particularly magical time to visit the city.
Culture and gastronomy for all tastes.
Valencia also stands out in winter for its cultural and gastronomic offer. The city has museums that are real gems for lovers of art, history and science. From the IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art) and the Museum of Fine Arts, with works ranging from Gothic to modern, to more typical spaces such as the Silk Museum or the Fallas Museum, where you can get to know our most emblematic traditions in depth. And the City of Arts and Sciences, which combines innovative architecture, exhibitions and spectacular projections in the Hemisfèric or the Oceanogràfic, without forgetting one of the most recent additions: the Hortensia Herrero Art Centre, which is not to be missed.
As for gastronomy, Valencia has something for everyone. You can't leave without trying an authentic paella by the sea or enjoying seasonal dishes such as baked rice or fideuà. In December, the markets and restaurants also offer typical sweets such as turrones or buñuelos (fritters) with hot chocolate, which are perfect for these days. In addition, Valencia has a wide variety of restaurants and bars where you can try local and international cuisine.
Learn Spanish in Valencia this winter
If you are thinking of learning and improving your Spanish in December or in 2025 to live a unique linguistic and cultural experience, we want you to know that our school is here for you.
At Costa de Valencia Spanish school, we are operational and ready to offer you an immersion into the language and Valencian life. From dynamic classes to cultural activities that will connect you with the essence of Valencia, our mission is to accompany you every step of the way.
Contact us to find out more about our programmes or to ask any questions you may have. Valencia is ready to welcome you, and so are we. We are waiting for you with open arms!