Valencia: the seaside tour 

On the Valencia Seaside District Tour, you’ll explore the city’s historic maritime neighbourhoods—El Grau, Canyamelar, and El Cabanyal—with a magnificent mix of tradition, modernity, and the Mediterranean spirit. Originally founded around its fertile farmlands, Valencia slowly embraced the sea, transforming its once-dangerous coastline into a thriving port and vibrant cultural hub.
Walk through colourful streets, learn about centuries-old traditions, and experience the lively energy of this unique “city within the city.”

El Grau: Valencia’s Historical Port
El Grau, Valencia’s original port district, has been the city’s gateway to the world for centuries. Although the Romans founded Valencia inland to protect it from coastal threats, El Grau soon became indispensable—especially by the 15th century, when it served as a strategic port for the Crown of Aragon during its Mediterranean expansion.
Here you’ll explore the revitalised Marina of Valencia and see how this historic harbour evolved from a defensive necessity to one of the city’s most dynamic modern spaces.

The Atarazanas: Medieval Shipyards
A testament to Valencia’s maritime past, the Atarazanas (medieval shipyards) stand as one of the district’s most important historic buildings. Once used to build and repair ships that sailed across the Mediterranean, this impressive Gothic structure now hosts exhibitions and cultural activities.

Holy Week Marinera & Its Museum
Unique to the maritime districts, Holy Week Marinera is one of Valencia’s most cherished traditions. Unlike any other celebration in the city, it reflects the deep bond between the locals and the sea.

El Cabanyal: Colourful Streets & Seaside Promenade
In El Cabanyal, you’ll stroll through a beautifully preserved grid of streets originally organised around the area’s irrigation canals. The rational urban layout contrasts with the explosion of colour in the district’s iconic tiled houses—an example of popular architecture that has fascinated artists and visitors for decades.
Continue to the seaside promenade, once the ultimate weekend excursion for Valencians when “going to the sea” meant a full day’s adventure. Today, it remains a beloved gathering place overlooking the Mediterranean, offering a stunning backdrop that bridges the city and the sea.

Rice Museum & Cultural Life
Reflecting the district’s industrial past, the Rice Museum offers insight into one of Valencia’s most important local industries. Alongside it, the lively Teatro El Musical showcases the neighbourhood’s ongoing cultural vibrancy, cementing the area’s reputation as both historic and ever-evolving.