VALENCIA, Spain 🇪🇸 – Night Tour – 4K HDR walking tour with captions

VALENCIA, Spain 🇪🇸 – Night Tour – 4K HDR walking tour with captions

Hola from nightly Valencia, Spain’s city of light and orange trees! We begin our night tour at a palace of marble and move through winding streets lined with centuries of stories. Gothic towers rise beside Baroque façades as we pass lively cafés and the scent of horchata drifts by. From grand plazas to tiny hidden corners, every turn reveals another layer of this Mediterranean gem. Street music, tiled domes, and late-night laughter fill the air as we head toward the city’s modern heart. Our walk blends history, rhythm, and everyday life in nice balance. “Anem!” Let’s go see Valencia with POPtravel at night! Here we are at the start of our journey in the city of Valencia in Spain. This Mediterranean city was founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC. The old town here is full of streets shaped by Romans, Visigoths and Moors. The modern city is the capital of the Valencian Community, with over 800,000 people. After the 1957 flood the Turia was diverted, and the old riverbed is now a park. Let’s take a moment for the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aigües (Palau del Marqués de Dosaigües) in Valencia. This rococo-style palace was remodelled starting around 1740 for the Marquis of Dos Aguas. It now houses the National Museum of Ceramics and Sumptuous Arts González Martí, with major collections from the 18th century onward. The alabaster portal by Ignacio Vergara faces Calle del Poeta Querol. On our right side we see the Iglesia Parroquial de San Martín Obispo y San Antonio Abad on Calle San Vicente Màrtir 11 in Valencia. Construction began around 1372 after the Christian reconquest, with a Gothic single nave and later Baroque additions. The church is a protected Historic-Artistic Monument and one of the city’s oldest parishes. As we walk along Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir in Valencia we trace a street built along the Roman Via Augusta into the city. This street has seen Roman foundations, medieval trading and modern life. The street is named after Saint Vincent the Martyr, a deacon of Zaragoza executed around 304 AD. The path under our feet holds Roman, Islamic, Christian and modern layers. Here we are at the tower of the Església de Santa Caterina by Plaça de la Reina. The tower is hexagonal, with five levels, rebuilt between 1688 and 1705 under architect Juan Bautista Viñes. The church itself dates from the early 13th century and stands on the site of a former mosque. The tower reaches approximately 56m (approximately 184 feet) and is Baroque, while the church keeps Gothic parts. Now we turn to the Metropolitan Cathedral – Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia (Valencia Cathedral). The cathedral was consecrated in 1238 after the Christian reconquest of Valencia. Construction began around 1262 and continued into the 15th century, mixing Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical elements. One chapel holds a chalice linked by tradition to the Holy Grail. The bell-tower, the Miguelete (El Micalet), was built 1381 – 1429; its terrace is about 51m (about 167 feet) high, and the total height is about 63m (about 207 feet). Let me point out the bronze statue called Monumento a la Paz y a la Concordia in Plaza de la Reina. Created by José Puche, it was dedicated on 23 November 1998 and bears the inscription “La Paz y la Concordia son hijas de la razón y de la mente”. The sculpture shows a nude woman lifting a cloth from which doves emerge; it is intended as a memorial to victims of terrorism. Before we move on, there is a small architectural scale model of Valencia Cathedral displayed nearby. These miniature versions have been produced for sale or exhibition illustrating the cathedral’s complex mix of styles and its octagonal tower plan. While the exact date and builder of the model we see are unclear, such replicas help visitors appreciate construction phases that spanned centuries. On our left we come to Carrer de la Barchilla just beside the cathedral area. This narrow street links Plaça de la Mare de Déu with Calle del Palau. Many tourists and visitors pass along here to reach the old town’s historic core. The street’s proximity to major monuments makes it a frequent route for guided groups and independent walkers alike. Here we are at Plaça de l’Almoina in Valencia. This square sits in the historic centre and is considered the city’s oldest open space. Beneath the glass floor you can see Roman forum remains along with Visigothic and Muslim layers. The name comes from a former alms-house building that once stood here. Let’s take a moment for the Palau Arquebisbal de València at Carrer del Palau 2. The current building was built between 1941 and 1946 by architect Vicente Traver Tomás. It stands on a site used since the 13th century for the residence of the bishops and archbishops of Valencia. Some Gothic fragments from earlier structures are still integrated in the building’s interior. Pope John Paul II visited Valencia in 1982. Now we turn to the Museu de l’Almoina located directly under the square. This underground archaeological centre covers about 2,500m (about 8,202 feet)² beneath Plaça de l’Almoina near the cathedral. Visitors can view remains from Roman baths, a forum, a Visigothic baptistery and Moorish fortifications. Many of the ruins are lit at night and reflect in water features – strong evening views. On our left we see the Palacio de Colomina of the Universidad CEU-UCH at Calle Almudín 1. This historic palace now hosts cultural events and part of the university’s presence in the city centre. The building is located in the same old town grid as major monuments and is representative of adaptive reuse of historic structures for educational use. Over there you can see Plaça de la Mare de Déu (also known as Plaça de la Virgen) with the Fuente del Turia fountain. The fountain was inaugurated in 1976 by Manuel Silvestre Montesinos and features a central figure representing the Turia River surrounded by eight female figures that represent the eight primary canals that irrigate Valencia’s plain. The square itself lies on the site of the Roman city’s forum and is pedestrian-only. Here we are at the Basílica de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats in Plaça de la Mare de Déu. It was built between 1652 and 1667 under architect Diego Martínez Ponce de Urrana. The oval-plan church features a dome about 20m (about 66 feet) in diameter, covered with blue and white ceramic tiles. The interior holds the statue of the Virgin of the Forsaken, the patroness of Valencia. Let me point out that during our night stroll we see one of the “falla” sculptures being assembled in the street nearby. These large monuments are made from wood, cardboard, polystyrene and other materials and will be burned on the night of 19 March during the Las Fallas festival. Many “ninots” (smaller figures) surround each main composition and include satirical commentary on recent events. Now we turn to the climate and timing here in Valencia. Spring from March to May sees mild weather and is ideal for exploration, while early autumn also works well. The Fallas festival runs from 15 to 19 March and draws many visitors so accommodation typically books up early. Mornings in March can still feel cool, so layering is wise before joining this city-wide celebration. Over there you can see the Metropolitan Cathedral – Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia (Valencia Cathedral). Construction began around 1262 on the site of a former Visigothic cathedral later converted into a mosque. The cathedral blends Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles. It houses the Chapel of the Holy Chalice, linked by tradition to the Last Supper. The bell tower known as El Miguelete has 207 steps and offers panoramic city views. Quick note about Valencia’s fun traditions. The Fallas festival involves the daily midday “mascletà” (loud firecracker shows), parades of falleros in traditional dress, large puppet-like monuments placed in the streets and the final “cremà” or burning of these monuments on 19 March. There is also the offering of flowers to the Virgin of the Forsaken on 17-18 March, where participants wear regional attire and create a giant floral tapestry on the basilica’s façade. These events combine craft, community groups and fireworks-heavy spectacles across the city. Here we are at the Iglesia de Santa Caterina in Plaça de Santa Caterina. The tower reaches about 56m (about 184 feet) and was completed in 1705 by Juan Bautista Viñes. The building was erected over a former mosque and Roman levels lie beneath. The facades and ornamentation show Baroque influence from the 18th century while the interior retains Gothic features. Now we turn to Carrer de la Sombrerería and the tiny building called La Estrecha. La Estrecha measures just 107 cm (about 42 in) at the front and is often called the narrowest building in Europe. The house once held a jewellery shop on ground floor and a family home above on five floors. The façade stands at Pl. de Lope de Vega 6, near the cathedral. Over there you can see the Plaça Redona in the old town of Valencia. This circular plaza was built in 1840 by Salvador Escrig Melchor and sits in the heart of the medieval city. It is surrounded by four access streets and was historically used as a market space for fabrics and haberdashery. Today craft and souvenir stalls operate here, and it keeps its ring layout. Let me point out etiquette and social norms as we walk along Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir. When greeting people in Valencia, a kiss on each cheek is common among acquaintances. Mealtimes are later than some places – lunch often starts around 2 PM-3 PM and dinner after 9 PM. Avoid entering private properties or biking on pedestrian-only pavements; observe posted signs and respect local flow. Quick note about local cuisine and beverages you should sample. Try the authentic Paella Valenciana made with chicken, rabbit, green beans and garrofó beans rather than only seafood. For drinks go for Horchata de chufa – a cold tiger-nut milk – often paired with fartons, long sweet pastries. If you prefer something stronger consider Agua de Valencia, which mixes orange juice, cava, vodka and gin and was first made in 1959. Here we are at Plaça de l’Ajuntament in Valencia. Among the figures honoured here is Francesc de Vinatea, a 14th-century jurat who challenged royal abuse. A bronze statue of de Vinatea was installed in 1993 at the apex of the square. Another celebrated figure from Valencia is Santiago Calatrava, born in 1951, architect of the City of Arts and Sciences. Let me point out the memorial to Francesc de Vinatea in the square. This bronze sculpture shows him holding the book of the Fueros. The piece was made by Manuel Rodríguez Vázquez and set up in 1993. De Vinatea is credited with defending citizen rights in the Kingdom of Valencia during the 14th century. Now we turn to the building of more falla monuments and fireworks ahead. The main “mascletà” pyrotechnic show is held daily at 2 PM from March 1 to March 19 in this square during Las Fallas. The final burning of the largest monument takes place on March 19, the feast day of Saint Joseph. Fireworks crews often work here at night to install wiring and sound-timing devices before the public display. Over there you can see the Ajuntament de València, the Valencia City Hall building. The structure incorporates an 18th-century House of Education and a larger façade completed around 1930. Since 1962 the building has been listed as a Bien de Interés Cultural. Inside is the Municipal History Museum with maps and city archives dating back centuries. Quick note about recent political developments in Valencia. The council is composed of 33 elected members chosen via universal suffrage every four years. From 1991 to 2015 the city was governed by the Partido Popular (PP), from 2015 to 2023 by Compromís and PSPV-PSOE, and since 2023 by PP under mayor María José Catalá governing in minority. Here we are at the Edificio de Correos (Palacio de Comunicaciones) at Plaza del Ajuntament 24 in Valencia. Construction began around 1915 and it was inaugurated in 1923 under architect Miguel Ángel Navarro. The façade shows five allegorical figures for the five continents and a large stained-glass roof with 370 panels featuring the coats of arms of the 48 Spanish provinces. Let me point out social issues facing Valencia during the year. Spain continues to deal with youth unemployment. Unemployment in 2024 stood around 27 % for ages 15-24 in the Valencian Community. Housing affordability has become tighter as demand rises in central districts and rental prices increased in recent years. The tourism economy shifts seasonally and pushes infrastructure use beyond peak periods, stressing public services. Now we turn to film and literature links with Valencia. The City of Arts and Sciences appears in the 2015 film “Tomorrowland”. Many novels set in Valencia reference streets like Carrer de la Sombrerería and Plaça Redona to ground their plots in the old town. Visitors may recognise locations pictured in regional cine-clubs and local travel media. On our left you might notice something interesting: the glass roof inside the Edificio de Correos uses 370 panels, each panel bearing a specific Spanish province’s coat of arms. Calle de las Barcas nearby recalls historic boat traffic in this commercial area. The metal turret crowns the roof and is a visible landmark over the square. Ahead of us along Passatge de Ripalda going towards Carrer de Moratín we enter an area historically tied to local commerce. One globally known company founded in the Valencian region is Lladró, established in 1953 in Tavernes Blanques and known for porcelain art sold worldwide. Another example is Mercadona, founded in 1977 in Valencia and now a major supermarket chain. These businesses show how this city has produced brands with wide reach. Just a quick note for you Here in Valencia you’ll find street names like Calle de las Barcas which hint at older trade routes and services near the former river course. The old Moorish wall once ran just beyond the current old-town perimeter, and fragments of it remain under the ground near Plaça de la Reina. Many of the decorative façades on these narrow streets date from the late 19th century when Valencia expanded rapidly. Now we turn to the Fountain of the Three Graces (Fuente de las Tres Gracias) at Rodrigo Botet Square. This 19th-century fountain shows three female figures with swans and is known locally as the “Fuente de los Patos”. Valencia hosts many ornate fountains: some display mythological figures, others mark key nodes of the old water system. These fountains served both aesthetic and practical roles – delivering water while decorating city spaces. On our left we approach the Església de Sant Joan de la Creu at Carrer del Poeta Querol. This church was rebuilt in the 17th century on a former mosque site and is listed as an Asset of Cultural Interest. It lies in the Xerea neighbourhood and shows rich Baroque decoration by Hipòlit Rovira and Luis Domingo. The church is compact in plan but notable for its interior. Here we are at the Teatro Principal de València on Carrer del Poeta Querol / Carrer de les Barques. The theatre was inaugurated in 1832, though its design dates back to 1774 under architect Filippo Fontana. It is one of the oldest surviving theatres in Valencia and was declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument. Over the years it has hosted opera, dance, concerts and plays with a grand auditorium and balconies preserved from the 19th century. Let me tell you about the public transport network in Valencia. Metrovalencia and EMT buses share the SUMA ticket system across metro, tram and bus. There are 10 metro and tram lines and dozens of bus routes serving the metro area. You can travel with one integrated card across services. Single-journey fares start around 1.60 €. The network offers frequent links to major sights and stations. Here we are finishing our walk along Carrer de Don Juan de Austria. We began at Plaça de la Reina and visited Palau del Marqués de Dos Aigües, Iglesia de San Martín, and the Cathedral with its Miguelete Tower. We explored Plaça de la Mare de Déu, saw the Basilica of the Virgin of the Helpless and the Turia Fountain. Then came Plaça de l’Ajuntament, the City Hall, and Edificio de Correos. We passed Sant Joan de la Creu Church, Teatre Principal, and the Fountain of the Three Graces. Valencia rewards careful walkers. On our left side we pass El Corte Inglés, one of Spain’s largest retail chains. The company was founded in Madrid in 1940 and expanded rapidly nationwide. In Valencia several locations stand near Colón Street and Plaça d’Espanya. Inside you find clothing, electronics, books, and food halls. During local holidays stores often extend hours to match city festivities. Now we end our tour at Estació de Colom (Colón Station), located under Colón Street near the old Puerta de los Judíos area. This metro station opened in 1995 and serves lines 3, 5, 7 and 9 of Metrovalencia. The design includes spacious underground halls and escalators linking the commercial district above. The name “Colón” honors Christopher Columbus, whose statue once stood nearby. Before we go, thank you for joining our Valencia night tour with POPtravel. Subscribe for more real-time walking tours worldwide, and like the video if you enjoyed the stroll. See you soon at the next destination!

Hola from Valencia – the “City of Flowers, Light and Love”! We kick off our night walk at the elegant Marqués de Dos Aigües Palace, where marble and rococo meet in full splendor.

From there, the streets narrow as we follow Sant Vicent toward the Cathedral and its mighty Miguelete tower. Just around the corner, the basilica and Turia Fountain glow under the night lights of Plaça de la Mare de Déu.

A short stroll brings us to Plaça Redona, one of Spain’s quirkiest circular markets.

Soon the city opens wide again at Plaça de l’Ajuntament, where Fallas fireworks shake the air each March.

We finish in the modern shopping zone near Colón Station – some contrast to the old town’s calm charm.

“Anem!” Let’s see Valencia at night – with POPtravel!

For more Valencia tours, see: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=poptravel+valencia and the POPtravel Spain playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaxUrZNxL7WKr9UF6UCpYspji0uschzwU

Timeline:
00:00 Route Preview
01:00 Start of walking tour at Palau del Marqués de Dos Aigües
01:51 Carrer de la Cultura / Carrer de l’Abadia de Sant Martí
03:38 Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir
05:21 Plaça de la Reina
08:20 Carrer de la Barcella
09:03 Plaça de l’Almoina
12:40 Plaça de la Mare de Déu
15:30 Carrer del Micalet
17:14 Back at Plaça de la Reina
20:52 Plaça de Santa Catalina
21:31 Carrer de la Sombreria
22:55 Plaça Redona
24:01 Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir
25:48 Plaça de l’Ajuntament
35:32 Passatge de Ripalda / Carrer de Moratín
37:28 Carrer de la Barcelonina / Carrer de Vilaragut
38:49 Carrer de Vilaragut
39:54 Carrer del Poeta Querol
42:45 Carrer de Don Juan de Austria
45:45 Ending the tour at Colón

Credits:
Captions created with help of LLMs, OpenStreetMap and Wikipedia contributors – among others.

Filmed in March 2025

Camera: Osmo Pocket 3 in 4K60
Mic: Zoom H1n

#poptravel #valencia #spain