Saturday walk #3 Valencia: Our Favourite Go-Tos
Saturday walk #3 Valencia: My Favourite Go-Tos
Never is Valencia more ours than on a Saturday morning. It’s the day we guard most carefully, a weekly ritual to slow down, wander, and see familiar streets with fresh eyes. That’s why we began this series of Saturday walks — curated city guides to the places we love most.
This time we don’t have to travel far: Valencia is home. We live and work here, and its rhythm has shaped our daily lives. For 500 Hidden Secrets, we’ve curated this seasonal Valencia guide — a list of our current go-tos, the cafés, corners, and local staples we keep coming back to this summer. From morning coffee spots to hidden gems tucked away in the old town, these are the places inspiring our weekends right now.
For more inspiration, don’t miss 500 Hidden Secrets of Valencia — a wider collection of the city’s architecture, markets, restaurants, and hidden gems, written by Lucy Ann Lovell and published by Luster Publishing. It’s the perfect companion if you’re planning a trip to Valencia or want to rediscover the city through a local’s eyes.
Hi! My name is Paula and I’m an art director, photographer, and founder of FURIOSO studio. Here we produce lifestyle photoshoots for charming places like hotels, restaurants, spas and travel brands.
I was born and raised in Valencia, and I honestly couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. It’s the perfect size — vibrant but not overwhelming — and offers the ideal mix of culture, good food, and a relaxed, Mediterranean pace of life.
These are the places I keep returning to — the ones I recommend with absolute faith, where I go to feel inspired, unwind, or simply enjoy the city I love.
La Novieta Boutique Hotel is a little secret I love sharing with friends who come to visit. It’s a boutique hotel with only four rooms, located in a quiet spot very close to Ruzafa. Fabien and Bertrand designed the space themselves, and they take care of every little detail — from the dreamy bedding to the peaceful garden terrace. It’s adults-only, incredibly serene, and feels like a Mediterranean escape right in the city.
Carrer de Vicente Lleó, 25, Valencia
Barbaric is hands down my favourite place for dinner when I want to treat someone to a memorable evening. Barbaric is run by Àlex, who creates the most delicious and thoughtful dishes, and Julia, who welcomes you like you're entering their own home. The vibe is casual but thoughtful, and their natural wine selection is one of the best in Valencia. Every time I take guests here, they leave in love with the place — it never misses.
C. de Santander, 8, Valencia
Perenne Home is a space that I find both calming and inspiring. It’s the project of Paula (yes, another Paula!), who designs every product herself — from skincare to home essentials — all of which are crafted by artisans using sustainable materials. The entire space feels so intentional and well-balanced and I often leave with something small — a candle, a cleanser — that ends up making my day better.
C/ de Quart, 74, Valencia
Whenever I need a mid-day reset, I walk over to Pals Café with my dog, Trini. I usually bring a book, order a flat white, and settle in for a quiet moment. Everyone there is incredibly kind — from the baristas to the people passing through — and it’s one of those places where I always feel completely at ease. It’s cosy, unfussy, and somehow good things always seem to happen there.
Carrer Mestre Palau, 4, Valencia
When I’m in the mood for something thought-provoking or visually striking, I head to Vangar Gallery. It’s a contemporary art gallery in the heart of Ruzafa, run by Elisa and Amalio, who are deeply committed to supporting emerging and mid-career artists. I love the way they curate each exhibition — it always feels fresh and meaningful. The space itself is minimal and bright, letting the work truly shine.
C/ de Pere III el Gran, 22, Valencia
