December arrives full of surprises, illusion and magical moments typical of Christmas in Valencia. It is the month of new New Year's resolutions, exciting changes, family gatherings full of warmth, cold days that are compensated with the warmth of love and traditions. It is also a time of leisure, holidays and travel that mark this special time.
If you are thinking of enjoying the Christmas in Valencia, you have made an excellent decision! The city dresses up with lights, unique events and ideal plans for all ages. Here we present you 6 not-to-be-missed ideas for experiencing the magic of this time of year in Valencia (and don't forget to read all the way to the end, because you're going to getegalamos 3 more surprises)
1.- This is the time when the Albufera Natural Park shines the brightest, you must see it.

Sunset in the Albufera
Arrives La Perellonà, a unique phenomenon that makes the Christmas in Valencia even more special! During December, the Albufera Lake is transformed into one of the largest lakes in Spain, showing its most resplendent and beautiful side all year round. Are you going to miss it?
The Perellonà is a controlled flood that covers rice fields, roads and irrigation ditches in this natural area. It is produced by closing the floodgates of the Albufera, known as «perellones». Meanwhile, the Júcar and Túria rivers continue to accumulate water, allowing the surface area of the Albufera to reach an impressive 17,500 hectares.
This phenomenon creates a unique landscape that can only be seen during November and December, reaching its maximum splendour in mid-December, coinciding with the magical Christmas in Valencia.
A landscape full of tradition and benefits
- Soil fertilisation: The flooding enriches the land, preparing it for rice cultivation, one of the economic mainstays of the area.
- Spectacular wildlife: Ducks, flamingos and other migratory birds fill the Albufera, creating an ideal natural spectacle for lovers of biodiversity.
In January, with the arrival of the Aixugà, The floodgates open and the surplus water is released, marking the end of this natural cycle. Then, the «fangueo» process begins, where farmers clean the mud to prepare the fields for the new rice season.
Discover La Perellonà and lives a different side of the Christmas in Valencia, combining nature, tradition and unforgettable scenery.
There are excursions that take you and show you the best of the place, find out more here.
2.- Don't miss out on the best Christmas Markets
It's time to go to the street markets looking for decorations and handmade gifts. It's time to eat a hot chocolate with churros, to ride on the "tío vivo" and go through the city centre full of light, carols and life. It's Christmas time. So we leave you with the best markets in Valencia so that you can enjoy the endless activities they offer for the whole family.
- Xixona Christmas Fair, is the most important Christmas fair in the Valencian Regionnougat, all kinds of handicrafts, Christmas decorations... fill the shops. 100 local exhibitors located along the Avenida de la Constitución. There will also be a funfair, food trucks, a Christmas train, activities such as theatre, storytelling, tastings... from 5 to 8 December 2024.
- Plaza de la Reina Christmas Fair: 30 craft stalls to buy original gifts this Christmas. From Friday 29 November 2024 to Monday 6 January 2025.
- City of Arts and Sciences Christmas Market: Christmas craft market with activities for the youngest members of the family, solidarity corner and food trucks. From the second half of December to 7 January 2025.
- Christmas market next to the Central Market in Valencia. From 10 December to 6 January.
- Three Kings Market in Cabañal, the mythical market of the kings that open until 5.00h, where you can find the best Christmas gifts.
- Mostra de Nadal in the Colón Market, a new edition of the Mostra de Artesanía, XX edition, will be held: it will feature 14 designers and craftsmen specialising in textile, leather or jewellery screen printing or screen printing. From 23 to 29 December 2024.
- Tapinería Market will have a Christmas market. From 19 December to 5 January
- The traditional Christmas craft fair, which is installed in the Lluís Vives Institute, in front of the Estación del Norte, returns on 23 December until 6 January, without interruption.
3.- Exclusive: the Route through the Nativity Scenes

Bethlehem Queen's Square
One of the most special plans to enjoy this Christmas season is to do the route of the nativity scenes, A unique experience that will lead you to discover authentic cultural and artistic gems.
In Valencia there are spectacular nativity scenes that you can't miss:
- Life-size nativity scenes that are striking in their detail and realism.
- Traditional Nativity Scenes brought from Naples, The city's history is rich in history and beautiful craftsmanship.
- Historic Nativity Scenes that take you back in time and charmingly tell the story of Christmas.
If you are one of those people who every year assembles your nativity scene with enthusiasm or if you are passionate about Christmas traditions, the route of the nativity scenes in Valencia is perfect for you. This tour will take you through the heart of the city, visiting some of the most impressive and historic nativity scenes, while enjoying the unique atmosphere that Valencia offers at Christmas time.
Why do the route of the nativity scenes in Valencia?
- Ideal for the whole family: It is a fun, entertaining and charming activity that both children and adults will enjoy.
- Discover the history of Christmas: Learn about Valencian traditions and the importance of nativity scenes in Christmas culture.
- He walks around the city: Admire Valencia decorated with lights and experience the Christmas spirit as you visit churches, squares and emblematic spaces.
Make this Christmas in Valencia to make it unforgettable by joining this very special route. Experience the magic of nativity scenes and discover why this tradition continues to thrill generations. A plan that combines art, history and the authentic Christmas spirit. Don't miss it!
4.- Enjoy the best Valencian gastronomy in winter
Christmas is coming to the city and with it the cold weather, so it is time to visit mountain villages in the region of Valencia, eat a good plate of spoon and warm up by enjoying our wonderful gastronomy.
In the Valencian Community we have many winter dishes such as putxero valencià, olleta, arroz caldoso, sopa cubierta, all y pebre or potaje. Dishes that you have to try to understand the mixture of natural ingredients and the successful flavour of Valencian cuisine.
That is why we propose two plans to enjoy this winter:
- Visit Xàtiva and its imposing castle, and while you're at it, try the traditional arròs al forn (rice dish): Tipics, Pebre Negre Restaurant or el Cullerot.
ExtraIn Xàtiva this Christmas they have set up the biggest nativity scene in Spain. More information here
- Visit Morella, The vertical medieval city that will leave you speechless and try »les pilotes de Nadal», we recommend you to go to: Roque House that never fails.
5.- Take shelter in the Caves of San José

Caves of San Jose boat
Are you looking for a different plan to enjoy the Christmas in Valencia? We offer you a unique experience that combines adventure, nature and mystery: a visit to the longest navigable underground river in Europe, in the Caves of San José.
With a constant temperature of 20º C, This magical place offers a perfect thermal sensation, ideal for escaping the typical cold of the Christmas season. Delve deep into the earth and discover the secrets hidden in these fascinating caves, considered a natural wonder from another world.
Why visit the Caves of San José at Christmas?
- A different plan: Swap the traditional rides for a unique adventure that will surprise the whole family.
- Breathtaking natural beauty: Walk along the underground river while admiring stalactites, rock formations and landscapes that look like something out of a fairytale.
- Adventure suitable for everyone: It is a safe, exciting activity suitable for all ages, perfect for sharing on these special dates.
Harness the magic of the Christmas in Valencia to explore this place full of history and mystery. The Caves of San José not only are they an enigmatic place, but they offer you an unforgettable experience sailing through the interior of the earth, surrounded by a natural environment that will leave you speechless.
Make your Christmas special
Transform a cold day into a warm and cosy experience. Navigating the underground river, immersing yourself in its unique atmosphere and discovering its secrets will make your stay in the Christmas in Valencia an adventure you will always remember.
Click here for more information and don't miss this opportunity to experience a different kind of Christmas, combining nature, mystery and fun, we are waiting for you at the Cuevas de San José!
6.- Discover Medieval Valencia

Do you really not know what the expression means: »stay at the moon of Valencia».»?
There are various theoriesThis is how the ships that could not dock due to a bad tide (at night, under the moon of Valencia) or how the Moors expelled from the city stayed on the beach waiting to be able to sail elsewhere.
But the one that has been used the most is that of the Serranos TowersThese towers have always been the main entrance to the city and a defence zone. However, they closed their doors at 10 o'clock at night and it was said that anyone who arrived just in time or later had to stay at the moon of Valencia, on the Serranos bridge, waiting for dawn to break so that they could enter the city.
The Medieval Valencia is known as the period of the city's greatest splendour, but also one of its most mysterious and darkest. The famous »Valencian Golden Age».» that has marked the lives of its people forever.
We invite you this winter not to miss these stories... if you come to Valencia you have to know them. Click here to find out more.
+ 3 extra Christmas plans for the little ones in the house
- Enjoy the experience of the Christmas Ship, in the Marina of Valencia
- The great Christmas Attractions Fair already in the Navy from 2 December to 22 January
- The Grand Circus WOW, will take you to the world of COCO, to Mexico: full of colour, joy and magic. Show of acrobatics, dances and tricks.
And now, enjoy!
From Valencia&Go we wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year.