Valencia is a rich city in which the new beautifully intertwines with the old. Large numbers of visitors use the tourist buses (hop-on hop-off) that allow them to see the major attractions in an efficient way. These buses touch all the beating spots: the space-age City of Arts and Sciences, the lively Mercado Central, the emblematic Cathedral, and the gorgeous Turia Gardens. 

However, what if there was a possibility to look beyond those beaten path stops and discover some hidden treasures right around the corner? This time, in a guide, I will show you some places that are out of the ordinary that you can explore in addition to the regular tourist bus route, the places that are usually overlooked but are worth visiting.

The City of Arts and Sciences: More Than Meets the Eye

It is no doubt the main attraction in most Valencia hop on hop off bus tour, the City of Arts and Sciences. It attracts international visitors with its modern, avant-garde building by Santiago Calatrava. However, there are more tranquil areas that some tourists do not get to see, despite the evident ones such as LHemisfcuric and the Oceanogrfgic.

Hidden Gem #1: Umbracle’s Secret Gardens
Small gardens and shady places can be found right outside the Umbracle, a landscaped walk featuring contemporary sculptures, where one can take a moment of calm. Not many tourists go beyond the central promenade here, yet it is a great place to have a peaceful moment and take some unusual photos without crowds of people.

Hidden Gem #2: The Assut de l’Or Bridge Views
Although the Assut de l 0r bridge is integrated into the general City of Arts and Sciences complex, attempt to cross it during the sunset. Here you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic scenery of the whole complex with the sun shining golden on the white buildings. It is one of the most well-kept photo secrets of Valencia.

Mercado Central Vicinity: Culinary Treasures Beyond the Market

The hop-on hop-off bus usually stops near the Mercado Central, a sprawling market famous for fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of the market itself, but nearby you’ll find quieter streets with delightful culinary experiences.

Hidden Gem #3: La Pilareta – Valencia’s Oldest Tapas Bar
Just a few minutes’ walk from Mercado Central lies La Pilareta, a tiny, no-frills tavern specializing in clóchinas (Valencian mussels). This authentic spot has been serving locals for over a century, and the atmosphere is unlike any tourist trap.

Hidden Gem #4: Plaza del Mercado Neighborhood
Venture into the surrounding narrow alleys to find little family-run shops selling handmade horchata (a traditional Valencian drink made from tiger nuts) and artisanal pastries. Try Horchatería El Siglo for a refreshing horchata break away from the busy market.

Old Town: Beyond the Cathedral and La Lonja

The Old Town or Ciutat Vella is a highlight on most Valencia sightseeing routes, with stops at the Cathedral and La Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange). But the historic district is vast, and many corners are still waiting to be explored.

Hidden Gem #5: The Almoina Archaeological Site
Right near the Cathedral, the Almoina offers a fascinating underground glimpse into Roman and Moorish Valencia. This site is often overlooked because it’s small and requires a ticket, but history buffs will appreciate walking through the excavated ruins beneath the city streets.

Hidden Gem #6: Plaza de Tossal’s Artistic Vibes
Head to Plaza de Tossal for a chill café scene filled with street art and bohemian vibes. This is a great place to rest your feet after wandering through the busier parts of Old Town and enjoy people-watching with a café con leche.

Turia Gardens and Surroundings: Nature Meets Culture

The Turia Gardens, a lush park built in a former riverbed, is a major feature of the hop-on hop-off route. While most tourists stick to the main pathways or visit the City of Arts and Sciences adjacent to it, the gardens stretch for several kilometers with surprises all along.

Hidden Gem #7: The Gulliver Playground
The Gulliver Park is a childrens park in the shape of the giant Gulliver, for people traveling with children, or simply young at heart. It is an experience of a local secret to climb on the large sculpture and slide down his hair on the green expanses.

Hidden Gem #8: The Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico)
The Botanical Garden is a calm, family-friendly educational experience featuring Mediterranean and tropical plants, a short walk away through the Turia Gardens. It is a quieter option that anyone who needs to get away form the busier tourist areas.

Beachside Discoveries Near Malvarrosa

The vast majority of hop-on hop-off lines have a stop at or near Playa de Malvarrosa, the main city beach in Valencia. It has a gorgeous beach, yet the surrounding community has less touristic delights.

Hidden Gem #9: Cabanyal Fishing District
Cabanyal neighborhood is a working-class district, a few minutes walk to the sea, full of maritime history, colorful tiled houses, and a growing art scene. It is an amazing area to stroll around and enjoy street art, have fresh seafood in one of the small local eateries, and get a more genuine feel of Valencia.

Hidden Gem #10: Horchatería Daniel
When you feel like having horchata by the sea, avoid the tourist trap and go to Horchateria Daniel, in Cabanyal. It is a classic place that offers one of the freshest horchata in the area that is prepared every day with nearby tiger nuts.

Tips to Explore These Hidden Gems with the Tourist Bus

• Combine Walking and Bus: Most of these hidden gems are within walking distance from the hop-on hop-off bus stops. Use the bus to cover long distances but be ready to explore on foot.

• Start Early: To enjoy the peaceful corners before crowds arrive, visit the City of Arts and Sciences and Old Town early in the morning.

• Local Eats: Avoid restaurants immediately adjacent to the bus stops and markets; instead, venture a few blocks into the quieter neighborhoods for better prices and authenticity.

Final Thoughts

Though hop on hop off bus is the best choice to orient yourself with the landmarks of Valencia, the true charm is hidden in the details right beside the stops. Behind discreet gardens and subway ruins, through old taverns and beach alleyways, Valencia is a city that repays the efforts of those who refuse to see what is evident. The next time you take the tourist bus, remember that it is your map to the city treasures, just make sure to get off of it and explore the off-the-beaten-path treasures that are close by.