The Torres de Serranos are an impressive, massive gateway into Valencia. Erected in the 14th century as a part of the city's defense network, the towers have a pentagon shape and are connected to a gallery that is surrounded by the remains of the old moat. Over the centuries, The Serrano Towers have been used as a prison and a hiding place for works of art during the Spanish Civil War.

This local museum is designed around displaying the famous “rocas” of Valencia. A Roca is a very special kind of carriage that is used like a modern day float for parades. They are of particular importance during the religious festivals of the area. Those events include parades for Easter, Christmas, and the annual “Mysteries of Christ” plays. The items on display are not necessarily that valuable, but they do tell a wonderful story about the culture of Spain. For that reason, this museum is a very popular tourist attraction.

The building was first constructed in the 1400s. Upon entering the building, you will note how there is a natural downward slope to the whole thing. This was done to make it easy to get the carriages out of the building.

You will want to see the giant eagles on display here that were built by Luis Roig Alos. There is a local myth surrounding the eagles and their connection to St. John the Evangelist. Make sure to check out the famous wooden sculptures.

The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. all year long. The best part is that admission is free.

Pinada Palace was the residence of the Quartermaster General of the Kingdoms of Valencia and Murcia and the Chief Justice of the city, Francisco Salvador de Pineda. The neoclassical facade is characterized by its precise symmetry. The city’s coat of arms displayed on the center gate, where the date 1732 is still visible, adds vibrancy to this historic palace.

Built in 1281 for the Order of Carmelites, along with a 15th century addition of a Gothic cloister, make the Carmen complex one of the most impressive religious buildings in Valencia. Upon seeing this church even those indifferent to religious architecture will have a change of heart.

This museum was created to host the greatest artists of the 19th century. Nowadays it is beginning to live up to this expectation. It is located in the former convent of Iglesia del Carmen, which dates back to 13th century.

IVAM, or the Valencian Institute of Modern Art, is a wonderful modern art gallery with two places of interest. The Julio González Center, opened in 1989, is a permanent exhibition of metal sculptures, containing eight galleries. In 1991, the Sala de la Muralla was added, featuring exhibitions of mural art.

The Prehistory museum of Valencia tells the story of humankind (especially from the territory of modern day Spain) that covers a period from the Paleolithic era to the time of the Visigoths (who conquered the area during the same time as the fall of the Roman Empire). The location also does a very good job of telling the story of Valencia during the same time.

Of particular interest is the exhibit that tells about medieval Valencia, under the reign of the great warrior leader Moixent. The famous fighter was also the founder of the ancient village of Bastida de les Alcuses. This building also houses the local Ethnicity museum, which displays the habits and customs of the local people through that same rough time frame. A full renovation of the facilities happened in 1995, so the place is quite up to date.

On a practical level, the institution was also created so that the archeological finds of the area did not have to be dispersed across various other locations. The museum is open during the wintertime from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. It is closed on Monday. During the summertime, it is open from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Again, it is closed on Mondays.

Asilo del Marques de Campo is a must-see for visitors interested in Gothic architecture. The palace exterior, in particular, is a fine example of this style. Asilo del Marques de Campo is one of the best places to get a glimpse into the city’s past.

This building dates from the 15th century and was designed by Pere Bonfill. The walls are pitted with holes made during the War of Independence. Long ago it had a tower that was destroyed in order to expand the city. In the past it was the gateway to Quart de Poblet, an old settlement on the Valencian plains.