We have a trip planned to Valencia this March to visit a friend.
We were planning to rent an apartment for a week to explore the city. I now realize that the day we arrive, March 15, is one of the biggest days of Las Fallas. Our plan is to fly into the Madrid airport and then take a train to Valencia.
Will there be any train disruptions due to the festival? Also, from what I have read, most of the festivities take place in the Ayuntamiento de Valencia. Are there any other areas within Valencia that would be extra busy during La Fallas?
We are looking forward to enjoying La Fallas, but do not want to be in the "center" of the parties. Are there certain neighborhoods that would be more residential and less party/ touristy? We would like to stay somewhere close to the Mercat or the Cathedral to be close to our friend's apartment. We plan to do a lot of walking and visiting tourist attractions in the older part of the city. Thanks for any recommendations!
Posted by
SE Pennsylvania
2745 posts
I've been to Valencia twice, both times for the festival. It involves the entire city, and staying in the center might be easiest because transportation can be challenging--walking is best.
There is a bit more info on this thread I posted on:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/spain/las-fallas-festival-of-valencia
Posted by
OP
16 posts
LizinPA- thanks for your response.
Posted by
New Zealand
90 posts
I’ve been to Valencia many times for long stays. I've stayed once during Las Fallas. The noise is indescribable.
We stay on a high floor with a balcony to view any firework displays from a distance. I’ve stayed in many areas. My favorite locations are the Calle Quart area, or the Carmen district around Plaza Iborra. .
Although these areas are far enough away from Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the celebrations tend to spread out and encompass other areas.
Most locations within the Ciutat Vella are walking distance to the Mercat.