The Plaza del Ayuntamiento is the city’s main square and one of the gems of Valencia’s Old Town. This magnificent flower-filled space encompasses grandiose Baroque buildings, florist stalls, cafés, restaurants, kiosks and an impressive fountain. Wander through the triangular-shaped plaza and explore its main attractions.
The principal architectural highlight is the Ayuntamiento de Valencia or City Hall, from which the plaza gets its name. This early 20th-century building and its clock tower are lavishly decorated inside and out. Step inside to appreciate its beautiful design and to tour the free museum of city history, which is open every weekday and exhibits historical engravings, paintings and plans of the city.
Afterward, visit the nearby Central Post Office. Constructed in the 1920s, it is another stunning white Baroque building. Notice the five allegorical statues above the grand entrance. Inside, look up and marvel at the majestic glass cupola.
When you are outside again walk close to the large fountain and feel the spray as the jets of water thunder back down into the collecting pool. Come back at night to see the water feature illuminated by colored lights.
If you are in Valencia during the Christmas period go ice-skating on the plaza’s temporary rink. On New Year's Eve join locals and other visitors for the annual tradition of eating twelve grapes and drinking cava as the clock chimes midnight.
Another major festival celebrated here is Las Fallas, a 5-day street party in March to honor St. Joseph. Fireworks are let off every day in the square, giant papier-mâché figures are paraded through the streets and the festivities climax with more fireworks and a bonfire in the plaza, burning the satirical falla statuettes.
The Plaza del Ayuntamiento is in the Old Town in the center of Valencia. Bus stops and taxi ranks line the square. The nearest metro station is a short walk away. If you prefer to drive, pay to park in nearby parking lots.
