Discover the Largest Shopping Centers in Valencia
Valencia, known for its history and rich culinary tradition, also offers a vibrant shopping scene, with a variety of malls catering to even the most discerning visitors. In this article, we take you on a tour of the largest and most prominent shopping centers in Valencia, exploring their diverse range of stores, services, and unique experiences they offer.
Nuevo Centro: A Unique Shopping Experience
Located in the heart of Valencia, Nuevo Centro is one of the city’s largest shopping malls. Opened in 1982, it’s a landmark in the city, attracting both locals and tourists alike. With a retail area of 112,800 square meters, this center houses over 200 stores, including fashion outlets like Zara, H&M, and Massimo Dutti. It also boasts a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and ice cream parlors. For families, there’s a children’s play area, and special events are organized during holidays and weekends.
Centro Comercial Aqua Multiespacio: Where Shopping and Fun Meet
Situated near the City of Arts and Sciences, the Centro Comercial Aqua Multiespacio offers a unique blend of shopping, entertainment, and dining. With its modern and distinguished design, this shopping center provides 34,000 square meters of retail space spread across three floors. Among its stores are well-known brands like Mango, Pull&Bear, and Springfield. The mall also houses a variety of restaurants, ranging from Spanish cuisine to sushi, and features a large leisure area with cinemas and a gym.
Bonaire: Valencia’s Largest Shopping Center
Located in Aldaia, Bonaire is the largest shopping center in the Valencian Community, and one of the largest in Spain, with over 200 stores spread across an area of 120,000 square meters. Here, you can find internationally renowned brands such as Desigual, Levis, and Jack & Jones, as well as a wide range of gastronomic and entertainment options, including a multiplex cinema and a bowling alley. Additionally, its architectural design, incorporating spacious outdoor areas and gardens, makes the shopping experience highly enjoyable.
Centro Comercial Saler: Shopping by the City of Arts and Sciences
The Centro Comercial Saler, located next to the Ciudad de la Justicia, offers a relaxed environment for a day of shopping. With over 160 stores, it offers a wide selection of fashion, electronics, and home products. Among the stores are brands like Cortefiel, Zara, and Mango. It also features a Carrefour hypermarket, several restaurants, and a cinema. Its proximity to the City of Arts and Sciences provides the opportunity to combine a shopping day with a pleasant stroll around this modern architectural complex.
Other Shopping Centers: El Corte Inglés
El Corte Inglés is a well-known Spanish chain of department stores with branches throughout the country. In Valencia, there are several El Corte Inglés branches offering a wide range of products, from fashion and beauty to electronics and home goods. El Corte Inglés stores are especially known for their food section, which offers a variety of fresh foods, gourmet products, and wines. They also provide services such as travel agencies, optics, and hair salons. The prominent El Corte Inglés branches in Valencia are located in Pintor Sorolla, Colón, Avenida de Francia, and Ademuz.
In conclusion, Valencia offers a diverse and vibrant shopping experience that goes beyond the traditional downtown stores. With its large shopping malls, the city provides a variety of options for all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, want to enjoy a delicious meal, or seek family entertainment, Valencia’s shopping centers have something for you.
Tips for Shopping in Valencia’s Shopping Centers
Shopping in Valencia can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to make the most of your shopping trips to Valencia’s shopping centers:
Plan Your Visit
Valencia’s shopping centers can be huge and often house hundreds of stores. That’s why it’s important to plan your visit. Before you arrive, check store directories and make a list of the ones you want to visit.
Consider the Time
The weather in Valencia is generally pleasant, but it can be hot during the summer. While shopping centers are air-conditioned, you may want to plan your shopping during the cooler hours of the day.
Take Advantage of Sale Seasons
In Valencia, like the rest of Spain, there are two main sale seasons each year: in January after Christmas and in July to make way for the new autumn collections. During these periods, you can find significant discounts in many stores.
Explore the Culinary Scene
Valencia’s shopping centers not only offer an excellent shopping experience but also a wide variety of dining options. Take a break from shopping to enjoy a meal or snack at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Use Customer Services
Many shopping centers in Valencia offer customer services such as tourist information, luggage storage, and wheelchair rentals. Don’t hesitate to use these services to enhance your shopping experience.
Follow Safety Rules
Last but not least, remember to adhere to safety and public health rules. Due to the post-pandemic situation, wearing masks in some areas and hand sanitization may be recommended.
Shopping in Valencia is a unique experience, and these tips can help you make the most of it. Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the opening hours of shopping centers in Valencia?
Most shopping centers in Valencia open from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 AM to
10:00 PM. Sundays and holidays may have special hours.
2. Is parking easy in Valencia’s shopping centers?
Yes, Valencia’s shopping centers generally have ample parking, with some offering free parking.
3. Are there activities for children in Valencia’s shopping centers?
Yes, many of Valencia’s shopping centers have children’s play areas and organize special activities and events for kids.
4. Are there food options in Valencia’s shopping centers?
Yes, all of Valencia’s shopping centers offer a diverse range of dining options, from fast food to local and international cuisine.