Anyone who has ever cycled through Valencia will recognize it: that sweet, fragrant smell in the air and the cheerful orange-colored streets lined with orange trees. In Valencia, they grow everywhere—along streets, in parks, and even in residential neighborhoods. For many visitors, they are the perfect photo opportunity, but for locals they are simply part of everyday life. Yet behind these fruits lies much more than just a pretty picture
Have you ever wondered where oranges actually come from? Spoiler: not Spain. Just think about the name. Oranges originally come from southern China, and their name is derived from there as well (“China apple”). From China, they spread via India towards the Middle East. Around the 10th century, the Moors brought oranges to Spain, including the region around Valencia. At that time, they were mainly bitter oranges used for perfume, medicine, and jam.
The sweet variety came later. Thanks to the warm Mediterranean climate, fertile soil, and advanced irrigation systems in the traditional huertas (agricultural areas around Valencia), the region proved perfect for cultivation. Soon, Valencia became one of the most important orange-growing regions in Europe.
In autumn, oranges start growing while still green. But the real magic happens in spring. The best time to enjoy the blooming season is March and April, when the azahar (orange blossom) is in full bloom. The fragrance is impossible to miss. From February until early May, you can still admire these blossoms.
A small warning for enthusiastic tourists: the oranges on street trees are usually not meant to be eaten. They may look delicious, but they are often bitter and sour. These trees are mainly planted for decoration, shade, and their beautiful spring blossoms. Great to look at, less great for your taste buds.
You may have seen them online: the “orange shakers.” People using machines to gently shake the trees. It may sound strange, but it’s actually a smart city system. Once the fruits are ripe and start falling, the municipality collects them using special methods to prevent them from ending up on the sidewalks and causing people to slip.
These oranges remain bitter, but they get a second life: they are used for compost, cleaning products, or even artisanal marmalade. Very sustainable.
Want to taste the juicy, sweet variety? Then you need to go just outside the city. Around Valencia, oranges are carefully grown for consumption and export. The fruit from these plantations is what you taste in a fresh glass of zumo de naranja or as the base of a classic agua de Valencia (for those 18+). Definitely worth trying!
How about the famous Agua de Valencia at the legendary Café de Madrid? It’s absolutely worth a try! And a visit to the city is not complete without exploring the local markets. Visit the Mercado Central de Valencia for a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice while admiring the stunning architecture.
The orange is not called the symbol of Valencia for nothing. Whether you come for the fragrant blossoms in spring, the history of the huertas, or a fresh glass of orange juice, it is part of the city’s identity.
And what better way to experience it than by bike? Cycle through the Jardín del Turia and quiet neighbourhoods lined with these iconic trees. No filter needed. That is Valencia.
Anyone who has ever been to Valencia naturally knows the famous Turia Park. This 9-kilometre-long urban park is the place where locals exercise, have picnics, and where tourists massively cycle through.
But honestly? Valencia has so many more green gems. Less touristy, but definitely not less special. And it’s exactly those spots that make the city extra enjoyable. These are our favourites.
Ask a local from Valencia where they exercise, relax, or meet friends, and chances are they’ll say the Turia Park. This almost 9-kilometre-long park winds like a green ribbon right through the city. Where a river once flowed, you’ll now find the perfect place for a bike ride in Valencia.