Just five kilometres north of Valencia’s coastline, in the town of Alboraya, you’ll find Port Saplaya, a charming seaside spot often referred to as Valencia’s Little Venice thanks to its unique layout of navigable canals lined with colourful facades.
Originally developed in the 1970s as a residential and holiday complex, Port Saplaya blends the Mediterranean way of life with the aesthetics of picturesque European coastal towns. If you’re spending a few days in Valencia, this area is well worth a visit. Its name alone sparks curiosity.
What is Valencia’s little Venice?
Port Saplaya began as an ambitious project designed to combine housing with a dreamy marina. The idea was simple: residents could moor their boats right outside their homes. This small port and residential zone belongs to the municipality of Alboraya, just outside the city of Valencia.
Inspired by places like Venice and Port Grimaud on the French Riviera, the project brought to life a network of artificial canals where small boats rest in front of colourful buildings that echo the charm of Venice and Burano. The result? A picture-perfect setting where architecture and tradition come together in harmony.
Beaches and promenades in Valencia’s Little Venice
Port Saplaya boasts two golden-sand beaches: Port Saplaya North and Port Saplaya South, separated by the entrance to the marina. Both offer a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for sunbathing, unwinding, or enjoying outdoor sports. The seafront promenade that links them is lined with restaurants, ice cream shops and local stores, creating a lively, family-friendly vibe all year round.
How to Get to Valencia’s Little Venice
Getting to Port Saplaya from Valencia is quick and easy. Here are a few options:
By car: Take the V-21 northbound and follow the signs for Alboraya/Port Saplaya.
By bus: Several metropolitan bus lines connect Valencia to Port Saplaya in about 20 minutes.
Taste the local flavours in Port Saplaya
The food scene in Port Saplaya offers variety and quality, with fresh seafood, traditional fish dishes and, of course, authentic Valencian paella. You’ll find a great mix of traditional Valencian cuisine that you can try in the best restaurants in Valencia with unbeatable views of the sea and canals.
And don’t leave without trying the best horchata and fartons, Alboraya’s signature treats, available in the many horchaterías scattered around the area.
Things to do in Valencia’s little Venice
There’s more to Port Saplaya than sun and food. Here’s what else you can enjoy:
Boat trips: Discover the canals and marina on a small boat.
Water sports: Try paddleboarding, sailing and other sea adventures.
Cultural events: In summer, open-air festivals and street activities bring the area to life.
Shopping: A nearby shopping centre offers a wide range of shops and services.
Find your apartment near Valencia’s Little Venice with HQ Rooms
Alboraya is one of our favourite towns near Valencia for a day trip. If you’re planning to visit Port Saplaya, we recommend staying in one of our HQ Rooms apartments in Valencia to make the most of your trip.
Our accommodations are centrally located, modern, and fully equipped with everything you need. From HQ Rooms, you’ll have easy access to Port Saplaya and other local highlights, perfect if you want to enjoy the calm of the coast while staying close to the buzz of city life.
Book your stay with HQ Rooms and experience the charm of Valencia’s little Venice.