This week Valencia's city hall set its financial and policy direction for the year ahead, confirming another round of tax cuts while tightening tourist apartment rules in Ruzafa. Residents also had plenty happening in the streets, from the giant parade of San Marcelino to World Paella Day, alongside practical updates like new bus routes, a unified transport app, and discounted shopping vouchers.
The Week's Biggest Stories
Valencia confirms fourth year of tax cuts for 2027
City officials confirmed that the property tax (IBI) will be cut by 20% next year, extending a run of annual tax reductions to a fourth consecutive year. Additional bonuses are planned for families and local businesses. The announcement gives residents an early sense of what they can expect to pay in 2027.
Ruzafa stops issuing new tourist apartment licenses
The city has frozen new tourist rental licenses in Ruzafa after the neighborhood passed legal limits, with 1,850 hotel beds and 350 short-term rental units already operating there. The decision reflects ongoing concern over how tourist accommodation is affecting housing supply in one of Valencia's most sought-after districts.
Mayor lays out housing and health priorities for the city
At the annual state-of-the-city debate on September 17, Mayor María José Catalá outlined planned investments in housing, healthcare and urban development. The session offered residents an early look at policy priorities likely to guide city spending in the months ahead.
New round of discounted shopping vouchers goes on sale
Since September 16, residents have been able to buy €50 vouchers for local shops at half price, €25, through the city's Bonos Comercio program. The vouchers remain available until mid November or while supplies last, giving another opportunity to save on purchases at participating businesses.
Three new bus lines to expand city coverage
Valencia's bus network is set to gain three new routes aimed at cutting down transfers and improving access to hospitals and shopping areas. The expansion is meant to strengthen links between neighborhoods that currently require longer, indirect journeys.
New app brings all public transport info into one place
The regional government launched GVA SUMA-T, an app combining bus, metro and tram information for the Valencia region in a single tool. It debuted during European Mobility Week as part of a broader effort to make planning public transport trips simpler.
Giants and cabezudos parade through the city Thursday
The San Marcelino Festival opened on September 17 with its traditional parade of giant figures and big-headed cabezudos moving through the neighborhood. The event drew families out for music and street celebration as part of Valencia's regular festival calendar.
World Paella Day brought competitions and live music Sunday
Valencia marked World Paella Day on September 20 with a cooking competition and a public paella gathering featuring live music. Entry cost just €6, drawing crowds interested in sampling the region's signature dish and taking part in the celebration.
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What's On in Valencia This Week
18:30 · Casa Municipal de Cultura
Jardines de la Facultad de Bellas Artes, Universitat Politècnica de Valencia
Cottolengo
20:00 · La Filmoteca Valenciana, Valencia
Teatre Martín i Soler, Les Arts, Valencia · Tickets required
These are 5 picks from the 60+ events we are tracking in Valencia this week, and new ones are added every day. Pro members get the full calendar in our app; the free daily email flags the highlights.
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