Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia is the ideal combination of culture and food with a noteworthy nightlife. A thriving port city, Valencia is situated on the south-eastern Orange Blossom Coast, where the Tura River meets the Mediterranean Sea.
A forward-looking city, it is known as a City of Arts and Sciences featuring futuristic architecture by Valencia’s own Santiago Calatrava. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the Hemisfèric, which houses an IMAX cinema, Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, Principle Felipe Science Museum and the avant-garde opera house, Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia.
For a hit of history, make sure you meander around the Barrio del Carmen and its mansion houses. An ancient district of the city that grew between two walls, the Islamic and Christian city walls, cross the mediaeval gates of the Serrano and be transported back in time as you explore the maze of cobbled streets. With imposing mediaeval buildings, you can enter the mansion houses and visit the Quart Towers.
Downtown you can see some of the city’s iconic buildings including the Plaza de Toros, Estación del Norte, and Edificio de Correos. Other historical treasures include the Valencia Cathedral, Basilica of the Virgin, Almoina and the Tribunal de las Aquas, or water court, which is a UNESCO recognised intangible cultural heritage. Continuing a 1000-year-old tradition, the tribunal still meet outside the door of the Apostles, every Thursday at midday.
For those wishing to get back to nature, The Turia Gardens span nine kilometres, and are situated on the old bed of the River Turia. Stretching the entire distance from the east to the west of the city, you can explore by bike, train or on foot, with one of the highlights being the unique bridges connecting the north and south. A bit further out, Albufera Nature Park is 10 kilometres out of the city and offers unspoiled beauty, in line with Valencia’s passion for the environment.
A slightly different experience of nature, why not soak up some sun on one of Valencia’s stunning beaches? Next to the Paseo Maritimo promenade are the beaches of El Cabanyal and La Malvarrosa, as well as the Juan Carlos I Royal Marina – one of the city’s most important landmarks. Famed for its rich history and unique buildings, many key events are held here and it houses the 19th Century Harbour Sheds, Edificio del Reloj and an abundance of terraces, restaurants and shops set against the backdrop of jaw-dropping views. For a more rugged beach experience, El Saler is next to the Albufera Natural Park.
A city of contrast, where the future meets the past, with 34 museums to choose from, and the delicious food and drink we’ve come to expect from Spain – you’d have a hard time having a hard time in Valencia.
Find out more at Visit Valencia.
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