Enjoy authentic Spanish food, festivals and historic architecture with modern attractions, such as cultural centres and urban parks, in this Mediterranean port city.
Valencia, on Spain’s east coast, is made up of medieval architecture, sun-soaked beaches, ultramodern cultural centres and sprawling urban parks. The Romans founded Spain’s third-largest city in 138 B.C. and it remains one of Europe’s busiest ports.
Many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other in the streets and squares of Old Town. Valencia Cathedral is said to be the home of the Holy Grail and lies in Plaza de la Reina. See a clear view of the city skyline from the cathedral’s bell tower. From your seat in a café, watch buskers perform on Plaza de la Virgen, a square lined by some of the city’s distinct landmarks. Try some of the local seafood, fruits and cheeses not far from here at Central Market, one of the oldest food markets in Europe.
Valencia offers a diverse mix of architectural styles. See the Palacio del Marqués de dos Aguas to find a combination of baroque, rococo and neoclassical architecture on the building’s exterior and a ceramic collection inside. Valencia’s silk trade history is preserved in La Lonja, a series of Gothic buildings featuring ornate Renaissance embellishments.
Historically, the Turía River connected Valencia’s Old Town, but it was diverted after the town suffered severe flooding. The former riverbed has been transformed into the Turía Gardens, a large park with grassy lawns for picnicking. Visit Bioparc Valencia to see endangered species of African animals. Check out a concert or museum at the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia’s diverse cultural and education centre.
Valencians love to party. Join the locals during Las Fallas, a traditional festival, with parades and fireworks displays, to honour St. Joseph and celebrate the beginning of spring. Explore the El Carmen precinct during the evening to find restaurants and tapas bars where old townhouses once stood.
Escape city life and go on a daytrip along the Mediterranean coast. Scenic Malvarrosa Beach is just a short distance by bus or tram from the city and is one of many beautiful attractions close to Valencia.
