If anything in Valencia could be boasted about, it’s the beaches. With miles of coastline in perfect condition and with its worthy blue flags, and including its enviable Mediterranean climate and some of the best gastronomy of the country, this city is, without doubt, a must-see.

Among the beaches of Valencia, the Albufera Natural Park area is ideal if what you’re looking for is relaxation and tranquillity. Here you will find La Devesa, a beach surrounded by sand dunes, helping you disconnect in a relaxing ambiance, far from the urban noise, despite being only 10 km from the centre of Valencia.

La Devesa, together with the El Saler beach create the link that separates the sea from La Albufera, a boundary that forms the closing of the gulf which exists between Valencia and the present Cullera. At one end you’ll find a beautiful and quite beach with nearly five kilometres of fine golden sand. A beach surrounded by nature, where the enormous sand dunes, the sea and the vegetation of the Albufera are the main attractions.

Albufera & El Saler

So far so good, but if you’re looking for party and fun, you needn’t think twice. The Malvarrosa beach is your best option. It’s busy promenade makes this an ideal place for recreation, perfect for getting that sun tan, eating well, and enjoying everything that you can find at this fun and popular urban beach.

The neighborhood of the same name, which is close to this beach was, many years ago, a series of marshes, acquired then by a Frenchman called Félix Robillard. This French botanist and gardener started a great change in the region, draining the marshes and planting distinct types of flowers, including a type of geranium “geranio odoratissimum” which was named by this gardener “Malva-Rosa”.

Little by little the wealthy of the zone started to visit this coastal area, as a place to relax. This favorite of the rich started to displace the fishing boats which had until then been connected with the area. And with the passing of time, it became famous and prestigious. It was the famous Valencian writer Blasco Ibanez who was one the pioneers to construct a chalet by the beach here.

Nevertheless, in the following years the reputation of the beach changed markedly, due to the construction of hospitals for the severely ill, converting it into a less popular place where few people went.

Thanks to the construction of a maritime promenade the Malvarrosa Beach has returned to shine as a place for leisure, as it had been before, a beach so well-known and so busy for locals and tourists.

The neighboring beach to the Malvarrosa, to the north, is La Patacona, which is less touristic but with good services. Here you can enjoy the best horchata from Valencia.

Malvarrosa & Las Arenas Beach

The beach of Las Arenas is the closest to the city. It’s a busy beach in the capital with a wide avenue, many restaurants and bars making your visit to the beach a great option for all the family, including the little ones.

The name of this famous beach has its origin in the old spa resort Las Arenas which strangely resembled the Greek temples. Presently, this building has been reconstructed and converted into a five-star hotel ‘Hotel Las Arenas’.

Being close to the city, with its great variety of restaurants along its length or for the optimum conditions that it offers, Las Arenas beach is for many, one of the best beaches of Valencia

Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Valencia

Also accompanied by the Albufera we find the beach of La Garrofera, with an ambiance similar to its neighbors, La Devesa and El Saler. This inhospitable beach has a nudist beach, and is equal to the neighboring beaches, an ideal place to relax in the warm water.

In the space protected by the Albufera to the South, and connected to the mouth of the river Turia to the north, the beach of La Pinedo also provides a large esplanade where you can find beach bars -‘chiringuitos’, bar terraces and restaurants that offer a great variety of Valencian gastronomy. This beach, surrounded by rice fields, is a typical enclave of the region.

To the south of Valencia and adjoining the beach of La Devesa, is the Recatí beach, which also belongs to the nature reserve of La Albufera. This semi urban beach is calm and quiet and borders a residential zone, ‘El Perellonet’, behind which, there is a large area of rice fields offering majestic views, meanwhile taking a walk in the region. With its great lengths and 45 metres width, it is an ideal beach for practicing distinct sporting activities such as surfing or kite surfing.

Recati Beach

Another reason for visiting Recati beach is its variety of fresh fish which you may enjoy on the beach front, where you can find restaurants offering very typical regional dishes, among which, some of the best Valencian rice dishes stand out.
As you can see, many of the beautiful beaches of Valencia are within the city limits, making this metropolis a region that offers the tourist much of great variety and quality.

Depending on your holiday location and plans, you might need to rent a car for your stay to reach every site and destination you’d like to see and visit. If you’re looking for a car hire in Valencia, our car rental portal can help.

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All his works vary greatly from the classic architectural lines that you find in large cities, Santiago Calatrava being above all, an urban artist.

He has obtained considerable recognition’s such as these: Prince of Asturias Award for arts, the Spanish National Architecture Award, the “Hijo Predilecto” of Valencia (the favorite son of Valencia) , among others… and it is not surprising because his sculptures made of concrete and steel as his main construction materials have a futuristic style that leave no one indifferent.

In spite of all his acknowledgements, many people today still wonder who Calatrava is and cannot imagine that this controversial Valencian is the creator of works of such resonance as the Tenerife Auditorium and the City of Arts and Sciences in his hometown, Valencia.

Its 350,000 square metres are making the City of Arts and Sciences a great cultural and leisure centre, the largest in Europe. It is, without a doubt, a reference point for the architecture of the present century. This is why it is almost impossible to talk about Valencia and not to mention this great leisure and cultural complex that once you visit it you will discover new emotions and sensations and awaken all your senses.

Santiago Calatrava & Ciudad de las artes y ciencias

This ambitious project has placed Calatrava at the apex of the architectural sector in Spain and a great avant-garde reference worldwide. Calatrava could be considered the revolutionary architect of concrete, steel and glass, playing with asymmetry in many cities around the world and creating emblematic points of tourist interest wherever it goes.

And this is why his recognition surpasses borders, to such an extent that it currently has delegations in New York, Zurich and Doha.

As with any well-recognized professional, there is no shortage of critics, the main ones being based on the increase in price of his structures and the great resemblance between them. Nevertheless, each and every one of them is a proof of the ingenuity and talent of this great architect.

WTC New York & Umbracle

The works of Santiago Calatrava have reached a great extent that have crossed borders:

• The Constitution Bridge over the Grand Canal of Venice; which had many problems and the difficulty of building it made the project more than three times more expensive than the budget originally agreed.
• The “Turning Torso” Building in Malmö, Sweden, which was decorated with the “10 year award”. It is the tallest building in Sweden of 190 meters high and represents a twisted human torso. This residential building has become a landmark in architecture.
• The Lusitania Bridge that crosses the Guadiana River in the city of Merida. This bridge was created in 1991 due to the need to leave the old Roman bridge only for pedestrians. With this project, the city was divided with both bridges; passing the Roman bridge is the historic center of Merida and with the new bridge created by Mr. Calatrava you will pass to the modern city of Merida.
• The Railway Station in Liège, Belgium. Its great luminosity and striking appearance has made this station another tourist element to visit in this Belgian city.
• The famous Exhibition Bridge, known as “La Peineta” in Valencia, which crosses the river Turia, replaces a previous bridge that lacked elegance and attractiveness which in turn replaced a footbridge built in 1909 that was destroyed by the large flood that destroyed this city center in 1957. Perhaps this has been the reason why the architect Calatrava gave to this new bridge, a great resistance in its steel construction, which makes it a really firm and safe bridge.
• El Puente de la Mujer, in Buenos Aires. It is a revolving pedestrian bridge in the well-known “Puerto Madero” neighborhood, which has one of the largest turning mechanisms on the planet.
• Museo do Amanhä (meaning “Tomorrow’s Museum”), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This museum of “ideas” has been built next to the sea in an old and abandoned port of Rio de Janeiro. The enormous and emblematic building has achieved the construction of new buildings and offices in the forgotten port Maua.

Liege train station

…and there are many other projects that have given a prestigious recognition to this talented Valencian.

Wherever Santiago Calatrava leaves his signature, greatness, art and above all, modernity prevail. A modernity that boasts Spanish cities such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Bilbao, his native Valencia, Merida, Murcia, Barcelona and Seville, among others… all of them with a stroke of distinction that differentiates them from the rest with a contemporary touch offered by the works of this famous Valencian who captivated the world.

Perhaps Santiago Calatrava is right now creating another planet with emblematic landscapes or other fancy cities that are far away distinguished from the traditional ones. Perhaps he is creating a landscape scenario where nature and concrete can coexist in large cities, giving clarity to the grey spaces that invade many capitals and giving luminosity to other lands that were hidden and forgotten in the dark… perhaps he is creating cities that provide sustainability and functionality as a main objective, to make a better world….

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This city not only has natural resources such as its beautiful beaches and its amazing Albufera natural reserve, it also has emblematic buildings that you should not miss.

If you’re wondering what to see in Valencia, it’s easy, as there’s a huge range of places to see and enjoy. Not only will you find buildings of great history and beauty, but also thematic buildings that will make you enjoy your five senses.

City of Arts and Sciences

An excellent theme park to visit in the heart of Valencia could be Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (the City of Arts and Sciences), which offers you the chance to learn while having a great time. With interesting workshops, amazing interactive exhibitions, a fantastic aquarium and more than 900 square metres of screen in the only IMAX DOME in the whole country, this city of Arts and Sciences is a whole world to discover and a tourist spot not to be missed. The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the options for those tourists who wonder what to visit in one day in Valencia.

City of Arts and Science

This immense leisure park is located on the River Turia, which occupies some 350,000 square metres and is considered to be a large open geographical space. It is made up of 6 areas and considered, one of the main places to visit in Valencia in one day:

• The Reína Sofía Arts Palace, whose purpose is the performing arts.
• The Hemisferic; with its incredible IMAX cinema and its Planetarium.
• The Umbracle; a large garden that represents the backbone of the park, will not go unnoticed to any visitor, thanks to its meticulous decoration full of details that makes it very unique.
• The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum is an emblem of the 21st century and its motto is “it is forbidden not to touch, not to feel, not to think”, it will give you the opportunity to delight yourself with its wonderful exhibitions and workshops where learning and fun merge to give you a world of sensations and magic. Therefore, I recommend you to take your time so you can enjoy every corner of this unique creation.
• As if that weren’t enough, it also has an Oceanografic (aquarium); In this area you will be able to carry out surprisingly unique activities such as: sleeping and swimming with sharks, training cetaceans, watching penguins and many more experiences that will remain in your mind and in your heart for many years to come, because this theme park offers emotions and happiness.
• Last but not least is Ágora, an ideal place to hold events (concerts, exhibitions, congresses, conventions, etc.) and a really good place to relax while taking a pleasant stroll both day and night.

La Lonja de La Seda

In all its splendor and as a World Heritage Site, located in the historic centre of the city and in the market square (Mercado Central) itself, you will find one of the most beautiful places in Valencia, La Lonja de La Seda. This masterpiece of Valencian Gothic was created between 1482 and 1548. It is a faithful sample of the apogee of the Valencian bourgeoisie during the Late Middle Ages and a pride of the Valencian community, being considered, one of the main places to visit in Valencia in one day.

Mercado Central

I could not miss in this article to speak of the Central Market (Mercado Central), a place that is mandatory to visit, in which, you will taste very typical local Valencian products. This market place of Arabic origin is a very popular place among Valencians and tourists. The new Central market building works began in 1914 and is a great example of modernist architecture in Valencia. Just taking a walk through this old, but fascinating Market, will make you know a lot about Valencian culture and habits.

Mercado Central & Lonja de la Seda

Estación del Norte

The Estación del Norte is another prestige of Valencian modernism that was designed by Demetrio Ribes and its tiles and mosaics depict scenes from the Valencian orchard.

It was in 1917 when this work of art began to be built, whose 45 metres of open ceiling represented, at the time, a technological challenge.

Almudín

The Almudín building was built on top of the old Muslim fortress at the beginning of 1307. In its origins it was used especially as a warehouse for wheat and other grains for sale and distribution throughout Valencia. You could imagine the importance of this building in a time of so much famine and misery …

Now it’s a museum, the Almudín’s greatest attraction is its wooden roofs. A museum that shows in its interior walls the details of the activities exerted in this emblematic Valencian building.

Cathedral of Valencia

It is not a museum but it could be, the Cathedral of Valencia has very interesting objects and much more history that is typical of the religious life of Valencian people.

A Visigothic church was built on top of a Roman temple, on which a mosque was built, and on top of this mosque, the famous Valencia Cathedral was built. Curious, isn’t it ? maybe that’s why the Holy Grail is in this Cathedral…?

The main bell was baptized in the day of San Miguel, and from there it comes the name of the famous bell tower of the Valencian Cathedral “El Miguelete”. This bell tower is next to the Cathedral and is one of the most symbolic buildings in the city.

Cathedral & Almudin

The Water Tribunal

Another World Heritage Site, according to Unesco, is the Water Tribunal, an institution of Justice, which is responsible for resolving any difficulties that may arise in the use of irrigation water between farmers who own the orchards that surrounded the Mediterranean coast. Although there is no certainty of its origins, the most important hypothesis is that it comes from Roman culture.

As you can see, if there is anything left over in this Mediterranean city, it is culture…

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1. Port Saplaya

Port Saplaya

2. The Caves of Saint Jose

Saint Joseph’s Caves

3. Sagunto Castle

Sagunto Castle

4. Hot springs Montanejos

Montanejos Hot springs

5. Peníscola Castle

Peníscola Castle

6. Albufera Natural Park

Albufera Natural Park

7. Valley of Guadalest

Valley of Guadalest

8. Jávea

Javea

9. Cala Granadella Beach

Cala Granadella Beach

10. Benitachell Beach

Benitachell Beach

11.  Peñón de Ifach (Calpe) Natural Park

Peñón de Ifach Natural Park

12. Morella

Morella

13. Chulilla Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes

Chulilla Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes

14. Aqualandia Benidorm

Aqualandia Benidorm

15. Xativa Castle

Xativa Castle

16. Buñol ruta del Agua

Buñol ruta del Agua

17. Bocairent Village

Bocairent Village

18. Cullera Castle

Cullera Castle

19. The Palace of Gandía

Ducal Palace

20. Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park

Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park

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Valencia Spain

It’s big decision to leave your home country and relocate somewhere new, even if it is sunny Valencia and it is important to research as much as possible. This expat city has a natural appeal to a wide variety of people. There are so many opportunities here for happiness and success. Job-hunters, sun seekers, Spanish learners or those just hoping to make a new start will all find great chances to make a go of it (especially the sun seekers!). Valencia was under the radar for long enough but now it has emerged as one of the most livable cities in Europe. Valencia is an exceptional expat city. To get integrated with the culture and start building a life here the first thing to do is develop your social network and sense of community. There are so many opportunities to meet and mingle not only with other expats, but with the warm and friendly Valencians as well.

Learning Spanish

Joining a Spanish school will be an integral part of any attempt to live in Valencia. Though English is spoken in the tourist center it won’t necessarily be anywhere else. A little effort will go a long way towards solving all the little communication problems that come up when moving to a new country. There will be offices to find, and dreaded forms to fill. The first thing any new immigrant to Spain needs to do is apply for is their NIE number, or Número de Identidad Extranjero, which gets you registered into the national system and allows you to further apply for National health insurance, buy a property and many other government services. Applications for a new NIE number can be obtained at the local police station. If you’re looking for an apartment to rent or buy the good news is that the market is very favorable at the moment, and expats from northern Europe will be surprised at the price reductions compared to their home countries. There are innumerable real-estate agencies that can assist in getting you place you want at the right price in the right neighborhood!

Things to do in Valencia – Meetup Group

When it comes to meeting people no better events can be found than at the many expat-bars around the city which often host social activities to help bring people together (and drink!). As well websites specializing in meetups are always organizing fun excursions and unusual fitness experiences that serve as easy ways to make connections. As well there are language exchanges throughout the city which are perfect for making friends and networking with a diverse group of people.

Spanish people are warm and friendly and very open. They love taking long social lunches with a few glasses of wine and sharing a laugh with their colleagues and loved ones. Afterwards the siesta is a necessary part of the day, as working hours tend to stretch into the evening. In fact, the whole siesta mentality is something most expats need to adapt to because, at first, it is exceedingly frustrating to discover that nearly all businesses are closed between 14:00 and 17:00 in order to accommodate the sumptuous lunches and siestas the Valencians enjoy. As time passes you’ll wonder how you lived without it!
It must be said that a big focus of the city is based around its two football teams, Valencia FC and Levante FC which both play in the world famous La Liga among the top teams in the world, Madrid and Barcelona. Valencia’s main stadium, Mestalla, is Spain’s oldest (yet still one of the largest, with 55,000 person capacity) and has seen its fair share of victories. Valencia has won La Liga 16 times in its storied history and always is ready to perform at the world-class level.

FC Valencia

Other aspects of life expats need to adapt to depend on their interests. The outdoorsy type needs to realize that the Spanish sun (which shines 300 days a year in Valencia) is not something to be trifled with. Sun-cream and hats are always a good option. The culture-vulture will revel n the knowledge that all of Valencias many museums and galleries are open free of charge every Sunday throughout the year. Those of a religious inclination will find no end to the welcoming options available to them whether they are Catholics or Buddhists!

Safety is something that Valencians take particular pride in and you can be assured that Valencia is a safe expat city free from the kinds of hazards and disturbances that are so common in larger tourist centers like Barcelona and Madrid. With just over one million inhabitants Valencia is the perfect size to have everything while still maintaining a livable size without the stress of a sprawling metropolis. Major incidences of trouble, even in the famed tourist party-zone of El Carmen in the city center, are almost unheard of, as are incidences of pickpockets. The necessity to always having to be ‘on your guard’ is delightfully absent here. One cannot put a price on the value of being at ease and secure.

In total expats moving to Valencia can expect to be arriving at an international, cosmopolitan expat city with well-developed services and a lifestyle that is among the best in the world. This beautiful city is adorned with gardens (especially the 8 kilometer long Turia del Rio, the riverbed-turned park that is the lifeblood of Valencia) and excellent school, health and transport facilities including a well-connected international airport.

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Bioparc Valencia

Bioparc Valencia is a unique 10-hectare (25-acre) zoo-park in Valencia, Spain. It is located at the north end of Valencia’s unusual Turia river-park. Opened in 2008, most of the animals moved to the new Bioparc facilities from the old city’s zoo which closed that same year.
The Bioparc has introduced millions of visitors to the innovative concept of the zoo, called zoo immersion, which consists of immersing visitors into the animal’s habitat instead of using traditional cages and enclosures. By not using the traditional railings and bars common to many zoos, a more authentic presentation is achieved that is healthier for the animals and more educational for the visitors. Using rivers, ponds, streams, rocks, plants and glass to separate visitors from the animals creates a clearer understanding of how the animals would appear in their native environment. Great care has been taken to reproduce the Eco-systems of the many species in the Bioparc, including an important collection of African plants such as the iconic baobab tree.

Bioparc Valencia

With over 4000 animals living at the Bioparc, great effort has been made to duplicate the conditions of their natural habitat. Within the large African Savannah zone, the zoo’s largest section, herds of antelopes and rhinoceroses can be seen as well as lions on rocky vantage points and the dens of hyenas and warthogs. Explore the leafy acacia forest and grassland. Observe zebras, giraffes and antelopes and look for storks walking gracefully in the wetlands. Peek into an aardvark burrow and find out about the unusual life of the underground mole rat.
Explore the Equatorial Forest zone and see a troupe of gorillas, herds of buffalo’s, tree-bound leopards and also elephants, hippopotami, crocodiles and colored fish. Here the visitor can see Kitum Cave, a replica of a Kenyan mountainside cave while elephants graze in a herd. Discover a diverse selection of species co-existing in the tropical forest. The gorillas and other primate species rule the treetops while bush pigs and buffaloes wander about the forest floor. View the wetlands ecosystem to see hippopotamuses and crocodiles sharing the water with amphibians and water birds.

Bioparc Valencia

Strongly committed to sustainability and conservation, the Bioparc recycles more than 95 percent of the water that it uses as well as generates energy to heat water using a large number of solar panels throughout the zoo. Many of the species at the zoo are included in European conservation breeding programs, and one of the primary objectives of the Bioparc include educating and increasing awareness of visitors regarding care of and respect for the environment.
Bioparc Valencia is a new concept in zoo design with its zoo-immersion philosophy. When entering the more than 100,000 m2 park, the visitor feels totally submerged in the wild habitats that have been recreated here: the Savannah, Equatorial African Jungle and Madagascar zones await.

Bioparc Valencia

The animals in the Madagascar zone are not found anywhere else in the world and the zoo’s African island-themed exhibit has its own share of endangered species, including the grey bamboo lemur and banded chameleon. Learn about Madagascar at the Interpretation Center and find out about the rapid extinction of species during the 17th century and what the now-extinct 3-metre (10-foot) elephant bird would have looked like.

Visit the Bioparc’s open-air amphitheater to see animal presentations. The theater is surrounded by acacia and baobab trees which provide a stunning backdrop for the shows. See how an osprey catches fish with its sharp talons and how jackals and vultures interact in bird and mammal shows.

Bioparc Valencia Map

Bioparc Valencia is a 10-minute drive or a 40-minute walk from central Valencia. Pay to park on-site. Bus stations are located near the zoo’s entrance. Bioparc Valencia is open seven days a week. Ticket booths are open from 10:00 AM to half an hour before Bioparc closing, however closing hours at Bioparc can change during the year, depending on the length of the day. Some animals may not be visible to the public at the end of the day because of weather or lighting conditions.

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Metro

Valencia’s metro system combines seamlessly with the tram system, accepting a single payment for 90 minutes of travel. Tickets can be purchased at the many kiosks located at all stations, in multiple languages, accepting both cash and cards. Discounts of 10 trips (abonos) can also be bought for discounted travel over 50%, for example, reducing a standard 1.50 euro fare to 72 cents per journey. If switching from Metro to Tramvia or in reverse, your ticket will still be valid. Valencia’s underground system is one of the quickest and easiest ways to get around the city. It is a comfortable way to travel in the summer as there is air conditioning in the carriages as well as classical music to soothe the soul!
There will be parts of Valencia that you cannot reach by Metro. For these occasions there is generally a tram that takes its place. If you buy one of Valencia’s combined ticket options that also cover buses and the Metro, you will also be able to cross the city quickly and comfortably.

Metro Valencia Map – Points of interest

Another option for long-term residents, and easier than an abono, is a TuIN card which provides automatic abono-priced fares for all zones at anytime. The TuiN card is a smart, single travel card for travel throughout the Metrovalencia network with additional promotional advantages as well. To acquire a Tuin Card, you must have a personalized FGV card, which can be applied for at Metrovalencia Customer Service Centers and Customer Service Kiosks.

Valencia Tourist Card

If you are only visiting for a short period of time, the Valencia Tourist Card is a discount card that is perfectly suited for tourists in Valencia. Once you have purchased the card from you are entitled to free public transport on all systems, plus discounts for museums, leisure activities, restaurants and shops in Valencia. There are Valencia cards available for a variety of times: 24 hour card: €15.00, 48 hour card, €20.00, 72 hour card: €25.00. Valencia Tourist Cards can be purchased online and delivered to your home (12,00€), your hotel (3,40€) or collected from any Tourist Information Offices.

Bus

Taking buses around Valencia offers you the opportunity to get around the city while seeing the sights as you travel. Remember that when you are taking the bus you will need to be reasonably independent – you will not necessarily know when you need to get off the bus so it can be a little more intimidating than catching the Metro.

Bus ticket price: single journey: €1.50

EMT Valencia

Valenbisi

Valencia has an extensive and well-run ride share system, with thousands of bikes available from hundreds of pickup/drop-off points throughout the city. Activation codes can be purchased at about half of all use points (card only) or online. After purchasing, you will receive your ticket number and PIN code. Keep these codes which are necessary to rent your Valenbisi each time. The first 30 minutes of travel is free. If you overpass this time, you will be debited on your credit card following this price list: 1st supplementary half-hour: 1.04 euros, for each supplementary hour: 2.08 euros Valenbisi makes an excellent tourist experience as the city is covered with separate bike lanes which allow for safe and hassle-free cycling.

Valenbisi

Valencia is flat and thus makes a perfect venue to explore by bicycle. As well the Turia River-park is an 8 kilometer artery for pedestrians and cyclists that is a must-see for any visitor, connecting the Bioparc in the north to the Ciudad de Las Artes y Ciencias in the south.

Valencia’s public transportation is one of the best in Spain.

Valencia is a must-see tourist destination with a modern and comfortable public transportation system. There are night buses servicing all major routes and both train and Metro services to the periphery, nearby towns and beyond. High-speed rail lines to Madrid and Barcelona run frequently, but book in advance the best deals. Whether you are walking, biking, hailing taxis or enjoying the use of Valencia’s fantastic public transport system, the visitor will be assured of quick and friendly traveling so that you can make the most of your time.

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1. Eat the famous paella

Paella de Marisco

Valencia is home to the world famous paella and no trip here would be complete without trying one of these oh-so-tasty and famous dishes. Made originally by the peasants of the nearby Albufera lake, paella is traditionally was a hearty mixture of whatever was available: rice, rabbit, eels, frogs legs and snails! The best paellas certainly will be a mix of rabbit and snails as well cooked to perfection in iconic wide paella pans. The best paellas are cooked over a smoldering fire and simmered gently until the rice in contact with the pan becomes sweet and crispy. With so many types of paella to choose from, the gourmet in you is going to be very happy!

2. Visit the Almoina

Centre de l’Almoina de València

Next to the Plaza de la Virgin in the center of Valencia is the historic heart of the city. In the 1970’s archeologists unearthed the original Roman buildings that comprised the most important buildings of the time, including the original Roman baths as well as the original roman roads still in use today. The entire excavation, located 5 meters underground was covered and turned into Valencia’s most important historical museum which showcases not only the Roman history of the city, but also the Visigoth and Muslim history as well. This extraordinary museum is open 7 days a week (free on Sundays) as is a fascinating experience for the visitor to get a first-hand look at Valencia’s rich past.

3. Shopping in Mercado Central

Mercado Central

Opened in 1917, this glorious covered market is decorated in the Art Deco style of the times and filled to the brim with fresh local delicacies such as Spanish cured ham, olives as well as abundant produce and seafood to make the mouth water. This bustling market serves as the main market for the whole of the historic center and features fresh seafood and lovely enticing baked treats. Visitors will delight in the colors and smells of the Mercado Central, which also serves as a fantastic opportunity for photographers to capture some authentic Valencian life. There are opportunities to sample many of the wares (such as dried cod or sweet turrón, a kind of Spanish fudge). As well there are artisan wines to be bought as well as the chance to sip a coffee (or a sangria) in many of the outdoor cafes that adjoin it. You trip to the Mercado Central will not be forgotten!

4. Drink Horchata

Horchata with fartons

Nothing is more Valencian then enjoying the unusual and unique taste of horchata, a drink made from the chufa or groundnut (sometimes also called a tiger-nut!). This refreshing milk-like beverage is rich in magnesium and served cold. For more than 100 years Valencia has build a great many horchaterias where the best examples of this tasty beverage can be found. Even visiting Kings and Queens have tried horchata. Valencian horchata is different than Mexican horchata (which is made from rice). You should make a visit to Plaza de la Virgin where several Horchaterias are serving this traditional drink.

5. Sip coffee in Plaza de la Virgin

Plaza de la Virgen

Since the Romans founded the city of Valencia in 138 BC people have been relaxing in the Plaza de la Virgin. Originally the Roman forum acted as the central meeting place in the city, the Plaza has evolved but never ceased being the main focus of Valencian social life. After the Romans it was the Visigoths who built a great church beside it, but soon after the Moors from North Africa conquered and built a huge mosque there. After the reconquista of 1308 AD the plaza transformed into its latest incarnation beside the massive catholic cathedral that was built. In the 1850’s a splendid fountain was added which further enticed people to enjoy the square.
In the present day the Plaza de la Virgin is a colorful center of activity. It is lined with cafes and restaurants for visitors to recline and enjoy a coffee in the sun while sitting with over 2000 years of history!

6. Climb the Miguelete Tower

Torre del Miguelete

For only two euros climb the 207 steps of Valencia’s famed bell-tower, Miguelete (built in 1396). Taking in this beautiful city the view from the top of the 52 meter tall tower is a must-see. Just make sure you cover your ears on the hour! It’s a bell-tower after all and the bells of Miguelete have been ringing for over 600 years!

7. Ride bikes in the Turia Park

Turia Gardens by Bike

The Turia del Rio is a unique park in the world that was created through the transformation of the old Turia riverbed after it was diverted upstream in 1958. After continued flooding, the city decided to turn the old riverbed into a park for the benefit of the people and the change has been a huge success. What exists now is 8 kilometers of multi-use parkland which serves as a lively and diverse facility for citizens and visitors alike. It contains running trails, football pitches, cafes, playgrounds, fountains, bike paths as well as seasonal festivals. Along the Turia Park is the famous Ciudad de Artes and Sciencias, the Oceanographic and the Bioparc as well as numerous other smaller museums and galleries. The whole park is is adorned with exotic trees and flowering shrubbery as well as reflecting pools and historic bridges. One never knows what wonders will be seen there. Bike rental is available throughout the city, and no better activity could be found than spending a few hours exploring in El Rio!

8. Watch the dolphin show at the Oceanographic

Fun Dolphin Show At The Oceanografic

Europe’s largest aquarium awaits with a huge dolphinarium, glass tunnels, frolicking walrus’s and schools of sharks! Opened in 2003, L’oceanographic has been enthralling visitors with its vast tanks filled with exotic fish and sea-mammals. There is even a famous submarine restaurant with an aquarium view of one of the largest tanks. This hugely popular attraction is bound to be a highlight of your trip to Valencia.

9. See a Valencia FC football game

FC Valencia

Valencia FC is one of the most storied and entertaining clubs in the world. Having won La Liga several times as well as numerous other cups, Valencians love their football club and show their passion every game in their famous stadium Mestalla, the oldest in Spain (capacity 55,000). The mood inside and around the stadium is boisterous but very welcoming and friendly. What is not to be missed is the pregame fiesta that occurs 2 hours before the game in front of the stadium to cheer the arrival of the home team and jeer at the visiting squad. No alcohol is permitted inside during the games so experts know to have a few frosty ones on the street and discuss the team’s chances while getting a little buzz. Tickets for matches can often be bought for as little as 5 euros!

10. Visit La Lonja de la Seda

Lonja de la Seda

Valencia is blessed with not one but two UNESCO heritage designations, the first is Las Fallas, the huge festival which occurs every March, but the other is La Lonja de la Seda, the medieval silk market constructed during Valencia’s golden age in the 1500s. La Lonja de la Seda earned its reputation as being the world’s finest example of secular Gothic architecture, meaning although it was built during Europe’s very Christian influenced medieval times, it isn’t a Christian building. The silk market’s incredible twisted columns supporting its gabled roof is a wonder of construction. The building has stood at the center of Valencian commerce for more 500 years and is a must-see for any visit to Valencia. Of special interest are the erotic and grotesque carvings hidden around the beautiful central hall.

11. Party in El Carmen

El Carmen neighborhood

The ancient city of Valencia has been partying for more than 2000 years, and the focus of that party has been the neighborhood of El Carmen since the Moorish conquerors first lay down the original plans for that part of the city over a millennia ago. El Carmen comes alive at night with innumerable bars, dance-clubs, specialty restaurants and vintage shopping perfect to entertain and delight. The winding streets and festive atmosphere transport you away from your everyday life. Although it can be very much an international party zone, it is also very safe and welcoming, with criminal incidences being almost unheard of. El Carmen is waiting every weekend for a fiesta you’ll love!

12. Get some tan on the beach

Malvarrosa Beach

You’ve come all this way from freezing cold northern Europe and what you really want is some sun! Valencia enjoys over 300 days of sunshine every year and its 10 km long beach beckons with white sand and clear Mediterranean waters. Easily accessible by public transport, Valencia’s beaches are always a beautiful and popular spot to relax or play an impromptu game of beach volleyball. In the summer months there are always sunbathers enjoying a mojito on the beach from one of the many chiringuitos (beach bars). Along the boardwalk are a great selection of restaurants to choose from. The beach awaits!

13. Visit the Botanical Gardens

Valencia Botanical Gardens

Incredibly, Valencia’s Botanical Gardens were begin as a small holding which taught basic agriculture in 1567 and achieved its present size in 1802. The gardens house a phenomenal array of succulent plants, exotic trees, cactus and flowering shrubs. There are numerous tropical greenhouses onsite which are sure to delight the visitor. Anytime of the year there is always something which will surprise and educate. To walk among-st the well-manicured gardens is to achieve a tranquility and pleasure hard to find in the hustle and bustle of this busy world.

14. Visit the museum of Archeology and Prehistory

The museum of Archeology and Prehistory

Tucked away on a side-street in the neighborhood of El Carmen is the giant Museum of Archeology and Prehistory which showcases humanities rise in the world from Paleolithic times to the present. It’s fascinating galleries are filled with artifacts dating over 30,000 years ago and chronicles the many epochs of history which have shaped the Valencian basin (and by reflection, the world!). The museum captures the rise of technology and the influences of the various cultures which have ruled throughout the millennia, from the Greek, Roman, Arab and Visigoth periods right up to the present day. The variety and creativity of the many displays will make your trip worthwhile. Grab a coffee in the beautiful tropical courtyard and take in the history!

15. See the Elephants at the Bioparc

Bioparc

One of the highlights of Valencia is our innovative Bioparc that recreates the habitats of the different animals we have here. See our elephants, tigers, lions and gorillas as well as monkeys and other exotic creatures. Visiting the Bioparc is a guaranteed great day for young and old alike. It is located at the north end of the Turia river-park and can easily be combined with a bike-ride or walk through the river. Beautiful Valencia awaits!

16. Visiting the City of Arts and Sciences

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

In 1996 the city of Valencia completed their awe-inspiring City of Arts and Sciences which was meant to put Valencia on the architectural world map. It features futuristic buildings with sweeping organic designs and vast reflecting pools to truly transport the visitor into a other world. The ‘Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias’ was featured in the science-fiction movie Tomorrow-land. Visitors can enjoy the Science Museum, and Omnimax 3D cinema, Opera House, indoor/outdoor nightclub and the Oceanographic, Europe’s largest aquarium. Located in the Turia river-park, the complex is perfect to visit by bicycle where all the views and monuments can be explored and photographed! The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the jewels of Valencia and was voted one of the top 10 things to see in all of Spain. A visit here is not to be missed.

17. Explore the Cultural Center of El Carmen

A Walk Through El Carmen

Housed in an impressive 13th century cloister the Cultural center of El Carmen is a hidden gem that will make a lasting memory. The magnificent courtyards and ancient galleries are filled with constantly rotating artworks and historical displays. There are always surprises waiting to be discovered here. Located in the center of the old neighborhood of El Carmen, just to take in the winding streets and bohemian feeling is to be transported through time.

18. Take a Segway tour of the old center

Segway tours

Valencia has one of the largest medieval centers in the world. Navigating and exploring the dizzying and atmospheric streets can be very confusing for the visitor, but this challenge is made much easier with a Segway tour! Take the hassle out of walking and climb aboard your very own Segway to experience the best of the historic heart of the city. This is the best way to explore the many gorgeous squares and hidden churches that are waiting to be discovered. Segway tour guides know the best routes and provide the background info to bring the streets to life. Whether you are with a group or flying solo a Segway tour is a surefire way to make your trip to Valencia something to remember!

19. Learn to dance Flamenco

Flamenco Performance in Valencia

Feel the passion of the oh-so-Spanish dance at your very own private dance class. One of the must-do activities in Valencia is to throw yourself into the spirit of Flamenco and learn the secrets of this exotic dance style. Dance academies with classes geared towards tourists are common here and it’s assured even the most uncoordinated will be able to pick up a few moves and tricks. Be transformed by the rich Flamenco guitar music and maybe even clack some castinetes for that authentic experience! Take some pictures of the event. Your Instagram account will never be the same.

20. Take a boat ride in the Albufera ( one of the best things to do in Valencia )

Albufera de Valencia

Situated just 5 km outside Valencia is the Albufera, an ancient lake that is reputedly where the paella first originated. Located just next to the Mediterranean, this area features a variety of wildlife that can best be enjoyed by taking a little boat ride on a traditional ‘barco’ to see nature and enjoy a tremendous sunset. Afterwards cap the day off with a paella as it was meant to be enjoyed, served with locally caught eels! The Valencians have been plying the waters of the Albufera for more than 2000 years, and now it’s your turn.

Make your trip to Valencia special. See you soon!

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Las Fallas Festival

Started over a century ago a curious tradition formed around the annual spring cleaning when old furniture would often be put on the street as rubbish and then lit on fire by locals just for kicks. Somehow each neighborhood started making a party of the whole thing, but it took a curious twist. People started to spend their time making sculptures of the used furniture which personified the political foibles of the day and then afterwards lightheartedly burned them together on the third Sunday in March. Somehow this all became a bit competitive too. Who would have the biggest and best Falla that year?

Falla

This tradition of renewal and lighthearted critique of the powers that be took hold and began to develop. The size of the sculptures (the Fallas) and their complexity and beauty increased (actually you can see some of the original Fallas in the Museum of the Fallas here in Valencia, Spain) and other aspects of the festival also grew from it. The Catholic Church got in on the action with an enormous Madonna and child figure in the center of the city completely woven with flowers standing before an ocean of flower offerings from each district of the province (this gets built usually on the Thursday before the final Sunday). Marching bands wearing traditional costumes abound during Las Fallas and people wear extraordinarily complex historical attire that cost thousands of euros each.

Falla

In the center of the city, each day at 14:00 during the Fallas in the main city square, the Plaza de Ayuntamiento, is the mascletá, the largest ignition of firecrackers you will ever hear. Thousands gather daily for this heart-pounding action when a different district each day takes turns to compete with their own 5-minute symphonic version of exploding art. Make sure you wear earplugs for this one! The mascletá can be heard for miles around. In addition, during the Fallas, there is a generally constant explosion of smaller fireworks and firecrackers to celebrate the coming of spring. It is very common to see little children with lit wicks playfully tossing firecrackers around the streets late into the night with the adults!

Mascleta – Las Fallas Festival

Street parties abound with open air bars and concerts around each neighborhood and their Falla. It would take many days (and many mojitos!) to make your way around to see all of them. One district that goes all out is Ruzaffa which covers entire streets in scaffolding of electronic lights and offers up a tremendous light and sound show to the delight of the throngs of people drinking and making merry. On the streets hundreds of bunuelos and churros stands spring up as everyone enjoys the sweet and filling donuts-like pastry usually accompanied by liquid chocolate for dipping.

Falleras & Falleros – Las Fallas Festival

On the Saturday before the final Sunday (when all the Fallas are burned except that year’s winner) is the crowning of the Fallera, the Queen of the Fallas, who among all the contenders epitomizes the spirit of the fiesta. During that time a veritable ocean of marching bands descend on the city-center (which becomes pedestrianized as the police block off all traffic) and thousands of participants and onlookers revel and enjoy the spectacle.
From the opening Crida ceremony, when a techno-projection onto the historic Torre de Serranos enthralls tens of thousands, to the final Crema, the ritual burning at the end of the Fallas, tourists and locals enjoy a warmth and sense of joyful abandon not found anywhere else. It is no wonder that the Fallas were named a UNESCO heritage event of world interest in 2016.

Calle Sueca Lights – Las Fallas Festival

It seems the glory of Las Fallas are finally getting the attention and adoration it deserves for such an extensive and culturally profound festival. This short article has only begun to delve into the richness and influence the Fallas has on Valencian culture, an event that people here prepare for throughout the year. Within each neighborhood exists their own Fallero, or Fallas organization which acts as a local social club, dance hall, meeting place and headquarters for each area’s Fallas presentations. Artists gather to plan the construction of these often towering sculptures and it is in-front of each of these places that the Fallas are usually placed.

Crema Night – Las Fallas Festival

The final Crema is an event of stupendous energy when half-a-million people crowd into the Plaza de Ayunamiento to watch the Fallas being brought into the square and lit on fire. Always there is an exceptionally large Falla already there that has served as a beacon and representative of that year’s Fallas festival. That one, often intertwined with thousands of LED lights and lit up by projected images, is also burned late that night. The feeling of being in the crowd during this event is joyous yet also safe and welcoming. To experience the Crema on the final night of Las Fallas is to have witnessed one of the great artistic and social events humanity has ever manifested.

Crema Night – Las Fallas Festival

Valencia welcomes you to experience Las Fallas and share in the enjoyment of the renewed season of spring.

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Paris may have a reputation for stylish residents, but I feel that Spain in general has been overlooked somewhat. So often I’ll be going about my daily business and catch myself staring at someone because of a particular item of clothing, or a really well-assembled outfit. I’m scared it might look rude, so I try to stop, but people here just seem to dress so well, that it is unavoidably eye-catching. A personal favorite of mine is boots, and now that the weather is turning colder, I am seeing more and more gorgeous pairs on the feet of my fellow commuters on the tram in the mornings. Fortunately it is not so obvious if I am looking down, so I get to admire the shoes without fear of looking weird.

So, having extolled the virtues of the community’s sense of style, I am pleased to report that there are any number of shops where you can purchase outfits for very reasonable prices. You will find all of the classic stores on the main shopping high streets in the centre, or in the shopping centers (Centros Comerciales) spread around Valencia without any difficulty. There will also be some that you might not have come across, Bershka is a shop I have only seen twice in the UK, both stores in London, and much more expensive than here. Stradivarius is a similar clothing shop which I have never seen in the UK. When in Spain, Zara has to be mentioned, as it is generally cheaper here, whereas in the UK I tend to think of it as more geared towards professionals looking for work outfits, and therefore more expensive. I may be a fussy customer, but in the UK in recent years, I have found myself walking into shops and thinking how ridiculous the items on sale look. Here, it is refreshing (if not worrying for my bank balance) to see so many clothes that appeal to me.

Calle Colon

If clothes are not your thing, fear not. Now it’s time to talk about food. Food is one of my ultimate passions, and Valencia does not disappoint when it comes to finding culinary delights. Different areas have their own central markets where you can buy fresh produce as well as baked goods, store cupboard ingredients and much more. The Mercado Central in the old city is open until 14:00 weekdays and Saturdays, and I would recommend going even if it’s just to look at the architecture and experience the atmosphere. There is a lot more here that caters to different tastes; variety is everywhere. I also found that the stall holders here are some of the nicest around, which really helps if you’re a foreign student like me, slightly nervous about asking for things. The website is also pretty helpful if you are looking for something specific and other information.

I don’t have enough words to go on about the other shopping opportunities that are available, but I hope I have managed to scratch the surface, because, for shopping, Valencia is definitely up there with some better-known cities, and at much better prices.

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