If you are looking for a city that combines modern design, historical heritage, and gastronomic delights, Valencia is the perfect destination for you. Valencia is a stunning city on the Spanish Mediterranean coast, known for its innovative buildings, cultural attractions, and tasty food. In this guide, we will help you discover the highlights of Valencia, from its famous sights to its secret spots.
One of the most impressive features of Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of futuristic buildings that house a museum, an aquarium, a planetarium, an opera house, and a park. This is a must-see for anyone interested in science, art, and architecture, as well as for families with children who will love the interactive exhibits and the marine life. You can dedicate a whole day to visiting the different attractions, or just marvel at the amazing views of the complex from the outside.
Another attraction of Valencia is the old town, where you can see many buildings, museums, and churches that show the city’s diverse history. Some of the most notable places are the Cathedral, the Silk Exchange, the Central Market, and the Torres de Serranos. You can also stroll around the small streets and squares, where you will discover many stores, cafes, and bars.
If you want to soak up the Mediterranean sun and sea, Valencia offers several beaches to pick from, both in the city and close by. The most famous ones are Malvarrosa and Las Arenas, which are conveniently reachable by public transport and have many amenities and services. If you prefer a more natural and quiet setting, you can head to El Saler or Pinedo, which are part of the Albufera Natural Park, a wetland area with a large lake and diverse wildlife.
One of the best ways to explore Valencia is by bike, as the city is flat and has many bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike from one of the many companies in the city, or use the public bike service Valenbisi. One of the most enjoyable routes is along the Turia Gardens, a green park that runs along the former riverbed of the Turia River, which was diverted after a flood in 1957. You can also cycle to the beach, the City of Arts and Sciences, or the Albufera Natural Park.
No journey to Valencia would be complete without sampling some of the local dishes, especially the famous paella, which originated in this region. Paella is a rice dish cooked with meat, seafood, or vegetables, and seasoned with saffron and other spices. The traditional Valencian paella is made with chicken, rabbit, and green beans, and is usually eaten on Sundays or special occasions. Other typical dishes include fideu, a similar dish made with noodles instead of rice, all i pebre, a stew of eel and potatoes, and esgarraet, a salad of roasted peppers and salted cod.
For dessert, you can try horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and fartons, sweet pastries that are dipped in the horchata. You can also enjoy oranges, which are grown in the region and are famous for their sweetness and juiciness.