A city of contrasts, Valencia offers a unique blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, art and science. Valencia is a gorgeous city on the coast of Spain, renowned for its cutting-edge structures, artistic events, and culinary specialties. 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 devote a whole day to seeing the different attractions, or just gaze at the wonderful 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 walk around the tiny streets and squares, where you will encounter many shops, cafes, and bars.
If you want to bask in the Mediterranean sun and sea, Valencia has several beaches to select from, both inside the city and nearby. The most well-known ones are Malvarrosa and Las Arenas, which are readily accessible by public transport and have many facilities and services. If you prefer a more natural and calm setting, you can visit 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 trip to Valencia would be complete without tasting 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.