Many cities claim to have it all, but Valencia truly does. The third largest city in Spain boasts a historic old town, a long stretch of beach as well as the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex. Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and each March the city celebrates the end of winter with Las Fallas festival, where giant paper mache caricatures depicting social issues are set on fire. In 2024, Valencia was named the European Green Capital for its sustainability strategy, such as making Plaza de la Reina climate-neutral by 2030.
The best way to explore this city is on foot, and start at Turia Gardens. This former riverbed has been transformed into a park that cuts through the city like a ribbon. Don’t miss Gulliver Park, home to a 70-meter-long playpark depicting Gulliver tied down by the Lilliputians. The young and young at heart can climb up him and slide down. From there, it’s a short stroll to the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, the City of Arts and Sciences. This other-worldly-looking complex was designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava, and its buildings resemble insects with exoskeletons. The area is home to an opera house, science museum, cinema and an aquarium.
Images courtesy Christina Valhouli.
Explore the maze of streets in the old quarter and let yourself get lost. Keep an eye out for Valencia’s famous street art, especially in the El Carmen area. One of the most loved is a mural of an opera singer standing in a paella pan.
Valencia has more than 30 museums, covering ceramics to fine arts. The newest one is the Hortensia Herrero Art Center, showcasing the private collection of a Spanish billionaire in a 17th-century palace. Artists showcased here include Anish Kapoor, Joan Miró and Alexander Calder.
When hunger strikes, head to Mercato Central (Central Market), one of Europe’s largest food markets. Indulge in paper cones filled with jamon and cheese, Syrian pastries such as baklava, as well as horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts. As the sun dips, do as Valencians do and enjoy a glass of vermouth. Tagomago is located on Plaza del Patriarca, which is scented with orange blossoms in the spring. The menu showcases Spanish classics with an Asian twist. Sampling Valencia’s star dish, paella, is a must. Ernest Hemingway has dined at the 126-year-old La Pepica, which is located right on the beach.
When it comes to shopping, wicker baskets, ceramics and orange blossoms all play a key part in Valencian culture. Porcelanosa’s international headquarters are here, but for decorative ceramics, head to Ana Illueca Ceramics and María de Andrés. Keep an eye out for locally produced Vila Hermanos candles and perfumes. Its Orange Blossom collection is inspired by the trees of Valencia. Home by Auk embodies a Spanish minimalist approach to interior design, with plenty of wicker.
Old Town’s Hotel Helen Berger is everything you want in a hotel. It’s small, sexy and stylish, as well as affordable. Guest rooms are minimalist, and the ground floor is home to a small bar and restaurant serving Mediterranean food.
Images courtesy Visit Valencia.
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