A bucket list destination still scattered with the orange trees that made its name famous, Valencia is the proud home of the iconic paella dish and a place filled with hidden gems and magnificent architecture.
As Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia can easily rival its more famous counterparts, Barcelona and Madrid, thanks to its stunning architectural beauty, love for celebrations (and siestas!), deep-rooted traditions, and perfect mix of city life and beachside relaxation.
Whether you’re a die-hard party lover or an architecture enthusiast, Valencia has something special that will make you want to return for more.
Still Need Some Convincing? We’ve Compiled A List Of 5 Reasons Why Valencia Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List!
1. VALENCIA IS A ‘FOODIES’ PARADISE!
Food is an integral part of the Spanish culture with the typical style of food being traditional Tapas. This is no different in the city. Food is a strong part of the Valencian culture and part of this date back to many, many years ago when the Valencian Paella was invented, eventually being transformed into many different versions (seafood, vegetarian etc.) and becoming a famous Spanish dish served across the globe. Traditional Valencian Paella is cooked using rabbit, chicken, snails & beans and served in a large Paella pan straight to your table.
Tapas are a staple in the city, and the best way to experience them is at the Central Market. This vibrant Spanish market offers traditional delights like Jamon Iberico, fresh seafood, and Spanish tortilla. Sample local food, wine, and even olive oils, or order tapas like a true Spaniard. The market is bustling daily, so if you’re lucky, you might even find a quiet corner to enjoy some online casino classic slots while savoring the flavors of Spain!
Have we made you hungry yet? Why not let a local guide you through the food scene by taking one of our Tapas Tours !?
2. SANTIAGO CALATRAVA’S CITY OF SCIENCES AND ARTS An incredible feat in Modern Architecture, the City of Sciences and Arts complex is made up of an IMAX Cinema, Science Museum, an open air Aquarium, a stunning Opera House, a towering bridge over the Turia Park riverbed and a concert space. The complex was designed by the famous Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava and is considered one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain.
The style of architecture takes on such a futuristic look that it was even featured as a key location when filming the science-fiction themed Tomorrowland movie, starring George Clooney who described the complex as “amazing”.
To truly appreciate this complex and its magnificent buildings, take one of our free guided New City Walking Tours and our guides will let you in on their knowledge behind the buildings unique designs. You will be surprised to learn just what inspired these incredible works of art!
3. TURIA PARK (JARDINES DEL TURIA) Once upon a time a river ran through the city of Valencia until the Great Flood in 1957 struck and the government made the decision to re-route the river, creating the incredible 7km recreation park that snakes through the city today. Perfect for jogging, cycling, yoga and relaxing, the park is designed to offer something new and diverse for everyone to enjoy. It is filled with children’s playgrounds (kids must visit Gulliver Park along the riverbed!), lush gardens, artwork, sporting facilities, walking and cycling tracks.
The park is one of the most visited spots in the city, beginning at the Bio Park (a safari-like zoo) and ending at the City of Sciences and Arts. You will also have the chance to relax during a visit to the riverbed at the end of our free walking tours.
4. FIESTAS! Spaniards love to party! If there is an excuse for a party, Valencian’s will find it and put it to good use. During the Summer months (well, most months of the year, actually), the city is alive with marching bands, parades and nightlife (day drinking is a pretty big thing, too…). Whether it be Valencia’s biggest annual festival, Las Fallas, attracting over 2 million visitors to the city from March 15th – 19th each year for a 5 day party, throwing tomatoes, or just a public holiday nobody has ever heard of, Valencia is always up for a party (and an excuse to have the day off work).
We love to party too, so join one of our guided Party Tours to get in on the nightlife scene in Valencia!
5. QUIRKY HISTORY (AND THE ARCHITECTURE TO MATCH)
It’s no secret the Spanish history is often quirky, strange and sometimes just downright odd. One visit to Valencia and you will see this history meshed with an equally unique style of architecture. Buildings in Valencia are inspired by a diverse range of architectural styles ranging all the way from Romanesque to Modernism.
Studying the details on each building will uncover hidden gems, obvious (but hidden) crude humour stemming back to days of oppression, and stunningly brilliant artwork. Valencia’s unique architecture style’s are what makes the city such a pleasure to wander.
Join our old city walking tour and take a wander around the city streets, visit stunning historic buildings and learn the quirky details of Valencian history.
There are many, many more reasons why Valencia should be included in your bucket list, including its beautiful beach scene (yes, Valencia is a city with a beach!), but you’ll discover that once you experience the magical vibes of the city’s unique lifestyle.
