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I reached out to Totally Spain for help planning a trip to northern Portugal for five retired American women, all experienced travelers. The accommodations and itinerary Totally Spain arranged for us were top-notch. Their attention to detail and the ...

M. Maguire, Sarasota FL USA
2023-10-12

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Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, is truly enjoying its moment in the sun. Conde Nast Traveller writes that Valencia “has experienced a fresh sense of glamour and modernity in recent years.” The obvious place to explore that glamour is at the wild and wonderful City of Arts and Sciences, designed by home-grown starchitect Santiago Calatrava, which is every photographer’s and sci-fi fan’s dream.

If you’re a fan of markets, like we are, you have two treats in store for you in Valencia. The Telegraph recommends the extravagant Art Nouveau building that is the Central Market, suggesting that visitors “gaze up at the tiled dome, adorned with painted oranges, then look down at the pyramids of the real thing at ground level and have a freshly squeezed juice at the bar outside the market. Full of flavor and zing, it's like Valencia in a glass.” We also like the Modernista-styled Colon Market (Colon refers to the navigator Columbus). It’s a pleasant place to have a drink and on Sunday mornings at midday, you can catch a piano recital.

Foodies will want to try horchata, an almond-like drink made from a root called the tiger nut. And, of course, Valencia’s star dish, paella. For a Michelin-style meal in Valencia city, Quique Dacosta is the big name in this part of the world. He has three eateries in downtown Valencia: El Poblet, Mercatbar, and Vuelve Carolina.

Culture vultures will want to visit IVAM, the museum that showcases 20th-century art movements including Pop Art and Abstract. Valencia city center itself is a wonderful combination of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance influences, and nowhere is that more evident than at the city’s cathedral. The staggeringly beautiful 15th-century Gothic Silk Exchange, which is still used for trading today, is another must-see.

We also recommend a walk to the Turia Gardens. The 12-sectioned space was created when the river was diverted away from the city center following catastrophic flooding in 1957. Make your way to the Bioparc, a savannah-like reserve featuring lions, giraffes, gorillas, and elephants. Here you’ll also find the Botanic Gardens, the House Museum of local painter José Benlliure, and one of our favorite sections – Gulliver Park – an excellent free attraction and great place to see Valencian families at play.

Finally, Valencia wouldn’t be Valencia without Las Fallas, where giant figures made from paper, wax, wood, and Styrofoam are burned ceremoniously. A year’s work of labor goes up in smoke every year from March 15-19. Spain truly is different!

Valencia's vibrant festivals extend beyond Las Fallas. The La Tomatina festival in nearby Buñol, held every August, sees participants hurling tomatoes at each other in a joyous and messy celebration. The Feria de Julio (July Fair) is another highlight, featuring concerts, parades, and fireworks that light up the summer nights.

The city’s beaches are another draw. Malvarrosa Beach, with its golden sands and calm waters, is perfect for a day of relaxation. The nearby Albufera Natural Park offers a tranquil escape with its freshwater lagoon, rice paddies, and diverse birdlife. Boat trips on the lagoon provide a serene way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

For those interested in history, the Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart are impressive medieval gates that once formed part of the city’s defensive walls. The Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and historical significance.

Valencia’s nightlife is lively and diverse, with something to suit every taste. The El Carmen district is the heart of the city’s nightlife, offering a mix of traditional bars, trendy clubs, and live music venues. The Ruzafa neighborhood is also popular, known for its bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of bars and restaurants.

Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Valencia. The city’s markets, such as the Mercado Central and Mercado de Colon, offer a wide range of local produce and artisanal goods. The city center is home to numerous boutiques and shops, offering everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs.

Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in its culinary delights, or enjoying its vibrant festivals, Valencia offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Let us plan your visit to this enchanting city and discover its many treasures.