Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is a city that is drenched in sunshine and offers an unparalleled variety of interesting adventures. Its character-filled streets have been molded by builders who thought large over the course of more than two thousand years, beginning with the Romans who first arrived here in 138 BCE and continuing on to modern architects who have used the city as a canvas for their creativity.
An astounding variety of sights and attractions has been produced as a consequence.
Ancient temples and spaceship-like constructions are only two examples of the stunning structures that can be seen around every corner. Those who are interested in culture come here because there is a significant arts scene, and those who are interested in cuisine may indulge in local specialties, such as a classic paella or cheesecake that is wonderfully runny at a restaurant that has a Michelin star at the main market.
This is our guide to the greatest things to do in Valencia, which includes everything from fascinating architecture to galleries that are not well known.
Take in the strange architecture with awe.
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, Valencia’s most picturesque feature, is an extremely important destination for each tourist that comes to the city. Santiago Calatrava, a world-famous architect who was born in the area, is primarily responsible for the construction of the complex, which spans over 1.5 kilometers (one mile) of the former Turia riverbed. It is awe-inspiring stuff, and it is pleasingly family-oriented, despite the fact that the project has been the subject of its fair share of controversy owing to price overruns and design concerns. Seeking a place to stop for lunch? The Contrapunto Les Arts, which is located underneath the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, has a terrace that serves as an enticing attraction for visitors. Make yourself comfortable on a wicker couch and take in the breathtaking scenery of the blue ponds.
Like the way Calatrava dresses?
Discover other of his less well-known structures located across the city, such as the Alameda metro station (Estación de Alameda) that was constructed in 1995. After being finished three years prior to the completion of Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, the distinctive flowing curves and sparkling trencadís tiles make it abundantly evident that it is the work of the master.
The biggest urban park in Spain for cyclists
One of the primary reasons why Valencia has such a lush and open atmosphere is because of the magnificent Jardines del Turia, which is a ribbon of beautiful parkland that spans from the city to the sea and is 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) in length. Taking a bike ride is the most enjoyable way to experience it, and Happy Tourist Center has stylish B’Twin models.
Once you have entered the park from any location inside the city center, go in a southeasterly direction and in the direction of the ocean. La más Bonita is a bohemian café with a laid-back patio on the seashore that can be found by pedaling past the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and continuing on to Playa de la Patacona.
Make your way to the bell tower of the church
The beautiful Italianate frescoes and the agate cup from the Roman period, which is said to be the Holy Grail, are the two main attractions that draw visitors to the Catedral de Valencia. On the other hand, there is an additional method to enjoy this masterpiece from the 13th century, and that is by ascending the 207 steps of its bell tower.
If you stand on your tiptoes, you can get a glimpse of the ocean, which is made possible by the tightly coiled staircase that leads to a terrace with breathtaking views. When the hour strikes, the 7.5-ton bell known as El Miguelete, which towers above, rings. You may be able to assume that it is really loud, and unless you want a good scare, you should definitely avoid going there unless you choose to. Please arrive early in order to avoid the lines, and have cash in order to get entry to the tower, which costs €2.50.
There is a possibility that you may see a few pregnant women loitering about in the nave of the church. These individuals are not just going about their regular routines; rather, they have come to see the Virgen del Coro, which is situated directly behind the altar. It would seem that if you go around the church nine times, she would bestow upon you the blessing of a healthy delivery.
Albufera Natural Park
Only ten kilometers away from the city. In its purest form, nature, enchanted sunsets, boat cruises, and the opportunity to detach in a way that is difficult to find anywhere else. For those who are acquainted with L’Albufera Natural Park, the park is characterized as an urban paradise that is bordered by paddy fields and woodlands. If you are interested in learning about the roots of Valencian cuisine, you will most certainly want to pay a visit to this location.
So, what could be a more compelling incentive to visit than the fact that paella was first created in this same location?
Visit the village of El Palmar and sample some of the classic foods that they have to offer.Try some all-i-pebre, which is a stew made with eel that is flavored with garlic and pepper, as well as striped mullet that has been marinated.You will get a fresh perspective on food by gaining an appreciation for it while also gaining knowledge about its history.
Take a stroll in the natural reserve by following one of the six trails that are well marked with signs. As you explore the waterfowl and plants, you will have the opportunity to live as a genuine local fisherman on Spain’s biggest lagoon region. You do not hesitate to come back.
Almuerzo will make you fall in love.
The word “almuerzo” translates to “lunch” in Spanish, yet in Valencia, it refers to something else entirely. Additionally referred to as esmorzaret in the Valenciano language, almuerzo is a substantial second breakfast that is had at around eleven in the morning. The centerpiece of the meal is a massive sandwich known as a bocadillo, which is accompanied by peanuts, olives, and a beer. However, wine and carbonated water are also common accompaniments. A cremaet, which is a coffee with flambéed rum, lemon, and cinnamon, is served as the dish’s last course.
In the past, this cherished lunch had the purpose of providing workers with the food they needed to get through a long day of work; now, it is a well-liked local tradition. Everyone, regardless of age, gender, or career, rolls up their sleeves for a messy bocadillo. This is one of the things that makes it so beautiful: it brings more people together. Would you want to participate? You may either go to La Pergola and order the superbonbón, or you can head to Nuevo Oslo in western Valencia, where the proprietor Raúl supports his claim of being the “king of almuerzo” by distributing plastic crowns around the establishment.
Cathedral, Miguelete & Holy Grail
The Cathedral of Valencia is a Gothic-style edifice, although it contains various aspects from many times, ranging from Romanesque to Baroque. It was built on top of an old Roman temple that was subsequently converted into a mosque. The construction of the existing structure started in the thirteenth century. In the vicinity of the crossing, the Latin cross, the ambulatory, and the lantern all stand tall. The Chapter house, which is today known as the Chapel of the Holy Chalice, was constructed in the 15th century. Additionally, the lantern tower, the Miguelete entrance, and the entrance of the Apostles were all constructed during this time period. The Door of the Irons, which is designed in the Baroque style, as well as the doors of the Palau or the Almoina, which are Romanesque in style, are also attracting a lot of attention.
The Assumption of Santa Maria has been the subject of the Cathedral’s dedication ever since the reign of Jaume I. The Cathedral displays both art and history. The Holy Chalice is one of the important items that are protected by the walls and doors of this structure.
Uncover the secret art galleries that Russafa has to offer
In spite of the fact that the artistic area of Russafa has had a surge in popularity over the last few years, there are still lesser-known nooks to discover. If you are able to locate its secret galleries, you will be able to witness the creative energy that permeates the region. Start your journey with Sporting Club Russafa, a grassroots arts community that is located inside a massive old warehouse. Here, artists operate in open studios and engage in conversation with guests. In addition, the little Gabinete de Dibujos is so rarely indicated that there is a sense of excitement associated with discovering it. To enter a gallery that is about the size of a parking spot, you must ring the doorbell. The shows in this gallery are only tangentially related to the concept of sketching.
Buñolería El Contraste is a time-warp pub located about three minutes away from Sporting Club Russafa. It is known for offering the most delicious buñuelos, which are a deep-fried dessert made from pumpkins, in the whole city. They are crafted by hand by a buñolero of the fourth generation named Mariano, who claims that they are an excellent choice for breakfast.
Relax in a hidden gem of the city
Jardín Botánico, a lush oasis that is great for morning walks or balmy evening strolls, is located in a secluded location away from the throng, although it is still readily accessible by foot from the center Barrio del Carmen. It is open until 8 o’clock in the evening. It is believed that the origins of the institution date back to the 16th century. In 1802, it located its permanent home at the present location, and throughout the 19th century, it served as a location for botanical education courses.
However, it eventually became obsolete and was no longer used. After a ten-year recovery effort, which included the renovation of ancient features and the addition of new attractions such as the grand orchid and fern glasshouses, the project was completed in the year 2000.
Bioparc Valencia
There is a new generation of zoos in the city of Valencia.
Gorillas from the Congo, lemurs from Madagascar, lions from Savannah, and hippos from the Nile. At the Bioparc in Valencia, there are close to a thousand creatures belonging to 150 different species of African animals. These animals are housed in environments that have been specifically built to assure their ultimate comfort and well-being. In this location, the barricades are almost impossible to see. Visitors will have the opportunity to get an understanding of the significance of preserving natural settings while also having the ability to see the African continent.
Within Cabecera Park, on the land that was once occupied by the Turia riverbed, the Bioparc has a total area of more than 100,000 square meters and is subdivided into four primary sections. Rhinos, zebras, ostriches, and hyenas are some of the animals that may be found in the dry Savannah. On the other hand, the Wetlands are home to giraffes, antelopes, gazelles, meerkats, and lions. One of the biggest groups of elephants in Spain may be found in the baobab forest, which has been meticulously rebuilt and is home to a dozen unique elephants.
When you go to the island of Madagascar, you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the lemurs, who will often climb down the branches of the trees to meet you. This makes the island an excellent destination for tourists. There are crocodiles and hippopotamus living in a replica of the cave that was found in Kitum. Visitors will have the opportunity to see gorillas, pythons, otters, and leopards in the woods of Equatorial Africa, which is one of the most popular attractions throughout the park. Several of the rivers in the Bioparc are teeming with fish.
In addition to that, there is an auditorium that can accommodate a thousand people and features exhibits of marine creatures and birds simultaneously. In addition to an inside restaurant, the family leisure zone has a large outdoor terrace that provides a view of the African savannah that is breathtaking. Additionally, there are long-term growth plans for both Asian and American ecosystems, and the complex initially opened its doors to the public in the year 2008.
Every day of the year, from 10:00 to 18:00, the park is available for visitors. During the months of April through September, the hours of operation are extended to 18:00 and 21:00. The ticket offices shut thirty minutes before the park’s scheduled closing time; however, tickets may also be bought over the phone or via the website. The cost of tickets for adults is 23,80 euros, while the cost of tickets for children (those under the age of 12) is 18 euros.
oceanographic exhibits in the Valencia Aquarium
Having the potential to hold 45,000 live animals from 500 different species, this aquarium is the biggest one in all of Europe. This area has some of the most important marine ecosystems on the globe.
By bringing the marine world to the public via its avant-garde architecture, the arrangement of the many aquariums, and its scientific, recreational, and educational goals, it raises awareness about the need of protecting the marine world’s flora and fauna. Additionally, it functions as a platform for the conduct of scientific research.
The Oceanographic Museum is comprised of a variety of structures, each of which houses a representative sample of the most significant ecosystems that can be found in each of the world’s oceans and seas:
This aquarium is the biggest of all the aquariums at the Oceanogràfic, and it is also one of the largest aquariums in the world. It has a capacity of seven million cubic meters. It shows a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, from the Canary Islands to Bermuda, via a tunnel where you can witness a variety of shark species, including the sand shark, the cow shark, and others.