Valencia is the 3rd largest city in Spain, located by the Mediterranean sea, it’s famous by its orange groves and its lively nightlife, it offers a wide range of activities, from nautical sports, to exploring its lush nature, visiting its spectacular museums, shopping or simply enjoining its beaches. Here are some suggestions about what to do in Valencia.
One of the most important places to visit in Valencia is “la Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias” (city of the arts and sciences), a theme park for science, art and technology designed by the famous Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava which spreads along 10 kilometres. This city of science is composed by 5 awesome buildings and museums, amazing glass structures with the most diverse shapes. It includes “l’Oceanografic” (the oceanographic) the largest aquarium in Europe where visitors can experience a unique trip under the water, including sharks and whales! In the park you will also find a planetarium, an IMAX dome, art exhibitions, and much more.
Check the official website for updated agenda, opening hours and prices:
https://www.cac.es
Sightseeing in Valencia you may not miss its Cathedral, which claims to keep the Holy Grail. Located right in the heart of the city, in Plaza de la Reina the Cathedral displays a mixture of different architectonic styles with Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance details. Its 51-meter high octagonal tower, known as “Miquelet”, is a symbol of Valencia and offers spectacular views over the city.
In the same square you will find the beautiful “Basílica de la Virgen” and “el Palau de la Generalitat”, which is the venue for local government meetings.
Not far from the Cathedral you will find the Central Market, open since the year 1.928 and still working nowadays. Next to the Market you may have a look at the Lonja building, mixing Gothic and Renaissance styles, and its famous hall with curved columns.
Another important monument to visit are “las Torres de Serranos”, the gates which marked the entrance to the Medieval city of Valencia, dating from the 14th century.
As for sport activities, Valencia is a well known Golf resort, with more than 20 golf courses in beautiful Mediterranean landscapes.
Also sailing and sea sports are popular in Valencia, as is shown in the fact that the city has been chosen to host the 32nd America’s Cup, to be held in 2007. Valencia’s harbour is one of the most important in Spain and you will find in the region excellent facilities and sites for practicing sailing, scuba diving, windsurf, boat races, etc.
Leisure and entertainment activities in Valencia constitute one of the most exciting and extensive ranges throughout the Mediterranean. You will find plenty of discos, night clubs and pubs of all different kinds, ready to offer you their best proposals for a night out.
It is also a modern city with a bustling city centre and excellent shopping facilities which range from shopping malls to traditional markets.
Valencians love “fiestas“, their most popular festivities are the famous “Fallas” or bonfires, on March 12-19, an astonishing explosion of colours, fireworks and smell of gunpowder.
Do not leave Valencia wihout trying some its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, being home to Paella and Fideuà, it will not be difficult to find good restaurants in the city.