Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, after Madrid and Barcelona. The province of Valencia belongs to the autonomous region known as “Comunidad Valenciana”, together with Castellon in the North, and Alicante in the South, this region constitutes one of the most popular tourist destinations of the Mediterranean, enjoying great weather conditions all year through.
If you are travelling to Valencia, as well as discovering the delightful city itself, you may also explore its surroundings and visit the charming villages of the Valencian Region.
You will find information about tourism and sightseeing of the city in our section what to do in Valencia. Here we offer you some suggestions of other sites to visit in the region and information about where to go in Valencia.
Sagunto
Located in the north of Valencia it is famous for both its rich historical heritage, which goes back 2000 years, and for its harbour. The major economic activities of the city are industries, tourism and production of citrus fruits.
In a visit to Sagunto you cannot miss its Castle, a defensive fortress declared a National Monument in 1931, which was the setting for the battle between Saguntum (the Roman name for the city) and Hannibal. Also the Roman Theatre is worth a visit, dating from the 1st century, this was the first archaeological site to be declared a National Monument (in 1896) and has recently been restored to be used for cultural events.
Not only the Romans left their imprint in the city, in Sangunto you will also find remains from the Goths, the Jewish and the Moors, as well as many Medieval and Neoclassical buildings. Among other outstanding sites in the city are the Jewish quarter “la Judería” with its typical narrow and winding streets, the ruins from the Temple of Diana dating from the 4th century before Christ, the entrance gate to the ancient Roman Circus and the city’s Archaeological Museum.
Gandía
Gandia is famous for its beaches. The city centre has been recently restored, constituting a perfect place to begin your walk through Gandia, since many streets are now for pedestrians only. A wide tourist offer awaits the visitor in Gandia, including a sailing club. Don’t miss the beautiful ‘Colegiata’ or ‘Seu’ of Gothic style, which was the first church to be built in the city.
La Albufera
La Albufera of Valencia is a sweet water lagoon connecting with the sea and a haven for migratory birds. It constitutes an important nature preserve for animal and plant life. Here you will also find rice crops, fishing and excellent beaches (El Saler, les Palmeretes or el Perellonet for example)