What to see in Valencia
Santiago Calatrava's City of Arts and Sciences, with the Oceanogràfic and the Science Museum, is the city's most modern face. The old riverbed became the Turia Gardens, a nine-kilometre park running right through it.
The old town holds the Cathedral (keeper of a chalice venerated as the Holy Grail), the Micalet tower, the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange and the Central Market, one of the largest in Europe. El Carmen is the district of street art and terraces, and Ruzafa the trendy one.
When to go
Valencia enjoys good weather almost all year. Spring and autumn are lovely; summer is beach time, and in March Las Fallas fills the streets with monuments, fireworks and partying.
Getting around
Metro and tram connect the airport, the centre and Malvarrosa beach. Cycling is the easiest way around thanks to the Turia and the bike lanes.
What to eat
Valencian paella (with chicken, rabbit and green beans), arroz a banda, eel all i pebre from the Albufera and, to cool down, horchata with fartons.
Travel tips
- Book an Albufera trip with a sunset boat ride.
- Visit the Central Market in the morning, when it is in full swing.
- If you travel during Las Fallas, book accommodation and activities well ahead.
