BEST THINGS TO VISIT IN VALENCIA

1. CATEDRAL DE VALENCIA

Gothic Cathedral is Valencia’s

most important religious building, and its tower, “el Miguelete”, is
one of the symbols of the city.
The Cathedral was built on the site of an earlier mosque, and was
begun in the 13th century, with several changes and additions
before it was finished in the 17th century. It combines several
architectural styles, although Gothic is clearly predominant. One of
the most beautiful elements inside the Cathedral is the Capilla del
Santo Cáliz, the Chapel of the Holy Chalice and former
chapterhouse, with its lovely star vault, an image of heaven with
the 12 Apostles and the Coronation of the Virgin. The place of
honour goes to the relic of the Chalice or Grail, a 1st-century cup
once thought to have been used by Christ at the Last Supper.
Striking features of the cathedral’s exterior are the Puerta del Palau,
its oldest entrance, in the Romanesque style with Mudéjar
elements, and the Puerta de los Apóstoles (14th century).

This is where the Water Tribunal takes place every Thursday at

noon. The institution was established in the Middle Ages by King
Jaume I: every two years, eight representatives are chosen from the
irrigation districts around Valencia to form the Tribunal and rule on
irrigation matters and the distribution of water from the river Turia.
Its procedures are oral, in the Valencian language, and its rulings
cannot be appealed. The Water Tribunal still meets and dispenses
justice today. In 2009, UNESCO granted it Intangible Cultural
Heritage status.

2. CENTRAL MARKET

This grand Modernist building was designed in 1914, although not

inaugurated until 1928.
The Central Market in Valencia covers more than 8,000 square
metres, over two floors, with a predominantly eclectic pre-Modernist
style. Its unusual roof comprises original domes and sloping
sections at different heights, while the interior seems to be lined in
a range of materials such as iron, wood, ceramics and polychromed
tiles. The beauty of the building stands out especially on account of
the light that enters through the roof at various points, and through
coloured window panels.
This is where local Valencians gather to do their shopping, though
you'll find the atmosphere a bit different than your local
supermarket. One of the oldest food markets in Europe, Mercado
Central (Central Market) is adorned with Valencian-style mosaics
and filled with residents purchasing local foods from more than
1,200 trusted vendors selling everything from meat and vegetables
to pastries and take-away items. Spanning more than 86,000
square feet, the building occupies land once used as an open-air
market in the mid-19th century. Opened in 1928, the visually
stunning building sits in the El Mercat neighborhood, opposite two
other architecturally significant monuments: La Lonja de la
Seda and Los Santos Juanes Church.

Recent visitors were invariably impressed by the expansive range of

food and beverages on offer here, with some describing the market
as a "foodie paradise." Reviewers recommended stopping by, even
if you don't plan on purchasing anything, though they do warn that
prices are high because vendors recognize this is such a tourist
magnet.
Open Monday through Saturday, the Mercado Central operates from
7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is free to peruse, but you may want to have
some euros on hand in case anything appeases your taste buds. For
more information on vendors, visit the market's official website.

3. TURIA GARDENS

The Turia Gardens were created at the

end of the 20th century as a result of the
diversion of the river to a new artificial
course south of the city, after the
catastrophic flood of 1957. The project
included 120 hectares of dry riverbed which would become the new
linear park. It was developed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill,
and was described as 'a composition which makes use of the
symbolic power of certain rhythms and references to Moorish
gardens'. The park is divided into sections, each of which has its
own character; thus the first sections feature cycle-cross and biking
circuits, as well as sports facilities including an athletics track and a
multi-sports area, football, rugby and baseball pitches and a skating
track, while other areas have more conventional gardens. Of these,
mention should be made of the Palau garden area, home to the
Palau de la Música auditorium, and the work of Valencian architect
José María García Paredes.

The Jardí del Túria (or the Garden of the Turia) might seem odd to
newcomers, seeing as how it boasts more than a dozen bridges
built to span a river that's no longer there. One of the country's
largest urban parks, Jardí del Túria was built after a fatal 1957 flood
of the Turia River, which was then diverted over the course of the
mid- to late 1960s. Today, the gardens shelter orange and palm
trees and rose bushes among a wide variety of flora. The park's
facilities also include cafes, football (i.e., soccer) fields, children's
play areas, rugby pitches, fountains, baseball diamonds, running
tracks, skate parks and miniature golf courses. Predictably, the park
is especially popular with runners and cyclists. It is also ideal for
families with children.
The green space is highly appreciated for the range of activities on
offer as well as the peaceful atmosphere.

At approximately 270 acres in size, the Jardí del Túria winds its way
past many of the other best things to do in Valencia, including
the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts y les Cièncias),
the Valencian Institute of Modern Art (Institut Valencià d'Art
Modern), Gulliver Park and the Torres de Serranos. You can reach
the area via metro lines 3, 5, 7 and 9, or a variety of bus routes. The
gardens are open 24 hours free of charge.

4. CITY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

The city of Valencia is one of

Europe's largest centres for the
dissemination of science and
culture. It is made up of
amazing buildings such as the Hemisfèric and the Oceanogràfic and
stands out for its avant-garde architecture, work of the renowned
Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela.

The City of Arts and Sciences of Valencia is situated along almost

two kilometres of the old Turia riverbed. It is made up of six major
elements: the Hemisfèric (an IMAX cinema where you can watch
digital projections), the Umbracle (a beautiful viewpoint with
gardens), the Museu de les Ciències (with a multitude of interactive
activities), the Oceanogràfic (the largest aquarium in Europe, with
more than 20,000 creatures of 650 different species), the Palau de
les Arts (dedicated to opera, dance, symphonic concerts and other
musical performances) and the Àgora (a multifunctional space that
holds concerts and various activities).The different centres that
form part of this complex stage conferences, exhibitions,
screenings, guided tours and workshops related to science,
technology, nature and art, all of which are designed to stimulate
curiosity and learning among different types of audiences.
The City of Arts and Sciences is open daily (except for Christmas
Day), though with varying hours depending on the season.
Generally, it’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 6, 7 or 9 p.m. You can
purchase entrance tickets to individual attractions, or you can buy a
combo ticket for access to multiple venues. A ticket to the Museu de
les Ciències, for instance, costs around 8.70 euros (or about $9.50)
for adults. Access to the entire complex for up to three days costs
44.20 euros (about $48). To reach the complex, jump off at the
Ciutat Arts and Sciències-Justicia Alameda metro stop on lines 10;
you can also take buses Nos. 13, 15, 25, 35, 95 and 99. Visit the
official website for more information.

5. SERRANOS TOWERS
This is a gateway in the defensive wall
dating from the late Middle Ages. It
was built by the master stonemason
Pere Balaguer in the 14th century to
defend one of the busiest points of
access to old Valencia. It comprises
two pentagonal structures on either side of the gateway, which is
formed by a semi-circular voussoir arch. The interior façade has
large, arched openings, designed as galleries. In the 16th century it
was converted into prisons for noblemen and knights, and
continued in use until 1887.

6. BIOPARK
The Bioparc Valencia is a 25-acre zoo, located in the northwest area
of the city. But this isn't just any
kind of zoo – it's an immersion
zoo, which means it removes or
hides many of the barriers most
zoos put in place between
different species, including
humans. Species that naturally (and safely) reside together in the
wild are placed together, while other gentle species, like lemurs for
instance, are free to meet humans face to face. Other barricades
are simply hidden to give visitors the feeling of being out in the
wild, a particular highlight for recent travelers. The park aims to
recreate the African continent, with animals like zebras, Nile
crocodiles, giraffes and elephants spread across four main habitats.

Past visitors enjoyed the chance to see the animals close up and
found the unique layout an interesting departure from the typical
zoo. Keep in mind the Bioparc's rules concerning the animals: They
shouldn't be touched or fed, nor should they be disrupted by yelling
or flash photography. Other than that, use your common sense: No
jumping over the fence to meet the tigers.
Reviewers suggested setting aside two to three hours to tour the
attraction.
Bioparc Valencia is generally open every day from 10 a.m. to 6
p.m.; during the summer months it welcomes visitors until 8 p.m. To
reach the zoo, you can walk along the Turia riverbed in the direction
of Parque de Cabecera or take the metro lines 3, or 5 or 9, jumping
off at the Nou d'Octubre stop. Bus Nos. 67, 73, 95, 98 and 99 will
also take you to the Bioparc. Admission to the zoo costs about
26.90 euros (around $29) for adults and 21 euros (approximately
$23) for children 4 to 12. Admission is free for kids 3 and younger.
There are several eateries on-site, as well as a playground. For more
information, check out the official website.

7. LONJA DE LA SEDA. SILK EXCHANGE

The jewel of
European
Gothic civil
architecture

Built in the 15th

century, the Silk Exchange is Valencia's Gothic monument par
excellence.
The majority of the "Lonja" (silk exchange) was built between 1482
and 1492, under master mason Pere Compte. The work was
completed by a pupil of his after his death, which explains the
presence of Renaissance elements. The Silk Exchange is considered
one of Europe's most beautiful examples of Gothic civil architecture.
Its similarity with old medieval castles is based on the fierce,
fortress-like appearance of its stone walls. It comprises four parts:
the Tower, the Sea Consulate Room, the Orange-tree Patio and the
Room of Columns. The site covers more than 2,000 square metres
indoors and out. On Sundays there is also an exhibition of coins and
stamps .
Many reviewers also advised opting for an audio guide, which they
say helps explain the building's history and various architectural
elements. Plus, recent travelers said there is little information
available without the aid of the audio guide. Others suggested
enjoying the courtyard, which is filled with orange trees.
You'll find the Silk Exchange within walking distance of the Central
Market or Plaza de la Virgen. The building is open Monday through
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on
Sunday. It can be reached via bus routes Nos. 4, 7, 27, 73 and 81
and C1. Admission costs 2 euros (or a little more than $2). Time
your visit for a Sunday or public holiday to enjoy free admission
(though a Sunday visit usually yields large crowds, according to
reviewers).

8. CHURCH OF ST. NICOLAS. (Parroquia de San Nicolás de

Bari y San Pedro Mártir)

With more than 20,000 square

feet of elaborate frescos
adorning its interiors, the
Parroquia de San Nicolás de
Bari y San Pedro Mártir has
been called the Sistine
Chapel of Valencia. Originally
constructed in 1242, the church
was remodeled and restored several times, perhaps most famously
between 1690 and 1693 when the interiors were decorated with
fresco paintings of scenes depicting San Nicolás de Bari (Saint
Nicholas) and San Pedro Mártir (Saint Peter Martyr).
Many strongly recommended renting the audio guide, which
reviewers say provides important commentary for understanding all
of the beautiful frescoes. However, a few were disappointed with
the entrance fee required to view the interiors of the church.

The church, which is within walking distance of other top attractions

like La Lonja de la Seda, is open daily except Mondays. Tuesday to
Friday, it is open from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. It closes at 6:30 p.m. on
Saturday. On Sunday, it's open to the public from 1 to 7 p.m. Tickets
cost approximately 10 euros (or close to $11), or you can combine
your visit with a ticket to also include the Silk Museum and the
Church of Santos Juanes for 12 euros (around $13). Audio guides in
multiple languages, including English, are included in your
admission fee.

9. PALACIO DEL MARQUÉS DE DOS AGUAS

The Palace of the

Marqués de Dos Aguas,
or Ceramics Museum, is
widely regarded as
among the best
displays of Baroque
architecture in Spain. (It
takes its name from a Valencian noble family.) When it was first
constructed in the 15th century, it was a Gothic building; it was
reworked in the Baroque style in the 18th century, when the ornate
entryway was added. Some of the rooms retain the original Gothic
look. Since 1949, when the Ministry of Education bought the
building, it has housed the González Martí National Museum of
Ceramics. The museum boasts the largest collection of ceramics in
the country and features pieces from the 18th century to the
present, including work by Pablo Picasso.
Though the building itself may be what impresses people the most,
the ceramics museum is also generally deemed well worth a visit.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2

p.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Hours on Sundays and public
holidays are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. only. Admission costs 3 euros for
adults (or approximately $3.30) and 1.50 euros (around $1.65) for
anyone younger than 18. It's free on Saturday evenings starting at
4 p.m. and on Sundays. Every Jan. 1, May 1, and Dec. 24, 25 and
31, it’s closed, as well as during two local holidays. The palace can
be reached via bus routes Nos. C1, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 16, 31, 32, 70
and 71 and by metro lines 3 and 5 (Colón station).
10. MALVARROSA BEACH

The golden sand and shallow blue waters

of Malvarrosa Beach have been inspiring
artists and travelers for generations. At an
average of 440 feet wide, the beach is
ideal for sports, as well as relaxation. As
with Playa de las Arenas, its vibe is similar
to that of southern California beaches.
What’s more, it offers almost everything
beachgoers could wish for, from juice bars
and cafes to free gym equipment, as well as chairs and parasols for
rent. There’s an area set aside for water sports, including
paddleboarding and windsurfing, and even dive centers offering
access to the nearby reef.

Visitors appreciate how easy Malvarrosa is to get to by tram, as well as

the cleanliness of the water (it earned a Blue Flag, a European award
granted to beaches that are recognized for their clean sand and
water). Despite the promenade being lined with homes rather than
cafes (unlike at Playa de las Arenas), travelers were impressed with
the range of cuisine available in close proximity. However, some were
disappointed with the lack of public restrooms and changing rooms.
This beach is the best option for anyone with mobility issues, as it’s
the only beach with easy access from the promenade all the way to
the water. Although Valencia’s beaches are separated from the city
center by miles of residential housing, Malvarrosa is the easiest to
access. It should take around 30 minutes on public transport. The
Platja Malva-rosa tram stop (accessible from lines 4, 6 and 8) is only a
couple of minutes’ walk from the sand, while the Hospital Malva-rosa
bus stop (No. 32) is right on the beachfront.
11. MERCADO DE COLÓN

U.S. News Insider Tip: The tiger nut drink known as horchata is a must-
try at Colón Market,
accompanied
by fartons (fluffy
pastries topped with
light frosting or filled
with cream). Horchata
was brought to
Valencia by the Moors
and quickly spread
across Spain, and
beyond. – Sarah Harvey

This popular market is a haven for epicureans. Housed within a

Modernist structure dating from 1916, it’s not only a destination for
shopping, but also for leisure. That’s because the stalls, shops and a
range of temporary exhibitions are surrounded by cafes. The latter
was added as part of the 2003 refurbishment, in the form of large
glass cubes scattered around the circumference. Tourists rub
shoulders with locals at this buzzing spot, including well-heeled staff
from offices in the surrounding area, who hit the market’s cafes for
after-work drinks. The basement level offers gourmet stores and
restaurants.
Visitors have pointed out that although it’s a market, there is more of
an emphasis on the cafes and bars than on the stalls at Colon Market
than at Valencia’s Central Market. They praise the architecture and
quality of the refurbishment, as well as the variety of cafes, gift shops
and stalls.
The market is open Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.,
Friday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 a.m. and from 7:30 a.m. to 2
a.m. on Sunday. Entry is free. The market is close to the Old Town and
the Turia park, making it not too far from the city center. Colon metro
is the closest stop (lines 0, 3, 5, 7 and 9), or the nearest bus stop is
Mercat de Colón via bus Nos. 13 and 40.

12. Albufera Natural Park (Parc Natural de l'Albufera)

To commune with nature –

specifically 300 bird species and
miles of walking and biking trails –
make a visit to the Albufera Natural
Park, a large freshwater lagoon. The
park is surrounded by the rice fields
that helped prompt the invention of paella. Indeed, there are a
number of restaurants nearby in the towns of El Palmar (the village
where paella was born) and El Saler, and many travelers find the food
alone a reason for taking a trip to the area.

Visitors can explore the country’s largest freshwater lake in traditional

flat-bottomed wooden boats with the help of local boat operators.
During the 40-minute trip, they will explain (in Spanish, Valencian or
English) how the lake was formed and was used to develop rice
farming, whilst punting passengers past 16-foot-high reeds. Some
passengers are lucky enough to spot elusive otters. The boats depart
from the main jetty and cost 8 euros (approximately $8.70).

This spot is said to offer some of the most beautiful sunsets in Spain,
and it’s certainly one of the only places on the east coast where you
can watch the sun setting over water. Recent visitors agree the
sunsets are worth the hype, but recommend bringing insect repellent
for when
twilight hits.

Located about
15 miles south
of Valencia,
the park can
be reached from the city center using the No. 24 or 25 bus or by
car. Bus fares cost 1.50 euros (about $1.65) each way. There are
organized tours (such as the Albufera Tourist Bus) that depart from
the city center and include a variety of add-ons, including boat rides
on the lake, but past visitors said it's just as easy to take the No. 25
bus and explore on your own. According to reviewers, it's free to
access the park, though you'll have to pay if you want to take a
boat ride.
CENTRAL TRAIN STATION
TORRE E IGLESIA DE SANTA CATERINA
TORRES DE QUART
FALLAS MUSEUM
OLD TOWN
BARRIO DEL CARMEN
IVAM. CONTEMPORANY ART MUSEUM
Fine Art Museum of Valencia (Museu de
Belles Arts de Valencia)
BARRIO DEL CABANYAL