City
Valencia
Valencia is the city of paella, the Turia gardens and the City of Arts and Sciences: flat, close to the sea and calmer than Barcelona or Madrid.
Calatrava's city and the old quarter
Valencia is Spain's third city and one of its most liveable: flat, bike-friendly and close to the sea. The City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Santiago Calatrava, turns the end of an old riverbed into white ribs, an eye-shaped planetarium and one of Europe's largest oceanariums. The river itself was diverted after the 1957 flood and became the Turia Gardens, a park about nine kilometres long running through the city; cycling it is the simplest way to get from the old town to Calatrava. In the centre, La Lonja de la Seda (the Gothic silk exchange, a UNESCO site), the Central Market in its Modernista hall and the lanes of El Carmen fit into a day on foot.
Paella, horchata and the beach
Valencia is the home of paella, and the authentic version is made with rabbit, chicken and flat green beans, cooked over an open flame; seafood paella is a coastal variation. The best are in the rice villages around the Albufera lagoon, where you can also watch the sunset over the paddies; in town, be wary of places with photos of paella on the menu. Horchata, a cold drink made from tiger nuts, served with fartons, soft sweet pastries, is best in Alboraya. Malvarrosa is the wide city beach; quieter sand lies further south at El Saler.
When to go, and how
Las Fallas in March fills the streets with huge satirical sculptures, fireworks and music before burning them on the final night. It is wonderful but loud and busy, and rooms book up early. Summers are hot and humid; spring and autumn are better for walking. The airport is linked to the centre by metro lines 3 and 5, and high-speed trains connect Valencia with Madrid and Barcelona, so it pairs well with another city. Connections from Tirana vary by season; we check the current routes. Ask us which district suits you: El Carmen for nightlife, Ruzafa for cafés, the beach for sun.
In pictures
Frequently asked questions
What makes Valencian paella different?
The original is made with rabbit, chicken and flat green beans over an open flame. Seafood paella exists, but it is a coastal variation. The best is found near the Albufera.
Is Valencia good for cycling?
Yes. The city is flat, and the Turia Gardens offer a car-free route linking the old town with the City of Arts and Sciences.
When is Las Fallas and is it worth it?
Las Fallas takes place in March. It is lively and spectacular, but also loud and crowded, and rooms book early. If you want calm, choose another month.
How do I get from the airport to the centre?
Metro lines 3 and 5 connect the airport with the centre. A taxi is a quick, direct option if you have a lot of luggage.
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