Valencia !

Valencia!

Today’s the day—we’re off on a “city break” to Valencia!

And yes, you read that right: we. This time, I’m not traveling solo but with a small group of close friends. We’ve rented a spacious apartment in the heart of Valencia, and we’re ready to make it a trip to remember.

To be honest, while I was excited to travel with my friends, I didn’t have particularly high expectations for Valencia itself. I’m not sure why—probably just based on the bits and pieces I’d read online.

But oh, how wrong I was about this stunning city on Spain’s eastern coast! From the moment we arrived, everything just felt right. The city is immaculately clean and well-organized, with streets that literally shine in some places and flowerbeds, parks, and balconies that look perfectly cared for.

Valencia truly is the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern flair. Whether you’re into culture, food, or soaking up the sun, this city has something for everyone.

Architecture

If, like me, you love architecture and culture, Valencia is a paradise.

The city is filled with well-preserved historical buildings and beautiful churches. As we wandered through the winding streets and grand avenues of the old town, we stumbled upon charming squares and vibrant facades at every turn.

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Sadly, we only managed to admire the cathedral from the outside, but if you visit Valencia, be sure to explore it from the inside as well. You don’t want to miss the chance to see the Holy Grail! The Valencia Cathedral, located in the heart of the city, is like a time machine—it’s built on the remains of a Roman temple and a Moorish mosque

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

One spot you absolutely cannot miss in Valencia is the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences). Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic complex combines art, science, and entertainment in the most spectacular way.

A Futuristic Wonderland

The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by futuristic structures reflected in crystal-clear blue water. From the sleek arc of the Hemisfèric (shaped like a giant eye) to the Museo de las Ciencias, resembling a whale skeleton, the architecture feels like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.

A Scenic Stroll

Even if you don’t have time to explore the attractions, the area around the complex is perfect for a leisurely walk. You can soak up the sun, admire the serene water features, and enjoy the lush greenery of the nearby Turia Gardens – Jardin del Turia.

We first explored this area using the hop-on-hop-off bus. For just €22 (24 hours) or €24 (48 hours), it’s a fantastic way to get a quick overview of the city.

 

Cycling with Peggy from “Beleef Valencia”

We decided to join a guided bike tour of the city, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. Our guide, Peggy from “Beleef Valencia,” was full of energy and knowledge about the city. She took us through the charming streets of the old town, into the Turia Park, and eventually back to the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

Turia Park – Valencia’s Green Oasis

Turia Park is a former riverbed transformed into a sprawling green city park. Stretching over 9 kilometers, it’s a lively space filled with cyclists, joggers, and families out for a stroll.

The relaxed vibe is contagious, but a word of caution: stick to the right-hand side of the bike path, and ride single file to avoid any accidents. Also, a quick tip—Valencians aren’t huge fans of cyclists, so avoid ringing your bell too much! 😊

The park was created in 1957 after the devastating Turia River flood. The river was rerouted, and in its place, this beautiful park was born

One thing that truly fascinated me was the elaborate system of water pipes beneath the park. These pipes are used both for drainage during heavy rains and to irrigate the parks and gardens. This is why the city is so lush and the flowerbeds are always in full bloom!

Mercado Central – A Feast for the Senses

When you think of Valencia, you probably imagine paella, oranges, and sunny plazas. But what truly surprised me during my visit was the impressive Mercado Central—a treasure trove of flavors, colors, and aromas. This covered market isn’t just a place to shop; it’s an experience that awakens all your senses!

And it’s a historical gem, too. Did you know that the site of the Mercado Central has been a marketplace since medieval times? Back then, it was an open-air venue where local farmers and traders sold their goods. But in the late 19th century, Valencia decided to go big—a permanent, modern market hall was commissioned to reflect the city’s growth and ambition.

The moment I stepped inside the Mercado Central, I felt almost small (which, to be fair, happens to me quite often 😀). This architectural masterpiece, designed in 1914 by Francesc Guàrdia i Vial and Alexandre Soler i March, embodies the stunning modernist style Spain is famous for. Think vibrant stained glass windows, intricate wrought iron details, and a massive dome that floods the space with sunlight. And that’s just the exterior!

It’s also a paradise for food lovers!
Inside, you’ll discover a different kind of magic. With over 1,200 stalls, each brimming with local products straight from Valencia and the surrounding regions, it’s a feast for the senses. From the smell of freshly baked bread to piles of juicy oranges and glistening fish on ice, my mouth was watering the entire time.

What makes the Mercado Central truly special is that it’s more than just a place to shop. It’s a social hub where you can watch locals go about their daily routines, see tourists delight in discovering new flavors, and experience Valencia’s history in a tangible way.

Whether you’re looking for a bag of fresh herbs, an authentic souvenir, or just a unique experience, this market has it all. For me, it was the perfect blend of culture, architecture, and, of course, amazing food.

So, if you ever find yourself in Valencia, don’t miss the Mercado Central. It’s the heart and soul of the city, wrapped in a celebration of color and flavor. And trust me, you’ll walk out with a full bag and a big smile on your face! 😊

Agua de Valencia – Sunshine in a Glass

You can’t visit Valencia without trying Agua de Valencia! This refreshing, citrusy cocktail is made with freshly squeezed orange juice, cava, a splash of gin, and vodka.

Invented in the 1950s, it’s become a favorite among both locals and visitors. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny terrace or as a pre-dinner drink, it’s guaranteed to add a touch of fun to your trip. Cheers! 🥂🍊

Final Thoughts

In April, we were lucky enough to explore this incredible city and everything it has to offer. Sadly, just a few months later, in October, Valencia faced devastating floods. My thoughts go out to all the residents affected by this natural disaster.

Next time, I’ll take you along on my adventures in Le Marche and Umbria!