Valencia

Valencia is the capital of the Valencian Community. With just over 700,000 inhabitants, it is the third most populated city in Spain. Elegant and discreet, Valencia has so much to offer: the tourist attractions include historical monuments, museums, parks, restaurants, beaches and leisure facilities.

What is there to see in the capital city of Valencia?

Central Market

The Central Market is one of the most emblematic buildings in Valencia. Built in the late 19th century, this stunning edifice represents a style known as Valencian Art Nouveau. 

Its features include the use of glass and steel, tall domes and carefully sloped roofs, which allow light to filter in and illuminate the beautiful ceramic tiles inside the building. 

The Central Market is regarded as an authentic temple of gastronomy and is a meeting point for Valencian citizens: open from Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., inside you will find a bar and stalls selling fresh local products (meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, etc.).

Valencia Cathedral & The Holy Grail

Valencia Cathedral was built in the 13th century on the foundations of a Roman temple that was converted into a mosque during the Arab occupation.

In addition to its unique architecture, the cathedral houses an extraordinary collection of art and objects, including paintings and sculptures from the Spanish Renaissance, 15th-century frescoes and paintings by Maella and Goya, among other artists.

One of the hallmarks of Valencia Cathedral is the bell tower, nicknamed 'El Miguelete' and which provides a fantastic panoramic view of the city. To enjoy it, you will have to climb a winding spiral staircase, but the views are well worth it.

Moreover, Valencia Cathedral guards one of the most spectacular pieces of treasure in Christendom: the Holy Grail, which is said to be the chalice used by Christ at the Last Supper.

Made of agate and dating back to Roman times, its origin has been corroborated by experts. But who can really be sure it's authentic? What we do know is that the Holy Chalice safeguarded in Valencia has been protected by many Kings and Popes for hundreds of years.

City of Arts and Science

The City of Art and Science of Valencia is a cultural complex that runs along the old course of the river Turia, which has been converted into a large urban garden. 

The visually impressive buildings serve various purposes: an opera house, science museum, planetarium, 3D cinema and one of the biggest aquariums in Europe, featuring dolphins, walruses, seals and sharks. A must-visit for the whole family!

Las Fallas

Las Fallas is Valencia's most important and best-known popular festival. It is celebrated in the month of March, and for several days the city's streets are filled with the smell of gunpowder, the noise of firecrackers and the colourful explosions of fireworks. 

The origin of Las Fallas is associated with the ancient tradition of the city's carpenters storing materials and belongings during the winter, which were then burned in a joyous ceremony along with rags and other objects upon the arrival of spring. 

Over the years, these piles of materials gradually took the shape of today's elaborate, spectacular figures or "ninots".   

In addition to the capital city, the province of Valencia boasts a wide range of attractions.

La Albufera

La Albufera is one of the most beautiful and unique natural spots in the Valencian Community. 

This large freshwater lake is separated from the sea by the Dehesa del Saler woods and a 1-km long strip of sand and is hugely popular with nature lovers. 

This Nature Park is located just a stone's throw from the city of Valencia and is one of the most important wetlands in Spain. 

In addition, it has been declared a Special Bird Protection Area and is highly recommended for birdwatching.

Sagunto

Sagunto is a town steeped in history. Its main attractions include the Castle Complex - which Hannibal destroyed in 210 BC - and the Roman theatre with a capacity of 8,000 spectators and which hosts a classical theatre programme in the summer.

If you visit Sagunto, we recommend visiting the old town (the Jewish quarter) and the main arcaded square. 

Other attractions include the museum of archaeology, the Church of Salvador and the nearby beaches of Almardá and Puerto de Sagunto.

Hoces del Cabriel River

Hoces del Cabriel Nature Park is a protected natural area. It is located in the Requena-Utiel region, an area of vineyards ideal for wine tourism.

The river carves a deep ravine through the limestone terrain. It features unique fauna and flora, making it the perfect destination for engaging in adventure sports such as rafting and climbing.