The city of Valencia has a history of conquest, and the different customs,
traditions and architecture can be seen throughout the city.
The Kingdom of Valencia as founded in 1238 by James I of Aragon.
It has a current population of over 800,000.
City of Arts & Sciences |
Torre de Serrano
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Plaza de la Virgin
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Arts & Monuments
Valencia has much to offer the holiday maker, and there is a huge amount of information
readily available online to help plan a trip into the city.
The Carmen District is part of the old city, and consists of lots of winding streets
filled with Roman and Arabic architecture. The Cathedral was built between 13th-15th centuries
and has Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque
influences. Well worth a visit.
The towers seen on either side of the old city (Serrano & Quart) are 15th century, and are part of the old city wall.
The Central Market, a modernist building, is one of the largest daily markets in Europe.
The railway station is a beautiful art deco building right in the centre of the city, beside the Bull Ring.
Towards the port, lies the City of Arts and Sciences. Built by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava,
it is a beautifully modern area which has a science museum, the Oceanographic aquarium (2nd largest in Europe),
the Hemispheric IMAX cinema, stunning outdoor walkways, and the all new Palau de les Arts,
opened in Oct '05
and a new venue for music and arts.
Museums are aplenty, including the above mentioned City of Arts & Sciences,
The IVAM (Modern Art Museum), The Museum of Fine Art, TheFallas Museum,
The Rice Museum (cataloguing the history of Paella), The Bullfighting Museum,
and more with constantly changing exhibitions.
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Relaxing, Food & Nightlife
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The Turia River was diverted away from the city centre in the '50's
when the city decided that they had been flooded one time too many.
In it's place now are the Turia Gardens, 7km of walkways, playgrounds, cycle paths,
fountains, sports grounds and the Palace of Music.
Grab a bocadillo at a local cafe and have lunch here, it's really worth a visit.
Other parks and gardens include the Botanical (and Zoological) Gardens,
The Royal Gardens and the Monforte.
Valencia Football Club's ground The Mestalla is situated right in the heart of the city,
is easily accessible, cheap and suprsingly, tickets are generally available.
Shopping: Shops galore, just remember Valencia shuts
for a siesta from 2pm-5pm.
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There are many parts of the city to visit for eating out and partying the night away.
Be warned when you go out- don't expect to find a restaurant open before 9pm
TIP: Have a well earned siesta late afternoon
and aim to leave for the city no earlier than 8pm.
Try the Carmen District (old city) for pubs and cafe bars. The Tapas is fantastic.
Head to Via Gran Turia for a wealth of restaurants- Spanish, Asian, Italian, South American...the lot!!
Afterwards, you'll find plenty of bars to suit all needs.
Head for the Town Square (Plaza de Ayuntamiento) and from there towards Plaza Reina,
For great sightseeing and relaxing outside another bar for tapas and refreshments.
If you want clubbing, you'll find small late night clubs throughout Valencia city,
or head out to one of the many all night clubs on the outskirts.
TIP: You've got to try a Paella. The Region is famous for them
Also pop into a cafe bar and sample a few different Tapas. Really cheap!!
Try the famous Lliria White Wine and/or the local beer. Again really cheap.
Try Agua Valencia- potent vodka/orange concoction.
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Lliria White. |
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When in Spain...... |
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