Rediscovering Travel: Valencia, Spain
A visit to Spain is always a good idea. A visit to Valencia, even better! Whether it’s sun, sand or sangria you’re after, this vibrant destination should be at the top of your list. Additionally, Valencia’s recent drive to ensure sustainability in tourism places this Spanish city at the forefront of conscious travel. Win, win!
Transport
Just a short plane ride from the UK, Spain is the logical choice for an end-of-winter escape when Vitamin D has been in short supply. Once you’ve arrived, there are a variety of ticket options for you to choose from, depending on the duration of your visit. The Valencia Tourist Card is a cost-effective choice, allowing for the use of all modes of transport over the span of either 24, 48 or 72 hours. Valencia gets top marks in this category with its 5 metro, 4 tram and 60 bus lines, all of which allow for efficient travel and lower emissions.
Despite being the third-largest city in Spain, Valencia manages to maintain the charm of a more quaint location. The undeveloped beaches and abundance of independently owned shops almost make it appear as if it’s a hidden gem of sorts. As it is primarily flat, Valencia is very walkable and if you fancy hopping on a bike, you're in luck as it has more than 160 kilometres of cycle lanes.
What To See
La Longa de la Seda is one of the most symbolic buildings in Valencia and dates all the way back to 1483! Made a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1996, this Gothic-style hall was once a bustling location for trade and commerce. It’s vast, spiralled pillars, Latin carvings and watchful gargoyles create an impressive setting for exploring and daydreaming about life long ago. From gothic to art nouveau, Colón Market is a National Monument that provides the perfect setting for eating, drinking and relaxing in style. Mosaic-adorned arches lead the way into a spectacular, light-filled building whose contents will be sure to excite all of your senses!
If you happen to be so lucky as to visit Valencia during March, be sure to attend one of its many events surrounding the springtime celebration called, The Fallas. Those that label themselves as pyros are in luck as Mascletà (1 to 19 March) is an impressive pyrotechnic display held daily in the Town Hall Square- Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Fireworks and bonfires aplenty culminate in the five main days of celebration, which take place from the 15 to 19 of March. As the grand finale, a large structure of caricature pieces is set alight to symbolise the arrival of spring.
A trip to Valencia would not be complete without a visit to one of its more modern destinations: The City of Arts and Sciences (CAC). An architectural feast for the eyes, this complex encompasses a range of unique structures such as, Hemisfèric (a digital 3D cinema), Oceanogràfic (Europe’s largest aquarium), Palau de les Arts (an opera house) and the Umbracle (a large public-access garden). There is something for everyone here, and even if a meandering walk is the only thing on the cards for you, the striking buildings alone are likely to provide enough entertainment and visual stimulation.
Culinary Delights
One ten-minute tram out towards the sea and life slows down even further. With significantly fewer tourists, the area known as Poblados Maritimos is smattered with independent cafes and restaurants, palm trees galore and locals who clearly know how to make the most of their beautiful city. A stroll through the streets of the Cabanyal district will reveal the neighbourhood’s vibrant and historical homes that are embellished with ornate tiles, bold palettes and a charming patina that only enhances its beauty. All that exploring works up an appetite, so head to Churrería Heladería Los Olivares for your caffeine fix and a sweet treat. Chatting and churros are the focus in this little side street cafe. Clearly an epicentre for socialising, women of all ages come together to share the goss while sipping on a cafe con leche and munching on deliciously fried churros with chocolate. These Valencians sure know how to spend a Tuesday afternoon!
Follow the palm trees and the sound of the waves and hopefully, you’ll find yourself at El Bobo, which is perfectly positioned at the edge of Malvarrosa Beach. They serve the most tender and flavourful gambas al Ajillo (garlic prawns) and a seafood paella that contains the always coveted socarrat- the crispy layer of toasted rice that forms at the bottom. Paella and the sea- what more could one want? The many establishments along the beach’s promenade are sure to deliver a delicious paella, but be aware that Valencians usually eat this native dish for lunch, so many of the restaurants will close around 5 (in the winter months).
It wouldn’t be a visit to Spain without a sampling of sangria and Bocadella Tapas will provide just that. This sweet and citrusy red wine beverage is a little too easy to drink, so it is fortunate that they also serve tapas. Patatas bravas and croquetas are always an excellent choice but perhaps dare to order something you’ve never tried before- go loco! The common denominator at many of the restaurants and cafes in Valencia is the level of hospitality provided: hosts are warm and friendly, (free) snacks are brought to your table almost immediately and many meals conclude in an offering of their house spirit (again, free).
It is the literal warmth of the city but also the warmth of its people that draw tourists in, and then keep them coming back for more. Valencia is a beautifully historic and culturally-rich destination that should be moved immediately to the top of your list!