Valencia
Valencia is Spain's third-largest city, offering world-class architecture, stunning beaches, and the birthplace of paella at a fraction of the cost of Barcelona or Madrid. Its compact old town, excellent metro system, and culture of long cheap lunches make it one of Europe's best-value city breaks.
Why go to Valencia
City of Arts and Sciences
A futuristic Calatrava-designed complex with an oceanarium, science museum, and IMAX that looks like a scene from a sci-fi film.
La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)
A breathtaking UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece with twisted stone columns that once made Valencia the richest city in the Mediterranean.
Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete Tower
Climb the medieval bell tower for panoramic rooftop views, then see what the city claims is the actual Holy Grail inside.
Mercado Central
One of Europe's largest and most beautiful Art Nouveau market halls, bursting with fresh produce, jamón, and local life.
Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia)
Nine kilometres of car-free green parkland running through the city in a diverted riverbed, with a giant Gulliver sculpture kids can climb.
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Good to know in Valencia
- Valencia's metro and EMT buses are well-integrated, a 10-trip T2 card costs about $9 and covers both; buy at any metro station to avoid per-ride surcharges.
- Tipping is not expected in Spain; rounding up or leaving small coins (20-50 cents) at a bar is generous by local standards, never feel obligated to tip 15-20%.
- Tap water in Valencia is safe to drink though locals find it slightly hard; fill a reusable bottle freely and skip paying $2-3 per bottle at restaurants.
- The City of Arts and Sciences Museu de les Ciències offers free entry the last Sunday of each month, and the Turia Gardens and exterior grounds are always free.