2026 Valencia Province Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Valencia is a city of incredible contrasts: here, the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences stands alongside ancient neighborhoods. This beautiful town surprised us, delighted us, and completely stole our hearts. We only spent one day here while passing through, but we realized we absolutely have to come back.

The beating heart of Valencia, Plaza del Ayuntamiento is where history, architecture, and city life collide. Surrounded by grand buildings and colorful flower stalls, it’s perfect for a morning coffee or evening stroll. Come during Fallas to see it transform into a festival of lights, music, and fireworks 🎆 There is so much to see and do from this central point, it's normally a great starting point for explorations. #adventuremoments

Once a river, now a 9km-long urban paradise, Turia Park is where Valencia breathes! 🌳 Stretching through the city like a green ribbon, it’s packed with bike paths, playgrounds, ponds, palm trees, and even an outdoor gym. 🚴♀️🛝 You’ll pass under historic bridges, beside modern wonders like the City of Arts and Sciences, and through peaceful gardens. 🏛️🌸 Locals jog, picnic, nap under the trees or just watch the turtles and ducks waddle by. 🐢🦆 Whether you’re looking for chill or energy, this park is your all-day, free-entry escape! 🌞 #adventuremoments

This is not a drill - those gorgeous tall palm trees are not from Los Angeles, but from Valencia! And in addition to the beautiful coast-side, there is art and culture, history and freshly made churros with hot chocolate... 🤤 The port city of Valencia lies on Spain’s southeastern coast, where the Turia River meets the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for its City of Arts and Sciences, with futuristic structures including a planetarium, an oceanarium and an interactive museum. Valencia also has several beaches, including some within nearby Albufera Park, a wetlands reserve with a lake and walking trails. #tripblazers

#underratedspots #travel #spain #valencia #sannicolas #europetrip If you only look at the exterior, **Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir** may not stand out among the historic streets of Valencia. But don't walk past it too quickly—behind its doors lies one of Spain's greatest artistic treasures. Often called **"The Sistine Chapel of Spain,"** San Nicolás is breathtaking inside, with more than **2,000 m² of magnificent Baroque frescoes** covering the ceiling and vaults. The moment you step inside, it feels less like a church and more like an extraordinary art museum. Originally built in the 13th century on the site of a former mosque, the church features a Gothic structure that was transformed with a stunning Baroque interior in the 17th century. This unique blend of architectural styles, combined with its spectacular frescoes, makes San Nicolás one of Valencia's most remarkable landmarks. A few tips for your visit: · ⏳ Allow 30–45 minutes to fully explore the church. · 🎧 The audio guide is highly recommended if you'd like to learn the stories and symbolism behind the frescoes. · 📸 The best photo isn't from the façade—stand in the center of the main nave and look up to capture the incredible ceiling. Valencia is filled with famous attractions, but if you love art and architecture, **San Nicolás** is a place you shouldn't miss. Just one look at its breathtaking ceiling, and you'll understand why it's known as **"The Sistine Chapel of Spain."**

🕍 Secret Sights & Royal Heights in Valencia’s Heart ✨ Valencia isn’t just paella and parks, it’s a playground of hidden towers, enchanting castles, and spellbinding architecture that tell centuries of secrets! Start your adventure at the Torres de Serranos, an imposing medieval gateway with panoramic city views. Arrive early for cooler photos (those archways pop best in the morning glow!), and don’t miss climbing all the way up, your reward is one of the most Insta-worthy rooftops in Valencia. Walk south and stumble on La Lonja de la Seda, the UNESCO-listed silk exchange with twisting gothic pillars and peaceful orange-filled courtyards (entry is affordable, grab tickets inside). Behind La Lonja, slip into quiet alleys to spot colorful street art, perfect candid backdrops if you want something less touristy! Next, set your sights a bit further: hop a quick bus or rent a bike to explore the lesser-known Castillo de Albalat dels Sorells, less crowded than city sites, its stone walls and palm-ringed entrance are a dream at golden hour. Pack water and light snacks, public amenities can be sparse here, especially at “hidden gem” spots. Practical tips: Many castle/tower interiors can get very warm, especially in summer, go early and bring a hat. Some stairways are narrow and steep, so comfy shoes are a must! And don’t forget: Valencia’s “hidden gems” sometimes close for midday siesta, so double check opening hours before you go. #Valencia #HiddenGems #Castles #Architecture #SpainTravel

Honestly, before going to Valencia, all I knew about was paella and the Fallas festival. After arriving, I discovered that this third-largest city in Spain is absolutely the pinnacle of summer vacation experiences 🏖️ Especially the days spent by the sea, waking up to the sound of the waves every day was simply irresistible. Here's the essential information: 【Transportation Quick Reference】 🔹 By Air: Valencia Airport is only 8 km from the city center. Metro Lines 3 and 5 provide direct access, taking 20 minutes to the city center. A one-way ticket costs €4.80 (free with a Tourist Card). 🔹 By High-Speed ​​Rail: 1 hour 40 minutes from Madrid / approximately 3 hours from Barcelona, ​​both arriving at Joaquín Sorolla station. 🔹 Within the City: The metro, tram, and bus network is extensive. A SUMA transport card offers the most flexible payment option; a 10-trip ticket costs €8.50 and can be used on all modes of transport. 🔹 To Albufera Lake: From the city center, take bus 25 or a taxi; it takes about 30 minutes to reach El Saler pier. · 🏠 Where to Stay? The guesthouse is located in the El Cabanyal fishing village area, a five-minute walk from Malvarrosa beach. This area is an old fishing village in Valencia, lined with colorful tiled houses from the late 19th century, each a different color. Walking through the alleys feels like stepping into a palette of colors 🎨 The room was a rooftop sea-view room with a terrace. Two floor-to-ceiling windows plus a round window provided incredible natural light. The Mediterranean Sea was visible from the terrace door, about 200 meters away. The balcony faced southeast ☀️ with an unobstructed view, allowing me to watch the sunrise from my bed. At 5:30 am, the sea was dyed orange-pink; I literally cried while watching it from my bed. There was a hammock and a small outdoor dining table on the terrace. In the evening, I bought a bottle of local Bobal red wine and a bag of chips, sitting there watching the sky turn from gold to purple – the most expensive part of my trip (even though the wine was only 4 euros). · 📍 How to spend three days? I've planned it for you! ☀️ Day 1: El Cabanyal fishing village + beach El Cabanyal itself is a tourist attraction. This area was almost demolished by the government to make way for a main road in the last century. Local residents fought for over twenty years to preserve these colorful old houses. Now, street graffiti, old tile facades, and newly opened independent cafes blend together, creating an atmosphere so artistic it's almost palpable. Walk along Calle de la Reina to its end, and you'll reach the Marina district. The 2007 America's Cup was held here; the Veles e Vents building, designed by David Chipperfield, resembles a white sail billowing in the wind—perfect for photos. In the afternoon, head straight to the beach. Malvarrosa is the main beach; it's relatively crowded but well-equipped with showers, changing rooms, and lounge chairs. For a quieter experience, walk a little north to Patacona beach, where there are more locals, and the restaurants and bars on Chiringuito beach are more authentic. For dinner, just pick a random place in the El Cabanyal alley. The bodega here is about a third cheaper than in the city center. A seafood tapas platter and a caña beer cost less than €12 per person—a very satisfying meal. ☀️ Day 2: Lake Albufera + Sunset Boat Tour Albufera is the largest freshwater lake in Spain and the birthplace of paella. The lake is surrounded by vast rice paddies; in July, the rice isn't ripe yet, a lush green stretching to the horizon, rippling like green waves in the wind. Here's the highlight—you absolutely must take a boat tour on the lake in the evening! El Saler pier has long-operating boat tours, costing around €6 per person, with a journey of about 40 minutes. The boatman will row deep into the reeds, and the moment the setting sun turns the entire lake a bronze hue, everyone around me fell silent; the only sound was the oars paddling. I'll rave about this experience for the rest of my life! 🥹 ⚠️ Lake Tour Tips: Sunset in July is around 9:15 PM. It's recommended to choose the 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM departure to catch the golden hour. Buy tickets at the pier; during peak season, arrive half an hour early. ☀️ Day 3: City of Arts and Sciences + Turia River Cycling The free area of ​​the City of Arts and Sciences alone is enough to take photos for half a day. The Hemisfèric Planetarium, shaped like a giant eye, has a perfectly symmetrical reflection in the water and is widely recognized as one of the 21st-century architectural landmarks. If you buy a combined ticket for the Aquarium, Science Museum, and Planetarium, it's valid for three days for €38.60 and can be visited separately. The underwater tunnel and jellyfish exhibit in the Aquarium were, in my opinion, the most worthwhile parts. The Science Museum has so many interactive exhibits that you can't possibly explore them all. In the afternoon, rent a bicycle and cycle along the Turia Riverbed Park, from the City of Arts and Sciences all the way to Cabecera Park on the edge of the old town. The entire route is about 7 kilometers, flat and easy to ride with no hills. Along the way, you'll cross more than a dozen bridges of different styles. When you get tired, stop and lie down on the grass by the river for a while. In Valencia in July, it doesn't get dark until 9 pm, so you have plenty of time. · 💡 A few final, heartfelt reminders ① July in Valencia has incredibly long days, with sunrise around 6:45 AM and sunset around 9:15 PM. You'll have plenty of time to explore each day, so don't overschedule; leave room for relaxation. ② The alleyways in El Cabanyal are quieter after 10 PM, so it's recommended to go in groups or walk along the main street. ③ Be sure to eat paella at lunchtime! Local tradition suggests that eating paella at night is difficult to digest, and many authentic restaurants only serve freshly made paella at lunchtime; evening meals are likely reheated. ④ Sunscreen + hydration + a nap. There's a reason why Spaniards avoid the sun in the afternoons of summer; don't force yourself. ⑤ Trams 4 or 6 are very convenient from the city center to the beach, running approximately every ten minutes. Don't waste money on taxis. Valencia in summer is the kind of trip that doesn't require elaborate planning. Simply sitting by the sea, walking through the alleyways, or floating on a boat is enough for a wonderful trip.

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is filled with gentle imaginations of the future. Many people visiting Spain tend to favor Madrid or Barcelona, ​​often overlooking the third largest city, Valencia. But Valencia is more than just delicious food and paella; it's a paradise of life, with a slow-paced lifestyle. The weather was always sunny and clear. We chose a day to visit the "alien art complex" built on the dry Tulia Riverbed in Valencia. Futuristic light and shadow instantly filled our eyes; every line was a tribute to the future. The complex includes a science museum, a planetarium, an aquarium, an opera house, a botanical garden, and more. Tickets to each museum are inexpensive, but unfortunately, we only explored a small portion. The aquarium is the largest in Europe, with over 500 species of marine life, but I only stared at one creature that looked remarkably like Haaland for a long time… Inside the science museum, in a room filled with mirrored reflections, we had barely lain down when a group of children rushed in, sprawling out around us. Suddenly, a feeling of warmth filled me: the world is so far yet so close… Another interesting thing was the snack stall near the entrance. This fruit, supposedly only found in Valencia, was something I tried; the taste was indescribable.

Valencia has plenty of beaches. For example, right within the city limits is La Malvarrosa. Being the closest to the city center, it's always packed with people. I was looking for some peace and privacy, so I decided to head a bit further out. And what I found is an absolute treasure! 📍 Location: Platja de la Devesa 🚏 How to get there: You can take the EMT 24 or EMT 25 bus from the city (just check which stop is closest to you). Get off at the Embarcador de l'Albufera stop. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes. 🎟️ Tickets: You can get a rechargeable transit card and load it with a 10-ride pass for AB zones (there's a 40% discount until June 30, 2026, making it a great deal!). Alternatively, you can just tap your credit card on the bus. 🏖️ The Beach: From the bus stop, it's about a 20-minute walk, but the area is so gorgeous that the stroll is an added bonus. You'll walk through a protected nature reserve home to some fascinating birds. At the end of the trail, you'll be rewarded with an endless sandy beach, crystal-clear water, and hardly a soul in sight. It's uncrowded, allowing you to relax in perfect solitude. Keep in mind, though, that this is a wild beach—there are no showers, umbrellas, or changing rooms. Plan ahead for your comfort, and come ready to enjoy!

Step into Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences, as if entering a futuristic sci-fi wonderland, where Calatrava's avant-garde architecture radiates fantastical light in the old Turia River bed. CaixaForum, nestled within the Ágora, features a blue-purple gradient geometric angular building reflected in the water. Its interior resembles an organic life form, with an inverted forest auditorium and cloud classrooms full of whimsical ideas. The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía (Queen Sofia Palace of the Arts) resembles a white whale breaking through waves, its streamlined roof spreading like wings, gleaming with a lustrous sheen in the sunlight—a perfect fusion of art and architecture. The Hemisfèric (hemispherical planetarium) is like the "Eye of Wisdom," its transparent dome reflecting the blue sky, with its reflection on the water forming a complete eye. Inside, dome films transport visitors through the cosmic galaxy. The Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe (Prince Felipe Science Museum), inspired by whale skeletons, features interwoven steel frames full of dynamic tension. Its interactive "forbidden not to touch" concept makes scientific exploration full of fun. The entire City of Arts and Sciences is surrounded by reflective pools and swaying palm trees, with pure white buildings complementing the clear sky. Every corner holds a surprise. Here, art and science coexist, future and reality intertwine, and Valencia's romance and avant-garde spirit are fully expressed.

If you're looking for a less-traveled trip to Spain, Valencia is definitely worth a stop. Join me to unlock this vibrant and open city and create an unforgettable travel experience. Valencia's city center isn't large, making it easy to get around by taxi and bus. If you don't want to plan ahead, you can simply copy this 4-day itinerary: 📆Day 1 ✔️City of Arts and Sciences (La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) A beautiful and relaxing place. On a sunny day, it perfectly solves the problem of seeing the Sydney Opera House from the "Maldives." ✔️Turia Garden (Turia Garden) Built along the Turia River, this 10-kilometer-long park is a true urban oasis. You can leisurely cycle around, enjoying the lawns, sculptures, and locals lounging around – a truly relaxing experience. 📆Day 2 ✔️Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda) A symbol of 15th-century European commercial prosperity, featuring distinctive late Gothic architecture. ✔️Mercedes Central (Mercedes Central Market) As Europe's largest fresh food market, food lovers shouldn't miss it. A variety of freshly cut seafood sashimi is available. A Feast for the Senses ✔️Valencia Cathedral (La iglesia catedral-basílica metropolitana de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora de Valencia) The magnificent Baroque style makes the cathedral one of the most eye-catching sights in the city. If interested, you can also go inside to admire the Renaissance frescoes. ✔️Hortensia Herrero Art Center Located in the former Valerioira Palace, it was transformed into an art space after 5 years of restoration. It's a cultural landmark that combines historical architecture with modern art. 📆Day 3 ✔️Bioparc, Valencia Zoo The zoo is primarily African-themed. The animals live in a semi-wild environment. Flamingos, rhinos, lions, chimpanzees, and hippos can be seen up close. It's like a miniature version of an animal kingdom. ✔️Albufera Natural Park The lake has a very healthy ecosystem. Take a boat ride through the reeds and watch the white clouds drift by. Very therapeutic 📆Day 4 ✔️Oceanogràfic, Valencia Europe's largest marine park, always bustling with activity. The park is divided into several different areas, featuring a wide variety of marine animals and shows, making it perfect for families. ✔️Bin Hui Restaurant A must-try in Valencia is paella. This time, I tried the restaurant run by Chef Jiang Bin Hui. Chef Jiang is from Fujian and has won first place in Spain and second place globally in the World Paella Competition. His understanding of seafood is truly unique. The paella was incredibly sweet and fresh with crab meat. The fried shrimp appetizer was also so delicious I couldn't stop eating it. It's even more suitable for Chinese palates.

📅 Itinerary Day1:city center Day2: gulliver and city center 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel El Siglo 🍴 Food Recommendations: Hundred 📌 Tips Perdersi tra i vicoli della città e farsi travolgere dal costante clima festos#travel2026 #valenciatravel

♥️♥️♥️♥️#travel

Ready for a Valencia city break that hits all the right notes? 😎🌴 From sun-soaked plazas to dreamy beach clubs and fresh churros, here’s my 3-night itinerary in Spain’s coastal gem—you’ll want every bit of it! Top Spots to Visit: 1. San Tommaso (Calle Correjería, 39, Barrio La Seu, 46001): Classic Italian vibes with Spanish flair—book a table for dinner and savor their fresh breads. Pro tip: Ask for outside seating for golden hour. 2. Horchateria Daniel (Colón Market, C/Jorge Juan, 19, Cube 4, 46004): Mid-day pick-me-up alert! Try their signature horchata. It’s creamy and cool, perfect for sunny Valencian afternoons. Find them inside the lively Colón Market. 3. Marina Beach Club (Marina de Valencia, 46001, Open 12:00–04:00): Chill by the sea, sip cocktails, or dive into the pool. Go for sunset and stay for the beats—best atmosphere in the city! 4. Gran Mercat (Av. de Maria Cristina, 12, 46001): Foodies, rejoice! This indoor market is all about authentic Spanish flavors. Early mornings are less crowded. Try local breads and fresh produce! 5. Plaza de la Virgen (Carrer de Colón, 11, L’Eixample, 46004): The historic heart—snap photos of classic Western-style buildings and people-watch by the fountains. Getting Around: Walk or hop on the city metro—Valencia is compact! Taxis are easy near the major spots but bikes are fun too along the beach front. Eat Like a Local: Don’t leave without grabbing churros at Gran Mercat and pairing horchata at Daniel. Dine late—Spaniards love their 9pm start. Essential Tips: Most places accept cards, but have some cash for market snacks. Sunny days call for hats and water bottles. Local buses run till late. #ValenciaVibes #SpanishEats #TravelSmart #CityBreak #Tripdotcom #valencia #CoastalSpain

Just outside Valencia lies a hidden gem where beach and nature meet in perfect harmony. Playa de la Devesa offers golden sands and calm waters, while right behind it stretches the vast La Devesa del Saler nature preserve. Here you’ll find sand dunes, pine forests, and wetlands full of life. 🏖️🌲 It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, with herons, ducks, and even flamingos visiting the area. Walk along quiet trails, spot turtles basking in the sun, or simply enjoy the fresh air surrounded by lush greenery. The mix of wild Mediterranean coastline and protected wildlife makes it an unforgettable escape from the city, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking peace and beauty. ✨

#mytraveldiary Nestled just north of Valencia, Parc Natural de la Serra Calderona is a protected mountainous region offering a scenic escape into Mediterranean forests, rocky ridges, and traditional villages. Known for its biodiversity and outdoor recreation opportunities, it’s a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. Ambience & Landscape The park features rolling hills, dense pine and holm oak forests, limestone cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints over the Valencian countryside. Winding trails and quiet dirt roads provide access to secluded spots, while small rural villages add cultural charm to the natural setting. Activities & Experiences Visitors can explore an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, ranging from gentle walks to challenging climbs. Wildlife spotting is common, with species like wild boar, deer, and various birds inhabiting the forested areas. Seasonal guided tours offer insights into local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. Cultural & Local Highlights Traditional villages within the park, such as Serra and Náquera, offer glimpses of rural Valencian life. Local cuisine—like artisanal cheeses, olive oil, and rice dishes—can be sampled in small taverns, creating a cultural complement to the natural experience. Access & Practical Info The park is accessible by car from Valencia in about 30–40 minutes. Key trailheads and viewpoints are well-signposted, and maps are available at visitor centers. Early morning visits are ideal for wildlife encounters and enjoying the crisp mountain air. Final Thoughts Parc Natural de la Serra Calderona combines rugged natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and authentic Valencian culture. It’s a perfect destination for travelers seeking a tranquil, scenic escape just outside the city, where nature and tradition coexist harmoniously.

#mytraveldiary The Palauet de Nolla, located in Meliana just outside Valencia, is a striking example of 19th-century industrial and artistic heritage. Once the residence and showroom of the Nolla ceramic factory, it is a building that embodies the marriage of craftsmanship, innovation, and beauty. Architecture & Design The palace is instantly recognizable for its polychrome ceramic tiles, showcasing the refined mosaics that made Nolla tiles world famous. Its façade and interiors are decorated with geometric motifs and vibrant patterns, blending traditional Valencian artistry with influences from neo-Gothic and Romantic styles. Historical Significance During its peak, the Palauet de Nolla served as a space to display the excellence of the factory’s ceramic work to international clients. Nolla tiles were exported across Europe and used in grand palaces, cathedrals, and prestigious buildings, making the Palauet both a residence and a living catalogue of design. Visiting Experience Stepping into the Palauet is like walking into a mosaic dream. Though restoration continues, the richly decorated floors, walls, and details reflect the artistry of a bygone era. Its serene setting in Meliana adds to the sense of discovering a hidden treasure just beyond Valencia’s bustle. Why Visit For lovers of design, architecture, and cultural history, the Palauet de Nolla is a must-see. It offers insight into Valencia’s industrial legacy while dazzling the eye with its intricate ceramic artistry. Final Thoughts The Palauet de Nolla is more than a building—it is a mosaic masterpiece that tells the story of Valencia’s artistic ambition and global influence in decorative arts. A visit here is a step into a world of color, craft, and cultural pride.

Clean water and a lot to see.

lagos#beachlife de quesa

#summervacay Okay, if you’re into waterfalls and super chill hikes, Ruta de las 3 Cascadas near Anna in Valencia is calling your name. It’s literally a short trail that links three dreamy cascades, each with its own vibe. You start out thinking “oh this is cute,” and by the third waterfall, you’re fully living your main character moment. The path is easy enough for casual walkers (yes, even in sneakers), and it loops through some super green, peaceful nature. Expect birds chirping, water flowing, and the occasional lizard sunbathing. You’ll hit Gorgo Gaspar, Gorgo de la Escalera (which has epic stairs carved into the rock!), and Gorgo Catalán. Bring your swimsuit because the water is totally swimmable, freezing, but worth it. Perfect for a half-day adventure that feels way more magical than effortful. Pack snacks, water, and maybe a towel. It's nature's version of a spa day, minus the pricey bill. Total serotonin boost. Don’t skip this one!

#summervacay if you’re craving a nature escape without hiking up a mountain or sweating buckets, Albufera de Anna is the spot. Tucked away in Valenciana, this dreamy little lake is all about laid-back vibes, clear water, and plenty of shady picnic spots. Seriously, it’s like summer camp but for adults (and less awkward). You can rent paddle boats, chill under the trees, or just float around and do absolutely nothing, which, let’s be honest, sounds amazing. There’s even a waterfall nearby (Gorgo de la Escalera) if you’re down for a short walk and a dip in a hidden swimming hole. Bring snacks, a speaker, and maybe a floatie if you wanna go full chill mode. It’s super family-friendly but also perfect for a cute day trip with friends or a no-effort nature date. Plus, there’s a restaurant right by the water, so you’re never too far from paella. Nature + food + lake = win. Add it to your Valenciana to-do list ASAP!

Mediterranean Coast Tour of Spain ~ Girona (Region) The bell tower we see is the remains of the 12th-century Church of Santa Maria, which was rebuilt in the 14th century and modified in the 18th century. The church was burned down during the Spanish Civil War in 1936, and what we see today are its ruins. Currently, this site houses the local tourism office, and for a modest fee of €1.5, you can visit the bell tower. Climbing up, you'll first encounter narrow and worn old stairs, followed by newer metal ones. From the upper terrace, the view is breathtaking—a 360° panoramic vista showcasing mountain ranges that span across different countries.

Mediterranean Coast Tour of Spain ~ Valencia (Region) This is an ideal place for sea watching, sunbathing, reading, running, and walking. Additionally, there is a children's playground in the back, making it a great spot for family outings. If you are looking for a quiet and beautiful place in Valencia to enjoy outdoor activities, this location is definitely a great choice. With the sea, blue sky, sailboats, and tranquility, it is perfect for sitting down to reflect, read, appreciate, think, and remember... a beautiful place.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Valencia (Region) This is the first bridge that people see when entering Valencia, and until 1518 it was built of wood, but was rebuilt in stone after being destroyed by a storm. There is now a park and Turia Gardens under the bridge. The Turia River was diverted to a new channel in the 1950s and destructive floods no longer threaten the city. The 18 bridges now stand on what was once the riverbed, which is now parks, gardens and promenades, a reminder that it was once a mighty river. Restored between 2005 and 2009, it is a completely pedestrian bridge and is considered one of the most important bridges as it is located in front of the Puerta de Serranos, the main gate of Valencia. #February2025 #SpainTravel #Valencia #AncientBridges

Turia Gardens, built in the late 20th century, were established after the catastrophic flood of 1957, when the river was diverted to a new artificial channel south of the city. Designed by Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill, it is described as 'a work that utilizes the symbolic power of certain rhythms and references to Moorish gardens.' The park is divided into several sections, each with its own characteristics; thus, the first section features bike paths and cycling lanes, as well as sports facilities, including an athletics track and a multi-purpose sports area, football fields, rugby fields, baseball fields, and a skating rink, while other areas have more traditional gardens. Notably, the Palau Gardens area is home to the Music Palace Auditorium and the work of Valencian architect José María García Paredes.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Valencia (Region) The section of the city wall that I have seen several times when I have visited this town is the section of the city wall that you can see on the left as you go down Luis Sunil Avenue. The preserved remains of the city walls date back to the 12th century and were built with the materials used at the time, namely lime and stone masonry (a technique using huge stones made of lime and sand, framed by wood), and are listed as a cultural property and a national historical and artistic heritage. #February2025 #SpainTravel #Valencia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Valencia (Region) Located in the Moorish area of the town of Oliva, this church was built on an ancient Mudéjar mosque from the 15th century and was later rebuilt in the 19th century. It features a beautiful tower from the 20th century, standing over 5 meters tall. The dome and neoclassical exterior are particularly striking from the outside. Inside, you must see the neoclassical main altarpiece, but most importantly, the Baroque-style Christian church and its beautiful murals painted by an Italian artist. The important day to celebrate Christ is May 1st, known as 'Day of the Cross.' On this day, various associations, neighborhood groups, and institutions decorate the streets with large crosses filled with flowers. Although the festival of the Sant Roc parish, Sant Roc, is on May 3rd, this is an important day to celebrate the festival of Crist de Sant Roc, with the main activities including numerous ceremonies and processions through the narrow streets of Raval de la Mare de Déu.

This time we are facing an excellent archaeological site that represents a great example of museumification and the integration of historical heritage into the urban landscape. This site is located in the archaeological basement of an existing building foundation, but it perfectly reveals the discovered remains, which have been respected and restored. Therefore, what you see are the original factories, well-preserved and intact, as the entire route is along a pedestrian walkway above the ruins. Speaking of the archaeological site itself, what can be seen in this space are the remains of the Roman road of Cardo city (including the sewer), with large limestone slabs neatly arranged on the pavement. It was once an entrance route to the city and later became a commercial street. It is very interesting to observe the traces of different periods and uses of the road, being able to distinguish the cemetery remains of the initial stage, the porches and house remains of the imperial stage, and finally the medieval houses in the middle of the road from the later period. All of this can be perfectly seen, with excellent signage that allows you to understand the different elements that have been perfectly preserved. Another part of the archaeological space is occupied by the secondary decuman, with sewage and access to various houses and the remains of several buildings from the Roman period and later periods, especially two domus that were renovated and reused during the medieval period. Due to the superimposition of different architectural layers, the structure of the area is somewhat complex to understand and identify, but their state when discovered is commendable. In short, at this site, you can observe two well-preserved Roman roads, and the surrounding buildings are also well-preserved, helping to understand them as a whole. This is also an admirable example of implementing archaeological sites in an urban environment. In fact, it is close to the city center, not only showing us that the ancient Saguntum continues to survive underground but also indicating that its safety can be ensured through relevant actions. At that time, an appointment was required to enter, but this time I was able to enter directly without any procedures.