Welcome to Valencia!
Located on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city with a population of some 800,000. Although this bustling city boasts a wonderful historic center full of gothic and baroque architecture, it is also famous for its modernist monuments and architecture.
One of the major tourist attractions is the magnificent ‘La Seu’, Valencia’s Cathedral. The Cathedral hosts the oldest museum in the city (Sala Capitular) which contains the Holy Chalice of Valencia, believed by many to be the mythical Holy Grail. Several excellent museums and art galleries contain works by Spanish masters El Greco, Goya and Velázquez. Another architectural wonder is Valencia’s old silk market, ‘La Lonja de la Seda’, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the best preserved and most stunning examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. Another ‘must see’ attraction is the amazing City of Arts and Sciences designed by the renowned Valencian architect, engineer and sculptor, Santiago Calatrava. Visitors should also be sure to visit the Valencia Aquariaum, L’Oceanografic, which houses the largest aquarium of marine life in Europe.
Las Fallas, Valencia’s biggest festival and the highlight event of the year, takes place every March from the 15 to the19th. Attracting up to 2 million people, the festival provides an unforgettable spectacle of fires, fireworks, explosions, shows and parades. The city is adorned with giant paper maché figures, lampooning politicians, film stars, bullfighters and anyone of local, national or international fame. The festival culminates with the burning of these monumental figures on March 19th.
Culinary treats await you in a myriad of restaurants and lively tapas bars. The region is known as the home of paella, Spain’s most famous dish. The mild and usually sunny weather (between 19° and 9° in March) will help make your visit all the more enjoyable. Take the time to shop in the trendy area of ‘Colon’ with its many boutiques, stroll through the beautiful Turia Gardens, or simply bask in the sun along the city’s many sandy beaches. It’s easy to get around as the city offers excellent public transportation.
We hope to welcome you to Valencia…¡hasta la vista!