Valencia

The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, or City of Arts and Sciences, is a cultural and architectural complex designed by Santiago Calatrava that has become the number one attraction in Valencia. Walking around and taking photos of the stunning buildings is a pleasure in itself, and that does not cost anything. However, it is well worth the entrance fee to explore the various exhibits inside.

Valencia’s Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and the home of the Holy Grail–the only one certified by the Vatican. Its tower, the Miguelete, is a true icon of Valencia. Climb up to the top for great views of the city.

Since the Turia river was diverted south of the city after serious flooding in the 1950s, its former riverbed has become one of the best places in Valencia to go for a stroll, offering 9 km of gardens, children’s playgrounds and sports facilities.

The museum is housed in the former headquarters of the Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda (Silkmakers Guild), a beautiful 15th-century Gothic building restored to its former glory. It takes visitors through Valencia’s Golden Age when it was the epicentre of the silk trade.

This small church in the district of El Carmen is known as Valencia’s Sistine Chapel. The spectacular frescoes that cover its ceiling, dating from the 17th century, have recently been restored to their full glory.

One of the most beautiful examples of Modernist architecture in the city, the Colon Market is home to several cafes and restaurants, and a good place to pick up interesting crafts and gifts, particularly at the Christmas market.

The two squares that surround the Cathedral are at the heart of Valencian life. The many bars and restaurants lining the squares are always buzzing and their terraces are great places to relax in the sun and watch the world go by.

This playground is quite unusual and very much appreciated by the children. If you look closely you will see that the whole playground consists of a large giant, hence the name "Gulliver".

The University of Valencia's Botanical Garden has its roots in the orchard that was established in the 16th century to facilitate the teaching of botany. The garden boasts an impressive collection of over 3,000 species of trees and plants from various regions of the world. Its collection of palm trees, tropical shrubs, cacti, and desert flora is particularly noteworthy.

Constructed around 1261, this Gothic church is one of the oldest in the city and is believed to be the first church to be built following the Christian conquest. It has a single nave with a pointed barrel vault ceiling. Visitors can appreciate the beautiful Santa Barbara chapel and other chapels adorned with Gothic-era painted murals while inside.

The Serrans Gate, also known as the Serranos Gate or Towers, is a Valencian Gothic structure built at the end of the 14th century. It is one of the twelve gates that used to be part of Valencia's ancient city wall, known as the Christian Wall. The towers were originally designed as defensive structures for one of the busiest city gates and now offer breathtaking views of the city and the Turia River.

Designed by Santiago Calatrava, The Hemisfèric was the first building in the City of Arts and Sciences to open to the public in 1998. It features an impressive ovoid roof that spans over 100 meters and houses a large sphere inside, which serves as the projection room. The Hemisfèric is a 3D IMAX cinema that provides a comfortable and educational respite for tired feet. You can relax in comfortable chairs and enjoy a visually spectacular film of your choosing.

The Oceanogràfic is is an oceanarium, which is part of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. With a surface area of 110,000 m2 and 42 million litres of water, it is the largest aquarium in Europe. Here you can see dolphins, sea lions, penguins, turtles, sharks and rays.

The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum is an interactive museum, part of the City of Arts and Sciences complex, dedicated to science, technology, and the environment. It features several floors of exhibits that will definitely put your brain cells to the test, all in a fun and educational way.

The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía is part of the City of Arts and Sciences. This opera house/performing arts centre has four auditoriums dedicated to music and scenic arts. The great acoustics, location, and surroundings are some of the reasons why this is becoming one of the most prestigious opera houses in Europe.