Valéncia is a treat for the senses

Valéncia is a classy, elegant city, and it’s on the rise.

Whether you are looking for a Spanish city experience with atmospheric streetscapes, great offerings of food and wine, an exciting array of cultural venues and city parks, or you want to chill and have a seaside break on endless golden beaches, or both, Valéncia could be the destination for you. And you can fly direct from Cork Airport!

Here are ten recommendations for your visit to Valéncia:

1. The Old Town, Valéncia city centre

The origins of the city date back to the second century BC when it was established as a settlement for retired Roman legionaries. But its prominence as a city developed in the 14th and 15th centuries. Take in the elegance of this city, enjoy a drink on one of its innumerable terrace café’s, and soak up its atmosphere.

2. Turia Park

This is a truly amazing park, formed from what was once the bed of the River Turia, which ran through the city. Following a major flooding event in the 1950s, the city diverted the river to its southern channel and created a nine kilometre park that runs right through the heart of the city.

3. City of arts and sciences

This is a bold development of modern buildings housing museums, art galleries, and theatres developed over recent decades and designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, located at the end of Turia Park.

4. Silk Market

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an unparalleled example of Gothic architecture from the fifteen century. It is a must-see on any tour of the city.

5. The markets

The Central Market is the largest market for fresh produce in Europe, and the nearby Mercado de Colon are worth visiting for a feast for the senses.

6. Festivals

Valéncia boosts some tremendous festivals which draw tens of thousands to the city. They include the Fallas in March, followed by the Seafaring Holy Week and in July, the Feria de Valéncia.

7. Biopark

This zoo, located in the west of the city, near the start of Turia Park, has recreated the landscapes and savannahs of Africa.

8. Food and wine

Valéncia is the birthplace of one of Spain’s most famous dishes, the paella. If you want a casual dining experience, just stop off at one of the many bars and restaurants and sample their tapas with a glass of Valéncian wine. But if you like to enjoy some fine dining, Valéncia has many top-class restaurants, and including a number with Michelin stars.

9. Albufera Natural Park

Situated just ten kilometres south of the city is Albufera Natural Park, which has as its centrepiece the freshwater 2,300 hectare lake. Boat rides are just €5 per person and are a beautiful dreamlike experience, best enjoyed at sunset.

10. The beach and marina

The beach at Valéncia is truly stunning. It stretches from the marina in the south northward for almost ten kilometres. It is an expanse of golden sand 200 metres wide from the promenade to the sea along its length. The beach is superbly maintained, and there is never a problem finding a sunbed or a place to sit. Along the prom are many seaside restaurants, chiringuitos, serving great food.

Other things to know about Valéncia:

It is the European Green Capital, 2024, awarded by the European Commission.

Internations dubbed it the Best city to live in 2023.

2023 is the 100th anniversary of Valéncia’s celebrated artist Joaquim Sorolla.

Restaurant recommendations in Valéncia include: RiFF, Vertical (city centre), Balandret (seafront) and Nou Raco (Albufera).

Getting around - Valéncia has great bus, tram, metro, and taxi services. Walkers and cyclists are well catered for. From the airport you can take a bus, metro or taxi.

Get there from Cork Airport. Ryanair flies up to three times per week.

Ryanair flies to Valencia 6 times per week from Dublin Airport.