sights in valencia spain ...

This Mediterranean city is not just of historic interest but offers several other attractions ...

Its wonderful Oceanográfico - or Oceanic Aquarium - is the biggest in Europe and a delight to children as well as adults.

In 2007, the 32nd America´s Cup Sailing Race was hosted there.

But ... let´s start with an overview of the city ...

sights in valencia spain - overview

Valencia Spain is capital of the Comunidad Valenciana or Region of Valencia and is situated on the Mediterranean/east coast of the country, just over half-way down.

Famous for being the place where El Cid (Spain´s national hero) fought against the Moors, it possesses two urban beaches within the township, plus several beaches just a bus ride away - Cullera, Gandía, Oliva ...

Valencia possesses a good, modern shopping center, a pulsating night-life, plus plenty to interest children - Gulliver Park Playground, Botanical Gardens, Zoo, Oceanic Aquarium ...

The city´s most important fiesta is the Fallas - lasting from 15-19 March.

Easter Week is also much celebrated, with splended processions.

sights in valencia spain - main attractions

At the heart of old Valencia is Plaza de la Virgen - one-time location of the Roman Forum.

Around this beautiful square is the Cathedral - dating from 1262 - and its octagonal bell tower called Micalet or Miguelete - landmark to Valencia.

The Cathedral´s Museum displays works by such wonderful artists as Goya, Jacomart, Cellini and Paggibonsi.

Next to the Cathedral is Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados - temple dedicated to the patroness of Valencia, built between 1652 and 1667.

Close by are such buildings as Almudín, Iglesia de San Esteban, Palacio de Almirantes de Aragón, Church San Juan del Hospital and the Convento de Santo Domingo.

The River Turia was diverted around the city after a catastrophical flood in 1957, with the Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno now located in the old river bed.

Discover its three old bridges - Puente del Real, Puente de la Trinidad and Puente de Serranos.

At the Plaza del Mercado you will find La Lonja - one of the best civil Gothic buildings in Europe.

At its side is the Baroque church Iglesia de los Santos Juanes plus bell tower Campanil de la Iglesia de Santa Catalina.

Other buildings of note include Palacio de la Generalidad, the Town Gate or Torres de Quart and the Rococo-style Palacio del Marquis de Dos Aguas.

Barrio del Carmen is an area representative of traditional Valencian life, while El Ensanche is more modern.

sights in valencia spain - gardens

Valencia is also known as the land of flowers - its parks and gardens reflect this with Jardines de la Alameda, Jardines de Montforte, "Real" Gardens, Zoological Garden, plus Botanical Gardens.

sights in valencia spain - airport

Although no trains run from Valencia Airport into the city, there are regular, cheap buses.

A taxi from the Airport to the city center will cost you about 15 euros.

Click here for lots of great deals to Valencia!

related articles

Brief Guide To Madrid.

Brief Guide To Barcelona.

Brief Guide To Seville.

List of Cities of Spain.

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