A Getaway in Valencia

What to see, apart from parties and sandy beaches?

Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and offers sun, beaches and beautiful architecture. It’s a blend of old and new buildings, from ancient castles to modern and Art Deco style. Plaza de la Reina or Queen’s Square in the old town is one of Valencia’s most beautiful squares. It’s the place where you can find something to eat, but only if your wallet is big enough, otherwise you should visit the neighbouring streets if you’re looking for something cheaper and better. In that case, it’s best to find an establishment where you’ll see (and hear) the locals and grab a Valencian paella.

Plaza Redonda is a bit different. It’s where you’ll find interesting stalls and shops where vendors sell silk, aprons, handmade items and souvenirs, as well as birds, in case you’re looking for a pet. One of the most interesting things in Valencia, and also one of the more controversial ones, is that the Holy Grail, from which Jesus drank, is said to be located in the city. Of course, many cities claim to be the home of the Holy Grail, but both the cathedral and the Holy Grail are still worth visiting, plus you can climb the cathedral’s tower and enjoy the view of the city. Are you still interested in the legend? According to the legend, the Holy Grail left Rome. When Muslim rulers took over Spain, they hid the Grail for centuries and then returned it to the city in 1427. It was because of that that the city was almost named “City of the Holy Grail”, and the idea behind it was to attract more tourists.

And if you’re into art, Valencia’s outskirts will definitely impress you. City of Arts and Sciences is undoubtedly one of the most interesting centres hosting cultural and science exhibitions in Europe. It has six main areas, a cinema, an interactive science museum, an area with an incredible view, an aquarium, an opera house and a concert hall. Another point of interest is the National Museum of Ceramics in the city centre which opened in 1947 and exhibits astounding 5,000 pottery crafts items from all over the world.

Want to find out more?

Mojca Finc wrote an excellent travel article about food, sports and the Spanish temperament. It’s definitely worth reading! And our volunteer Pira spent a whole month in Valencia as part of our HI Connect programme. She says it was an incredible experience. You’re welcome to check out her article.

Where to find cheap accommodation in Valencia?

Valencia offers excellent HI hostels where you can also get 10% off if you have a membership card. As the name implies, Hostel Center Valencia is located in the city centre, specifically in the Barrio del Carmen neighbourhood, and offers accommodation to solo travellers as well as families and groups. And, what’s best, it’s located just a few minutes’ walk from the most popular tourist spots and the vibrant night life.

Did you know?

• Valencia is the birthplace of paella. You haven’t tasted “the real” paella until you’ve tried one in Valencia.
• In Valencia, Spanish isn’t the only language you’ll hear in the streets. People there also speak Valencian, a Catalan dialect. And the locals are very proud of their language.
• Try the horchata, a local drink made of soaked tiger nuts, which can be bought in the streets where it’s also the best place to buy it.
• Valencia is the only Spanish city with two American football teams in the LNFA Serie A league.

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