Sofía Isabel & David George
Things To Do
Danny Ocean Concert
Danny Ocean, a Venezuelan singer/songwriter, is having a concert on July 6 in Valencia! Sofia and I will be there. Feel free to join us if you arrive early! Buy tickets at the link below.
Plaça del Mercat
This is one of the oldest and largest food markets in Europe, housed in a Art Nouveau building. Go in the morning (it closes at 3:00 PM). Grab a fresh fruit juice, buy some jamón ibérico cones, and just marvel at the architecture.
Valencia Cathedral
Yes, the Vatican recognizes this cathedral as the home of the actual Holy Grail used at the Last Supper. The Miguelete Tower: If you are up for a climb, take the 207 spiraling steps up the bell tower for the single best 360-degree view of the city.
La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia
Across from the Central Market A UNESCO World Heritage site that looks like a castle from Game of Thrones. It was the financial center of Valencia in the 15th century. It only takes about 20 minutes to see, but the main hall is amazing.
Plaça de la Mare de Déu
A beautiful pedestrian square behind the cathedral. It’s the perfect spot to sit at a cafe, order a coffee, and people-watch.
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this complex is world-famous. Even if you don't go inside the museums, walking around the exterior pools and futuristic white buildings is a must-do photo op. Oceanogràfic: The largest aquarium in Europe. Great if you are traveling with kids. L'Umbracle: A landscaped walk with indigenous plants and sculptures. Open to the public for free.
Jardín del Turia
Valencia diverted its river after a flood in the 1950s and turned the dry riverbed into a massive 9-kilometer park that wraps around the city. Rent a bike! It is flat, green, and the best way to get from the Old Town to the City of Arts and Sciences without dealing with traffic.
Rules of Paella
Valencia is the birthplace of Paella. Lunch Only: Locals only eat paella for lunch (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM). If you order it for dinner, you are signaling you are a tourist! Authentic Spots: Try Casa Carmela (near the beach, needs reservation weeks in advance) or La Pepica (historic favorite). For a countryside experience, head to El Palmar.
Horchatería de Santa Catalina
A sweet, creamy drink made from tiger nuts (not dairy!), served with a long pastry for dipping. Try it at Horchatería Santa Catalina. It’s located in the old town and tiled with beautiful ceramics.
Calle Playa Malvarrosa & Calle Playa Patacona
Valencia is a beach city! Malvarrosa: The main beach, lively and full of restaurants. Patacona: A bit further north, slightly trendier and more relaxed with cute "Chiringuitos" (beach bars) for a drink in the sand.
Carrer de Colón
The main shopping street with all the major brands (Zara, Mango, etc.). Note: Zara is significantly cheaper in Spain than in the US!
Carrer del Poeta Querol
The "Golden Mile" for luxury brands (Louis Vuitton, Loewe, etc.).
Russafa
The hipster/bohemian area. Full of vintage stores, small boutiques, art galleries, and great coffee shops.