Valencia in Spain

The port city of Valencia stands at the coastal confluence of the Turia River and the Mediterranean Sea, straddling its medieval heritage and classy modernity with equal ease. Its 11th century Moorish walls, 13th century Valencia Cathedral and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed La Lonja de la Seda (the Gothic mercantile exchange) boast of a rich historical legacy. Equally appealing are the city’s modern landmarks, from the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, the city’s avant-garde science and culture park, to the aquarium at L’Oceanogràfic, and the Valencia Bioparc with its preserved natural habitat and inhabitants. Like many other historic cities in the Mediterranean, Valencia is designed around an old city center lined with heritage architecture and a warren of little streets and alleys featuring artisan shops, cafes and restaurants. The restored Central Market of Valencia with over a 1,000 stalls is definitely worth a visit. Don’t forget that Valencia is right by the sea, so a trip to Malvarrosa Beach is a must-do for soaking up the Spanish sun.