ValenciaTravel Guide

Santiago Calatrava's futuristic complex of white, bone-like structures holding an opera house, science museum, aquarium (Europe's largest), and IMAX cinema, built in the drained bed of the old Turia river.

A vast Art Nouveau covered market from 1928, still fully functioning — Valencia's produce, jamón, and seafood stalls under stained-glass and ceramic detail.

A cathedral claimed by local tradition to hold the actual Holy Grail — climb the Micalet bell tower for rooftop views over the old town.

A 9km park running through the old riverbed that once flooded the city, now Europe's largest urban park — connects most of Valencia's major sights end to end, popular for cycling.

Valencia's main city beach, a wide sandy stretch backed by a promenade of paella restaurants — a rare case of a major Spanish city having a genuinely good beach within a tram ride of the centre.

A freshwater lagoon south of the city, and the birthplace of paella — half-day trips combine a boat ride on the lagoon with a paella lunch at a rice-farming village restaurant.

A UNESCO-listed 15th-century silk exchange, its twisting column "Hall of Columns" considered one of the finest examples of civil Gothic architecture in Europe.

Valencia's trendiest neighbourhood, dense with tapas bars and independent restaurants — a good evening alternative to the more touristed old town.

Europe's largest aquarium, part of the City of Arts and Sciences complex, with a walk-through underwater tunnel and beluga whales among its residents.

A former fishing quarter near the beach with distinctive tiled facades, currently mid-revival with galleries and cafes moving into its historic houses.