Valencia city centre

21^st March 2025

I continue today with my running series on top places to buy and live in Spain. You can find older entries on this series scrolling down below. These impromptu light-hearted guides are not meant to be exhaustive; they are just there as a lighthouse to shed light on an area’s main highlights and landmarks.

Valencia: A fusion of tradition, innovation, and Mediterranean charm

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city after Madrid and Barcelona, is a destination where the old meets the new, creating a captivating blend of historic charm and modern innovation. Located on the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula along the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia has long been a hub of culture, trade, and industry. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a seeker of sun-soaked beaches, Valencia offers something for everyone.

A rich historical legacy

Valencia traces back its roots two thousand years to Roman times. Romans founded a military outpost (Valentia Edetanorum, 'city of the brave') to safeguard territory against an increasingly assertive Carthage. It settled it with veteran legionaries and eventually grew into a colony. The site was carefully chosen as it had a natural bay for the safe mooring of ships and was conveniently close to the river Turia.

The city boasts a wealth of historical landmarks that reflect its complex and fascinating past. The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences), although modern, is built on the city's historical legacy of ingenuity and design. The La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)  stands as a testament to Valencia's medieval prosperity, when it was one of Europe's most important commercial centres. The Torres de Serranos (Serranos Towers) and La Catedral de Valencia (Valencia Cathedral), home to the famed Holy Grail, are also must-visit landmarks, offering glimpses into the city's past.

Valencia is the capital city of the autonomous region of Valencia, one of the richest and most powerful in Spain.

Valencia: Cradle of artists, intellectuals and businesspersons

During its twenty-two hundred years of history, Valencia has been the birthplace of several renowned figures, ranging from artists to writers, and everything in between. Valencia has a long-standing tradition, dating back a millennia, of being the birthplace of some of the sharpest minds in business in the country. I’ve greatly abridged the list to name the main ones. To name a few, and in no particular order:

Joanot Martorell (knight and writer), Jaime I The Conqueror (king and gifted military commander), Juan Roig Alfonso (city benefactor, generous businessman, and supermarket mogul ‘Mercadona’), Vicente Blasco Ibáñez (journalist and writer), Luis García Berlanga (lauded movie director), Joaquín Sorolla (master painter), Carlos Marzal (writer), Javier Mariscal (graphic designer), Juan José Millás (writer), Santiago Calatrava (avant-garde architect), Juan Carlos Ferrero (tennis player), Cristina Seguí García (journalist, youtuber, and political activist), Nino Bravo (singer), Ausiàs March (knight and poet), Celia Forner Venturi (model and businesswoman), Pablo Motos Burgos (comedian, tv showman, and businessman), Luis Vives (humanist), Antonio Ozores (actor and writer), Concha Piquer (née María de la Concepción Piquer López, singer), Isabel Clara Simó (writer), Camilo Sesto (né Camilo Blanes Cortés, singer), Lluís Fullana i Mira (writer, philologist, and father of the Valencian language), Nuria Roca (model and tv hostess), and Hugo Reyes Navarrete (self-made businessman, youtuber, and financial coach).  

Modernity and innovation

Valencia is known for its vibrant, forward-thinking atmosphere. The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a perfect example of Valencia's cutting-edge architecture. With its futuristic structures, this iconic cultural complex includes the Oceanografic (Europe's largest aquarium), Hemisférico (an IMAX theater and planetarium), and Palacio de las Artes Reina Sofía (a stunning opera house). This area of the city represents Valencia’s ability to innovate while staying true to its cultural roots.

The rise of new technology and sustainable development is another key aspect of Valencia’s modern identity. The city is positioning itself as a leader in green technology and digital transformation, with smart city initiatives to improve quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Malvarrosa beach, Valencia city

Mediterranean lifestyle

No trip to Valencia would be complete without experiencing the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. The city is home to miles of beautiful coastline, with sandy beaches such as Malvarrosa and Patacona offering the perfect escape from the bustling city centre. Here, locals and tourists alike enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade, indulge in delicious paella (the region’s signature dish), or simply relax under the Mediterranean sun.

The city's mild climate makes it an ideal year-round destination, with long, warm summers and pleasant winters. Alongside the beaches, Valencia's green spaces, like the Jardín del Turia (Turia Gardens), an expansive park that stretches across the city, offer residents a tranquil retreat amidst urban life.

City of Arts and Sciences

The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, designed by Calatrava, is a leisure and scientific complex which has become an iconic landmark in the city and is comprised of several buildings:

• Oceanogràfic: It’s Europe’s largest aquarium home to over 500 species with daily dolphin shows for the wee ones and, erm, the young-at-heart.
• Hemisfèric: is a digital 3D cinema which features several documentaries on a 360° screen.
• Science Museum: it has interactive exhibitions and displays to engage its visitors.
• Palau de les Arts: is the go-to place for music lovers. It’s home to concerts, opera ballets, zarzuelas, etc.
• Umbracle: it’s an open-access garden where you can enjoy viewing Mediterranean plants and flowers.
• Ágora: houses permanent and temporary exhibits.
• L'Assut d'Or: iconic land bridge crossing the river Turia, which unites the Science Museum and the Ágora.

Museums

Valencia city is home to 34 museums, prepare to be spoiled for choice! I only list what I reckon are the main ones:

• Ceramics Museum: the Palace of Marqués de Dos Aguas hosts the largest collection of ceramics in the country. From the 18^th century to the contemporary period.
• Museum of Fine Arts: its permanent exhibition includes the works of masters such as Sorolla, Goya, and Velázquez.
• Science Museum: already listed above in the City of Arts and Sciences.
• The Fallas Museum: each year only one falla is pardoned by the public from the bonfire and joins the ranks of this museum as a permanent exhibition.

La Lonja de la Seda – The Silk Exchange

Founded in 1492, it is an emblematic gothic building in the city. It was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in December 1996. The gothic building is surrounded by sweetly scented orange groves. It used to harbour the commerce of silks from the East Indies.

Jardín del Turia – Gardens of Turia

Valencia is built on a plateau which is prone to flooding every year from the adjacent hills and ridges that surround it. Every decade there is a serious flash flood, such as the one from last October 2024. This has been happening since the Roman times. Due to the risk the river Turia posed to its inhabitants, and after the flash floods of October 1957, General Franco deviated the course of the riverbed in what is one of the few cases in recorded history. As a result, large swaths of land were freed up in the middle of the city which became known as the Gardens of Turia. It’s 9 km of sprawling lush green areas that traverse the city. This is one of Spain’s largest parks in an urban city. It has plenty of romantic spots; lads, if you are looking for a romantic place to declare, this is it. You can thank me later.

Festivals and celebrations: Fallas and La Tomatina

Valencia is home to one of Spain's most iconic festivals, Las Fallas. Held every March, this festival is an explosion of creativity, tradition, and fire. Large, intricate sculptures, made from wood and papier-mâché, are created to represent satirical depictions of current events and characters. At the end of the festival, these sculptures are set ablaze in a spectacular display of fire and fireworks. Las Fallas not only brings visitors from around the world but also reinforces the city's strong sense of community and pride in its cultural heritage.

The La Tomatina festival, held in the nearby town of Buñol, is another example of the region’s love for lively and energetic celebrations. Visitors from all over the world participate in the world-famous tomato fight, creating an unforgettable experience.

Mercat Central de Valencia

A bustling marketplace that showcases fresh produce, meats, and seafood along with local delicacies. You can enjoy freshly prepared food against a historic backdrop.

Valencia’s Cathedral

An eclectic blend of Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque styles. It allegedly houses Christianity’s Holy Grail. If you’re fit and willing, you can climb the Miguelete bell tower to enjoy 360° views over a magical city.

Gastronomy: A taste of Valencia

Valencia is widely known as the birthplace of paella, a dish that has become a symbol of Spanish cuisine worldwide. The traditional Valencian paella is made with a combination of rice, saffron, and locally sourced ingredients such as rabbit, chicken, and seafood. However, the city offers much more than paella. The local gastronomy is diverse and features a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including horchata (a refreshing sweet drink made from tiger nuts) and fideuà (a noodle-based dish similar to paella). Food enthusiasts will find a vibrant culinary scene, with everything from traditional tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Sustainable urban development

Valencia is becoming increasingly known for its commitment to sustainability. The city is taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint through a series of green initiatives, including the promotion of cycling, the use of renewable energy, and a focus on urban gardens. The Jardín del Turia, a former riverbed turned into one of the largest urban parks in Spain, exemplifies Valencia’s approach to creating green spaces within an urban environment. Additionally, Valencia's growing network of bike lanes and the city's commitment to public transportation make it one of the most eco-friendly cities in Spain.

Valencia: Spain’s orchard

I think no one can argue the best oranges in the world are grown in Valencia. These are the ones I have breakfast with every day. But Valencia is also home to some of the best vegetables and fruits grown in Spain and exported to the Union and the world. Truly, Valencia is Spain’s orchard.

Conclusion

Valencia seamlessly blends sunshine, culture, and leisure making it a crown jewel amongst Spanish cities.

Valencia’s future looks bright. With continued investment in infrastructure, cultural development, and green technology, the city is shaping up to be a global leader in both innovation and sustainability. As a growing hub for digital startups and a focal point for art and culture, Valencia is attracting talent and investment from across the world, further strengthening its position as a city of opportunity.

From its captivating history to its cutting-edge innovations, Valencia offers a perfect balance of tradition and modernity. With over 300 days of sunshine, low taxes, its Mediterranean charm combined with its dynamic growth, makes it an exciting place to visit and an even more exciting place to live.

Valencia, tierra de valientes y libres.

Valencia, land of the brave and free.

                                                                                                                      Nino Bravo

“Libre
Como el sol cuando amanece
Yo soy libre como el mar
Libre
Como el ave que escapó de su prisión
Y puede, al fin, volar
Libre
Como el viento que recoge
Mi lamento y mi pesar
Camino sin cesar
Detrás de la verdad
Y sabré lo que es al fin, la libertad.”

Loosely translated:

“Free
Like the sun at dawn
I am free like the sea
Free
Like the bird that escaped from its prison
And can, at last, fly
Free
Like the wind that gathers
My lament and my sorrow
I walk without ceasing
Behind the truth
And I will know what freedom is at last.”

Nino Bravo (1944 – 1973). Né Ferri Llopis. Was born in Aielo de Malferit (Valencia). Was a gifted singer with a powerful voice. He sang classics songs such as “Un beso y una flor", “America, America”, “Libre”, “Mi Tierra”, “Noelia”, and several more. Like so many great artists, before and since, he died young aged 29 from a car crash. He is one of Spain's greatest singers of all time.   

Other entries in this running series:

• Costa del Sol: your dream home in paradise – 8^th April 2022
• Sotogrande, the pearl of Cadiz – 3^rd June 2022
• Barcelona, the beautiful – 8^th November 2022
• Madrid, capital splendour – 21^st March 2023
• Mallorca: Heaven on Earth – 8^th June 2023
• Granada, the Last Kingdom – 12^th October 2023
• Seville, a dream city – 21^st March 2024
• Malaga, passion for life – 16^th September 2024
• Valencia, land of the brave – 21^st March 2025

Please note the information provided in this article is of general interest only and is not to be construed or intended as substitute for professional legal advice. This article may be posted freely in websites or other social media so long as the author is duly credited. Plagiarizing, whether in whole or in part, this article without crediting the author may result in criminal prosecution. Ní neart go cur le chéile. Voluntas omnia vincit.

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