A prestigious location by the sea and the mountains, Valencia is large in size (about 800,000 inhabitants, the third largest city in Spain). But it is even greater in its cultural and gastronomic dimensions. Beyond its magical Fallas, the capital of the Turia, fervent and welcoming 365 days a year, it is full of appealing activities.
Trip to the center of Valencia
The best option to exploreValencia and its surroundings is by renting a car in Valencia with OK Mobility at the airport. It is only eight kilometers from Manises to the center. We recommend that you dedicate two or three days to take stock of the historic center and outlying areas. Park your car in the old town, grab a bike and explore the Levantine capital in the open air. But, do as the locals do and, before leaving on your expedition, recharge your batteries with a good 'esmorzaret'.
Barrio del Carmen: the historic heart of Valencia
The old town, the Ciutat Vella, is one of the largest in the Iberian Peninsula. It reflects all possible artistic styles, the result of the peculiar history of the city. We will start our route through Valencia in the Barrio del Carmen -bohemian, chic and highly coveted by food lovers-, a beautiful labyrinth of medieval origin full of cobbled streets. Be sure to visit one of these almost secret passages, such as the Portal de la Valldigna, the ancient separation between the Moorish and Christian cities. Do not miss the Roman and Muslim remains in the Plaza de l'Almoina, spectacular archaeological jewels to travel back in time. A stone's throw away stands the cathedral and the much-loved Micalet (its bell tower). Its 207 steps are worth climbing in order to get the best panoramic views of the Levantine capital. Something you ought to stop and photograph is the House of Cats an extremely curious mini building.
More must-see stops in El Carmen
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Lonja de la Seda shows the effervescence of Valencia's textile business in the 15th century. Next to it you will find the Central Market, a marvel of modernist architecture, as well as a gourmet paradise. It is said to be home to the best fresh produce in Europe. Ideal to stop and recharge your batteries with a tasty portion of typical Valencian gastronomy.
You cannot leave this stimulating neighborhood without entering the IVAM, a modern art museum with an enviable heritage.
Beyond the walls: must-see visits
Considered one of the greatest exponents of modern architecture, visit the City of Arts and Sciences.
It is a huge recreational-cultural complex that will fascinate you. This small city is home to the spectacular Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe with more than 45,000 animals and 500 species. There you can immerse yourself in an exciting adventure. Next, we suggest a walk through the oasis of Valencia: the Turia Gardens. One of the largest urban parks in Spain, you will see ancient bridges that pass over forests and sports fields. Places that once occupied the Turia riverbed before it was diverted. A most unusual image.
Let's turn our eyes to the sea
Around lunchtime or at sunset are always good times to drive to the beaches of Valencia, a city that has always been mostly river-based. La Malvarrosa - where you can find centenary restaurants that offer exquisite paellas - is the most loved by the locals.
They still remember when the boats would come to shore and they could buy the fish right there and then. We also suggest a walk along the Saler, a more intimate and wild beach. Enjoy the salty and authentic taste of the Poblados Marítimos (El Grao, El Cabanyal, Cañaveral and Cap de França). Enjoy an amalgam of contrasts where the light, the heat and the Mediterranean breeze spread a state of mind.
The Albufera of Valencia, a natural treasure
You cannot leave Valencia without visiting La Albufera a natural park with the largest freshwater lake in Spain.
It is only 10 kilometers from the city. With an enormous ecological richness, we suggest you enjoy this hypnotic place by boat. Filled with swampy rice fields, reeds and mud, dunes and forest, the traditional huts coexist with birds, fish and reptiles, creating a very special culture and gastronomy.
And after this lively route through Valencia that we have prepared, you only need to book your vehicle here. We offer you the highest quality guaranteed and always at the best price. Come and join us!
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