Valencia is one of the most beautiful and organized cities in Spain and Europe when it comes to tourism or studies.
Here are 5 of the most iconic places you need to visit if you’re coming to this incredible Mediterranean city.
1) Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias:
The icon of the city. One of the most recognizable places that Valencia has to offer. This is an architectural, cultural and entertainment complex designed by Santiago Calatrava and Felix Candela, and inaugurated in 1998. It’s located at the end of the Turia River, and it’s composed by 7 main structures, including:
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- Hemisfèric: Shaped like an eye and has an IMAX immersive cinema inside.
- Museu de les Ciènces, which is an interactive museum with the objective of promoting scientific and technological education.
- Umbracle: beautiful landscape walkway with a garden and sculptures, that serves as a green space full of nature and the entrance of the complex.
- Oceanográfico: The largest aquarium in Europe. This incredible structure has every marine ecosystem in the world, with a variety of spaces and spectacles that teach its visitors how to conserve the lives inside oceans and rivers.
- Palau de les Arts:This Opera House known for its modern architecture is a venue for concerts of all musical genres.
2) Plaza del Ayuntamiento (Town Hall Square)
The “Plaza del Ayuntamiento” is one of the most beautiful places in Valencia. It’s on the heart of the city, and it’s surrounded by gorgeous buildings in each corner of the square. Some of them include the Central Post Office, Fountain of Turia, Banco de Valencia and a lot of leisure establishments like the Valencia CF store, hotels, restaurants and bars.
To top it all off, the monumental Town Hall Building that you can visit inside, located in the middle of the square completes a landscape you will never forget.
3) Catedral de Valencia (Valencia Cathedral)
The Cathedral of Valencia, also known as the “Catedral Metropolitana – Basilica de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora de Valencia”, is the most important religious landmark in the valencian community, and in all Spain. The construction dates back to the 13th century, with the Gothic style being predominant in the structure, with also Romanesque and Baroque influencing the facade.
As an interesting fact, a lot of experts claim that this Cathedral is the house of the Holy Grail, a chalice used by Jesus during the Last Supper.
4) Mercado Central de Valencia and Mercado de Colón
Two different styles of markets, both with a unique charm that makes the city proud!
The Central Market is located in the heart of the city center, and was completed in 1928. Designed by Alejandro Solar March and Francisco Guardia, its modernist style makes it one of the most beautiful markets in Spain and Europe. You can find all the Spanish delicacies, from Iberian Ham and seafood to the famous “tapas” all around the market. You must visit the Central Market if you like architecture and good food!
The Mercado de Colón also has a modernist style on its façade, as it was built between 1914 and 1916, but inside you will find truly modern facilities. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee, eat delicious pastries and even buy clothes from the many stores inside. It can also host concerts and cultural exhibitions!
5) Torres de Serrano (Serrano Towers)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Valencia. These two massive medieval towers date as back as the 14th century, and were one of the city gates. They were part of the defense of the city of Valencia during medieval times, with a Gothic architecture that include arches, vaults, and a lot of decorative details.
The best part of all is that you can enter and climb the towers, to get an incredible view of the city!
Written by: Juan Montenegro, student of the Master in International Sport Management and content creator for ESBS
