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Valencia City Breaks

Spain
Valencia accommodation
Map

Stephanie Murray, Senior Short Break Specialist

"Spain’s third largest city, Valencia, lays claim to a fantastic mix of sights and landscapes. Don’t miss the City of Art and Sciences, Europe’s largest aquarium housed in the impressive Hemisfèric building. Stroll down the historic streets of El Carmen where you will find the Valencia Cathedral, an inspiring landmark of baroque, Romanesque and gothic design. Or visit one of the city’s three beaches for a stroll along the promenade and a sumptuous cuisine at a terrace restaurant with sea views."

Valencia at a glance

Valencia is a unique short break destination. Nestled between mountains and sea, the city’s dual landscape mirrors its charming blend of old and new. Historic sights and a rich tradition combine with futuristic architecture, a vibrant nightlife and lovely green spaces to create an experience of beautiful, varying landscapes and abundant attractions. 

With a history dating back to 138 BC, Valencia is one of the most historic cities in Spain.  Founded by the Romans, the city was under Moorish rule from the 8th to the 13th century. Islamic influence remains in the city to this day with historic sights such as the old town wall, the bath house and the Valencia Cathedral that was converted into a mosque. 

Perfect if you’re looking for

  • Historic sites
  • Picturesque setting
  • Art and culture

Getting around

Valencia is the perfect city break destination to explore on foot, but for those wanting to use public transport the city operates a bus and train service.  

Bikes are becoming a popular mode of transportation in Valencia, with a growing number of rental locations available throughout the city.

Shopping

New developments and established favourites make Valencia’s shopping experience variable and appealing. Whether you are looking for high street retailers, artisan boutiques, designer shops or open air markets, Valencia offers plenty of choice.

Dining in Valencia

It is difficult to not be impressed by the food in Valencia. With influences from neighbouring regions, the ingredients are fresh and often sourced locally, with rice, vegetables and seafood based dishes found on most menus. 

Must-try local dishes 

  • Gaspacho – a tomato based soup with cucumber, bell pepper, onion and stale bread, often served cold
  • Paella – a rice based dish flavoured with chicken, rabbit or seafood
  • Pastissets – a sweet pastry filled with an almond or potato filling

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Valencia designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Valencia hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Latest blog posts
Europe’s Best City Beaches
Important information
Population 797,028
Languages Castillian, Valencian
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

Experience paella in its home city - choose from a huge array of paella restaurants on the Valencia beachfront!

Featured accommodation
Westin Hotel
5.0 out of 5

Read more

Distance from airports
Valencia 8 km
Railway stations
Estacio del Nord

Things to do in Valencia

  • Central Market: One of Europe’s best markets, with deliciously tempting fresh daily produce.
  • Oceanographic: Europe’s largest aquarium and marine park, set in a spectacular location.
  • Antiguo Cauce Del Rio Turia: Wonderful park that runs through the centre of the city - perfect for an evening stroll!
  • Bioparc Valencia: A vast nature park dedicated to the preservation of ecosystems and the conservation of wild animals and their habitat.
  • Las Fallas: Valencia’s biggest party! An annual parade in March to celebrate the start of spring.

Tours and Excursions

Paella Cooking Class

Meet your guide at a central point and walk to the local Mercado de Ruzafa to explore the amazing variety of foodstuffs and collect your ingredients. On returning to the kitchen you will be welcomed with some delicious tapas before learning to cook a real Valencian Paella (made with chicken and rabbit). Have fun as you cook with the group and taste some Valencian white wine before sitting down to enjoy the fruits of your labour.     

City of Arts & Sciences Tour

Take a guided tour through the City of Arts and Sciences and admire the impressive buildings by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. This stunning complex covers the different aspects of science, technology, nature and art and your guide will introduce you to the main buildings including the Hemisfèric, the Ágora and the Palau de les Arts. The tour ends at the Umbracle where you will have an amazing view of the whole complex.

Essential Valencia Tour

This group walking tour takes in all the main sights of Valencia Old Town. The city has a diverse and fascinating history, having been settled by Romans, Visigoths, Muslims and Christians since it was founded 2000 years ago. You will relive this history with your guide as you pass the many landmarks such as the Gothic-style La Lonja de la Seda, Torres de Serranos and Valencia Cathedral.

 

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.