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Guide to Valencia
Valencia is home to the fantastic Palau de les Arts and L'hemisferic, is the original home of paella, (alleged) resting place for the Holy Grail and has become a canvass for exciting, intelligent design. Valencia has been fought over, won and developed since the early 12th century allowing for the development of various great architectural spectacles. The city limits run along the coast of the Gulf of Valencia, making it a great starting point for visiting other locations within the region. For an understanding of the history of the area, there are numerous museums and galleries of amazing beauty around the city. Shopping within the city is an exciting experience with a wide variety of crafts on sale from the goldsmiths, antique dealers, craft workers making delicate lace and hand painted fans all selling their wares.
Beaches within the city limits are white sandy affairs with the more popular packed with bodies on the hotter day. Cabanal, and Levente beaches are to the north of the city and easily accessible thanks to the promenade that runs right alongside. The fun here doesn't stop when the sun goes down- beachside bars, restaurants are open for fun well into the early mornings. For a more sedate beach experience the southern beaches of Pineda and Devesa are more isolated with; Devesa beach is set within the grounds of the fantastic La Albufera National Park.
Valencia has succeeded in becoming a prime location as cultural activities, museums, galleries and fine structures are developed. The population seem dedicated to the advancement and enhancement of the city. Constructed less than 10 years ago the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is an inspirational construction- a Space Odyssey- esque building that appears to be surfacing from flowing water, with dazzling lights enhancing the generous curves and geometric shapes. Within the space are three separate utilities- The Science Museum, an IMAX building and The Oceanographic Exhibition- all three are fantastic with all visitors enjoying being inside such a marvellous creation. The performing arts are well represented in the Valencia with the recent completion of the glorious Valencia Opera House. Opened in 2005, the Opera House was designed by Santiago Calatrava,is thought to be the largest opera house in Europe and, following the fantastical and imaginative design, is sure to attract visitors for more than just the performances. Moving to more historic subjects, museums with the city vary from modern art right through to the prehistoric. The Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) is home to works of some of the most famous Spanish painters with Goya and El Greco works in abundance. The Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno (IVAM) is a dynamic institution developed for the encouragement and understanding of modern art; thousands of works by internationally renowned artists may be seen here with exhibitions varying numerous times a year. Architecturally mixed in design, the Cathedral is home to what some consider to be , the cup allegedly used by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper.
Be prepared for some seriously delicious eating time; this is the home of world-renowned rice dish paella- there is no better place to indulge. The abundance of fresh fish, vegetables and fruit produced within the region makes Valencia a great gastronomic destination for any 'foodie'. Thanks to the large student population the nightlife of the city extends well into the early mornings; some of the best spots to be found around the university areas and the Barrio del Carmen areas. Visitors should look out for updates of shows held in the local venues.
The cultural riches of Valencia are more than anyone could hope for and, as the city is constantly improved, a new generation of cultural and physical enhancements are being added to the city. The new metro system, the parks, city beaches and cultural exhibitions all combine to make Valencia a great holiday destination.
Please contact the local tourist office for information on the attractions mentioned:
Tourist Office:
Calle Paz, 48
46003 Valencia (Valencia)
+34 96 3986 422
http://www.comunitatvalenciana.com
Beaches within the city limits are white sandy affairs with the more popular packed with bodies on the hotter day. Cabanal, and Levente beaches are to the north of the city and easily accessible thanks to the promenade that runs right alongside. The fun here doesn't stop when the sun goes down- beachside bars, restaurants are open for fun well into the early mornings. For a more sedate beach experience the southern beaches of Pineda and Devesa are more isolated with; Devesa beach is set within the grounds of the fantastic La Albufera National Park.
Valencia has succeeded in becoming a prime location as cultural activities, museums, galleries and fine structures are developed. The population seem dedicated to the advancement and enhancement of the city. Constructed less than 10 years ago the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is an inspirational construction- a Space Odyssey- esque building that appears to be surfacing from flowing water, with dazzling lights enhancing the generous curves and geometric shapes. Within the space are three separate utilities- The Science Museum, an IMAX building and The Oceanographic Exhibition- all three are fantastic with all visitors enjoying being inside such a marvellous creation. The performing arts are well represented in the Valencia with the recent completion of the glorious Valencia Opera House. Opened in 2005, the Opera House was designed by Santiago Calatrava,is thought to be the largest opera house in Europe and, following the fantastical and imaginative design, is sure to attract visitors for more than just the performances. Moving to more historic subjects, museums with the city vary from modern art right through to the prehistoric. The Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) is home to works of some of the most famous Spanish painters with Goya and El Greco works in abundance. The Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno (IVAM) is a dynamic institution developed for the encouragement and understanding of modern art; thousands of works by internationally renowned artists may be seen here with exhibitions varying numerous times a year. Architecturally mixed in design, the Cathedral is home to what some consider to be , the cup allegedly used by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper.
Be prepared for some seriously delicious eating time; this is the home of world-renowned rice dish paella- there is no better place to indulge. The abundance of fresh fish, vegetables and fruit produced within the region makes Valencia a great gastronomic destination for any 'foodie'. Thanks to the large student population the nightlife of the city extends well into the early mornings; some of the best spots to be found around the university areas and the Barrio del Carmen areas. Visitors should look out for updates of shows held in the local venues.
The cultural riches of Valencia are more than anyone could hope for and, as the city is constantly improved, a new generation of cultural and physical enhancements are being added to the city. The new metro system, the parks, city beaches and cultural exhibitions all combine to make Valencia a great holiday destination.
Please contact the local tourist office for information on the attractions mentioned:
Tourist Office:
Calle Paz, 48
46003 Valencia (Valencia)
+34 96 3986 422
http://www.comunitatvalenciana.com
VALENCIA - DOWNTOWN DETAILS
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