Hotel Stays
Here are some budget and moderate hotels in Valencia, Spain, along with their price ranges:Budget Hotels (€20-€50 per night)
1. Hostal Valencia Center (€25-€35 per night)
Address: Calle de la Paz, 12, 46002 Valencia
Distance from city center: 10-15 minutes on foot
2. Hotel Europa (€30-€40 per night)
Address: Calle de la Paz, 2, 46002 Valencia
Distance from city center: 10-15 minutes on foot
3. Pension San Luis (€20-€30 per night)
Address: Calle de San Luis, 13, 46003 Valencia
Distance from city center: 10-15 minutes on foot
4. Hostal Balmes (€25-€35 per night)
Address: Calle de Balmes, 34, 46009 Valencia
Distance from city center: 15-20 minutes on foot
Moderate Hotels (€50-€100 per night)
1. Hotel Elizer (€60-€80 per night)
Address: Calle de la Paz, 12, 46002 Valencia
Distance from city center: 10-15 minutes on foot
2. NH Valencia Center (€70-€90 per night)
Address: Calle de la Paz, 34, 46002 Valencia
Distance from city center: 10-15 minutes on foot
3. Hotel NH Valencia Centre (€65-€85 per night)
Address: Calle de la Paz, 26, 46002 Valencia
Distance from city center: 10-15 minutes on foot
4. Valterra Hotel (€60-€80 per night)
Address: Calle de Aragon, 5, 46002 Valencia
Distance from city center: 15-20 minutes on foot
Please note that prices may vary depending on the time of year and availability. It's always a good idea to check prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
Additionally, Valencia has many apartments and guesthouses available for rent, which can be a great option for larger groups or families. These can often be booked through websites like Airbnb or Booking.com.
I hope this helps you find a great place to stay in Valencia!
Suggested Itinerary
Valencia! A beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Here's a suggested itinerary for a 3-day visit to Valencia:Day 1: Explore the Old Town and Turia Gardens
* Morning: Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café. Try a "tostada" with tomato, olive oil, and bread.
* 10:00 AM: Visit the stunning Valencia Cathedral (La Seu) and the adjacent Plaza de la Reina.
* 11:30 AM: Walk to the City Hall (Ayuntamiento) and explore the adjacent Turia Gardens (Jardines del Turia), a beautiful park built on the former riverbed.
* 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a local restaurant in the old town. Try some traditional Valencian dishes like paella, fideuà (similar to paella but with noodles instead of rice), or horchata (a refreshing tiger nut drink).
* 3:00 PM: Visit the Central Market (Mercado Central), a stunning example of Valencian architecture and a great place to try some local produce and snacks.
* Evening: Enjoy a traditional Valencian dinner and stroll along the Turia Gardens at sunset.
Day 2: Beaches, Parks, and Modernist Architecture
* 9:00 AM: Start the day by visiting the beautiful City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències), a complex of modern museums, parks, and aquariums.
* 11:00 AM: Take a stroll along the beachfront promenade, Playa de la Malvarrosa, and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea.
* 1:00 PM: Grab some lunch at a beachside restaurant and try some seafood or a traditional Valencian dish.
* 3:00 PM: Visit the stunning Modernist building, Casa Batlló, designed by Antoni Gaudí, located near the City of Arts and Sciences.
* Evening: End the day with a traditional Valencian dinner and a stroll along the waterfront, admiring the city lights.
Day 3: Gothic Quarter, Silos, and Wine
* 9:00 AM: Explore the charming Gothic Quarter (Barrio Gótico), filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and picturesque plazas.
* 11:30 AM: Visit the ancient Moorish Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
* 1:00 PM: Stop for lunch at a local bakery or café and try a traditional Valencian snack, such as a "buñuelo" (deep-fried doughnut).
* 2:30 PM: Visit the Valencia Silk Market (Mercado de Sedas), which dates back to the 15th century.
* 4:00 PM: Visit a local winery or bodega, such as the popular Bodega El Vinedo, to sample some of the region's famous wines, like cava or xarello.
* Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Valencian restaurant and toast to an unforgettable trip.
This itinerary provides a mix of culture, architecture, cuisine, and relaxation, giving you a taste of the authentic Valencia experience. Come back soon!
Suggested Restaurants
Here are some restaurant suggestions in Valencia, Spain, along with their price ranges:Traditional Valencian Cuisine
1. Casa Montaña (€20-€30 per person) - Try their famous paella and other traditional Valencian dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.
2. El Porrón (€25-€40 per person) - Enjoy local specialties like Fideuà and Escalivada in a historic, charming restaurant.
Seafood and Fine Dining
1. El Nacional (€40-€60 per person) - This Michelin-starred restaurant offers contemporary Spanish cuisine with a focus on local seafood and creative presentation.
2. El Racó d'en Benet (€30-€50 per person) - Savor Mediterranean seafood dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
3. El Girasol (€20-€35 per person) - Experience modern Valencian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and artistic presentation.
Tapas and Wine
1. La Tasca (€15-€25 per person) - Enjoy a wide variety of tapas and local wines in a lively, modern setting.
2. El Xampanyet (€10-€20 per person) - Savor small plates and cava in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
3. La Casa de Tis (€15-€25 per person) - Discover creative tapas and wine pairings in a charming, converted house.
Budget-Friendly Options
1. El Conomorillo (€5-€10 per person) - Try traditional Valencian street food and snacks in a lively, casual atmosphere.
2. Mercado Central (€5-€10 per person) - Visit the central market and try local specialties like Bombas and Fuet.
Please note that prices are approximate and may vary depending on the season, menu changes, and other factors. It's always a good idea to check the restaurants' websites or call ahead to confirm current prices and offerings.
Local Food
Valencia is a culinary delight! Here are some traditional local dishes and specialties you should try when visiting:1. Paella Valenciana: A classic Valencian dish, paella is a savory rice dish cooked with chicken, rabbit, and vegetables, often served with seafood. Try it at a local restaurant or bar.
2. Fideuà: A variation of paella, fideuà is a noodle dish cooked with tomato sauce, seafood, and vegetables.
3. Arroz con Costra: A Valencian take on crepe, arroz con costra is a thin, crispy pancake filled with rice, chicken, and vegetables.
4. Horchata: A refreshing summer drink made from tiger nuts, horchata is a perfect way to cool off in the Valencian heat.
5. Coca: A traditional Valencian flatbread, coca can be savored on its own or topped with various ingredients like ham, cheese, and olives.
6. Escalivada: A hearty side dish, escalivada consists of roasted vegetables like eggplant, peppers, garlic, and onions, often served with bread or as a topping for rice or salads.
7. Pan con Tomate: A simple yet delicious snack, pan con tomate is toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomato and olive oil.
8. Crema Catalana: A local dessert, crema catalana is a Valencian version of crème brûlée, topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.
9. Pollo al Ajillo: Chicken cooked with garlic and olive oil, often served with vegetables and rice, this dish is a staple in Valencian cuisine.
10. Torta de Aceite: A traditional sweet treat, torta de aceite is a crispy, oil-cooked flatbread typically flavored with anise and often served with a drizzle of honey.
Gastronomic experiences:
* Try a traditional Valencian paella cooking experience, where you can join a chef in the kitchen to learn the secrets of this iconic dish.
* Visit the Mercat Central, a popular market in Valencia, where you can sample local specialties and artisanal products.
Bon appétit, amigos!
Shopping
Valencia, the beautiful city in eastern Spain! You'll find a mix of traditional markets, modern shopping centers, and boutique stores to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some shopping options around Valencia:Traditional Markets:
1. Central Market (Mercado Central): A historic market in the heart of the city, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties.
2. Silk Exchange Market (Lonja de la Seda): A beautiful Gothic building housing a market selling silk, textiles, and handicrafts.
Malls and Shopping Centers:
1. Colón Market (Mercat de Colón): A modern shopping center with a wide range of stores, restaurants, and a cinema.
2. El Corte Inglés: A large department store with multiple floors, offering fashion, electronics, and more.
3. City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències): A complex featuring several shopping centers, including the popular 'El Salero' and 'AsiaGalerías'.
4. Valencia Trade Center (Valencia Europa): A modern shopping center with stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Boutique Stores:
1. La Marina: A picturesque neighborhood with a charming mix of boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries.
2. Central Market's Upper Floor (Mercado Central, 2nd floor): Small, independent boutiques selling unique products, such as jewelry, souvenirs, and local specialties.
3. Calle de San Fernando: A stylish street lined with high-end boutiques, fashion stores, and artisan shops.
Local Specialties and Souvenirs:
1. Porcelain and ceramics: Visit the nearby towns of Manises or Paterna for traditional ceramics and souvenirs.
2. Paella and olive oil: Stop by the local markets or specialty stores to stock up on these Mediterranean delicacies.
3. Handmade crafts: Look for artisans selling handmade items, such as lace, embroidery, or woven baskets, at local markets or community centers.
Get ready to shop, indulge in local flavors, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Valencia!
Regional Wine
Valencia is a region in eastern Spain known for its warm and sunny climate, making it an ideal place for growing grapes and producing high-quality wine. Here are some wine options you might want to consider trying when in Valencia:1. Jumilla wine: Jumilla is a region within Valencia known for its rich and full-bodied red wines made from the Monastrell grape. Try a Bodega Hispanich wine, such as their Jumilla Reserva, which is aged for 14 months in American oak barrels.
2. Bobal wine: Bobal is the most widely cultivated grape variety in Valencia, and is often blended with other grape varieties to create red, rosé, and white wines. Look for wines from the Utiel-Requena region, such as the Bodega Enrique Mendoza wine.
3. Moscatel wine: Moscatel is a white grape variety that thrives in the hot Valencian climate. Moscatel wines are often sparkling, sweet, and perfect for dessert. Try a Moscatel wine from the town of Xeresa, such as the Bodega Jose Maria de la Vega wine.
4. Cabernet Sauvignon wine: Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular international grape variety grown in Valencia, often blended with other grape varieties. Look for wines from the Castilla-La Mancha region, such as the Bodega Tierras de Morella wine.
Some wine regions you may want to visit in Valencia include:
1. Utiel-Requena: Known for its red wines, particularly Bobal and red blends.
2. Jumilla: Known for its robust red wines, particularly Monastrell and red blends.
3. Xeresa: Known for its sweet and sparkling white wines, particularly Moscatel and other white grape varieties.
4. Alicante: Known for its red and white wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Tempranillo.
Some wine festivals you may want to attend in Valencia include:
1. Jumilla Wine and Wine Festival (Feria del Vino de Jumilla)
2. Utiel-Requena Wine Fair (Feria del Vino de Utiel-Requena)
3. Valencia Wine and Food Festival (Festival de Vino y Comida de Valencia)
4. Alicante Wine Fair (Feria del Vino de Alicante)
These wine and food festivals often feature wine and food pairings, wine tastings, and wine-making workshops.
Nearby places to explore
Valencia is a great base to explore more of Spain and the surrounding regions. Here are some other cities to visit around Valencia:1. Alicante (1.5 hours): Known for its beautiful beaches, historic Old Town, and the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle.
2. Castellón (45 minutes): A charming city with a rich history, featuring the stunning Cathedral of Santa María and the Castle of the Counts of Palma.
3. Gandía (1 hour): This coastal city is famous for its stunning Royal Palace, the Cathedral of Gandía, and its beautiful beaches.
4. Segorbe (2 hours): Located in the Alto Palancia region, Segorbe is known for its historic Town Hall, the Church of Santa María, and the nearby Cueva Negra Natural Monument.
5. Sagunto (45 minutes): Famous for its Roman ruins, including the Theater and the Aqueduct.
6. Xàtiva (45 minutes): A charming city with a rich history, featuring the Alcázar, the Cathedral of Santa María, and the Castle of Xàtiva.
7. Morella (2 hours): A picturesque town perched on a hill, featuring the stunning Morella's Fortress and the Church of Santa María.
8. Peñíscola (2 hours): A small fishing village with a stunning Mediterranean coastline, featuring the Peñíscola Castle and the Basilica of Santa María.
9. Sogorb (1.5 hours): A charming town located in the Maestrat Mountains, featuring the stunning Sogorb Castle and the Church of Santa María.
10. Teruel (2 hours): Known for its Mudéjar architecture, featuring the Cathedral of Saint Sopianus, the Church of Santa María, and the Palacio de la Audiencia.
These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them great additions to your trip around Valencia.
Local Transport
Valencia, the vibrant capital of the autonomous community of Valencia, has a well-developed public transportation system. Here are some of the options:1. Metrovalencia (Subway): A comprehensive network of 134 kilometers, with 138 stations. The metro operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday to Friday, and from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends.
2. Bus (EMT): Over 100 bus lines cover the city and neighboring towns. EMT buses operate from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Monday to Friday, and from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekends.
3. Tram: The tram network connects the city center with the surrounding neighborhoods, with 16 lines that cover around 80 kilometers. Trams run from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday to Friday, and from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends.
4. CCH (City Centre to Coast): A bus shuttle service that connects the city center with the beach side neighborhoods, approximately every 20-30 minutes.
5. ONCE (Association of the Spanish Blind): Provides accessible public transportation services for the visually impaired.
6. Taxi ranks: Available at various locations throughout the city. You can hail a taxi with the "Taxi" logo on the top or book in advance through an app (e.g., MyTaxi).
7. Bike sharing: Launched in 2017, the Valencia bike-sharing service, "Valencia en Bici," offers over 1,000 bicycles available for rent. You can find bike stations throughout the city.
8. Car sharing: Companies like Car2Go, Autodelen, and eCar2You offer car-sharing services.
9. Long-distance buses: Several companies operate from the Valencia North Bus Station (Estación de Autobuses del Norte), including ALSA, ALSA Interurban, and Pullman Bus.
To navigate Valencia's public transportation options, you can:
* Use the official EMT app (EMT Valencia) for route planning, bus schedules, and real-time information.
* Refer to the ValenBici app for bike-sharing information.
* Visit the official website of the Valencia Metrovalencia (Metro de Valencia) for subway and tram schedules.
* Ask locals or information centers for help.
Remember to purchase a rechargeable Tarjeta Multi for easy travel and to take advantage of the city's integrated transportation system!