Sunny-Side up

A modern city with some of the most elegant new-age design references. A bohemian culture that bubbles over in graffiti-covered neighbourhoods. A sunny, beach town that revels in lazy, sea-side vibes. And an old town where time has stood still in historic squares. Valencia is a perfect blend of all these and more!

One of the largest cities of Spain and one of Europe's sunniest, Valencia is as historic as its name itself. In Spanish, "valentia" translates to courage or valour! Often overlooked in favour of its popular neighbours Madrid and Barcelona, a heap of recent accolades has brought due attention to its avant-garde architecture, heritage and cultural highlights. From being voted the world’s top city to live in for expats, the healthiest city in the world, the World Design Capital and European Green Capital 2024, Valencia has claimed an unwavering identity for itself.

The Old Town

Sitting on Spain's Mediterranean coastline, Valencia has a long history of over 2,000 years that is reflected in the ornate buildings in its charming Old Town. Walk along the cobbled streets, past cosy squares at the city's historic centre. Don't miss the stunning Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of the late-Gothic style. One of the landmarks in the city, it's best known for its iconic façade, intricate designs and incomparable helical columns! Stop by the Quart Towers, which are a part of the old medieval defensive wall and also served as a women's prison, and the Serranos Towers, which were defensive structures at one of the busiest city gates. In the historic El Carmen neighbourhood, also known as Barrio del Carmen, do stop by the stunning Cathedral of Valencia, where the Holy Grail is located!

B irthplace of Spain's most popular dish, the paella. Home to one of Europe's largest aquariums and a skyline dotted with some of the world's most futuristic architectural marvels –these are only a few charms of sun-kissed Valencia.

Words Manjulika Pramod

While you walk, explore the Instagrammable graffiti-lined streets of the neighbourhood. Visit art galleries and stop by shops selling clothes, handicrafts and curios. This artistic neighbourhood is home to a number of plazas - Plaza Redonda with buzzing gift shops and restaurants; the lively Plaza del Mercado; the Central Market, one of the largest fresh

Fly to Valencia in Spain with IndiGo-Turkish Airlines Codeshare flights.

Meet the author

An engineer, entrepreneur, author and a freelance writer, who quit her corporate job to indulge in the finer things of life, Manjulika has been writing her blog 'Pendown' for more than a decade. Her love for travel has taken her to 32 countries!

food centres in Europe, and Plaza del Tossal, known for its vibrant nightlife. Come here after sundown for a drink and stories!

The future

When it comes to architecture, Valencia is most proud of local maverick architect Santiago Calatrava, whose exceptional

T ake note

T he year 2023 has been dedicated to Joaquín Sorolla, a famous Spanish painter. Valencia is marking the centenary of his death by hosting events in museums and exhibition venues.

E very Thursday at midday, the Tribunal de Las Aguas (the Water Court) meets outside the Door of the Apostles at the Plaza de la Virgen, keeping alive a centuries-old tradition.

F or the best shots of the city, head to El Miguelete, the Valencian Gothic-style bell tower of Valencia Cathedral.

artistry is on display at the City of Arts and Sciences, a striking cultural and entertainment complex built on the dry bed of the Turia river. It is a collection of stunning futuristic architectural structures, including the magnificent Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía for operas and concerts; Hemisfèric, which is a digital cinema with a huge screen; the interactive Science Museum and Oceanogràfic, among the largest aquariums in Europe! It is home to almost 45,000 specimens of 500 different species such as dolphins, belugas, walruses, sea lions, seals, penguins and even sharks! Keep at least half a day to explore at leisure.

The magnificent Turia Gardens, an expansive park on the dry riverbed, is spectacular with lush greenery, fountains, bridges and areas for leisure and sports. A short distance away is the beach of Playa de la Malvarrosa. Throughout summer, this bustling sandy stretch is packed with locals and tourists, acquiring a tan or playing ball!

Feast of flavours

Valencia is known as the birthplace of the famous Spanish rice dish – the paella. But for the real taste of la vida Española, indulge in homegrown olives, tapas, freshly-squeezed orange juice, wines and sangrias, and horchata (a drink made with tiger nuts) at a horchatería

(specialised horchata shops). The drink is often paired with fartons (confectioneries).

In Valencia, any and every dish – be it the all-i-pebre (a delicacy prepared with eel) or the fideuà (a paella-like recipe made with vermicelli-type noodles) – has the fresh flavours of this rich region surrounded by lush farmlands! Walk into any local restaurant for a bite and sip, and drop by any of its many tapas bars! Signing up for a food tour is highly recommended to discover the gastronomic hotspots of the city.