Hello everyone!
Valencia -the capital of Comunidad Valenciana- is Spain’s third largest city after Madrid and Barcelona. Located on east coast of Spain the city has the mediterranean climate with mild winters and long, hot summers, making it a preferable place for those who want to escape hard winters. The first vibe the city gave me was it was a place to live. With its blue flag beach, palm trees and relaxed, happy folk.
Even though it was cloudy when I visited the city, it was still hot and we enjoyed the beach with my best friend.
Valencia has a little bit of everything, founded in 138 BC by Romans, it has history and culture combined with modern architecture. It offers wide variety of attrations even for the pickiest travelers.
The old town offers historical buildings. Plaza de la Virgen is central to Valencia also pretty close to our hostel therefore we started our sightseeing here. The square is a pleasure to walk around or you can have drink and enjoy this less crowded part of the city. Famous Turia Fountain can be seen here.
Valencia's Cathedral is an impressive building between two beautiful squares: Plaza de la Reina and the Plaza de la Virgen. It was builded on 13th century by Arabs as a mosque. Ever since the city is confiscated by Christians it is used as a cathedral. And I seem to have lost all he photos I took of he cathedral.
Torres de serranos (Ancient town gate) is another landmark of Valencia. One of the rare buildings remaining from middle age with almost no harm. Though the main duty of twelve doors was initially the protection of the city, it was mostly used for celebrations. Even today it is the starting point of many festivals.
The city of arts and science will leave you breathless as it is considered one of the best example of modern architecture in the world. It consists of Prince Felipe Science Museum, Opera House, Hemisferic, Agora, Umbracle and Oceanografic.
We spent quite some time in the Oceanografic. It is the biggest aquarium in Europe and you can see large variety of animals. It is a great place to see but if you have short amount of time in town, you might want to skip this, since it takes a lot of time.
The Turia Gardens is placed right next to City of Arts and Science. The Turia River caused a huge disaster and caused 81 death on 1975. And the route of the river is changed by the government. And the old route turned in to these gardens where people ride their bikes, take a walk and enjoy the view.
Valencia is the birthplace of Paella. So we had to have it when we are in town. And it was delicious.
There are many other places to see in Valencia. We had only two days and these are the places we were able to see. But I am planning to visit Valencia for more, even live there for a few months. Because as I said before; Valencia is a place to live.