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Valencia, a city on Spain's eastern coast, offers a blend of historical depth and contemporary structures. It's recognised as the birthplace of paella, a culinary legacy that draws many. Visitors can explore the historic district, home to places such as the Central Market, a significant example of Modernist architecture, and the Valencia Cathedral, which incorporates Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. The Silk Exchange, or La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site, illustrates the city's mercantile past.
Further along the Turia Gardens, the City of Arts and Sciences presents a striking collection of futuristic buildings, housing an opera house, a science museum, and an oceanarium. Beyond these architectural marvels, Valencia maintains a strong connection to its traditions, evident in its local festivals and the straightforward enjoyment of its Mediterranean climate. The city's proximity to beaches also provides an easy escape for relaxation.
For most visitors, the Ciutat Vella (Old Town) offers a fantastic base, placing you right at the heart of Valencia's historical attractions and bustling atmosphere. It’s well-served by public transport and has a wide variety of hotels, from boutique guesthouses to larger establishments.
Within the Ciutat Vella, districts like El Carmen are popular, known for their labyrinthine streets, traditional tapas bars such as Casa Montaña, and cultural spots like the IVAM art gallery. Accommodation here often consists of smaller hotels and apartments in refurbished historic buildings. Further east, closer to the central market, you'll find yourself amidst daily life, near the Lonja de la Seda and Valencia Cathedral.
Alternatively, the area around the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències provides a more modern feel. This district, further south-east along the former Turia riverbed, is ideal for those interested in contemporary architecture and attractions like the Oceanogràfic. Hotels here tend to be larger, often with a more contemporary design, catering to both leisure and business travellers. You'll also find some excellent restaurants with modern Valencian cuisine nearby.
For a relaxed beach holiday, consider staying in Cabanyal-Canyamelar, the old fishing quarter. This area, just a short tram ride from the city centre, offers a different experience with its distinctive modernist houses and proximity to Malvarrosa Beach. Seafood restaurants abound along the promenade, and accommodation ranges from guesthouses to holiday flats.
Valencia's excellent public transport network, including the metro and buses, makes getting around straightforward from any area. The metro connects directly to Valencia Airport (Manises), ensuring an easy journey to your hotel, while Alicante Airport is accessible via train services from Estació del Nord.
To secure better value on accommodation in Valencia, consider your travel dates carefully. The city experiences higher demand during peak seasons, particularly around major festivals. For instance, prices surge significantly during Las Fallas, which takes place in March, making it an expensive time to visit. Similarly, the summer months of July and August see increased rates due to holidaymakers.
For more affordable options, look to travel during the low season. November to February, excluding the Christmas and New Year period, typically offer lower prices. You might also find better deals in May and June or September and October, outside of specific events, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner than in mid-summer. Booking well in advance, especially for popular times, can also help avoid last-minute price hikes.