So what should you do in Valencia if you have one and a half days at your disposal? This is what we did. Since we love exploring cities, we planned our stay closer to the historical city, so that we can walk around. We reached Valencia, just before lunch time on a high-speed train from Barcelona.
Day 1 – Half day – We explored the historical city covering some of these places:
Placa-de la Reina is a town square, with a small, beautiful garden at the centre and many coffee shops and eateries around.
Valencia Cathedral and La Miguelete – Facing the Placa de la Reina is the famous Valencia Cathedral or the St. Mary’s Cathedral. Valencia has a long history of intermittent Muslim and Catholic rule. The church was built in 13th century and was later converted into a mosque and then back to a church again. Valencia Cathedral is said to have the authentic holy grail. We did not spend time inside the cathedral or the museum, but we did climb up the La Miguelete, an octagonal tower, the top of which can be reached through its 207 steps and offers spectacular views of the city. There are separate tickets for the tower and the cathedral.
Llotja de la Seda, or the Silk-Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 15th century is an architectural marvel. The central hall with its twisted columns was the financial centre where merchants met and finalised their business contracts. In the 15th century, Valencia was a thriving commercial city.
We continued to explore the old city and its beautiful streets, plazas and shopping areas while occasionally stopping for a beer or a bite.
Day 2
The second day was dedicated for the Turia River bed walk, the City of Arts & Science, Valencia Oceanografy and finally an early dinner at the port area. Valencia is famous for its dish paella and it was recommended that some of the restaurants in the port area serves the best paella.
Valencia has more to offer, but then you need to spare a few days more. Valencia is connected to Barcelona and Madrid by air as well as high-speed trains.
Also see:
