Globalista

Valencia is one of Europe’s most magical lesser-known gems. Over the past decade Spain's third city has transformed itself from a provincial señora in brocade and lace into a vibrant young lady in shades sipping Martinis on a sparklingly fresh waterfront. A city on the cusp, Valencia is a breathtaking example of one of the most dramatic and beautifully conceived urban regeneration projects ever undertaken.

The transformation of the dry riverbed of the Turia, which meanders for miles through the centre of the city, has catapulted Valencia into the 21st Century and exudes the feel of a wonderful earthly pleasure garden. Walk or cycle through orange groves, past playgrounds and mini-golf courses, alongside lakes and fountains, and past performing musicians and dancers. The spectacle culminates at one end in local architect Calatrava's dazzling ‘City of Arts and Sciences’ - a gigantic futuristic complex (reminiscent of a set out of a science fiction movie) which is home to theatres, a science museum and the largest aquarium in Europe - a joy for children and adults alike. It’s no wonder that the sunny home of paella is gearing itself up to host its first F1 Grand Prix.

Thankfully, there are also plenty of escape routes away from gleaming white structures and into a gentler past, not least up the spiral staircase of the Cathedral bell-tower. The old city is also captivating– amble around majestic Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, pretty fountain squares and mellow streets with pavement cafes. Admire the Modernista movement in Europe’s largest covered market and the Unesco World Heritage site of La Lonja. Because some things never change: lunch still takes place from 2pm to 4pm, and no local would dream of going to a bar before midnight.

Globalista’s Pick of the Press

11 July 2009 - The Independent - Five Spanish Coastal Retreats
11 April 2009 - The Independent - Secret Garden: Explore Valencia's Sierra de Irta
22 February 2009 - The Guardian - Instant weekend...Valencia
24 January 2009 - Concierge.com - Europe's New Deal: Valencia
07 December 2008 - The Sunday Telegraph - Finding the perfect paella

See the full archive of travel press articles for Valencia.

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