Quick Answer: Valencia is home to the jaw-dropping City of Arts and Sciences, Europe's largest aquarium, and authentic paella valenciana (with rabbit, not seafood!). The old town has a UNESCO Silk Exchange and one of Europe's best food markets.

Valencia: My Futuristic Yet Historic Love

Valencia has completely won me over the past few seasons — what used to be a "sleepy" port is now one of the hottest calls in the western Mediterranean, averaging 4.7–4.9 stars. My perfect day: 10-minute tram from the ship straight to the jaw-dropping City of Arts and Sciences — the architecture alone (Santiago Calatrava's futuristic whale-skeleton buildings) is worth the visit, but the Oceanogràfic (Europe's largest aquarium) with its shark tunnel and dolphin show is mind-blowing.

Then I rent a bike and cruise the 9 km of gardens in the old Turia riverbed straight into the historic center for the Central Market (best orange juice on earth and fresh oysters), the Silk Exchange (UNESCO Gothic masterpiece), and climbing the Miguelete tower for panoramic views. Lunch is authentic paella valenciana (rabbit & chicken, never seafood!) at La Pepica on the beach. Horchata and fartons in Alboraya or a sunset catamaran are perfect endings.

The Moment That Stays With Me: Standing in the main hall of the Oceanogràfic at sunset, the dying light filtering through the water above me as sharks glided overhead and rays swooped past like underwater birds. Calatrava's architecture makes you feel like you're inside a living organism, and for a moment I forgot I was in a building at all.

Valencia feels young, innovative, and delicious — easily one of the most underrated cities in Europe. The blend of futuristic architecture and medieval old town shouldn't work, but it absolutely does, creating a city that honors its past while racing toward its future.

Getting Around Valencia

Ships dock just 4–5 km from the city center. The free port shuttle drops you at the marina, then it's easy to get anywhere.

  • City of Arts and Sciences: Tram line 4 or 8 (€1.50) or taxi €10–15, 10–15 minutes
  • Central Market/Old Town: Tram to city center or €15 taxi
  • Beaches: Accessible by bike through Turia gardens or bus

Tip: Many people just take a quick €10–15 taxi or rent city bikes right outside the terminal. The Turia gardens make for a beautiful bike ride from the City of Arts to the old town.

Positively Framed Word of Warning

The futuristic architecture and wide-open spaces are designed for lingering — embrace the extra walking or biking as your personal invitation to discover hidden orange-tree courtyards and street musicians around every corner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why no seafood in authentic paella valenciana?

Traditional paella valenciana uses rabbit, chicken, and snails — it's a countryside dish. Seafood paella is a coastal variation. Valencians are particular about this distinction!

Is the City of Arts and Sciences worth it?

Absolutely. Even if you don't enter the museums, the architecture alone is spectacular. The Oceanogràfic is Europe's largest aquarium and genuinely impressive.

What's horchata?

A sweet, milky drink made from tiger nuts (not dairy). Valencia is famous for it. Try it with fartons (elongated pastries for dipping) at any traditional horchatería.

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