Valencia is one of the most vibrant destinations in Europe. With a privileged location by the Mediterranean sea, it offers the perfect combination of great weather and beaches, amazing historic sites and architecture, shopping opportunities and a fantastic array of restaurants and bars to enjoy delicious food or dance the night away.
With direct flights from Glasgow with Ryanair, all this is now just over two hours away, and travelling around the city is easy with the Valencia Tourist Card.
FRIDAY
Soak up the sun: After an early start you will want to take it easy. You could simply top up your tan on the Malvarrosa beach or soak up the sun from one of the terraces on Plaza de la Virgen watching the world go by.
Explore the old town: Visit the Cathedral, where the real Holy Grail is supposedly kept. Then wander through the streets of El Carmen, where you will find gems like the Church of San Nicolas, dubbed Valencia’s Sistine Chapel.
Tapas and tipples: The old town is a good place to enjoy local tapas like esgarraet (cured cod and peppers), clochinas (mussels) and other favourites. Try El Colmado de la Lola, Restaurante Navellos or the pintxos at Orio or Sagardi, all located in the city center. End the night with a glass of Agua de Valencia, the local cocktail, at Café de las Horas.
SATURDAY
Market time: Saturday morning is the best time to enjoy the buzz of Valencia’s Central Market: the colourful food displays, the chatter and the beautiful Modernist architecture. You could also pack some goodies such as turron (nougat), saffron, and even a paella pan!
World Heritage Valencia: Opposite the market is La Lonja, the gothic Silk Exchange building, declared a World Heritage site and well worth a visit to learn more about the importance of the city in the silk trade during the Middle Ages.
Shop til you drop: From high street favourites to exclusive boutiques, you will find them all in the Colon area. When you get tired, stop for a coffee at Colon Market, another magnificent example of Modernist architecture.
The night is young: The district of Ruzafa is one of the trendiest in Valencia, packed with bars and restaurants – but beware things don’t get going until late! If you are celebrating a special occasion, try one of Valencia´s Michelin starred restaurants.
SUNDAY
Paella time: Sundays are the preferred time for paella – always for lunch, never for dinner! Choose from one of the restaurants along the seafront promenade, though you may need to book ahead. And remember, there is no chorizo (or seafood) in the traditional Valencian paella.
A walk after lunch: To get the food down, go for a stroll along the beach or the Marina, or head to the City of Arts and Sciences. Visit the marine park, science museum and gardens, or simply admire the stunning architecture.
To bed! Valencia offers an extensive choice of accommodation, from luxury hotel to modern apartments, for a well-deserved rest before the flight back.