Valencia is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the wallet. The green hues found in the Old Turía River Bed Gardens contrast the shimmering golden sand and sparkling cerulean waves of the beaches. And the color of its oranges is as rich as the taste. Those who say this Spanish coastal city lacks any sense of charm may have never walked under the citrus trees as they drop blossoms onto the cobblestone streets or listened to the hum of the Valencian dialect amidst the produce stands of the Mercado Central. Although it has spent years hiding in the shadows of larger cities, Valencia now offers a mixture of Madrid’s history and Barcelona’s contemporary atmosphere for a fraction of the cost.
How To Save Money in Valencia
- Visit in the off-season Although some of the sites switch over to winter hours, Valencia’s hotels drop their prices from November to March.
- Dine at the Mercado Central Plenty of restaurants centered on the Mercado Central offer prix-fixe menus and great tapas for about €10 EUR per person.
- Get a Valencia Tourist Card It comes with unlimited travel on the city’s mass transit as well as discounts at the major museums, attractions and shops. Available in one- to three-day denominations, you can purchase the cards at most tourist desks, in vending machines at the airport, and onlinehere.
Valencia Dining
The best Spanish cuisine in located on the winding streets of Center City (especially in the Mercado Central), while another top option are the cafés and tapas bars along la Avenida del Puerto. Many restaurants offer prix-fixe lunch menus, which are a good way of experiencing Spanish cuisine without spending too many euros. Remember that the Spanish do not normally sit down to dinner until 9 p.m. at the earliest. If you find that your stomach is rumbling before it’s time to eat, follow the Valencians to one of the many tapas bars located throughout the city.
Valencia is the birthplace of one of Spain’s most popular dishes,paella. The paella valenciana of this city is a mixture of rice, seafood, meat and vegetables flavored with saffron.
Valencia is also known for its orange groves. Don’t miss your chance to sample this juicy fruit the way Valencians do. If you’re looking for some refreshment after a long day of sightseeing, order an Agua de Valencia — a cocktail made from gin, vodka, cava (Spanish champagne), sugar and freshly squeezed orange juice — at a sidewalk café.
