M U S T  S E E

Ciudad de las Sciencias y las Artes

Contemporary architecture lovers can eat their heart out with Santiago Calatrava’s masterpiece @ Ciudad de las Sciencias y las Artes. Situated in the original riverbed of the river Turia, this is an incontestable must-see when in Valencia. The surroundings are spacious and bright, Calatrava’s organic designs jaw-dropping.

Ciudad de las Sciencias y las Artes

Port of Valencia

If you like the contast between old and new, go out and discover the port of Valencia. You’ll find old restored Tinglados (hangars) as well as the modern Veles e Vents building. The layered architecture of David Chipperfield’s Veles e Vents was built to host the Port America’s Cup 2007 and offers nice views over the port. Unfortunately it is currently not in use nor open for public.

One of the Tinglados in the Valencian port

Veles e Vents – image taken from www.velesevents.es

E A T I N G

El Mercat

Curious about what the local market has to offer? Step into El Mercat and you’ll instantly will get the munchies. A large range of fish, seafood, fruits and vegetables can be found here. If you want to make yourself a paella valenciana, this is where you should get your ingredients!

El Mercat

Jamones

Mercado de Colon

The absolutely beautiful building hosts shops, bars and restaurants.

The marketplace is situated in a quiet area and has nice terraces overlooking the square.

Mercado Colon

When in Valencia, don’t forget to try the non alcoholic ‘horchata’, a milky and almond based drink, typical for this region.

Vuelve Carolina

You couldn’t get a reservation at the Michelin starred El Poblet? Cheer up, coz this is when ‘Vuelve Carolina’ comes in. Situated on the same address as her starry brother, Vuelve Carolina (‘Come Back Carolina) is a one of a kind gastrobar in the middle of the city centre. Indulge in their high end tapas and their exquisite wine list. Feeling hot? The Scandinavian inspired interior will cool you down, that is, if you don’t mind the moose staring back at you. I still don’t know who Carolina is, but I’ll be waiting for her, sipping from my glass of Spanish wine.

Vuelve Carolina – picture taken from www.vuelvecarolina.com

C H I L L A X I N G

Marina Beach Club

© Love Valencia

A C C O M O D A T I O N

I’ve stayed at the recently refurbished El Balandret on Passeo Neptuno. The beach is right in front of you, public transport just around the corner and the Marina on walking distance.

http://www.balandret.com/?lang=en

Lobby of Balandret