Sep 15

Sep 15 Valencia: Architecture and Art at Every Turn

Picture a city full of old architectural buildings… but covered in modern art.

I found myself in this beautiful city in preparation for La Tomatina which is in the neighboring city of Buñol. My group met here in Valencia and provided transportation there and back.

I was originally supposed to meet someone here (but plans fell through last minute) so I didn’t end up booking any tours, but instead explored on foot for most of the time aside from the main event. Using the trusty internet, maps, and a list my Airbnb provided, I was able to find some pretty cool places around the city.

Around Town

Plaza Redona

I actually stumbled upon this adorable little place to escape the rain one afternoon. It is a great little spot to stop for a cafe and see the lace makers doing what they do best. Its circular design brings a great element to the atmosphere.

Torres de Serrano

This was an interesting little stop with a surprising vantage point of the city on either side at the top. It cost 1 or 2 euros per person and you get a little guide to the history of the structure. This along with Torres de Quart were originally erected in the 1300s as gates to enter and exit the once walled off city. The walls have been destroyed since but these structures have stayed, leaving a lovely piece of history to enjoy.

Plaza de Toros de Valencia

I was unfortunately unable to take a tour of the building while there but I was able to see the outside pretty decently. It is actually one of the largest bullrings in Spain. The surrounding area is very nice and I wouldn’t mind going back to Valencia to experience it fully.

Plaza del Ayuntamiente

This plaza is absolutely gorgeous and a great place to walk around and get a bite to eat. It includes the capital building along with a fountain and numerous other beautiful buildings. There is also a square with benches and flower shops which would be a wonderful way to spend your afternoon.

Plaza de la Virgen

This plaza was my favorite spot to sit and relax, people watch, and take in the city. It includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Basílica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, and the Palace of the Generalitat as well as the fountain depicting Neptune surrounded by eight women. One particular night, a man walks into the middle of the plaza and starts setting some things up. I’m wondering what he’s going to start when he picks up these two sticks with string in the middle and starts making bubbles everywhere. Children’s and adults faces alike lit up and ran over to the madness. It was truly a spectacle to see that day and i’ll treasure that memory forever.

Additional Pictures

My Final Thoughts

I would highly recommend Valencia for anyone who is looking for a city setting to both see the city life and relax. Everything was within walking distance but even if you didn’t want to walk, its probably a quick cab ride away. There are plenty of sights and I wouldn’t have minded staying one more day since I had the event most of my main day I was there. I would definitely come back to this city.

Thanks for reading and happy traveling!

Dates Visited: August 27-29, 2019

*This post contains affiliate links that benefit me at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my adventures.