September 3rd, 2024

Published in Lifestyle

Valencia Guide: The Best in Lifestyle

Spain’s third largest city has undergone bold and creative development in recent years, showcasing some of the most striking architecture in Spain.

Where coast meets culture

The thriving port city of Valencia is vibrant and attractive, boasting modern facilities and noteworthy tourist attractions such as the City of Arts and Sciences. Spain’s third largest city has undergone bold and creative development in recent years, showcasing some of the most striking architecture in Spain and adding to its already elegant art nouveau buildings and Gothic and Renaissance monuments.

Valencia old town by night

With dynamic museums, a flourishing restaurant scene, a lively nightlife, great shops and long sandy beaches, Valencia is bursting with Mediterranean exuberance. Many overseas buyers, mainly from Northern Europe, are attracted to Valencia as a less expensive and less touristy alternative to Barcelona, choosing to invest in areas such as the upmarket Eixample district and the areas of Alameda and Alfinach. Coastal areas outside of the city such as Patacona and Cullera are also increasingly popular with both foreign and national buyers.

We've curated a selection of our favorite spots that highlight the location's exceptional quality of life and the exclusive experiences it offers.

Hotels in Valencia

There are a number of hotels offering exclusive accommodation for an unforgettable stay. Here are a few of our favourites.

Hotel Balneario Las Arenas ***** Valencia: 5-star hotel in a privileged beachfront setting

Valencia offers a variety of luxurious hotels, each with its own unique charm. Hotel Balneario Las Arenas is a beachfront resort known for its elegant design and excellent spa facilities. Caro Hotel stands out with its blend of historic architecture and modern luxury, housed in a 19th-century palace. The Westin Valencia, located near the city center, combines modern amenities with a tranquil garden setting. Palacio Santa Clara is a boutique hotel that impresses with its Art Deco style and sophisticated ambiance, offering a more intimate experience in the heart of Valencia.

Restaurants in Valencia

If you're ready to embark on new exceptional culinary journeys, then take a look at our restaurant recommendations.

Ricard Camarena Restaurant, renowned for its innovative Mediterranean cuisine and artistic presentation

Valencia’s gastronomic scene is a vibrant blend of traditional flavors and innovative cuisine. At the forefront is Ricard Camarena Restaurant, a two-Michelin-starred establishment celebrated for its avant-garde approach to Mediterranean ingredients and its artfully crafted dishes. For a taste of local tradition, Casa Carmela offers a classic Valencia experience with its renowned paella, cooked over an open fire in a cozy, family-run setting. El Poblet, another Michelin-starred gem, combines creativity with local produce to deliver a sophisticated dining experience. Meanwhile, Fierro stands out for its contemporary, grill-focused menu and stylish ambiance, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a modern twist on traditional Spanish flavors. Each of these restaurants showcases Valencia's rich culinary diversity and its commitment to excellence in dining.

Culture in Valencia

For those seeking diverse and rich cultural events and activities, there is a wide array of options available.

Las Fallas are Valencia's most universal festival, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO

Valencia, a dynamic city on Spain's southeastern coast, is celebrated for its rich cultural life. The iconic Las Fallas festival, held every March, features massive, elaborate sculptures that are paraded through the streets and then dramatically burned. The City of Arts and Sciences adds a modern touch, with its futuristic architecture and attractions like a science museum and an opera house. The Museo de Bellas Artes offers a deep dive into Spanish art, showcasing masterpieces by Goya and Velázquez. Valencia's cultural calendar is filled with events that blend tradition and innovation, making it a city of endless cultural exploration.

Activities in Valencia

You'll find a wide range of opportunities to explore outstanding indoor and outdoor activities.

Mercat Colón is located in the heart of Valencia's Eixample neighbourhood

Valencia is rich in sports and attractions, offering a wide range of activities for enthusiasts and tourists alike. For sports, the city is home to the Mestalla Stadium, where fans can experience the excitement of Valencia CF's football matches. The La Marina de Valencia provides opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and other water sports, while the Albufera Natural Park offers serene spots for birdwatching and hiking. The Valencia Basket Club provides thrilling basketball games for fans. On the shopping front, Colón Street is a premier shopping destination featuring high-end boutiques and designer stores, while the Ruzafa District offers trendy shops, artisanal boutiques, and unique finds in a lively, bohemian atmosphere. The Central Market doubles as a shopping haven for local produce and gourmet treats, blending culinary delights with a bustling market experience. Additionally, the Modernist Route takes visitors on a charming tour of Valencia’s early 20th-century modernist architecture, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic flair.

Lucas Fox Valencia

Lucas Fox is a full-service real estate agency offering high quality residential homes and a comprehensive range of property services to national and international clients. We are a multilingual team with a fresh, innovative approach to the real estate industry, offering unrivalled knowledge of the property sector, locations and lifestyle.

Lucas Fox: the leading real estate agency in Spain