Things to do in Valencia

Valencia's futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, laid out in the old Turia riverbed, brings together the Oceanogràfic, with its long underwater shark tunnel, beluga whales and large dolphinarium, the hands-on exhibitions of the Museu de les Ciències and planetarium films under the Hemisfèric dome. In the old town, visit the Chapel of the Holy Chalice inside Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete bell tower, browse the domed Mercado Central and step into the hall of twisting columns at the UNESCO-listed Lonja de la Seda opposite. The 9 km Turia Gardens link it all with flat, traffic-free cycle paths, the 70-metre giant of Gulliver Park for children to climb and BIOPARC Valencia's recreated African habitats at the western end, while L'Albufera, said to be the birthplace of paella, pairs a traditional boat ride on the lagoon, ideally at sunset, with paella in El Palmar. Further south, a lift climbs to Santa Bárbara Castle for views over Alicante and the sea, Benidorm's Terra Mítica is themed on legends of the ancient Mediterranean, and in spring Las Fallas fills Valencia with giant satirical monuments, the booming mascletà and the final-night Cremà.

Good to knowCombined tickets for the Oceanogràfic, Museu de les Ciències and Hemisfèric can be used over consecutive days, but you must pick a date for each venue. The Mercado Central is closed on Sundays and liveliest in the morning, the Lonja de la Seda is free on Sundays and public holidays, and the Valencia Tourist Card gives free entry to the Lonja and free rides on EMT buses 24 and 25 to L'Albufera. Las Fallas is very loud and crowded, so bring earplugs for children, and check Terra Mítica's seasonal dates before visiting.