Not many cities are capable of so harmoniously combining a fine array of sights from the past,
with innovative, avant-garde constructions now being erected to mark the start of a new millennium.
Valencia, who's founding dates back to 138 BC, is one of these fortunate few.

Taking a stroll around Valencia allows one to sense the power of many centuries of history.
Stone towers and sturdy buildings speak to you from the past. From the remains of the Roman forum,
founded by Junius Brutus, and located in today's Plaza de la Virgin (part of the Roman city of Valentia),
to the emblematic City of the Arts and Sciences, this city has transformed its physiognomy
over the years, while preserving it's monuments from the past.

Valencia conserves many of it's ancient customs, traditions and centuries old festivities,
which local inhabitants have integrated into present day pageantry.
The renowned Water Courts, held outside the Cathedral every Thursday at noon (and for the last ten centuries),
and the famous Fallas (pronounced "Fa-yas") festivities in March (15th - 19th)
are just two examples of a city which keeps it's origins alive and well.

Valencia has become a leading congress and conference venue in Europe,
and a rendezvous for business people and companies interested in exhibiting in the city's trade events.
Feria Valencia, founded in 1917, is the largest exhibition centre in Spain, covering 231,000m2 floor space.

Valencia is also fast becoming one of the "IN" places for stag and hen parties!!

These aspects help contribute to Valencia's cosmopolitan outlook,
with a range of infrastructures and services, plus the full line up of cultural pursuits and entertainment.

Valencia's mild climate is another reason to come for a stay. It's warm atmosphere can always be felt in this city.
Inviting and hospitable. Ready to be enjoyed.
Not forgetting, of course, Valencia is the home of Paella.

Valencia is Spain's third largest city, with a population of over 780,000.
Although it is a large city, it is easy to travel around all can be easily explored on foot
(or combined with the excellent metro and bus systems).
It offers a combination of tourism and industry, with a thriving Rice and Orange trade,
and an eclectic selection of Gothic, Roman, Moorish and modern architecture.

Most of the tourist interest is contained within a two square mile radius at the heart of the city.
Barrio del Carmen forms the oldest district and many of the ancient buildings here have been
converted into restaurants, bars, boutiques and galleries.

Shopping Hours

Shops are generally open from 10am to 2pm and from 5pm until 8pm Mon - Sat
(Some vary, and Department Stores usually open throughout the day).

Tapas Bars and Cafes are generally open from early morning until late (and we mean late!) at night.

Bars open at lunchtime (or late afternoon, dependent on type) and stay open until the last hombre leaves.

Restaurants (remember, not Tapas bars) open late, usually at 9pm
- Best time to eat, as it's cooling down, and the Spanish don't eat until 10.00+ pm.

Banks

Banks open Mon - Fri from 8.30 or 9.00 am until 2.00 or 2.30 pm.
Some do open on certain afternoons, but the above is the norm.
You will find plenty of ATM's to use in each and every district of the city,
and most automatically read your card for English language.