Forget Barcelona — This Underrated Spanish City Has It All

theSkimm

Cross Madrid’s history with Barcelona’s beauty and Seville’s citrus trees, and you’d get Valencia. Criminally overlooked in favor of its famous neighbors, Valencia, which is actually Spain’s third-largest city,offers a bit of everything: miles of picture-perfect beaches (do not skip Playa de la Malvarrosa),historic and cultural treasures, and some of the best paella you’ll ever eat — all with a refreshing lack of tourists. Plus, the laid-back coastal city experiences 300 days of sunshine annually, so there isn’t a bad time to visit.

🛏 Located in Valencia’s Old Town, Hotel Palacio Vallier is a 19th-century mansion turned luxury hotel with 31 rooms and suites, featuring soft color schemes, Art Deco details, and gorgeous marble bathrooms. At night, stop by the hotel’s cozy, wood-paneled bar for a superb rendition of the city’s cocktail, Agua de Valencia, made with gin, vodka, cava, and fresh orange juice.

🌴 In March, Valencia was named the 2024 European Green Capital, thanks in part to its expansive green spaces. That includes the popular Parque Central, lively Plaza de la Reina (excellent for people watching), and Turia Gardens, a 6-mile, palm tree-filled park that curves around the city — where you can walk, run, bike, or simply enjoy the view. Outdoorsy types should also visit Albufera Natural Park, known for its freshwater lagoon, rice fields, 250 species of birds, and astounding sunsets.

🏛One of Valencia’s most striking aspects? The beaches, obviously. But also, the stunning combo of historic and contemporary architecture. To see this in action, stroll through Old Town, stopping at La Lonja (the UNESCO-listed, Gothic-style silk exchange) and Valencia Cathedral, which includes the El Miguelete bell tower (climb to the top for 360-degree views). Then, head to the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic masterpiece that contains an opera house, interactive science museum, and aquarium.

🍴Valencia’s claim to fame is it’s the birthplace of paella, so don’t leave without trying the real deal — ideally from 100-year-old Casa Carmela. Also not to be missed? A trip to Mercado Central, a spectacular food market with over 1,200 stalls selling seafood, produce, pastries, and more. (After browsing, snack on cod fritters and chicken croquettes at the market’s Central Bar.) And for dinner, try traditional tapas at Casa Montaña.