Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain and enjoys 300 sunny days a year. Representing the true essence of Spain, it is a charming Mediterranean city surrounded by orange groves and rice fields, waiting to be discovered. Valencia surprises with picturesque narrow streets converging on beautiful squares with monumental buildings and fountains. The Silk Exchange, the central market with modernist style, the impressive Gothic cathedral (home to the Holy Grail) with its adjacent basilica, and the Micalet bell tower are all within a short walk of each other.

Just south of the city, the extensive inland freshwater lake and the Albufera Natural Park are surrounded by hectares of rice fields, producing the key ingredient for Spain's most famous dishes and the local specialty, Paella. The city is on the sea, with kilometers of pristine beaches and plenty of seaside restaurants.

The old town is concentrated enough to cover many of its main attractions on foot. The City of Arts and Sciences has been built on the former course of the Turia River, which for many years has been diverted to the outskirts of the city. The Turia River transforms into a garden blooming with small details, such as flowers that grow year-round under the Mediterranean sun, towering trees, and hedge mazes.

Highlights:

• The third-largest city in Spain.
• Birthplace of the famous Paella.
• Impressive futuristic architecture in the City of Arts and Sciences.
• Albufera Natural Reserve: visit a typical Barraca.
• Sailing regattas of the America's Cup, F1 car driving experiences, and football activities at Valencia CF facilities.