Planet Cruises' team of travel experts has chosen this beautiful Spanish city as Europe's sunniest holiday destination for 2024.
According to Skyscanner, Valencia takes the top spot as an idyllic winter destination, with only an average of three rainy days a month during the cold season, and round-trip flights from London to Valencia in February 2025. Tickets were offered at the reasonable price of £31 for direct flights.
Located on the east coast of Spain, in the heart of the Gulf of Valencia, at the mouth of the River Turia, this city is a great choice for those in the UK still seeking some last-minute winter sun.
Those concerned about recent flooding in this notoriously dry city may be wondering if it's safe to visit, and the answer is yes.
A spokesperson for Visit Valencia said: “Now is the perfect time to visit Valencia. Not only to experience its vibrant culture, festive atmosphere and famous gastronomy, but also to contribute to its recovery.” said.
He added: “Tourism is essential to Valencia's economic recovery and your visit will help rebuild the city and make it stronger than ever.”
Much of the devastation and loss of life from the flooding affected areas south of Valencia, but the city center was spared.
Cultural landmarks such as the Santiago Calatrava-designed City of Arts and Sciences and Valencia's Gothic cathedral survived the catastrophe.
Parque Turia is one of Spain's largest urban parks and a must-see if you're in the city. It was built on the former bed of the Turia River.
Recent travelers shared details of their November 2024 post-flood trip on TripAdvisor.
They said: “The park (Jaldi del Turia) is full of runners, cyclists, families, walkers, birthday parties, etc. It's a great space for everyone!”
Another visitor described the park as a “beautifully maintained park that snakes through the city centre.”
For history buffs, the Santos Juanes Church is worth a visit this year. It will bring back the shine.
Visit Valencia reports that around 30 experts will use cutting-edge technology, including bio-cleaning with bacteria, lasers and ultrasound, to restore the Baroque splendor of one of the city's largest churches. We are busy putting the final touches on the construction work.
It is an iconic landmark from the 1600s and is still open to visitors today. If you purchase a ticket to visit a church under construction, you can watch the restoration work in real time.
There are also exhibits explaining the stages of work and the materials and techniques used.
Valencia has great natural beauty throughout the city, and one of the most attractive parks is just 10 km away.
Described as “nature in its purest form'' with “magical sunsets, boat rides, and unique opportunities for interaction,'' L'Albufera Natural Park is an urban oasis.
There is an amazing history associated with the origins of Valencian cuisine, especially paella. Boating on the lake has resumed and local restaurants are fully open, while a cleanup operation is underway in the L'Albufera Natural Park, according to Visit Valencia.
Mercado Central, built in 1928, is the city's largest market. With a spectacular seafood counter and meat stalls selling sausages and giant steaks, there's something for everyone.
Many of the fruits and vegetables are produced locally in Valencia's Huerta (market garden area) and have a special quality. The on-site tapas bar also offers visitors a taste of local life.
After filling your stomach with local gourmet food, it's time to explore Valencia's cathedral.
Valencia is easy to get to, with direct flights from London costing an average of £31 in February. Skyscanner has discounts from £30 on flights from London Stansted to Valencia on Saturday 1st February, returning on Wednesday 5th February.
