Here we will focus on the history of the city and the natural beauty that attracts so many visitors to its shore. Valencia can be found in the center of the Mediterranean coastline of Spain. It has beautiful views overlooking the Gulf of Valencia on one side and a cluster of mountains and rolling plains on the other side. Valencia's unique culture is derived from the Old Mare Nostrum and this, besides for the fact that is situated on the Mediterranean coastline, is what really gives it its reputation as a Mediterranean city.
Being situated on the coastline with beautiful clean beaches and the mountains range in close proximity to the shore, lends Valencia a stunning feel as a seaport city. You can visit the sand dunes at Canet d'En Berenguer where the coast is largely residential. Further north, tourist towns have sprung up, such as Alboraya. Within the city, there are beautiful beaches where visitors can enjoy a meal at a fine restaurant or simply relax with the sea by their side. It has numerous green nature reserves which can be found to the south of the city. The beaches in this area often have sports and recreational facilities attached to them. The Gardens of Turia, along the river bed, are well worth a visit.
Valencia has a rich and interesting history. It was occupied by the Romans, Greeks, Visigoths and Muslims, as well of course, the Iberian inhabitants of the land. Remains from these peoples can be seen around Valencia, although most were romanized over time and the Muslim influence was very strong. The old quarter of Valencia should be the first stop for any visitor to the city. It contains some preserved remains of the old wall that surrounded the city. This can be found in the basement of the Institute of Modern Arts. The districts of Seu and Xerea are where the majority of the artistic heritage of the city can be located. Here you will find signs of the Roman occupation of the area, Arab ruins, as well as modern churches and some fabulous palaces.
The cathedral is a fascinating structure to visit. It combines Gothic, Baroque and Neo-classical styles to form an architectural delight. The building has three portals one to suit each style of architecture. The Torres de Serranos are the ancient Gothic city gates of Valencia. They date back to the fourteenth century. Together with the Torres de Quart, they represent what is left of the walls of Valencia. La Lonja is another example of exquisite Gothic architecture that should not be missed.
Valencia does not lack accommodation for visitors to the city. They can supply just short of one hundred hotels, about fifty hostels, almost 420 apartments, 35 campsites and two spas. These all range in price and location. Visitors to the city should work out where they would like to be situated in terms of getting around and what their budget is. It is then simply a matter of matching the right accommodation option to your needs.
