A short gastro-cultural tour through Valencia: enjoy it like a real Valencian!

Start the day by wandering through the streets of the Mercado Central, just like the Valencians do – comparing prices, buying local products, and later having a snack in the best tapa bar of the Mercado Central: Central Bar, owned by one of the most reputed chefs in Valencia. The Mercado Central is not only an architectural gem but also a gastronomic and sociological one.

After a light snack, leave the Mercado to stroll through the old quarter and get to know the history and evolution of the city from its foundation by the Romans to the present day. 

Make sure to visit the Lonja de la Seda, the shrine of trade in the XV century, declared a UNESCO Heritage site. Then turn to narrow streets and squares to reach the Cathedral of Valencia, where the Holy Grail is kept, and Plaza de la Virgen, a very dear and unique place for the Valencians.

After a stroll through the city – go for early lunch at the Mercado de Colón, one of the most emblematic spots in the city. On the way, make sure to stop in front of the impressive façade of the Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace. Once you are at the Mercado de Colón, which was converted into a meeting point for the Valencians, enjoy some local wine in the most fabulous outdoor bar: Mi Cub.

End the day by admiring two wonderful Valencian modernist buildings: Estación del Norte and the Plaza de Toros (the Bullring), then stroll through the modernist enlargement area of the city. There – stop for a wonderful meal in one of the Valencians’ favorite and most reputed tapas bars: Bar Maipi.