Valencia is known as the land of ‘flowers, light and love’ and is the jewel of the Mediterranean. Nestling between the sea and mountains, the vast orange groves of Valencia stretch for miles along the white sandy beaches. The well-known rice fields of La Albufera, Valencia are just twelve kilometres from the centre of town and are separated from the sea by a thin strip of land. The region is complete with sand dunes and pine forests and is famous for it is natural park and stunning freshwater lagoon where you are able to enjoy romantic boat rides.

La Albufera is also the birthplace of the traditional dish of Spain paella and you are able to sample this lovely dish at any of the many mouth-watering restaurants in Valencia. You will find approximately 1,500 restaurants and tapas bars in Valencia Metropolis and also numerous clubs and destinations to have fun.The fairytale Old Quarter of Valencia is really at the heart of this magnificent metropolis. The region is very simple to explore on foot and is complete with narrow cobbled streets that twist and turn eventually bringing you towards the hip and really bohemian area of Barrio del Carmen.

This is one from the best areas to come to in Valencia. There’s so much to do, it’s full of open air terraces and restaurants and bars where you are able to soak up the intoxicating atmosphere of Valencia.Throughout the day it’s as if time has stood still and you’ve been transported back in time. You will find gothic and baroque treasures such as La Lonja and also the beautiful Cathedral of Valencia. Also the magnificent and very beautiful modernist buildings of Mercado Central (Central Market) and Estación del Norte (North Station).

Nightlife is rivalling the greatest in Europe and during the hot summer months everything moves towards the clubs and discos from the beach area of Cabanyal. Valencia is a university city with a very large student population and the area around Avenida Blasco Ibañez is also a great place to go for late night fun.The number one attraction in Valencia at the moment may be the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències (City of Arts and Sciences). Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava this jaw-dropping attraction is set in the beautiful Jardí del Túria (Turía Gardens) where the old Turía river used to be.The Turía river was diverted south of the city in 1957 and throughout the nineties the entire region was totally transformed into the beautiful park it is today.

The park is like a long green ribbon twisting and turning through the city to it’s final destination towards the beach region of Valencia. The Jardí del Túria is full of fountains, ponds and sports facilities and is perfect for taking an early morning cycle ride or jog. At the end of Jardí del Túria is the City of Arts and Sciences which is a stunning state of the art complex full of shimmering glass, steel and concrete. This really is where you’ll find the Valencia Spain aquarium which is the largest aquarium in Europe.

One thing which will never change in Ireland is the relentless pursuit of some sun for at least a few weeks of the year. It is something which I’m afraid can never be guaranteed here in Ireland due to our unpredictable (nice way of putting it ) summers.

Valencia is a city which can be reached directly from Dublin Airport thanks to Ryanair. Valencia Airport is situated seven kilometers from the city.

Valencia is the 3rd biggest city in Spain. It still retains much of its traditional Spanish charm as well as being a modern hub of activity. The people are considered a warm and friendly lot. There are plenty for options for visitors during their stay in Valencia. There is lots of sandy beach space for those wishing to lie out in the sun and relax while indoor types (what are you doing in Spain? ) will find plenty of museums to discover in a city with a proud history in the arts.

Valencia is renowned for its festivals which happen between February and June. In February the Las Fallas festival take place which is followed by the religious celebration of holy week in the following month. In June, the Corpus Christi festival takes place as well as the San Juan bonfires.

The Valencia City of Arts and Science should definitely be a stop on your itinerary.  Within this complex you will find L’Hemisfèric Planetarium, the imitation marine world Parque Oceanográfico, Palacio de las Artes Reina Sofia, and much more.

The best views of the city can be seen at the Miguelete Tower. Other places worth penciling in some time for include the World Heritage Site of Lonja, Puente del Mar, Antigua Universidad de Valencia, the Sea Bridge and Puerto de Valencia.

Shopping fans won’t be disappointed in Valencia. Plaza de la Virgen and Plaza Redonda are two of the major shopping areas.

Arriving in Valencia means you are never too far away from other Spanish hotspots. A short drive in your Car hire Valencia will bring you to Alicante and Murcia.