Valencia

Valencia occupies a prime position on the eastern coast of Spain, nestled near the mouth of the Turia River. Functioning as a major maritime and shipping hub in the western Mediterranean, the port welcomes international travelers as both a vibrant port of call and a primary turnaround destination, placing visitors within exceptionally easy reach of a magnificent sun-drenched coastal metropolis.

The city boasts over two millennia of history, having been founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC. Subsequent Islamic rule introduced advanced irrigation, paving the way for the Christian conquest in 1238 that established Valencia as a regional capital. During the fifteenth century, the city flourished into a major European trade center, later experiencing an eighteenth-century economic resurgence through silk manufacturing.

Architectural treasures abound throughout the old town. Highlights include the magnificent Valencia Cathedral, housing the Holy Chalice, and La Lonja de la Seda, a breathtaking fifteenth-century civic masterpiece designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. Visitors can also explore the historic Central Market and the imposing Serranos Towers.

Modern architectural brilliance defines the contemporary waterfront, transformed when the city hosted the America's Cup in 2007. The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences showcases striking designs by architect Santiago Calatrava, housing Europe's largest marine park alongside cutting-edge science museums and opera venues. Nearby, the scenic Turia Gardens occupy the former riverbed, creating a lush green linear park.

Benefiting from a warm subtropical Mediterranean climate featuring over three hundred days of sunshine annually, Valencia treats visitors to wide sandy stretches like Malvarrosa Beach and a lively seaside promenade lined with popular open-air eateries. As the undisputed birthplace of authentic paella, the city invites food lovers to savor traditional slow-cooked rice dishes alongside refreshing local wines and spectacular cultural celebrations like the world-famous Fallas festival.

Sailed into the sun-drenched waters of Valencia? You can track your cruise on The Cruise Globe to see your ship's precise route.