Thursday, April 8, 2010
Valencia Hotels
The city of Valencia is the capital of the Valencia region and the third largest city in Spain. It boasts a fantastic location mid way on the Spanish Mediterranean coastline overlooking the spectacular Gulf of Valencia.
Valencia hotels are plentiful and there is something to suit every traveller whether on business or pleasure.
Valencia has all the ingredients to make your holiday an unforgettable one. It's got a historic centre, museums, theatres, galleries, space age architecture, excellent shopping, delicious cuisine, a beautiful Mediterranean climate and a superb beach. As well as all that, the Valencian nightlife is renowned throughout Spain as are its famous 'fiestas'.
There are two main areas to stay in Valencia – the Old Town centre or the beach. The Old Town is the very heart of the city centre and where most of the sightseeing is to be had. This city has a colourful history spanning back over 2,000 years so there's plenty of landmarks and sights for you to explore. Walk the ancient winding streets and you'll see an array of Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque style architecture. As you saunter along these streets you'll come across markets and medieval churches, which add to the Old Town's atmosphere.
The Old Town is full of history, so make sure you take the time to visit some noteworthy attractions like Santa Catalina Church and Tower, Le Seu Cathedral, Basilica de la Virgen, La Lonja (a 15th century indoor market), the Valencian Institute of Modern Art and the Mercado Central.
Not only is the Old Town famed for its history but it has also got some of the best restaurants and nightlife that the city has to offer.
In the north east of the Old Town you'll find Barrio del Carmen. A beautiful area to explore by day and party by night! This is the nightlife hub of the city where you'll find tapas bars, trendy nightclubs and some superb restaurants most of which are located on Calle de Caballeros. There's lots of hotel accommodation in this area, which are ideal if you want to be in the heart of the Old Town and have all the nightlife on your doorstep!
At the southern end of the Old Town district you'll find the Plaza de Toros – the city's legendary bullring. There's also a nearby museum where you can purchase bullfighting memorabilia.
Plaza de Ayuntamiento is closeby and this is a large square home to the city's Town Hall. It is probably the most important square in Valencia and the venue for the world famous Las Fallas celebrations every March.
The city is the perfect places to base yourself if you're not too beach focused. There are Valencia hotels scattered all over the city centre.
No visit to Valencia is complete without a visit to the City of Arts and Science. It is located south east of the city centre and is one of the most incredible sights in the city! It claims to be the biggest museum in Spain and vows to take you into the future! It features an impressive concert hall and opera house, a marine park (biggest in Europe!), an IMAX Cinema, a museum of science and a greenhouse. The City of Arts and Science is surrounded by hotels and has become an upmarket area with lots of shopping malls. It's the perfect location for you if you want to be mid-way between the city and the beach.
Want to enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and be within steps of the fantastic white sandy beaches then stay in the beach/port area.
Valencia is renowned for its world-class beaches which are blessed with azur blue waters of the Mediterranean, fine soft sands and never ending sunshine!
Las Arenas and La Malvarrosa are two of the main beaches in Valencia. They are about a 15/20-minute bus ride from the city centre but if you do want to make the most of these glorious beaches you can stay at a beachside hotel and there are plenty to choose from.
The beachside promenades are popular places to hang out as they are home to lots of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
If you happen to be coming to Valencia on business they you might be looking for a hotel in the Congresos area. This area is home to the Valencia Trade Fair Centre and is located about 8km north west of the city centre.
Due to it's sunny weather and Mediterranean climate, Valencia is a year round destination so make sure you book well in advance especially if you're coming in mid-March (for Las Fallas Festival), in August (for La Tomatina festival) and in July for the bullfighting events. If you don't book early then you might find that hotel prices can be a bit more expensive during these festivals.
There are lots of hotels in Valencia to choose from whether you're looking for a cheap 1 star, modest 3 star or luxury 5 star.
If you're on a budget then why not choose cheap hotels in Valencia and in that way you can spend your extra money on the more fun stuff! Valencia hotels don't have to break the bank as you can book self-catering apartment hotels which are great if you want to stretch your budget.
Hope this guide helps you to choose a hotel in the right location in Valencia.
Mairead writes for top travel and accommodation website PlacesToStay.com
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