Valencia’s atmospheric Old City district, or Ciutat Vella, is packed with pretty cobble-stoned streets, pavement cafés and architecture that spans the ages, from Roman to Modernist, and belies the city’s strong Arabic influences. With so much to see you could spend days just exploring this one small part of town. But if time is short or you just need some inspiration, here’s our list of the top 10 sights in this incredible area.
1. Central Market
Market, Spanish, Vegetarian, Vegan
Across from La Llotja you’ll see the enormous Central Market, which is a must for any foodie and one of the top food experiences in Valencia. This 1920s’ building is home to one of Europe’s oldest, continuously-running food markets. And it’s still thriving, with mostly local shoppers picking up their fresh produce. A walk around the market stalls is a great way to experience local life among piles of oranges, cheese, jamón and fresh seafood. Taste the produce, grab a bottle of wine to take home and stop for a wedge of creamy tortilla at the market’s one very popular, but tiny café.
2. Silk Museum
Valencia’s silk museum occupies the stunning 15th century building of the College of High Silk Art, now restored to its former glory. The looms, artworks and other exhibits take visitors on a journey through Valencia’s Golden Age when it was an important center for the silk trade. Seek out the peaceful courtyard café around the back of the building, accessed through an arched portal in the medieval walls. Behind the museum is the site of a ruined medieval hospital, where one of the tiny chapels still stands amid peaceful gardens.
Jaser Cervantes / © Culture Trip
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