If you’re looking for a romantic break that’s a little more “off the radar” (because you’ve done Paris, Venice and Budapest, right?), the gorgeous Spanish port city of Valencia is one of the most laidback and, yes, romantic destinations in Europe. For a start, it’s Spain, so there are those sun kissed beaches; secondly, it’s Spain, so there’s that amazing food; and thirdly, yes, it’s Spain, so there’s the flamenco.
Whether you’re planning a second honeymoon, a first honeymoon, a Valentine’s break or just a spontaneous getaway because you deserve it, Valencia promises plenty of va va voom topped off with a little bit of Spanish sizzle.
Romantic Walks
There’s not much more romantic than a leisurely arm-in-arm stroll, and in this loveliest of cities you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Turia Gardens: These stunning gardens are picturesque and peaceful any time of the year, and are a great place to take some time out from busy sightseeing around the city. During summer there’s an open-air movie theatre (hello sunset picnic!), and the charming Puente de los Flores (Bridge of Flowers) is a gorgeous place to take in the views.
The Old Town: While taking a meander around the Old Town is one thing (make sure you don’t miss the bohemian Barrio del Carmen area), to make it even more special, let someone else do the walking and jump in a horse and carriage at Plaza de la Reina. You’ll be able to take in the graceful architecture, charming streets and vibrant café culture and feel like royalty at the same time!
The Beaches: Ah, the beaches. During the day you can top up your tan, but come sunset, taking a walk along one of the city’s beaches is probably the most romantic thing you’ll do whilst here. There are several to choose from including the main one, Malvarosa (take the quaint tram there), the very quiet El Saler, and Sagunto (a little further out but well worth the effort).
Romantic Wining and Dining
What more can be said about the delights of Spanish cuisine that hasn’t already been said a million times? Nothing. So here are some recommendations of where to try the best variations on the theme instead.
Chocolate and churros: You’ll be tripping over the famous chocolate and churros tradition here, but one of the best places (and a locals’ favourite) is Chocolatería Valor. It also has a store so you can take your chocolate covered memories home with you! Plaça de la Reina, 20.
Tapas: You’ll rarely go wrong with tapas in Spain and, even though it’s not as big a part of the culture here as in Madrid, there are some fabulous tapas bars in Valencia. Head over to Calle de Caballeros and you can sample more than one as you work your way through your appetite. Pepita Pulgarcitas is one of the best and a fantastic place to people watch. Or you can just watch each other…
Cocktails and dreams: The city is awash with cosy, romantic bars and restaurants, but for the ultimate sundowners and an evening meal overlooking the Mediterranean, Gabbeach restaurant and cocktail bar has a reputation for the best food, cocktails and ambience in the city. Tip: Treat yourself to the Nuestro Famoso Mojito. Situated at Paseo Neptuno 30.
Hungry for a taste of Seville as well? Read Savouring Seville – Tapas and Fine Dining
The Last Word on Romance
Once you’ve explored the delights of Valencia on foot, by carriage, and through your taste buds, there’s two more sensory experiences left to try.
The magnificent Palau de la Musica (no points for guessing that’s the Palace of Music) situated in the Turia Gardens is a wonderful place to go on a warm summer’s evening to take in a live classical or contemporary concert event.
Last, and most definitely not least, you simply must catch a live flamenco show. There are a number of great establishments around the city and these three are all very different, but equally as good:
- La Bulería Tablao Flamenco – Calle Obispo Jaime Pérez 24 (loud and lively)
- Radio City VLC – 19 Santa Teresa (casual and laidback)
- Cafe del Duende – Calle Turia, 62 (cute and cosy)
Make Memories in Valencia
This is just a tiny slice of what makes this such a wonderful city for a visit for two. If you’re staying longer and want to explore a little more, have a quick look at this blog post as well, then say “olé” to your next romantic getaway!
How to Get to Valencia
Most visitors from the UK fly into busy Alicante Airport or the smaller Valencia Airport. The flight time is around two hours and 15 minutes, with a number of low cost carriers, including easyJet and British Airways from London Heathrow and Ryanair from London Stansted, offering direct flights. Budget flights start from just £22 so it’s an ideal city for a spontaneous romantic weekend break.
No matter which airport you choose, once you land the easiest, most stress-free way to get to your final destination is with a pre-booked transfer with Shuttle Direct. From Valencia the journey will take under 30 minutes and from Alicante just over two hours.
Where to Stay:
Sweet Hotel Continental: How could you resist a romantic getaway in a place called the Sweet Hotel Continental? Proving you don’t need to spend the earth to find a sweet little getaway pad, you can take in the views over the city from the roof terrace, cosy up in the bright modern rooms, or take advantage of the central location with a host of cafes, boutiques and restaurants just footsteps away.
Catalonia Excelsior: The cosy, welcoming Catalonia Excelsior offers all the romance of an Old Town location, with the comfort and laidback, luxurious ambience of a contemporary establishment. Explore the attractions on the doorstep, then come home to your large luxury room, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and the city’s best cuisine in the surrounding restaurants and cafes.
Vincci Lys: Right in the heart of the city, the opulent classical style of the Vincci Lys offers the perfect romantic pied-a-terre. Within easy strolling distance of all the iconic attractions, if you simply want to relax, you can also take advantage of the discreet room service and sophisticated décor in your elegant soundproofed room.
About Shuttle Direct:
If you’re looking for a fast, friendly and cost efficient airport transfer, Shuttle Direct has the service you can trust. As the most renowned provider of airport transport in Europe, our range of shared and private transfers is second to none.
Shuttle Direct can provide a service to and from any airport, train station or cruise port, no matter what your budget or group size. When you book online through our user-friendly system, all your arrangements will be set in place before you leave.
The team of experienced and dedicated professionals at Shuttle Direct will ensure your onward travel arrangements are efficient and stress-free.
