Valencia
Often overlooked in favour of Barcelona, Valencia is a rich cocktail of impressive architecture, lively streets and nightlife, with a refreshing lack of tourists. Here, you can drink horchata (a traditional drink made from tiger nuts, sugar and crushed ice) and eat paella – Valencia is Spain’s rice-growing centre, and paella was invented here. A wander through the old quarter reveals a Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance heritage. To slow down to the laid-back pace of this seaside town, visit the sandy beach where in late June the year’s longest day is marked by fireworks, street parties and bonfires on the beach..
