10 reasons to travel to Valencia in 2024

1.   Valencia, European Green Capital 2024

Valencia has been named the European Green Capital for 2024. This prestigious title, awarded by the European Commission, acknowledges the city’s dedication to enhancing its environment and the well-being of its residents and visitors. Throughout the year, special events and new attractions will abound, offering ample opportunities for everyone to partake in the celebrations. Whether it’s strolling through the newly designated pedestrian zones or relaxing in the city’s lush green spaces like the Turia Garden or the Albufera, Valencia offers a plethora of sustainable tourism experiences.

2.   New Hortensia Herrero Center of Contemporary Art

The opening of the new Hortensia Herrero Center of Contemporary Art in the historic Valeriola Palace marks an exciting addition to Valencia’s cultural scene in 2024. Housing the private collection of its benefactor, this venue showcases works by renowned international artists alongside prominent Spanish talents. Guided tours offer insights into the collection and the building’s rich history, with free admission on Wednesday afternoons.

3.   The Ironman triathlon comes to Valencia

Valencia welcomes the prestigious Ironman triathlon event, with three half-distance races scheduled in 2024. Participants will test their endurance with a challenging course that includes swimming in the Mediterranean, cycling through scenic landscapes including the Sierra Calderona, and running along the Turia Garden, providing spectators with ample opportunities to cheer on the competitors.

4.   A historic new market for farm-to-table shopping

Valencia’s commitment to sustainability extends to its culinary scene, with the renovated Mercado del Grao offering fresh produce from local farms and the sea. This historic market, now featuring modern amenities and a vibrant atmosphere, provides a farm-to-table shopping experience unlike any other in the city.

5.   The Palau de la Música is back

The reopening of the Palau de la Música in the picturesque Turia Garden heralds a new era of musical performances in Valencia. With a diverse lineup of classical concerts featuring both national and international talents, the city reaffirms its status as a hub for musical excellence.

6.   More charming hotels

Valencia’s hotel offerings continue to expand with new openings planned for 2024. These include Cuber House Valencia, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, an upscale hotel with 84 rooms in El Cabanyal, whose decor will be inspired by the regeneration of this old fishing district. Grupo Sol y Mar, known for its beach hotels in Calpe, has chosen Valencia to debut its first urban hotel, Estimar Valencia, with 65 rooms in the heart of the city. Finally, the BESTPRICE hotel chain has just opened its first establishment in Valencia, the BESTPRICE Valencia Hotel, which occupies a protected historic building with 24 rooms in the Patraix neighborhood.

7.   Sorolla at the Museum of Fine Arts

Art enthusiasts can explore the newly dedicated Sorolla Hall at the Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing works by the celebrated Valencian painter Joaquín Sorolla. This permanent collection offers a comprehensive overview of Sorolla’s artistic legacy, complemented by other masterpieces housed within the museum’s extensive galleries.

8.   New dining spaces

Valencia’s culinary scene welcomes two new dining destinations, the Mercado de la Imprenta and Mercader, offering a diverse array of gastronomic delights in unique settings. Additionally, the opening of Tatel, a collaboration between Rafa Nadal and Cristiano Ronaldo, adds a touch of Mediterranean flair to the city’s dining landscape.

9.   Valencia, global epicenter of motorsport

As the global epicenter of motorsport, Valencia will host the FIA Motorsport Games in October 2024. Featuring a wide range of competitions across various disciplines, this event promises exhilarating action for both participants and spectators alike.

10.   Bombas Gens Art Centre opening March 26th

Bombas Gens Centre d’Arts Digitals is a pioneering cultural space in Valencia, the city’s first stable and permanent center specializing in the exhibition and dissemination of immersive and audiovisual projects that connect the artistic and technological scenes in all possible media. A place for the convergence, hybridization, and dialogue between art, science, and technology, but also for research, experimentation, and the promotion of creation.

All imagery courtesy of VisitValencia.

For more information, go to: https://www.visitvalencia.com/en