The City of Arts and Sciences complex, including the Oceanogrà fic aquarium (the largest in Europe), easily fills a full day. The historic Gothic quarter, centred on the Plaza de la Virgen and Valencia Cathedral, offers a genuine contrast to the modern architecture elsewhere in the city. Turia Gardens, a nine-kilometer park built in a former riverbed, runs through the city and connects many of its major sights on foot or by bike.
Malvarrosa Beach, a short tram ride from the centre, gives Valencia genuine beach-city credentials alongside its architecture and food scene. The Central Market, one of Europe's oldest operating markets, is worth a visit for its Art Nouveau architecture and fresh produce even if you're not planning to cook.
