A city by the sea guarantees unique and romantic moments together for couples. Valencia combines stunning green spaces with impressive architecture and it’s a city where you can enjoy fantastic nights out during an unforgettable romantic break.
Old course of Túria river by bicycle
One advantage of Valencia is that it’s completely flat; the old course of the Túria river has been converted into a green space and cycling from the Parc de Capçalera to the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciènces is the perfect route to enjoy with your partner. You won’t believe you’re actually crossing the city centre as you speed through this green lung at the heart of the city. Take a break during your journey and stretch out on the grass, top up your energy at one of the bars and cafés, hurtle down one of Gulliver’s slides (link interno) or take photos by the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciènces as the sun goes down. There are places to hire bicycles throughout the gardens and the nearest will simply depend on the point at which you enter the park.
Jardín Botánico de la Universidad de Valencia
You’ll be surprised the moment you enter the Botanical Garden of Valencia University because the central space of the main building opens up to let the trees inside grow upwards towards the sky. The garden originally belonging to Valencia University and was used to grow medicinal plants; today it’s the perfect spot to take a stroll and admire the colourful plants growing in the greenhouse. You’ll find plants species from around the world among its many trees. Make sure you don’t miss the yew trees—some are over a thousand years old and symbolise immortality. Lose yourself along its winding paths through almost four hectares of garden.
Carrer de Quart, 80.
Promenade and a drink at the Marina Real
The sea breeze and a glimpse of pleasure boats instantly bring to mind thoughts of rest and adventure. Take a romantic walk along the promenade while listening to the sounds of the sea as you talk sweet nothings, hold hands and forget to check your watch. Before you know it, you’ll reach the Veles e Vents building, the symbol of the new Marina de Valencia that was built after the America’s Cup was held here. This is one of best areas to have dinner or drinks on a terrace as you look out at the marina and enjoy a fun evening in Valencia.
The hills of the Jardins del Real
These gardens were once home to the old Palau del Real and there are two small hills that were created from the rubble of the palace that are often chosen by couples as a great spot for selfies. Valencia is a totally flat city and these are therefore the “only two hills in Valencia”. They’re known as the Hills of Elio in tribute to General Elio who heroically defended the city during the War of Independence but was decapitated here by his own troops on the orders of Ferdinand VII. This sorry tale isn’t exactly romantic but that aside, the gardens have a series of different areas that are each beautiful in their own way, such as the lake or rose garden, and are perfect for a romantic walk.
Paella by Platja de la Malva-rosa
After spending the morning on the beach lazing around in hammocks or strolling along the promenade, just like Valencia’s bourgeoisie did back in the nineteenth century, what could be better than a genuine Valencian paella by the sea? Rice rules the roost in Valencia whichever way it’s cooked: dry, creamy, in broth or oven-baked. You’ll find the best places to eat on the Passeig de Neptú which has numerous restaurants and beach bars where you can try this typical Valencian dish. The most traditional restaurant is definitely La Pepica but if you take a short walk along the seafront, you’ll see that there are plenty of places to choose from.
Passeig de Neptú
Evening on the L’Umbracle terrace
Enjoy the Valencian night in a spectacular setting right in the heart of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciènces. A huge garden spread over 4,000 m2 with exclusive furniture and unique sculptures waits for you in what looks like the spine of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciènces complex. Your evening will be even more romantic yet if you book a VIP area, which includes a premium bottle, fruit platter and a personal waiter.
Avinguda del Saler, 5
Balneario La Alameda
The best way to relax after a day of tourism around the city is to enjoy a romantic spa session. The Balneario La Alameda is located in the city centre and its thermal waters have a high magnesium content. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with soothing music and spend some quality time together. If the magnesium pool, Roman thermal baths and circular shower aren’t enough to tempt you, how about a Vichy shower massage with medicinal mineral water or a full-body exfoliation? Choose from a long list of treatments and enjoy the experience as a couple.
Carrer d’Amadeu de Savoia, 14
Boat ride in l’Albufera de Valencia
L’Albufera (link interno) is just moments away from Valencia and is a beautiful area of rice fields and waterways. Watching the sun gradually dip below the horizon from a boat is one of the most romantic activities imaginable. The waters of the lagoon are always tranquil and the albuferencas, the name given to the type of boat used here, seamlessly glide across its surface. You can round off this magical experience by enjoying dinner on the boat as you sail towards the sunset. It could be the perfect moment to ask a special question, don’t you think?
Jardí de Monfort gardens
Search for a long ivy and bougainvillea-lined avenue inside these gardens and sit on one of its benches with your partner to confess your most romantic secrets. As you peacefully wander through this historical, Neo-classical garden you’ll spot 33 marble statues and several ponds. The largest one is delightfully shaped like a water-lily. The garden palace was built by Sebastián Monleón in 1859 and is used for civil weddings.
There’s no doubt about it, Valencia has countless attractions that will inspire you to enjoy a romantic break full of special moments.