Valencian cuisine

Valencia is much more than just paella. That doesn't mean you shouldn't indulge in an authentic Valencian paella. If you've tried it before and you don't love it, give it another chance, what you'll eat here is nothing like any other. Plus, there are as many types of paella as families, but we can talk about that later on our blog .

However, fish don't live on water alone and Valencians don't eat paella alone. Valencia (and the Valencian Community in general) is a land with a lot of gastronomical richness. Each area and even each town has its typical dish or sweet for each time of year. Therefore, so that you can experience Mediterranean life in its entirety, we are going to do a brief review of Valencian gastronomy that you can try when you stay at our hotel on your next visit to Valencia.

Unmissable dishes of Valencian cuisine

Let's start by talking about paella, but without going into too much depth. This iconic dish, originally from the region, is made with rice from the Albufera, chicken, rabbit, green beans, garrofó and a touch of saffron. You can try it in classic restaurants like La Pepica or in any of the restaurants in El Palmar.

If we continue talking about rice, in Valencia there is an infinite variety: black rice, arroz al horno (one of the favourites of all Valencian houses), arròs del senyoret, a banda, melòs, caldós, amb bogavant, etc. To try them, we recommend looking for restaurants in the Marina that use fresh ingredients like the (also classic) Casa Carmela.

Another popular Valencian dish is fideuà, a delicious alternative to the above mentioned dishes that replaces rice with fine noodles. The classic dish is made with fish and is made with ingredients such as squid, shrimp and different fish, although there are also variations with other ingredients such as duck or foie.

If you fancy trying Valencian cuisine, you can organise a visit to Valencia and Sea You Hotel, located in the Marina of Valencia, is the ideal accommodation option.

Arroz al horno

Do you know arroz al horno? It is one of the most popular dishes in Valencian homes but it remains a great unknown in Valencian gastronomy.

A unique mix between paella and stew, we give you the keys to arroz al horno so you can enjoy it on your next visit to Valencia.

What is arroz al horno?

Arroz al horno is a dish of dry rice with chickpeas, ribs and sausages typical of Valencian cuisine. It is a simple recipe that is commonly eaten in Valencian homes.

Possibly a great unknown to anyone who is not Valencian, arroz al horno is a great competitor to Valencian paella in the preferences of locals.

Its origin is probably related to the cooking of leftovers of cocido. Leftovers were used in a different way. For this reason, many of the ingredients are similar to those of puchero (the Valencian version of cocido) and the recipe can vary greatly in each home.

It is also said that the origin comes from a recipe inherited from the Arab ancestors of the Valencians. In the beginning, it was prepared with lamb and sometimes the rice was even replaced with wheat or other ingredients.

The recipe has evolved over time, adapting to the customs of each era and even to the needs of the predominant religion. During the Valencian reconquest, pork was reintroduced (with ribs and bacon).

Ingredients and recipe for arroz al horno

The ingredients for arroz al horno (our version) are:

Rice (300 grams)
Broth (or water) 600 ml.
4 pork ribs
2 strips of bacon or pancetta
100 grams of cooked chickpeas
2 onion blood sausages
1 tomato
1 potato
Extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons of crushed tomatoes
1 head of garlic
Salt
Sweet paprika and coloring

The recipe for arroz al horno is simple. We'll start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees and frying the meat with oil and garlic. Do it slowly so that it doesn't burn, but we recommend that you brown it so that it adds flavour to the dish. When the meat is almost done, add the potato in medium-thick slices.

Wait a few minutes and add the rice and paprika to give everything a stir in the pan and absorb the flavor of the sofrito. You must be careful not to “burn” the paprika or everything will taste burnt.

Place all the ingredients in a wide but not very deep clay pot and add the chickpeas. Now is the time to add the broth (or water). The broth can be bought (we recommend cooked broth), leftover broth or you can make it beforehand with pork ribs or bones. At this point we add a little food colouring.

As for quantities, you should add two measures of broth for each measure of rice and mix it well with all the ingredients, distributing them evenly.

Place the casserole in the oven for about 20 minutes. It is advisable to keep an eye on it so that it does not overcook, as the time depends on each oven. The result should be dry and golden rice.

Tips and fun facts about arroz al horno

An interesting curiosity is the nickname of arroz al horno which literally means "baked rice": “arròs passejat” or “rice passed through”. The reason? Most houses did not have an oven, so women would take the pot of baked rice to the nearest public oven or bakery to cook the rice there.

Some tricks to make perfect arroz al horno are very similar to those for a good paella. Use bomba rice (which absorbs the broth, but prevents it from overcooking), use a broth previously made with meat or bones instead of water so that it has more flavour and use low, large-diameter containers.

If you are planning a visit to Valencia to try this and other delicacies of Valencian cuisine, Sea You Hotel , in the Marina of Valencia is the ideal accommodation option.

Christmas in Valencia

Christmas in Valencia is an ideal time to discover the city on a visit with even more charm. The entire city joins in the celebration of one of the most culturally important holidays.

Illuminated streets, roasted chestnut stalls, Christmas markets, ice rinks, and much more. We tell you how to enjoy Christmas in Valencia.

Christmas plans in Valencia

Although when you think of Christmas, Valencia may not be the first city that comes to mind, the capital of the Turia has more and more Christmas plans every year.

The Town Hall Square is the nerve center of Christmas in Valencia. The city's official Christmas tree, an ice skating rink, a carousel, etc. are usually set up there.

The square is not the only place in the city with Christmas spirit. In recent years, Christmas trees have been installed in the different neighborhoods of the city. In addition, from the end of November, the streets are filled with lights (which can be seen from nightfall) and poinsettias.

Shop windows are also decorated with all kinds of Christmas details and in parks and squares such as the Parc Central or the Plaza del Mercado Central and the Lonja are transformed into Christmas markets with typical gastronomic products such as nougat or polvorones, gifts and entertainment and activities for the whole family.

A good Christmas plan in Valencia is to have a hot chocolate (or a snack) in the Mercado de Colón, which has one of the most beautiful trees (and Christmas decorations in general) in the city.

During this time of year, activities for children are organized in Valencia. ExpoJove (at Feria Valencia) is a classic. An event dedicated to children with all kinds of recreational activities. On the other hand, in the area near the port, the Christmas Fair is set up every year, with attractions, raffles, and activities for all tastes.

In Valencia, as in many Spanish cities, setting up the Nativity scene is part of the Christmas tradition. We can find Nativity scenes both in the streets and in museums, shopping centers, or emblematic places. A good Christmas family plan is to do a "Nativity scene route" to discover artistic jewels. One of the most important is the one at the town hall (located in its Crystal Hall), which has more than 40 square meters and 100 figures. Also, the Neapolitan Nativity scene at the National Museum of Ceramics and many more.

Bringing in the New Year in the Town Hall Square is quite a plan. You can start the year with the 12 chimes and the 12 grapes accompanied by other Valencians to have a year of good luck. Afterward, there are always public parties until well into the night.

On the eve of Three Kings' Day, a grand parade is held in Valencia prior to the most magical night of the year. The route may vary, but it usually begins at the port (where the Three Wise Men disembark) and passes through the main streets of the center until it reaches the Town Hall Square.

If you want to enjoy Christmas in Valencia, you can stay at Sea You Hotel, from where you can enjoy the different Christmas plans in Valencia with the comfort that the dates deserve.

Restaurants in El Cabañal

A few months ago we shared with you a route through El Cabanyal , the fishing district of the city of Valencia. Today we want to return to the subject by focusing on El Cabanyal restaurants so that, beyond its architecture, you can enjoy everything this neighborhood has to offer on a gastronomic level.

Gastronomy of El Cabanyal

While you're exploring the neighborhood following the route we share on the blog, you'll need to take a break to replenish your energy. That's why we're bringing you a compilation of the best restaurants and lunch bars that we recommend for your visit. The offer in this maritime neighborhood is very varied with options and prices for all tastes:

Casa Montaña : A classic. Known for its tapas and wine cellar, it is one of the most emblematic in the area. A perfect place to sample authentic Valencian cuisine.
La Pascuala : A classic bar known for its oversized sandwiches and hearty flavours. Ideal for lunch (esmorzaret) or a quick meal after a walk.
Anyora Bodega : It has a cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes with a modern touch. The ideal place to try stews and rice dishes.
Mercabañal : An open-air food market with different food stalls. If you are looking for a casual and varied culinary experience, this is your place. From tapas, international cuisine, to the recently awarded best burgers in the world, the Hundred Burgers burger restaurant. You will find options of all kinds so that all members of the family can eat whatever they fancy.
La Sastrería : This is a restaurant that combines signature cuisine and local dishes with a creative touch. Each dish is a visual and taste experience, with special attention paid to fish and seafood.
Mercader : With a more casual style, Mercader is also known for its many options. It has different food stalls with dishes inspired by Mediterranean and Valencian cuisine. Located in a very cozy and modern space, it invites you to relax and try different flavors.
L a Llimera : A special place with vegetarian options and fresh, seasonal dishes. It stands out for its bohemian atmosphere and its commitment to local and sustainable products.

Other recommended places in the area are Casa Carmela, La Pepica, Cienfuegos, Malafama or Fumiferro .

If, on the other hand, you wish to return to the hotel to rest and continue in the afternoon, you can also book your lunch or dinner at the Drassanes Restaurant located on the first floor of Sea You Hotel, which offers a daily menu and classic options of Valencian cuisine. You can reserve a table to take a break from your day of sightseeing with the contact information you will find in their section .

The area also has establishments more focused on leisure where you can eat something or have a drink, such as La fábrica de hielo, Sabbia By Gabbeach (for lunch and dinner with a show) or the area near the Veles e Vents building.

At Sea You Hotel, we recommend exploring the El Cabanyal neighbourhood and restaurants to discover all its Mediterranean charm . If you are looking for accommodation nearby, take a look at our boutique hotel .

5 reasons to choose Sea You Hotel Port Valencia

Valencia has a unique energy, with a mix of history, culture, leisure, gastronomy and sun-drenched beaches. If you are looking for the perfect place to stay and enjoy everything this city has to offer, Sea You Hotel Port Valencia has several reasons that make it your best choice.

Reasons to choose Sea You Hotel

We'll start with the main one: the location . La Marina de Valencia is one of the most attractive and lively spots in the city. This area has evolved in recent years, becoming a meeting point for both tourists and locals. From walks on the beach to restaurants, bars and shops, La Marina is the ideal place to soak up the Mediterranean essence. Sea You Hotel offers direct access to the beach and the maritime atmosphere.

The next reason is the good public transport connections. Exploring Valencia is easy when you stay at Sea You Hotel thanks to the excellent public transport connections. From our hotel you have easy access to buses, trams and the metro, allowing you to easily travel to iconic places such as the old town, the City of Arts and Sciences, or the Central Market. In addition, you will be just a stone's throw from the beaches of Valencia and La Marina de Valencia, making Sea You Hotel Port Valencia the ideal starting point for any tourist plan.

Another reason is the option of staying in a 4-star boutique hotel . Each guest receives personalized attention in a cozy and elegant environment. We focus on the details, offering modern and comfortable rooms with a style that reflects the Mediterranean charm. We want every stay at Sea You Hotel to be memorable.

As for the food and drink, we would like to highlight breakfast , one of the most important meals of the day. At Sea You Hotel we make sure that you start your day in the best way. With your reservation, we include the option of a full and varied breakfast, with fresh and local options to recharge your energy before a day full of adventures in Valencia.

Last but not least, the Sky Bar . This exclusive space offers stunning views of La Marina de Valencia and the city. It is the perfect place to enjoy a drink at sunset, relax and experience the Valencian atmosphere. From here you can admire Valencia from a unique perspective, creating unforgettable moments and experiencing the best sunset in the city.

Have we convinced you yet? If you want to enjoy some incredible days staying at Sea You Hotel , book your holiday in Valencia now!

Sport in Valencia

Valencia is a vibrant and active city that offers multiple options for sports lovers , both for those looking to stay active on vacation and for those who come to compete or as spectators of world-class events.

The mild temperatures, wide beaches, abundant and quality sports facilities, and a great sports culture make Valencia an ideal destination for those interested in sport or for those who want to stay active on their holidays. At Sea You Hotel we are going to talk about sport in Valencia in general, so that you know where to practice it and where to watch it during your stay in Valencia.

Outdoor sports in Valencia

Many people know Valencia as the city of running , and it is not in vain, as many popular races are held in Valencia every year. The city's mostly flat shape, together with the existence of parks with public running tracks such as the Jardín del Turia, allow you to see runners enjoying what they like to do most at all hours of the day.

In addition, Valencia hosts important sporting events such as the Marathon and the Half Marathon, two of the most eagerly awaited by runners from all over the world, renowned for their great atmosphere.

The wide beaches and abundant parks also lend themselves to training in groups or alone. Throughout the year you can find groups of people playing beach volleyball or doing yoga in the various natural oases of the city or on beaches such as La Malvarrosa or La Patacona.

The Grand Prix of Motorcycling is also held at the beginning of November (in Cheste, 40 kilometres from Valencia). Although it does not take place in the city, it attracts many speed lovers.

Another way to stay active while visiting Valencia is to get around the city by bike . As we told you in the post How to get around Valencia , the city has an extensive network of bike lanes and traffic reduction zones that make getting around by bike a pleasure.

Water sports in Valencia

As a maritime city, water sports are also important in Valencia. Known for its passion for sailing and having hosted the America's Cup, sailing schools are plentiful in the port of Valencia. Other water sports in Valencia include paddle surfing and sport fishing.

Golf in Valencia

Near Valencia there are several golf courses perfectly connected to the city where you can enjoy the good Valencian weather while playing sports. Among them, some stand out such as the Golf & Country Club El Bosque (Chiva). Find out more in our section dedicated to golf .

Other sports in Valencia

Other sports such as hiking or climbing are also an option. The natural areas near Valencia offer hiking trails and climbing opportunities in a spectacular setting. Examples include La Murta (about 40 minutes by car from Valencia) or climbing in the Montanejos area (1 hour and a half by car from Valencia).

As for spectators, Valencia has two football teams with great tradition: Valencia CF and Levante UD. If your visit coincides with league matches, you can enjoy a match at Mestalla or Ciutat de Valencia. Or take a tour of the stadiums, a great experience for football lovers.

If you stay at Sea You Hotel , you can start your days in our gym so you can maintain your routine whether you are on vacation or staying with us for a business trip.

Valencia is a paradise for sports enthusiasts , with options for all tastes and levels. From beach and water sports to world-class events, the city invites locals and tourists alike to get out and enjoy the surroundings.

How to get around Valencia

Valencia is an accessible city , with an excellent public transport network that allows you to move comfortably both in the city centre and its surroundings and a not so large size that allows you to move around a large part of the city on foot. At Sea You Hotel we have compiled the best transport options in Valencia to get around like a local on your visit to the capital of the Turia.

Getting around Valencia by public transport

The public transport system in Valencia is modern and efficient. Among the urban options, the metro, buses and trams stand out.

The metro and tram network connects different parts of the city and reaches municipalities in the metropolitan area and on the coast. Therefore, they are a good option for getting from the centre to more distant areas, such as the City of Arts and Sciences or the beaches. However, as it connects the entire city, you can move from your accommodation to the centre or vice versa. In addition, the Valencia metro is easy to use, with well-signposted stations and lines that reach Port Saplaya (in Alboraya, nearby) and other points of interest. The schedule during the week is shorter (it ends around 11 at night) but on weekends there is more service until later.

The buses of the Municipal Transport Company (EMT) are ideal for exploring the city and reaching places where the metro does not reach, such as La Albufera , one of the best places to see the sunset in Valencia . The different lines cover a wide area of the city, including the tourist areas, and their schedules extend from early in the morning until the evening. In addition, the night buses are very useful for getting around if you go out at night to leisure areas such as Ruzafa or El Carmen. There are also buses from other companies (generally yellow) that connect Valencia with towns in the metropolitan area.

As for fares, Valencia has several types of transport tickets and passes. The rechargeable Móbilis card allows you to use the metro, tram and buses with unified fares . There is also the Valencia Tourist Card, ideal for visitors, which offers unlimited travel for one, two or three days and includes discounts at museums and tourist attractions.

Getting around Valencia by bike

Getting around by bike is one of the best ways to enjoy Valencia , a city that is strongly committed to sustainable mobility.

Valencia has a network of cycle paths throughout the city , including routes in the Turia Park, the City of Arts and Sciences, and even to the beach. This makes it safe and enjoyable to get around by bike. In addition, the city is practically flat and has more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Therefore, renting a bike or using Valenbisi is an ideal option.

Valenbisi is a public bicycle rental system with stations spread throughout the city. For tourists, it is very convenient as you can leave your bike at the most convenient station to explore that area. It is also an economical and environmentally friendly option.

Getting around Valencia by motorbike

In the city you can find motorbike rental systems by the minute such as Yego or Acciona. This is especially useful for specific trips or at times or in areas with less frequent public transport. It is also useful for those who want to avoid the commitments of a traditional rental.

Getting around Valencia on foot

One of the best ways to explore the old town (or Valencia in general) is simply by taking a walk. The historic centre is quite compact and all the streets have charm : pedestrian areas, squares, shops and markets. Places like the Plaza de la Virgen, the Mercado Central and the Carmen neighbourhood are much more enjoyable on foot and it is the best way to discover the secrets of the capital of the Turia.

Final tips for getting around Valencia

Plan your travels , especially if you have a scheduled time such as a guided tour or a flight to catch. Although the city is small and the distances are not very great, there are certain times or rush hours when small traffic jams can occur.

Use applications such as Google Maps or the EMT app to find out about public transport routes, schedules and frequencies in real time.

Always opt for sustainable mobility options whenever possible. Valencia is the European Green Capital in 2024, making it a city highly committed to sustainable mobility.

If you stay at Sea You Hotel you will find different lines around the city that connect to the main points of the city such as lines 4, 19, 30, 92, 95 or the Marítim-Serrería metro stop about 10 minutes away where there is direct access to line 7 and line 5 that connects directly to the airport. In addition, the hotel has bicycle and scooter rental services.

The Central Market of Valencia

The Mercat Central in Valencia is, as its name suggests, the main market in the city. It is the market where both individuals and businesses come to shop on a daily basis, as it is the best place to find fresh, quality food.

It was declared a cultural asset and an Ethnological asset in 2007 and is, without a doubt, an essential stop on your visit to Valencia . At Sea You Hotel, we want to encourage you to visit it and that is why we are going to briefly tell you everything you need to know about the Mercat Central de Valencia.

History of the Mercat Central of Valencia

The space where the market is located has been, since the foundation of the city of Valencia, the usual location for street markets, as it is a central and open area. In fact, the Lonja de la Seda and other buildings such as the Market Council and the Church of Santos Juanes are also located there, as well as the Valencia City Hall very close by.

In 1839, the new market, considered the seed of today's market, was opened there, although it was uncovered. Later, at the end of the 19th century, seeing that this was insufficient, the City Council called for a competition for the construction of a market worthy of the city.

In 1910, the project was finally assigned to Alejandro Soler and Francisco Guardia. The works began a few years later and were finished in 1928. The construction was not easy as there were controversies, budgetary problems, social conflicts, economic crises...

Due to this long construction time, the market has several anniversaries such as the anniversary of the inauguration of demolitions, which was attended by Alfonso XIII, the anniversary of the laying of the first stone, the anniversary of the opening to the public...

Architecture of the Mercat Central of Valencia

The Mercat Central of Valencia is clearly modernist in style, with allegorical ornamentation relating to nature inside. In fact, it is considered one of the masterpieces of Valencian modernism. A spectacularly striking building that blends in perfectly with the others that share the square. The architectural style perfectly represents the city at that time, a city that is moving towards commercial progress, but is proud of its orchard.

The building, with a surface area of over 8,000 square metres, has a basilica-like layout and has doors to different squares and streets. It is crowned by iron, glass and ceramic domes and two weather vanes (the parrot and the fish). The domes allow natural light, which is very abundant in Valencia, to enter perfectly into the interior space, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere and highlighting the architectural beauty of the interior.

The interior is arranged in an orderly fashion in wide corridors adorned with elegant arcades and ornate columns. This facilitates interaction with the products and the merchants. On the other hand, the façade has ornamental details, floral reliefs and traditional tiles with geometric motifs. In 2004 a comprehensive renovation took place with a complete restoration of the building.

How to visit the Mercat Central in Valencia

The Mercat Central de Valencia deserves to be one of the stops on your trip to Valencia as it is much more than the largest fresh produce market in Europe. Also known as “the cathedral of the senses”, it is a place that is the backbone of the city and represents the Valencian people both architecturally and culturally.

The market has evolved over time and today, in addition to stalls with fresh food, you can also find a small percentage of non-food items, as well as stalls with prepared dishes and catering. You can visit it from Monday to Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

El Tribunal de les Aigües

The Tribunal de les Aigües (Water Court) is one of those things that you have to see in Valencia if your visit allows it. It is not a historical building or an emblematic park, but rather a traditional act that encompasses many parts of Valencian culture. From Sea You Hotel, we tell you what it is, how to see it and why it is so important.

What is the Tribunal de les Aigües?

The Tribunal de les Aigües (Water Court of Valencia) is one of the oldest institutions in Europe, a customary court (based on custom) that regulates the use of water in the Valencian orchard.

It is said that its origin dates back to Muslim times (8th to 13th centuries) and was created to guarantee the fair and efficient distribution of water, essential for agriculture in the area.

This tradition is still maintained today and every Thursday at noon, representatives meet at the Door of the Apostles of the Cathedral of Valencia to resolve disputes related to the irrigation of the ditches.

A millenary institution whose sentences, delivered orally, are binding. The court is made up of eight representatives, each representing one of the main ditches of the Valencian orchard. Every week, farmers can go to court to resolve disputes over water use. The hearings are held in Valencian and in a simple format: those affected explain their case and the representatives immediately issue a sentence, resolving conflicts in an agile and transparent manner.

Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

It was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009. It is much more than an agricultural justice body; It is a symbol of Valencian identity and tradition.

Its permanence over the centuries reflects the respect for the natural environment and the sense of community that revolves around the garden. For this reason, we recommend seeing the court in action as a unique experience to present how ancestral laws are applied in the 21st century, being an example of how the collective management of natural resources can work efficiently and fairly. It is also a reminder of the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.

If you are looking for a hotel for your trip to Valencia, take a look at our website to find rooms at your level with good prices. In addition, the hotel is located in the square with the same name, Plaça Tribunal de les Aigües.

El Cabañal: the fishing district of Valencia

El Cabañal is a neighborhood in the city of Valencia that stands out for its architectural value with many representations of its past as a fishing district. This area offers an authentic traditional experience where life has a different rhythm. In recent years the neighborhood has been reconverted and has been gaining popularity, with many plans and places worth walking through. From Sea You Hotel, we bring you the perfect route through the El Cabañal neighborhood, a must on your visit to Valencia.

Route through El Cabañal

If you are staying at Sea You Hotel, the Atarazanas, the first stop on the El Cabañal route, are right on the doorstep. The old shipyards, dating back to the 14th century, are a symbol of Valencia's maritime history. Today, they host temporary exhibitions and cultural events. Its Gothic structure and stone walls stand out to any guest of our hotel.

Next, we recommend taking a stroll through the streets of El Cabañal, which maintain the fishing spirit and are characterized by their colorful houses with modernist tiles. Many of these facades are protected for their high value as an example of the modernist and traditional Valencian style. Some of the recommended streets are Rosario Street or Escalante Street.

Stop off on your walk through the neighborhood at the Cabañal Market, where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of the neighborhood while enjoying fresh, local produce or an authentic Valencian esmorzar (lunch).

The neighbourhood has other buildings such as the Lonja de Pescadores (Fishermen's Market) which is historically important for the Cabañal community. It was built in 1904 for the neighbourhood's boat owners' association. It is a modernist building which was even an inspiration for Sorolla in many of his works and was also used as a hospital, housing for fishermen, prison, etc. It cannot be visited at present as some of its parts are private homes, but be sure to take a look at the exterior on your walk through Cabañal.

If you take the route back to the hotel along the Paseo Marítimo, at the end you will find the Veles e Vents building . This is the modern icon of La Marina de Valencia. This building was designed by David Chipperfield and Fermín Vázquez, it is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture located in the heart of the port of Valencia. Built for the 32nd edition of the America's Cup, this building symbolises the connection between the sea and the city. It is also visible from our Sky Bar.

Take the opportunity to visit the Tinglados del Puerto. These modernist sheds are an example of the industrial architecture of the early 20th century and an excellent place to stroll and take photos, as they are decorated with brightly coloured ceramics.

The last point of this tour is the clock building, known as the "modernist jewel of the port". This 20th-century building was originally the office of the Port Works Board and today is a symbol of the port of Valencia and of modernism. Its clock, visible from afar, is a perfect reference point for those walking through the area.

Flavors of El Cabañal

In this neighborhood we can find a wide gastronomic offer, especially promoted in recent years. Places like Mercabañal (an open-air food market with different food stalls) or Mercader offer varied culinary experiences in renovated and cozy spaces that maintain the spirit of the neighborhood. You can also find more traditional proposals such as Casa Montaña or La Pascuala. We tell you more in the post Restaurants in El Cabanyal .

El Cabañal in summer

If you visit Valencia in the summer, you can also enjoy other activities such as summer cinema in La Marina, boat trips or surfing classes. However, since Valencia has many sunny days a year, you can enjoy a bike ride through the neighborhood or a walk along Playa de las Arenas at any time of the year.

Stay with us at the best boutique hotel in La Marina and experience the charms of this Valencian neighborhood up close.

Curiosities of Valencia

Valencia is becoming increasingly important as a tourist destination and it may seem that there is little left to discover. However, from Sea You Hotel, as authentic Valencians, we are going to tell you 3 curious facts about Valencia.

3 things you didn't know about Valencia

The historical importance of Valencia

Valencia is currently the third most important city in Spain, but historically it has always been a very important city both culturally and economically.

From Roman times when it was founded (2nd century BC) and they named it Valentia which means "valor", until the 15th century, when it was the most populated and richest city in the Crown of Aragon. In fact, the 15th century is known as the Valencian Golden Age, a time when important buildings such as the Silk Exchange were built.

Meanwhile, it was occupied by the Muslims and reconquered by James I. All this history can be seen in its historic center, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its architecture.

The bat as a symbol of the city

Have you noticed that the bat appears repeatedly in Valencia? On the city's coat of arms, on the football team's, on emblematic buildings...

It is an animal highly honored by Valencians since, according to legend, it was a bat that warned James I the Conqueror, waking him up just before an unexpected attack by the Muslims. Pay attention when you walk through Valencia and you will find it in more places than expected.

The largest urban park in Spain

You might think that this title would be held by El Retiro, but the truth is that the Jardín del Turia, in addition to being the green lung that unites the city, is the largest park in Spain.

The Jardín del Turia crosses the entire city from east to west. If you come to Valencia you will surely see it, either crossing one of its magnificent bridges or visiting the City of Arts and Sciences (which is located at the end of it). By the way, this is one of the largest centers of culture and entertainment in Europe (larger than the Vatican).

The origin of the Jardín del Turia takes place in what is known as the riuà, the flood that in the 1950s flooded the city causing one of the greatest disasters in its history.

After that, the Turia River, which crossed the city where the park is now located, was drained and diverted and its old channel turned into a beautiful park that includes a bike path, fountains, tracks for different sports, entertainment parks for children, etc. On your visit to Valencia, be sure to take a walk or bike ride, have a picnic or any other activity.

Crossing this garden and connecting the city center with the Mestalla neighborhood is the Puente de las Flores, one of the most expensive to maintain. The flowers are changed several times a year so that they are always in good condition, which represents a very high cost.

If you are planning a getaway to Valencia, check out our boutique hotel in the Marina for a perfect stay.

Sunset in Valencia

What better plan after a day discovering Valencia than to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful moments of the day?

The sunset in Valencia is a spectacle worth planning in your schedule for your days in Valencia. At Sea You Hotel we are very fond of this visual spectacle, so we are going to leave you with some recommendations of where to enjoy the best sunsets in Valencia.

Where to watch the sunset in Valencia

Sunset in the Albufera of Valencia

The city of Valencia, located on the east coast of the Iberian Peninsula, does not have a sunset over the sea, although it does have some incredible sunrises.

However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a scene as typical as it is unrivalled, like watching the sun set over the water. How? At sunset in La Albufera de Valencia .

The Albufera is a natural park located 10 kilometres south of the city of Valencia. It is a collection of wetlands and freshwater lagoons surrounded by rice fields.

There, from a boat ride or from the viewing point, you will enjoy one of the best sunsets of your life. Reddish and golden tones and a tranquility that give the experience a truly magical touch.

Also, depending on the time of year you visit Valencia and the time you have, you can take advantage of the journey and go a little earlier to enjoy a paella in El Palmar.

Sunset in the City of Arts and Sciences

You have surely already heard of the City of Arts and Sciences, the magnificent architectural work of Santiago Calatrava, which occupies a privileged place among the main tourist spots in the city of Valencia.

The sunset from the City of Arts, surrounded by nature (it is located in the Turia Garden), with the sun setting behind the impressive buildings is also a good option.

In fact, you will see many groups of locals and tourists settling down with their blankets in the park a while beforehand to have a picnic, read or simply relax before enjoying a sunset surrounded by architectural and natural beauty.

Sunset at the Skybar Sea You Hotel

Looking for a sunset in a more urban landscape? If you stay at Sea You , the answer is closer than you think.

In our Skybar (located on the top floor of the hotel) you can enjoy the best sunset in the city of Valencia.

What better way to enjoy a drink than with views of the entire city of Valencia as the sun sets?

Also open to the public, the Skybar offers panoramic views of the city of Valencia. Located in the Marina de Valencia area, you can see the whole of Valencia from the Tribunal de les Aigües square with the Church of Santa María del Mar and the Atarazanas del Grao in the foreground.

Whatever the time of day and from every point of view, Valencia is a city worth visiting. Stay at Sea You Hotel and feel at home during your stay in Valencia thanks to our team, the hotel's location and spacious, comfortable and bright facilities.

La Lonja de la Seda

The city of Valencia has so many historic buildings that it is difficult to choose just one. However, from Sea You Hotel we have a soft spot for some of them. Among these is the Lonja de la Seda, which we are going to talk about below.

History of the Lonja de la Seda

The Lonja de la Seda (in Valencian Llotja de la Seda), also known as the Lonja de los Mercaderes (Merchant's Exchange), is one of the symbols of the importance of Valencia in the 15th century (Valencian Golden Age) and its commercial splendor.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, the Lonja was built at the end of the 15th century as the city's trading center. At that time, the silk trade was so relevant, with more than 20,000 people dedicated to the sector, that the initially called Lonja de los Mercaderes became known as the Lonja de la Seda. This name has been kept as a tribute to such an important industry in Valencia for centuries.

Located in the heart of the city, it was conceived as a replacement for the old market which was already insufficient for the city's commercial activity. The textile trade made Valencia a commercial center of the Mediterranean, and the Lonja was a sign of this economic power.

Architecture of the Lonja de la Seda

The Lonja is one of the most characteristic architectural treasures of Valencia. Designed by Pere Compte (disciple of the architect of the original project, Francesc Baldomar) and inspired by that of Palma de Mallorca, it is an excellent representation of the European civil Gothic style.

It occupies a rectangular area of almost 2,000 square meters and is divided into three sections: the Contract Hall, the Tower and the Consulado del Mar Pavilion, in addition to the garden or orange tree patio.

The Contract Hall, the heart of the Lonja, is a vast hall where commercial transactions were carried out. To convey this grandeur, it has eight helical columns that simulate trees, symbolizing the prosperity and growth of commerce. These columns support the 17.5-meter-high ribbed vaults, which give the room its monumentality. On the walls you can read some inscriptions in Latin that recall the duty of merchants not to act with greed.

The Tower, adjoining the Contract Hall, housed the prison where merchants who did not pay their debts were locked up, as well as a chapel dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. Currently it cannot be visited due to lack of conditioning.

Finally, the Consulado del Mar was the space where commercial trials were held. This institution was one of the first to regulate maritime trade in the Mediterranean. Architecturally, it has a rectangular floor plan and a Renaissance style.

The facade of ashlar stone, the sculptures and gargoyles, as well as the proportions of the doors and windows, reflect the splendor of the time.

Visit the Lonja de la Seda

You cannot leave Valencia without visiting the Lonja de la Seda. You will like it whether you are a lover of architecture or history. It evokes a glorious past and remains a symbol of Valencian identity that shows the refined artistic taste of the Valencian bourgeoisie.

To visit it, you can do so from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The ticket price is 2 euros (1 euro reduced admission), and on Sundays and holidays it is free.

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