The Plaza de Toros was built in the 1850s and is a very famous bullfighting arena. The neoclassical design is spectacular, and at 18 meters (59 feet) high, it is an imposing structure as well. The inside is just as impressive with its 48 sides and an internal ring diameter of 52 meters (170 feet).

The Plaza is also home to a museum dedicated to the art of bullfighting and famous matadors who have fought in the ring. Bullfighting is still practiced in the ring, usually in March and July, during the Feria de Julio and the Fallas Festival. For those who are not interested in bullfighting but would like to see the ring, other activities are also held at this venue, such as concerts and the occasional circus. The best plan is to check the schedule when in town. Entrance fees will vary with the different events held here.

Getting to the Plaza is easy, as it is located next to the Estacion del Norte, or the north train station. The Museum is open from 10am to 10pm every day except Monday.

Estación del Norte or the North Railway Station is the main train terminal in Valencia. From here trains leave daily for several cities in Spain, such as Barcelona, Madrid, and the French boarder. It is also a beautiful example of a modernist building. It was constructed in the early 20th century. Architect Demetrio Ribes designed this majestic and well balanced building in the center of the city.

The outside of the building is decorated with elements that are representative of local agriculture and culture. There are also two lovely mosaics on the façade. Inside the station, the décor is also quite appealing. The modernist theme is carried out with more mosaics. The feel is bright, colorful, and worth seeing even if train travel is not on the agenda. The entire first floor is open for public use, while the mezzanine is occupied by offices.

While visiting a train station may be a bit out of the ordinary, it is a nice destination to see, when combined with the bullring next door. If train travel is on the agenda, be sure to arrive a bit early to explore the station before departure.

This neoclassical building has a characteristic Spanish touch. Cut from white stone, the City Hall is pleasing to the eye, and a unique and fascinating place to visit while in Valencia.

Llotja de la Seda or the Silk Exchange was built in the late 1400s to middle 1500s in Gothic style. In fact, there are incredible gargoyles both inside and outside the building. Some are fairly grotesque, but they are still interesting. There are also coats of arms and other adornments both inside and outside the building to notice. Valencia was a hub for trading in the 14th century, and the city was very prosperous. This large building was utilized for trading, and stands as a testament to that fact, although it looks more like a garrison than a building for luxurious silks.

The inside of the building is just as impressive as the outside. The hall of columns is where the actual trading took place. Around the walls an inscription announces the honesty of those who trade here, as well as welcoming traders of various religions and ethnicities. The columns themselves are a delight for the eye with their massive, twisting, yet graceful styling, reaching high to the roof. Chandeliers also add a touch of beauty, and rather counteract the imposing gargoyles.

The building is beautiful representation of Gothic style and should not be missed. It is in fact a UNESCO world heritage site.

Iglesia de San Juan de la Cruz is a beautiful example of a Renaissance church. While it may not at first have the visual impact of other imposing buildings with its one story, it should not be ignored. The architecture is simple and elegant. There is a large vaulted ceiling held up by spiral columns.

The church was built in the early 17th century with additional rococo interior embellishment occurring in the 18th century by Hipólito Rovira. This talented artist studied in Italy and was influenced by the art work there. Several churches in Valencia have touches of his work, but his stucco work in this church is magnificent.

There are two side chapels in the church, one belonging to the Fisherman’s Guild of Valencia, and is really a must see. In fact, the paintings and other works of art are worth the visit, even for those not enamored with the religious or architectural aspects of the building.

Mass is celebrated at 7:30 pm Monday-Saturday, and at noon on Sunday. Plan to come early or stay late, if you attend mass, to explore the entire church. Its location is Calle Poeta Querol Number 6.

The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas is an eclectic palace inside and out. Built in the late 1490s, there was a total refurbishing in the 1700s that included a beautiful new façade. The outside of the building is an interesting blend of rococo and includes a Churriqueresque waterfall that gives the Palace its name. While this combination of architecture and decoration can be seen in several buildings around Valencia, the results here are breathtakingly beautiful.

The interesting blend of styles also continues on the inside. The Palace is home to an incredible Ceramics Museum, as well a caricatures of famous people in the in the Gallery of Humorists. That alone should be enough to merit a visit. The Museo Nacional de Cerámica displays an interesting collection of ceramics that includes medieval works and beautiful tile work that is recognized throughout the world. There is also a glorious ballroom to visit that is reflective of the grandeur of the period.

There is a small fee for visiting the Palace. However, Sundays and Holidays offer free admission. Also, children under the age of 18 and those on a pension get in free daily. Please check local listings for hours, as they fluctuate.

The Porta de la Mar or the Puerta del Mar, was constructed after the Spanish Civil War and is a memorial to those who perished during the fighting. The war began in 1936 and was completed in April 1939. The monument consists of a central arch which is flanked by a lintel on either side. Under the arch is a large cross that serves as a stark reminder of the purpose of the monument. It stands at a very high traffic area in Valencia.

On each corner of the monument, decorating the top, are reliefs. These are rather amazing works of art which were done by the sculpture Vicente Navarro Romero. The monument is also a tribute to the old gates of the Puerta del Mar which were destroyed in 1868. The original gates were unearthed but it was decided that they were best left buried. So it is interesting that this particular design was chosen. The architect was Javier Lleó who was also responsible for several other buildings as the center city was rebuilt after the war. There are also gardens around the memorial that are periodically redesigned, so the looks of the grounds do change.

Estadio Mestalla is one of the largest football stadiums in Spain. It also has one of the steepest slopes for the stands of any football stadium which can make it a bit intimidating for the players. It also makes for an exhilarating game for the fans, even in the less expensive seats.

The stadium was completed in 1923 and is scheduled to be replaced, but for those who love the sport of soccer, this is a must see stadium. This stadium was heavily damaged by the Spanish Civil War. The grounds were used as a concentration camp and also as a depository for excess or worn out war supplies. After the war, the grounds were rejuvenated and soccer was once again played here. In 1957, a devastating flood did serious damage to the complex, but once again the pitch was renewed, the stadium was expanded, and lights were added, so that night games could be played.

During the 1970s seating was again expanded to the present 55,000. This stadium has been home to several King’s Cup tournaments. It has also provided the pitch for several world class teams. Those who are not interested in soccer may not be as enamored with a visit here, but those who love the sport will not want to miss this venue.