Jardin del Turia (Turia Garden), Valencia (must see)

Valencians are particularly fond of the Turia Garden, and for good reason. This 9-kilometer green corridor occupies what was once the Turia River. After the devastating flood of 1957, the river was diverted south, and the old riverbed was turned into one of Europe’s finest urban parks. Opened in 1986, it now runs through Valencia with lawns, fountains, orange trees, palm-lined paths, sports areas, and cycle lanes.

A good place to start is near the Pont del Real, one of the historic bridges crossing the garden near its northern edge. You can identify the bridge by its pale stone arches, a traditional balustrade, and a noticeably older look than many nearby crossings. On top of it, look for the two small temple-like structures with statues—these are the bridge's clearest visual markers.

From here, look north, away from the old riverbed, and you’ll see the Royal Gardens, also known as Viveros. Identify them by their broad gates, mature trees, shaded paths, fountains, and formal flowerbeds. Once the site of a royal palace, the gardens are now ideal for a relaxed stroll. As you walk through, look for the “Four Seasons” sculptures by Genoese artist Ponzanelli.

Return to the garden and follow the former riverbed west. On the city side, watch for the Valencian Institute of Modern Art, or IVAM, easy to recognize by its large, modern façade and clean geometric lines. Inside, it presents bold contemporary works that may challenge, intrigue, and occasionally leave you nodding thoughtfully while pretending you understood everything...

Nearby, look for the historic Casa de la Beneficència complex, home to the Prehistory Museum. Its courtyards and traditional architecture set it apart from the more modern IVAM. The museum takes visitors far back before Roman Valencia, with tools, pottery, artifacts, and mysterious stone engravings from early communities in the region.

From here, continue southwest toward the Botanic Garden. Behind its enclosing walls, you’ll find more than 4,500 plant species arranged across themed collections, including palms, cacti, Mediterranean plants, and tropical specimens. It is quieter than the Turia itself and makes a pleasant stop for anyone who enjoys greenery without the joggers overtaking the scenery.

The Turia Garden is best enjoyed slowly, but a bicycle helps cover more ground. Follow the old river’s path, pause at bridges and museums, and enjoy the route where Valencia now walks, cycles, picnics, and occasionally pretends exercise was the plan all along...