Valencia

Valencia is Spain's third-largest city and sits prettily on the southeastern coast. It blends historic charm with futuristic architecture in a way that few European cities manage to pull off.

The Old Town (Ciutat Vella) is packed with impressive buildings like the Valencia Cathedral, which claims to house the Holy Grail, and the striking Gothic Silk Exchange (La Lonja), now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Meanwhile, the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences complex looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and the authentic Valencian version with rabbit and chicken (not seafood!) is a must-try. The massive Central Market is one of Europe's oldest running food markets, where you can sample fresh local produce and regional specialties.

What makes Valencia special is its balance - it has beautiful Mediterranean beaches without the overcrowding of other Spanish coastal cities. The unique Turia Gardens, a 9km park created in a former riverbed after the Turia River was diverted, cuts through the city center providing a green oasis.

The locals celebrate their famous Las Fallas festival each March, where huge satirical sculptures are created and then ceremoniously burned. It's chaotic, artistic, and completely unique to Valencia.