Old Quarter & Albufera

Enjoy a panoramic tour of Valencia, the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona. The city was originally founded by the Romans and later occupied by the Moors, having grown into a busy and lively cultural and industrial center. In recent years, Valencia has twice hosted the America's Cup Yacht race. From the bus, you will have the opportunity to snap a picture of the impressive City of Arts and Sciences. There will be an opportunity for a brief look at this modern leisure complex, which was built in 1998, on the former bed of the River Turia. The complex includes an aquarium, planetarium, opera house, museums, concert halls, an IMAX cinema and gardens. Continuing in to the heart of the city, see Plaza de la Reina, where Valencia's oldest and most important historic buildings are located, including the Central Market and the old stock exchange building, known as the La Lonja de la Seda, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your panoramic tour of the city center, head to the Albufera for a pleasant boat trip. This is home to the largest lake in Spain and one of the most important wetland areas in the Iberian Peninsula. It is a place of great interest with rare species of wading birds and a rich variety of wildlife. Its waters have been traditionally worked by fishermen and rice growers, supplying ingredients and inspiration for many of the region’s most succulent dishes. A boat trip on the lake enables the visitor to appreciate local traditions established 750 years ago. The scarce remaining original Barracas represent the best example of sustainable architecture. Constructed from mud clay and finished with straw roofs, many are lacking electricity and running water.