5 Reasons Valencia is a 2023 Must-Travel Destination

Valencia, Spain is a stunning Mediterranean city that should be a travel destination must-see in 2023.

From its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks to its vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife, València has something for everyone.

The city is continuously enhancing its cultural and leisure offerings and prioritizing sustainability and accessibility, making it an appealing destination to visit with new attractions and experiences to discover each year.

1. València will celebrate the year of Sorolla – In 2023, it will have been 100 years since Joaquin Sorolla, the painter known for his skillful portrayal of the Mediterranean light in his artworks, passed away. This presents an ideal opportunity to appreciate his masterpieces and explore the city where he was born. The València Museum of Fine Arts showcases a permanent collection of his paintings, including notable works like “Grupa Valenciana” and “Figuras de casacas jugando en un jardín”, while also hosting an immersive exhibition “Sorolla through light” this year.
2. European Green Capital 2024 – València has been recognized once again for its commitment to sustainability, including its most recent designation as the European Commission’s Green Capital for 2024. This recognition comes because of the city’s implementation of projects aimed at reducing the environmental impact and improving the quality of life. These efforts include creating and enhancing green spaces like the Albufera Natural Park, developing peri-urban waste management, and promoting the pedestrianization of public areas, while continuing to provide ideal environments to appreciate the city’s atmosphere and nearby historic landmarks.
3. International leader in innovation – València’s dedication to digitization and its thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem has solidified its position as a leader in innovation and technology. The city’s advancements in this area are accessible to both locals and visitors. As a result, it has been chosen to host The Next Web Conference in March 2023, which is a prestigious technology event organized by the Financial Times. The conference will take place in Le Marina and feature a variety of presentations by renowned international speakers. Furthermore, València was designated the Capital of Smart Tourism in 2022, a recognition bestowed by the European Commission. València was also chosen as one of the three most innovative cities in Europe, thanks to its Missions València innovation strategy, which serves as a roadmap for creating a healthier, more sustainable, shared, and entrepreneurial city.
4. New alternative leisure venues next to the sea and in the farmland – València is always modernizing its entertainment offerings with fresh bars, eateries, and unconventional cultural venues. One of these distinctive options is Gran Martinez, housed in a former 19th-century pharmacy. Visitors can enjoy good music and excellent cocktails here for a delightful evening. For an exceptional and unique outing, escape to the countryside, Villa Indiano in Burjassot is reachable by metro and features a restaurant specializing in traditional Valencian cuisine and a cultural garden that offers workshops, concerts, and talks. This relaxed setting overlooks the farmland and Sierra Calderona.

World Capital of Cuisine – València will host the presentation of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2023, an event widely known as the Oscars of fine dining. Following the success of the Michelin Gala for Spain and Portugal in 2022, València is once again set to become a global culinary hub. The organizers of the 50 Best Restaurants in the World have chosen València due to its rich culinary heritage, Mediterranean-inspired innovation, dedication to sustainable gastronomy, and the notable reputation of chefs like Quique Dacosta, Richard Camarena, and Begona Rodrigo. Moreover, the city’s dynamic food scene with the continuous opening of new restaurants adds to its appeal.