Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, often goes overlooked by tourists but actually has a lot to offer the traveller on a budget. With so much to do and see for free, not to mention the ideal Mediterranean climate that you can make the most of in the city’s parks, a getaway here doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some ideas for making the most of Valencia on as little as possible:
Cheap hotels in Valencia, are fairly easy to come by so accommodation needn’t be too much of a drain on your funds, and if you are really strapped for cash, there are plenty of even cheaper hostels in Valencia to choose from. Eating out on a budget is also a breeze in Valencia, with plenty of little, local restaurants offering a really cheap Menu del Dia (set lunch time menu) and the Mercado Central where you can buy delicious fresh produce to make a Mediterranean picnic to die for. And if you are saving enough on accommodation, venture down to the seafront for a Paella, as no trip to Valencia is complete without one.
As far as things to see and do are concerned, the City of Arts and Sciences is a fantastic museum complex which attracts thousands of visits to the city every month; it is very pricey though, so if you don’t think you can afford the entry fee, check out the Museo De Bellas Artes which houses many beautiful works of art and is free to get into. Even if you do decide to give the City of Arts and Sciences a miss, the nearby Turia Gardens, nestled in the dry river bed are very picturesque and ideal for escaping the bustle of the city centre or having a picnic in a shady spot under a tree. La Lonja, the 15th century silk exchange building, is another beautiful monument which is free and well worth a visit for its history, architectural beauty and its typical courtyard adorned with orange trees.
Las Fallas is Valencia’s biggest and most famous celebration; the whole city comes alive and is all about partying and having fun. Whether this is your idea of heaven or hell, you should bare this event in mind when planning a visit to the city as it effects hotel rates enormously.
With cheap accommodation, cheap eats, free entertainment and plenty of sunshine, Valencia could be the ideal place for an inexpensive trip!

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