Valencia’s Legacy as the European Green Capital
Valencia’s legacy as a beacon of sustainability is unmistakable. The city is brimming with initiatives that not only celebrate its role as the European Green Capital but also set a vibrant tone as it prepares for the Jubilee Year of the Holy Chalice in 2025. With an array of sustainable projects and restaurants committed to serving local produce, Valencia promises a dynamic and appetizing agenda.
Discover Valencia Through Four Green Routes
This Mediterranean city has firmly established itself as a center for sustainable tourism. Following its recognition as the European Green Capital, Valencia has launched four thoughtfully designed green routes to enhance the visitor experience. In 2024, these routes were created to be inclusive, now featuring audio guides to assist people with hearing and cognitive disabilities.
The first route meanders through the lush Turia Garden, often referred to as the city’s green lung. The second invites explorers to reimagine the old town through the lenses of sustainable mobility and urban design. The third showcases the fertile periurban countryside and the Mediterranean Sea, presenting an extraordinary natural pantry. Those with less time can opt for a streamlined version that beautifully synthesizes these explorations.
Complementing these routes are various sustainable initiatives. These include the introduction of the first cycle lane in the vibrant Ruzafa neighborhood, a campaign to advocate for L’Albufera Natural Park’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve candidacy, and the ambitious renovation of public buses to achieve a 90% electric and hybrid fleet by 2028. Furthermore, the launch of Europe’s largest urban photovoltaic plant, featuring over 6,000 solar panels installed at local cemeteries, underscores Valencia’s commitment to improving quality of life for both residents and visitors. It’s no wonder that Conde Nast Traveler readers have dubbed Valencia as Europe’s best city.
Introducing the Roig Arena
Mark your calendars for September 2025, when the Roig Arena will open its doors to the public. Spanning 47,000 square meters, this state-of-the-art venue is poised to transform Valencia’s event landscape. With a capacity reaching 20,000, it will host sports events, concerts, and corporate gatherings alike, while also becoming the new home for the Valencia Basketball Club. Funded entirely by a local entrepreneur, this ambitious €280 million project represents a significant investment in the city’s cultural infrastructure.
Celebrating the Jubilee Year of the Holy Chalice
As October 2025 approaches, Valencia gears up to celebrate the third Jubilee Year of the Holy Chalice, drawing religious tourists from far and wide. The Cathedral of Valencia, housing the relic recognized by the Vatican as the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper, will become a focal point for pilgrims seeking plenary indulgence. Each Friday, the Visit Valencia Foundation will lead guided tours that explore the Holy Chalice’s intriguing history, featuring stories of those who pursued it and artists inspired by its legacy. This celebration offers not just spiritual fulfillment, but a glimpse into the cultural richness that flourished in Valencia when this revered artifact arrived.
New Additions to Valencia’s Hospitality Scene
The hospitality landscape in Valencia is poised for growth with the anticipated launch of the Novotel Valencia Lavant in the first quarter of 2025. Designed to offer modern sophistication alongside versatile meeting spaces, this hotel will feature a rooftop bar that boasts panoramic views—an ideal setting for both relaxation and events. It joins two recently opened Estimar hotels located in the heart of the city and along the beach in Pobla de Farnals.
Valencia: The Cradle of Chess
Valencia has long held a prestigious place in the annals of chess history, dating back to the 15th century when local poets first described the queen’s movements in the poem “Scachs d’amor.” This pivotal moment set the stage for the modern chess rules that would spread across Europe, aided by the printing press. This summer, the city will commemorate this legacy with the Open International Valencia Cuna del Ajedrez, taking place from July 5 to 13 at the Polytechnic University of Valencia, welcoming competitors from around the globe. The event will host additional tournaments, workshops, and tours, underlining the significance of Valencia in the evolution of chess.
The Restoration of the Church of Santos Juanes
After four years of dedicated restoration, the Church of Santos Juanes, originally built in 1692, is set to shine once again. Funded by the Hortensia Herrero Foundation, this extensive project involves an interdisciplinary team, some of whom previously worked on the restoration of the Church of San Nicolás. Utilizing cutting-edge techniques such as bio-cleaning and laser treatments, the team is meticulously reviving the Baroque art and architecture that adorn this historic site. Visitors can witness the restoration in progress through guided tours, offering insights into the methods and materials used in this monumental endeavor.
Valencia’s Culinary Landscape Expands
The culinary scene in Valencia continues to thrive, now boasting a total of 17 sustainable restaurants celebrated in the latest edition of the We’re Smart Green Guide. The addition of eight notable establishments—including Fierro, Lienzo, and Casa Montaña—highlights Valencia’s commitment to sustainability in gastronomy. This recognition further solidifies its status as a gastronomic destination, where fresh, local produce fuels culinary innovation. The city’s unique approach to food brings together tradition and contemporary flavors, with staples like rice from L’Albufera Natural Park and seasonal vegetables forming the backbone of its rich Mediterranean offerings.
A Unique Beluga Whale Encounter in Valencia
Oceanogràfic in Valencia has become a sanctuary for marine conservation, now housing four beluga whales. Following the successful rescue of Plombir and Miranda from an aquarium in Kharkiv, Ukraine, these magnificent creatures are ready to join Yulka and Kylu. This rare opportunity for visitors to see four beluga whales in one location is unparalleled in Europe, highlighting not only a commitment to marine wildlife conservation but also offering an unforgettable experience for animal enthusiasts.
Expanding International Connections
Valencia’s global connectivity is set to strengthen with the introduction of new airline routes. Starting June 2025, travelers from Montreal will enjoy direct flights operated by AirTransat, making their way to this vibrant city. Additionally, a new route to Reykjavik with PLAY Airlines will commence in May, offering two flights weekly. Northern Europe will also be more accessible with new connections to Oslo and Copenhagen, enhancing travel options for those seeking to explore the Mediterranean charm of Valencia. These developments promise to boost tourist numbers from Canada and Scandinavia, further intertwining Valencia with the global community.
