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According to The New York Times, there are two Spanish destinations that you must visit in 2023: Valencia and Ibiza. Both cities offer a unique mix of culture, history, and natural beauty that make them perfect for a family vacation. Take a look at our tours of Spain!
Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain and is known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the top things to do in Valencia with your family:
Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic complex that features several attractions, including an opera house, an IMAX cinema, and an aquarium. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Science Museum, where they can learn about the human body, space, and technology.
Explore the Old Town
Valencia’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and charming plazas that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can visit the iconic Central Market, where you’ll find stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and other local specialties.
Relax on the Beach
Valencia is home to several beaches, including the popular Playa de la Malvarrosa. You can spend the day lounging in the sun, swimming in the Mediterranean, or trying your hand at windsurfing or kayaking.
Try the Local Cuisine
Valencia is known for its delicious food, especially paella, which originated in the region. You can try traditional Valencian paella, made with rabbit and chicken, or seafood paella, which is made with shrimp, clams, and mussels.
Aside from these activities, there are plenty of other things to do in Valencia that your family will enjoy. You can take a bike tour of the city, go on a guided food tour, or visit the Bioparc Valencia, which is a zoo that specializes in African animals. You can also visit the Oceanogràfic, which is the largest aquarium in Europe and features several marine habitats, including the Arctic, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean.
Ibiza, on the other hand, is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back vibe. Here are some of the top things to do in Ibiza with your family:
Visit the Beaches
Ibiza is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Cala Bassa, Cala Conta, and Talamanca. You can spend the day swimming in the turquoise waters, sunbathing on the white sand, or exploring the nearby coves and cliffs.
Take a Boat Trip
Ibiza is surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are perfect for boating. You can take a boat trip to explore the island’s hidden beaches, caves, and coves, or go on a sunset cruise to watch the sun go down over the Mediterranean.
Explore the Old Town
Ibiza’s Old Town, also known as Dalt Vila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is filled with narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. You can visit the 14th-century Cathedral of Our Lady of the Snows, stroll along the ancient walls, or shop for souvenirs in the local boutiques.
Experience the Nightlife
Ibiza is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with some of the world’s best clubs and DJs. While many of the clubs are not suitable for families, there are several family-friendly options, such as the Ibiza Rocks Hotel, which hosts live music events and pool parties.
Aside from these activities, there are plenty of other things to do in Ibiza that your family will enjoy. You can go on a horseback riding tour, visit the Hippy Market in Es Canar, or explore the island
Another great activity to do in Ibiza is to take a hike or bike ride through the island’s beautiful countryside. The island has a network of trails and paths that wind through rolling hills, pine forests, and valleys. You can rent bikes or join a guided tour to explore the island’s natural beauty.
For families with young children, there are several parks and playgrounds in Ibiza where they can play and run around. The Ses Feixes Wetlands is a nature reserve with several walking trails and a playground. The Aguamar Water Park is another popular attraction, with several water slides, pools, and play areas.
Food is also a big part of the Ibiza experience, with a variety of restaurants and cafes serving up fresh seafood, local specialties, and international cuisine. You can try traditional dishes like bullit de peix, a fish stew made with rice, or sofrit pagès, a hearty meat and vegetable stew. For a more international flavor, there are plenty of restaurants serving Italian, Indian, Mexican, and other cuisines.
In Valencia, there are also several other attractions and activities that your family can enjoy. The Albufera Natural Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, with several walking trails, birdwatching spots, and boat tours. The park is also home to several rice fields, where you can learn about the traditional methods of rice cultivation and sample some delicious rice dishes.
The Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart are two medieval towers that were part of the city’s defensive walls. You can climb to the top of these towers for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
For a unique cultural experience, you can attend a bullfight or visit the Bullfighting Museum. Bullfighting is a controversial activity, but it is deeply ingrained in Spanish culture and history.
In both Valencia and Ibiza, there are several festivals and events throughout the year that are worth checking out. In Valencia, the Las Fallas festival is a week-long celebration in March that features massive, elaborate sculptures, fireworks, and parades. In Ibiza, the Flower Power party is a popular event that takes place every summer and features live music, hippie fashion, and flower decorations.
When planning a family vacation to Valencia or Ibiza, it’s important to choose the right accommodations. Both cities offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly hotels and apartments to luxurious resorts and villas. It’s a good idea to choose a place that is centrally located and has easy access to public transportation and attractions.
In conclusion, Valencia and Ibiza are two must-visit destinations in Spain for families. Both cities offer a unique mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and fun activities that are sure to please everyone in the family. From exploring the Old Towns and relaxing on the beaches to trying the local cuisine and attending festivals, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Valencia and Ibiza.
