Overview
Bikes prove to be an excellent mode of transportation to get an eyeful of this city.
Valencia solved its flooding problem in the most unique way. They diverted the water that overflowed from the riverbed to a newly constructed canal. The old riverbed was turned into a series of unbelievable gardens and they provide a wonderful venue for riding and great access to see the sights.
You will be impressed with Valencia from the first moment of your stay. It is a vibrant, friendly, mildly chaotic place that boasts an outstanding fine arts museum, an accessible old quarter, Europe's newest cultural and scientific complex and is laid out perfectly for a see-all bike experience. Our guides in Valencia are one reason why we enjoyed our stay. They are so proud of their city, and with good reason. They will take you on a wonderful ride through town.
As you get comfortable with your bike, you will take it easy as you travel through the former riverbed, now the Turia Gardens, crossing under several historical bridges on your way. As you bike along the trail, you will begin to see changes in the design of the gardens. When the diversion of riverbed took place, the government allowed architects and landscape artists to submit ideas for this space. They couldn't decide which to use so they divided the riverbed into sections to allow several winning plans to become a reality.
Now you will venture into the historic city centre and bike the same streets that wars were fought for. Enter into the heart of the city via the Serranos towers, the former main entrance of the medieval walled city. You will follow Naquera Street, Almudín Street and Archbishop Square.
Stop for approximately 20 minutes to visit the Virgin Square, where the Cathedral, Basilica and the Generalitat Palace are located. You will see and feel this community, with its buzz from the cafes, people walking in every direction, and restoration taking place all over.
Afterwards, continue through the old city until you reach the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas, the city’s finest baroque monument and head of the National Ceramics Museum. You then pass by the old University, the Patriarch church and the Glorieta gardens with the centenary fycus.
Now make your way to the City of Arts & Sciences, a brand new landmark of Valencia, well known for its futuristic white architecture designed by Santiago Calatrava. You will see, as you get closer, why this man has become the new rising star in the world of architecture. Mr. Calatrava was born in Valencia and the city is quite proud of his accomplishments. You will have a stop of approximately 20 minutes to visit the buildings of this complex.
The tour continues along the former riverbed, passing by both the Music Hall and the Fine Arts Museum before heading back to the departure point.
If you wish, a short shopping stop can be included; there are souvenir shops near both the Cathedral and at the City of Arts and Sciences. A drink is also included, be it a soft drink, coffee, beer, or horchata.
- Total tour time includes transfers. The actual bike ride will be 3 hours long.
- We suggest you wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Helmets are provided if you choose to ride with one, though you are not required.
- This tour will not be offered on December 25 or January 1.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 10:00 AM, duration: 4 hours Tour length includes transfer time. Tour starts at 10:30am.
- 03:30 PM, duration: 4 hours Tour length includes transfer time. Tour starts at 4:00pm.
