Valencia holidays are sensational in more ways than one. You can taste your way around Spain at the wonderful Mercado Central, feel the heat at the Turia Gardens, touch historic Spain at the magnificent Valencia Cathedral, see the masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts and hear your soul sing as you drink in the flavours of this sizzling destination.

Within easy reach of the glorious beach resorts of the Costa Blanca and the Costa Dorada, many Valencia visitors simply drop in for a day trip to add some texture to the fabric of their sunshine holiday. But lovely Valencia really deserves more time that you can give it in just one day.

Holidays in Valencia, which is the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona and has ancient Roman roots, are packed with things to do and see. The city's truly absorbing history and medieval core, for example, attract those with a passion for learning more about days gone by, while its packed calendar of events, including Las Fallas in the spring, is perfect for travellers in search of a bit of culture.

Lovers of modern architecture will not be disappointed either, as the city is developing at a fast pace, striking modern buildings popping up – often in the most spectacular settings. And if you fancy a day at the beach, you can always take a trip to the coast to feel the sand between your toes and the cool blue waters of the Mediterranean caressing your feet. What's more, flights to Valencia from the UKtake only around two hours, with planes touching down at Valencia Airport (VLC).

To make the most of your holiday in this vibrant city, it’s best to stay in the historical heart of Valencia, in or around the Old Quarter. The gardens of Turia, which have taken residence in the dried bed of the former city river, encircle the city centre giving a delightful splash of green.

The choice of accommodation even in this area is large. Choose between the charm of independent hotels in historic buildings and the unadulterated luxury of rooms in the city's skyscrapers for modern facilities and amazing views.

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Valencia is a year-round destination. Average daytime temperatures creep up to about 26C at the height of the summer, while spring and autumn are milder and experience averages of around 18C. Winter is cooler and wetter, with average temperatures that hover at about 10C.

If you enjoy a city break more than lounging on a beach, cheap Valencia holidays can be found in winter when this part of the world becomes quieter.

Fire Festival (Las Fallas); March: There are plenty of celebrations in the towns and villages around the region, but Valencia is simply the best place to be for this fantastic party. “Ninots” – papier maché figures – are set alight and fireworks lit during this traditional event.

La Tomatina; August: Less than half an hour down the road from Valencia is one of the world's most famous and craziest events. Head to Buñol in your oldest clothes, arm yourself with ripe tomatoes, and join the crowds for La Tomatina – the biggest food fight on the planet.

Formula One Grand Prix; August: Now only every two years (Barcelona will host on alternate years), the streets of Valencia are transformed into a race track for one of Spain's most thrilling motor-racing events. It's an exhilarating time to be in Valencia.

Shopping: Trawl the city's many boutiques and add some Spanish pizzazz to your wardrobe.

Romance: The Old Quarter is a romantic setting for leisurely strolls and intimate meals with your loved one.

Nightlife: For night owls, Valencia has swanky waterfront bars and chic clubs that go on until the early hours.