Valencia is Spain's third-largest city with a population of some 740,000. It lies on the Mediterranean coast some 350km south of Barcelona. Madrid is a similar distance inland. Gastronomically, the region is home to paella, Spain's most famous dish.  Historically, it is believed that the Holy Grail resides in Valencia's cathedral and it was here that El Cid fought the Moors.

The Valencia climate tends to be mild all year round and one of Spain's greatest festivals, Las Fallas, takes place every March when revellers enjoy a week long party with fireworks and massive bonfires every night.

The major tourist attraction in Valencia is the amazing City of Arts and Sciences which attracts 4 million annual visitors and is equally fascinating to adults and children alike.  Valencia is now firmly established on the European art circuit with galleries containing works by El Greco, Goya and Velázquez.