Why go to Valencia?
Many of Valencia's must-see sites are within walking distance of the city center
Beware of fast-moving bikes and cars when crossing streets
You'll never get bored in this vibrant, dazzling city, which has dozens of museums and galleries
Valencia Cruise Port Facilities?
Valencia's cruise terminal has two Internet stations charging 1 euro per 15 minutes (about twice the rate you'll pay in town). The terminal's street level also has a well-stocked tourist information desk, as well as a caf?; offering a two-course meal with drink for around 12 euros, the latter is used more by ferry travellers than well-fed cruise passengers.
Oddly enough, there is no ATM in the terminal, but you will find a drink machine and telephones.
You'll also find plenty of shops selling cheap and cheerful beach gear, rings, watches, scarves and souvenirs (though again, prices are cheaper in town). For wine buffs, the tax-free outlet stocks a good range of local picks (from around 6 Euros a bottle), alongside the usual collection of makeup, toiletries and aftershaves.
Good to Know?
Cyclists and Segway riders have scant regard for pedestrians. Dubrovnik-style, pale marbled pavements in the Old Town are lovely to look at but slippery when wet, so wear good shoes with non-slip soles. Also beware of temptation. The Spanish have a very sweet tooth, so candy, ice cream and pastry shops abound.
Getting Around?
By Shuttle: Ships' shuttle buses leave from right outside the terminal and carry you the three miles into the center of town. On the way, you'll pass pretty parks, grand boulevards and a London Eye-style wheel, all of which will whet your appetite for exploring the city.
Most shuttles drop off at the Carrer del Salvador, almost opposite the Trinity Bridge. If you head left from the drop-off point and go left again, you'll find yourself in Plaza de la Virgen at the heart of Old Town, near the historic courthouse and cathedral. And if you keep walking, virtually in a straight line, you'll find Valencia's main shopping streets and, eventually, its central market.
By Taxi: For travellers in search of tours or going further afield, right outside the passenger terminal is a taxi stand offering reduced rates on return trips to local attractions (see Don't Miss). Offers include a round trip to the central Plaza de la Reina (15 E there, 12 back); L'Oceanografic (EUR9 out, EUR7 return) and the Bio Park (EUR21E/EUR18). About EUR30 an hour buys a tour for up to four passengers of the main sights, including Turia Gardens.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Spain's currency is the euro. For the latest exchange rate, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com).
There are plenty of banks with ATMs in Old Town, especially around the Old Courthouse in Plaza de San Lorenzo, and along nearby Carrer del Muo del Santa Anna, a broad street lined with shops and banks.
Language?
Valencia is a working city and the majority of its inhabitants speak Spanish (the official language). Some locals speak Valenciano, a dialect of Catalan, and some know at least a smattering of English. Useful Spanish phrases to know before you go include:
Hola ... Hello
Me llamo ... My name is...
Estoy de vacaciones ... I'm here on holiday
Hay __ par' aqui? ... Is there __ around here?
Un supermercado ... a supermarket
Una farmacia ... a pharmacy
Cuanto cuesta? ... How much?
Donde esta le mejor playa? ... Where is the best beach?
Por Favor ... Please
Gracias ... Thank you
De nada ... You're welcome
Adios ... Goodbye
Where You're Docked?
Cruise ships dock at one of the many berths available at Valencia Passenger Terminal, which also accommodates ferries. Be prepared for quite a long walk from your ship to the terminal building, along a series of rather sea salt-rusted walkways. But once you're there, you'll find the terminal is smart and access to the city is easy via shuttle bus.
