Did you know that one of Spain's most famous dishes actually comes from Valencia? Paella, that mouthwatering mix of vegetables, meat, seafood, saffron and of course, rice, can be traced back to Moorish times when the Moors introduced rice to Valencia. It's now one of Spain's gastronomic icons and the best versions of it are still served up around Valencia. Locals in the know head to Playa de las Arenas for great paella served with chilled wine and a view of the sea or to Albufera Natural Park where the sunsets are spectacular and boat trips are a must.

Valencia produces some fantastic wines, from white to red as well as sparkling and Moscatel de Valencia. If you want something with less of a kick, try the local drink, horchata which is made from the tiger nut, a fruit that is only grown in 16 villages in the Valencia area, thus guaranteeing the quality of the fruit. It's a refreshing drink that looks like a glass of milk and is served with fartons, spongey long shaped biscuits. The best horchata can be found in Horchaterias in the El Carmen district of Valencia, this is the pretty old town of the city.

Valencia, like most Spanish villages, towns and cities has its fair share of fantastic tapas and plenty of places to enjoy them in. Tapas work slightly differently to other cities in Spain and in Valencia it is more normal to order enough tapas to cover you for the evening and slowly make your way through them with friends and family.

Fresh local food is available in abundance at the beautiful central market. The building itself is worth a visit just to take a look at its interior. There are more than 300 local business selling cheeses, hams, jamon serrano, fish, fruit and vegetables amongst other gastronomic delights. Cafés and restaurants can also be found around the market which are perfect for lunch. You can buy supplies here to enjoy at your own pace back in your holiday home in Valencia.

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