Valencia, an elegant and lively capital

Eduardo Monzón

Valencia, the "bride of the sun" that shines in the heart of the country, is a city where a wide range of entertainment options abound, combining the fast pace of a capital city with the pleasant tranquility of sunny days, urban art, and towering samane trees.

A great way to start exploring Valencia is by visiting its beautiful plazas, parks, and natural areas—green spaces where locals go to clear their minds. The Naguanagua Botanical Garden features an interpretive trail lined with various species of trees and flowers, where butterflies abound. The star of the show is an imposing 400-year-old saman tree that captivates visitors with its majestic presence.

Fernando Peñalver Park is a must-see, as it serves as Valencia’s green lung and is a treasure for the city’s residents, who enjoy it every day, with its spacious, well-maintained green areas, long paths for running or walking, and pleasant spots for meditation and relaxation.

Fabián de Jesús Díaz Square in Prebo is a little oasis in the middle of the city, which is why people of all ages visit it every day.

While exploring the capital of Carabobo, be sure to take in the magnificent works of art that adorn the city, such as the creations by masters Carlos Cruz-Diez and Wladimir Zabaleta at the Guaparo roundabout, the massive mural on the Stratos Tower—also by Cruz-Diez—and the large-scale work by Colombian artist Edgar Negret on Andrés Eloy Blanco Avenue.

When it’s time to eat, head to Nautilus Jardín Gourmet, where cuisine and art come alive in a warm, inviting setting surrounded by beautiful gardens. There are a variety of dining options, from steak to sushi. Be sure to visit Cacao Cultura, a Venezuelan chocolate shop and cultural hub in the city, where activities and exhibitions are held year-round.

You can also stop by La Viña and El Viñedo, two of Valencia’s most popular neighborhoods, to check out places like La Cafeteca or Charlotte—great spots to enjoy a coffee and a delicious dessert on a Valencian afternoon.

If you’d like to get some exercise, head to the famous 4 Avenidas de Prebo, where many people go jogging every day. That’s where you’ll find the entrance to El Casupo, the “mountain of the Valencians,” where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

No se marche de Valencia sin visitar el centro histórico, para conocer la Catedral Nuestra Señora del Socorro, el edificio más antiguo de la ciudad; la plaza Bolívar, distinta a la de las otras ciudades de Venezuela, por su alto monumento, y otros lugares de interés histórico como el Museo Casa Páez, el Teatro Municipal y la Casa de la Estrella. Pase por la Pastelería Carabobo, un emblema de Valencia, con los dulces más deliciosos y tradicionales.

If you're a sports fan, make the most of your stay at Lidotel Valencia by visiting the Baseball Museum and Hall of Fame, located at the Sambil Center. And if you're traveling with the little ones, be sure to take them to the fun Dunas Park.

Valencia will surprise you with all the options we've shared, and with many more you'll discover as you explore this beautiful Venezuelan city.