The Turia Gardens are a break from the hustle and bustle of València and just a stone’s throw away from the city centre. Discover hidden gems and Art Nouveau-style architecture alike along the once-bustling river path of the River Turia. Hosting countless cultural events and concerts, walk the path of the Turia from the Parque de Cabecera to the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències.
The Turia River, once situated around the periphery of Valencia’s old town and city centre, was diverted after a devastating flood in 1957. The dry riverbed left behind was originally planned to become a highway; however, the city chose to transform the long, fertile space into a fantastic green area, which boasts long pathways that can take you to various landmarks and hidden gardens along its route.
Starting at the Parque de Cabecera, situated just next to the Parque de Cabecera in the Campanar barrio in the western part of the city, you can truly reconnect with nature and wildlife. Just 26 minutes by bus away from El Carme, you can relax to the sounds of Mother Nature and take advantage of the countless beautiful viewing points and rest spaces.
Furthermore, the wildlife is on display for all to see, with ducks, birds, dragonflies and turtles in their natural habitats. You can wait in anticipation to see if any turtles pop up in the water, or you can sit at the lake and giggle as the ducks and birds waddle towards you looking for breadcrumbs!
If you’re jealous of the ducks, say no more! There are multiple duck and swan-shaped pedal boats available to rent at varying times. Take in the captivating scenery of nature, and get up close and personal with the turtles, whilst relaxing on the tranquil lake at Parque de Caberera.
Nearby is Valencia’s ‘Bioparc’, which is a one-of-a-kind interactive zoo just a few minutes’ walk away. Separating the walkways to the natural habitats and moats, this immersive experience is sure to give you those safari vibes, whilst being seconds away from the nearest terraces! Who would’ve thought you could get so close to Lions and Hippos in Spain?
After that, walk Eastwards through the gorgeous Valencian Park, or even rent a “Valenbici” to make that journey even more exciting. Pass under several of the Túria’s 18 bridges, with historical landmarks such as the 16th-century Puente de Serranos and the 15th-century Gothic arches on the Puente de Trinidad.
You will also pass Gulliver’s Park; a giant playground designed in 1990 by architects Rafael Rivera and Manolo Martín, based on Jonathan Swift’s famous character. The playground is an interactive sculpture depicting Gulliver as being pinned down by the Lilliputians. Featuring slides, stairways, ramps and rope ladders, the fictional character’s body, boots and sleeves are transformed into a labyrinth of fun, perfect for children and families alike!
In roughly 30 minutes on foot, or just 10 minutes by bike, you will arrive at the Palau de la Musica (Palace of Music), an Art Nouveau-style building with a large outdoor concert space. There are Roman-style columns on either end of the water feature, just outside the building, creating an interesting contrast between the Art Nouveau building and the outdoor stage.
The international Band Competition will be hosted here between July 16th and 20th this summer; alongside this, “La Música amb Majúscules” – a world-class event running from this summer into early 2026, showcasing performances such as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Gustavo Dudamel (National Youth Orchestra of Venezuela).
A 20-minute walk, or 5 minutes by bike, later you will arrive to see the large-scale architectural behemoth of “Ciutat de Les Arts i Les Ciències”- The City of Arts and Sciences. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Túria Park diffuses into this sprawling modern complex using small ponds and fountains going into a huge lake-style pool of water.
Despite the group of museums and venues having lots to offer, the outside architecture is something to behold. The looming bright white building is designed as such that it does not engulf this part of the Túria Pathway. Whilst walking past, you will pass the “Esculptura de Neptú” – Neptune’s Sculpture. The Roman god of the sea reflects the city’s historical connection with the Mediterranean Sea.
There are multiple areas surrounding the museums that are perfect to chill out in, with families and groups of students often stopping here in their free time to have picnics and enjoy the scenery. At this point, the Túria River Path ends. However, there are plenty of public transport options readily available to head back home, or to head back to a part of the park you couldn’t get enough of.
If you’re living in the city or if you’re just looking for some exercise, the Túria Park has multiple outdoor gyms and sports zones. For the athletes, the 5km Circuit Valencia Ciudad del Running is a popular route in which approximately 750,000 runners test their endurance each year.
The multi-sports courts dotted along the park provide places to play football, rugby, baseball, tennis, mini golf, and even climbing walls; even the skaters among us have areas to practice their tricks! Separate running and cycling lanes provide distance and personal space, whilst benches, water fountains, and public toilets allow you to take that much-needed break after all that exercise.
The Túria Park is a true reflection of Valencian society’s ability to adapt, overcome, and be resourceful. From centuries past to the modern day, the buildings, statues and leisure zones provide an action-packed yet relaxing day out for all ages and kinds of people. Whether you’re a tourist, a local, or you’re here for a few months, the Túria is a bucket list destination in the lively and diverse city of Valencia.
Report by Elliot Fryatt
Article copyright ‘24/7 Valencia’
Photo copyright Elliot Fryatt/ 24/7 Valencia
Visit Valencia, official website (Turia Nature Park): https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-do-valencia/nature-in-valencia/turia-nature-park
Biopark Valencia official website and tickets: https://bioparcvalencia.es/en/
Valenbici (rent a bike): https://www.valenbisi.es/en/home
Palau de la Música official website and info: https://palauvalencia.com/
Information on sports facilities in Valencia: https://www.valenciafilmoffice.org/en/locations/sports-facilities
City of Arts and Sciences official website: https://cac.es/en/
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