Turía Gardens is an innovative urban park that intersects Valencia’s city centre. See African wildlife roaming in re-created habitats at the zoo, stroll through the well-attended gardens, visit landmark buildings and explore the park’s museums.
This 110-hectare (272-acre) public park lies in what was once a riverbed. After floods badly damaged the city in 1957, the Turía River was diverted and its riverbed was transformed into the Turía Gardens.
Visit Bioparc Valencia to spend a few hours exploring the African-themed zoo. Bioparc, in the west of Turia Gardens, features a range of African animals big and small in enclosures that mimic their natural environments. It’s located on the park’s western side. Walk east from the zoo to find a complex of public sports grounds and children’s play areas, both popular spots for locals on the weekend.
Try an exercise routine at the fitness stations in the gardens. Walk along paths in the Valencia Botanical Garden or admire paintings in the Valencia Institute of Modern Art nearby. The park’s pathways will lead you to Puente de los Serranos bridge and the Torres de Serranos, one of the ancient Valencian city gates.
Relax in the scenic gardens in front of the Palau de la Música, a concert hall that hosts an annual jazz festival and several other music events throughout the year. Stroll along the leafy footpaths and discover charming symmetrical flowerbeds, ponds and fountains. Bring your own lunch to take in the scenery while enjoying a picnic.
Kids can play and explore the Gulliver Park adventure playground, based on the famous fictional character’s travels. Find the City of Arts and Sciences at the easternmost edge of the park. This multipurpose cultural and education complex contains six venues including an aquarium, a science museum and concert hall.
The Turía Gardens attractions are all located within an easy walking distance of the centre of the city. A public bus route runs along the park’s edge and two metro stations, Alameda and Turía, provide access to the park. Access Turia Gardens for free.
