Wizz Air has unveiled a new route to a city acclaimed as the top place to reside in the world.
The Hungarian low-cost carrier will introduce a fresh flight service featuring daily non-stop flights from London Gatwick to Valencia in Spain. This new route is set to commence on 29 March 2026, with ticket prices starting at £40 for a round trip.
Valencia will serve as a prime European location from which spectators can witness a total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026. This rare astronomical event will only occur again in the Iberian Peninsula in 2090. Despite the daylight, the city will experience over a minute of complete darkness around 8:32 pm. Open spaces facing west are anticipated to provide optimal viewing spots, making it a must-see event for astronomy enthusiasts.
Having been crowned the best place to live in 2022, the picturesque Spanish city is an ideal destination for the upcoming March launch of the Wizz Air route. During this period, Valencia offers pleasant temperatures around 20C and affordable £4 wine. The charm of many Spanish cities, including Valencia, lies in their pedestrian-friendly layout, allowing visitors to explore food markets, admire ancient architecture, and unwind on the beach with a delightful sangria.
Considering that an average meal costs €13.25 (£11.09), a bottle of wine around €5 (£4.18), and a morning coffee just €2.04 (£1.71), as reported by transfer platform Wise, it’s no surprise Valencia was recognized as the top place to live by Forbes. A recommended spot to visit is the historic old town, where travelers can view a significant piece of Christian history at the Valencia Cathedral – rumored to house the Holy Grail, believed to be the chalice used during the Last Supper.
The magnificent Cathedral showcases a blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture. For the adventurous, ascending the Miguelete Tower offers a breathtaking panoramic vista of the city. Nearby, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda) awaits exploration, serving as the heart of Valencia’s prosperous silk trade in the 15th century.
A true architectural gem, the Silk Exchange features grand columns, intricate stonework, and a remarkable ceiling that is truly worth craning your neck to admire. Valencia, known for its outdoor lifestyle, sees locals enjoying coffee on sunlit plazas in authentic Mediterranean style. Visitors should not miss a leisurely walk through the stunning Turia Gardens, once a riverbed and now one of Spain’s largest urban parks.
Valencia also boasts 20km of blue-flag beaches, home to some of the finest Paella restaurants. The only decision travelers need to make is whether to stroll to nearby Cabanyal or Malvarrosa, or venture further to beaches like El Saler.
For those not keen on paella, the Central Market offers a vast selection of fresh produce, including tapas, delectable olives, and fresh seafood.