Paterna Travel Guide

Discover Paterna, Valencia, Spain with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, must-try dishes, and cultural customs. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Paterna

Paterna, a charming town in the Valencia province of Spain, is perfect for anyone looking to explore Eastern Spain. With its rich history, cultural attractions, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant food scene, Paterna offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Paterna

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Paterna Castle: A historic castle that dates back to the Islamic period and has since been preserved and renovated several times. Climb to the top for stunning views of Paterna and the surrounding areas.

  2. Torre de Paterna: A 14th-century defensive tower that was used during the conflicts between Castile and Aragon. It now serves as a cultural center and a spot for exhibitions.

  3. Ethnological Museum of Paterna: This museum showcases the history and culture of Paterna, including agriculture, crafts, and festivals.

Natural Attractions of Paterna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. La Vallesa Park: A beautiful natural park with walking and biking trails surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. Enjoy a picnic in the shade or relax by the lake.

  2. La Mola Natural Park: Another breathtaking park that spans over 2,000 hectares and features hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Valencian countryside.

  3. Paseo de la Alameda: A scenic promenade with colorful flowers, fountains, and palm trees. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paterna

  1. La Vallesa Trail: A moderately difficult 6 km hike that takes you through the beautiful natural landscape of La Vallesa Park.

  2. Cumbres de Valencia Trail: A challenging 22 km hike through the mountains and forests surrounding Valencia. This trek offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Paterna: Activities and Tours

  1. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the stunning landscape of Paterna from above with a hot air balloon ride. This tour offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.

  2. Wine and Tapas Tour: Sample the local cuisine and drinks with a wine and tapas tour. You’ll have a chance to try various local dishes and drinks while learning about the history and culture of the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paterna

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Paterna Castle and Torre de Paterna
Day 2 Explore La Vallesa Park and take a hike
Day 3 Visit the Ethnological Museum of Paterna and enjoy a picnic in Paseo de la Alameda
Day 4 Take a hot air balloon ride over Paterna
Day 5 Go on a wine and tapas tour
Day 6 Visit La Mola Natural Park
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the town’s local cuisine and culture

Food and Drink Scene of Paterna

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Paella: This classic Valencian dish is a must-try when visiting Paterna. It typically features rice, seafood, chicken, and vegetables cooked in a pan.

  2. Fartons: A sweet pastry that is commonly served with horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts.

Local Beverages

  1. Horchata: A refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, sugar, and water. This drink is a must-try when visiting Paterna.

  2. Agua de Valencia: A cocktail made from champagne, orange juice, vodka, and gin. This drink is perfect for a night out on the town.

Where to Stay in Paterna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Posadas de España Paterna: A modern hotel located in the heart of Paterna that offers comfortable rooms and a swimming pool.

  2. B&B Hotel Valencia Aeropuerto: A budget-friendly hotel that’s perfect for travelers looking for affordable accommodation.

  3. Hotel Táctica Paterna: A spa hotel that offers luxury rooms and a wide range of spa treatments.

What to Buy in Paterna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts: Paterna is known for its handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and leather goods.

  2. Saffron: Valencia is known for its high-quality saffron, which is perfect for spice lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Paterna

Paterna is a town that takes pride in its cultural traditions and festivals. Some of the most important and well-known festivals include:

  1. Las Fallas: A colorful festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. This festival includes fireworks, parades, and the burning of elaborate sculptures.

  2. May Cross: A religious festival that takes place in May. The streets are decorated with flowers, and locals celebrate by dancing and singing.

Best Time to Visit Paterna

The best time to visit Paterna is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded than during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paterna

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine and drinks.

  2. Respect the town’s cultural traditions and customs.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural landscapes.

  2. Ignore the town’s historical landmarks and museums.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paterna

Paterna is generally a safe town for travelers. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpockets and theft.

Health in Paterna

Spain has a high-quality healthcare system, and Paterna is no exception. The town has several medical centers and hospitals that offer excellent healthcare services.

Getting to Paterna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paterna

  1. Valencia Airport: Located only 10 km from Paterna, Valencia Airport is the closest airport to the town and offers several flights to domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Paterna

  1. Paterna Bus Station: This bus station offers several bus routes to surrounding towns and cities.

Other Options

  1. Train Station: Valencia Joaquin Sorolla Train Station is the closest train station to Paterna, offering several train routes to various destinations.

  2. Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to travel around Paterna and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Paterna

Paterna is a small town that is easy to navigate by foot or by bike. However, if you’re planning on exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option.

Where to Go Next from Paterna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Valencia: The third-largest city in Spain is only a short drive or train ride away from Paterna. Valencia offers a rich cultural experience, stunning architecture, and excellent food and drink scene.

  2. Sagunto: This ancient Roman town is only a short drive from Paterna and offers a glimpse into Spain’s rich history.

Conclusion

Paterna, with its rich cultural offerings, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant food scene, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Valencia. Plan your trip today, and experience all that this charming town has to offer.

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