The following day kicked off with breakfast at a charming little café in Plaza de la Virgen (El Generalife at Plaza de la Virgen – not the bigger one at C. de Navellos), right by the cathedral. The breakfast was although very simple – the typical breakfast – pan con tomate. It’s simple, but always my preferable breakfast, as I just love th combination of tomatoes, delicious olive oil, and some alioli. Combined with a café bombon? ¡Simplemente wauw! 🤩
Naturally, I had to visit the cathedral because it supposedly houses the Holy Grail, the very cup Jesus drank from at the Last Supper. According to legend, anyway. There’s even a mosaic depicting the Holy Grail. Beyond the legend, the church itself is fascinating and well worth a visit.
Next up, I stopped by Torres de Serranos to explore and soak in the view. This is one of the two surviving city gates, built between 1392 and 1398 in Valencian Gothic style. It’s one of Valencia’s key landmarks and a great spot for history buffs or anyone who enjoys a good view.
Then I hopped on a bus to Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias to visit Oceanografic, the largest oceanarium in Europe. Designed by architect Félix Candela and engineers Alberto Domingo and Carlos Lázaro, this place is massive, housing 45,000 animals and 500 different species.
They even have a fancy restaurant called Restaurante Submarino. The ambiance is lovely, but the food? Meh. I had lunch there and can confirm it’s not worth the hype 😅
After spending several hours at L’Oceanografic, I took a well-deserved rest before dinner. After the lackluster lunch, my taste buds were crying out for something delicious. Enter Thai Mongkut in El Carme, just a short walk from Puerta Serranos.
While mentioning a restaurant in El Carme, you have to know about El Carme!
El Carme (or El Carmen) is one of Valencia’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods. Tucked away in the old city, it has a maze of narrow, winding streets and centuries-old buildings. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, with an eclectic mix of bars, cafes, and shops, along with its rich cultural heritage. One of the coolest things about El Carme is its impressive street art. The neighborhood feels like an open-air gallery, with stunning murals and graffiti decorating many of its walls. These works range from intricate, colorful designs to bold, thought-provoking pieces, showcasing the area’s creative spirit and dynamic urban culture. Wandering through El Carme is a visual delight, full of surprises and inspiration around every corner. Just have a look here!
Back to Restaurant That Mongkut – The place is beautifully decorated with inviting furnishings, making it a spot you actually want to eat at.
I ordered a vegetarian red curry for the main course and sticky rice with mango for dessert. Everything was absolutely delicious and flavorful. It’s a place I’d wholeheartedly recommend! Plus, they whip up some really tasty drinks, and the staff are friendly and welcoming. So, while the day had its ups and downs, it ended on a high note with a fantastic dinner. If you ever find yourself in Valencia, steer clear of Restaurante Submarino and make a beeline for Thai Mongkut. Your taste buds will thank you! 😋😋
