This is the CUTEST little shop full of leather bags and gifts that are hand illustrated. Post…read morecards, bookmarks, placemats, kids toys, tote bags, purses/clutches, and more are all adorned with whimsical illustrations of city life of this husband and wife owned shop. I got the cutest house postcards to send and an adorable green bag with a bicycle riding lady on it. I had coveted my mother-in-law's purse from here for years, so I know they hold up well, and now I have one of my own. Definitely recommend you stop here if you're looking for a unique handmade gift for yourself...or I mean, for someone on your gift list :)

As far as markets go, it's more of a food stall market; different restaurants and cafes and some…read morebeautiful outdoor seating (not a market selling produce and dry goods, etc). Unfortunately, most of the restaurants were closed when I went but I was still able to find a place serving snacks, wine and coffees. Also, most of the restaurants are low rated so I was hesitant to try them out (mostly poor service related), but I did take a chance on the Japanese restaurant downstairs; one of the higher rated spots that turned out to be pretty good. I would go for the architecture alone, just incredible. Beautiful space to just sit and read or chat with friends with a glass of wine. I would love to go back during peak hours to enjoy people watching and the hustle and bustle.

In times past it was a market, today it is home to flower stalls and the finest restaurants. But it…read morehas always been one of the most beautiful buildings in Valencia. I enjoyed strolling around the entire market and watching people gather for a drink, a meal or just a snack. Spanish people like to take their time while they get together, it's just a nice social thing to do. The Colón Market was designed by the architect Francisco Mora Berenguer in the early 20th century, making it one of the most iconic examples of Valencian art nouveau, which has certain features that recall Gaudí's buildings in Barcelona. The structure has been listed as a National Monument. The large building is divided into three sections, enclosed at either end by two brick and stone entrances in the style of triumphal arches. The colorful façade is highly decorative, with the ceramic details typical of the region. An artistic wrought iron fence surrounds the premises. All these features have been painstaking restored. Today, the height of its ceiling and numerous entrances make the market a bright, open space. Built to cater to the upper class of the period, it is in fact still located in one of the areas with the highest purchasing power in the city, the Ensanche. Every day it receives numerous visitors, who come to pass the time at its outdoor cafés. The market hours are from 8.00 a.m. to 1.30 in the morning, but each establishment can set its own opening times

An authentic "grandma" experience! It's literally one sweet lady running the entire restaurant and…read morecooking by herself. I'm not a huge paella fan but felt like I had to get it being my first day in Spain and it was very delicious. The squid was a bit rubbery but the shrimp had an enormous amount of flavor and the rice was very rich and packed with flavor also. The brownie dessert with ice cream was delicious and super fluffy and moist brownie. The ratio of everything was perfect and the crushed nuts added an extra layer of flavor and crunch! Was very impressed especially since it's one person doing it all!