Paseo de la Alameda (l'Albereda)

The Paseo de la Alameda (l'Albereda in Valencian) is València's most historic tree-lined promenade, opened in 1677 along the north bank of the old Turia riverbed. For centuries it was the strolling ground of the nobility and bourgeoisie, who rode its two broad 'salons' by carriage. Today it links the Royal Gardens with the Pagoda Tower and the City of Arts and Sciences.

History

It began as the landscaped approach to the Palacio del Real from the river, on an old rahal (estate) that gives the place its name. By around 1692 it was already a formal public promenade: the Fàbrica de Murs i Valls added new rows of trees and an oval plaza with stone balls and benches in front of the palace.

What to see

• The two Guard Towers, built in 1714 and topped with blue glazed-ceramic spires.
• Rows of trees and fountains along the length of the promenade.
• The oval plaza in front of the former Real, the promenade's historic starting point.

Practical tips

Access is free, and you can walk or cycle it from the Turia Gardens. Get there by metro (Alameda) or bus. Early morning works well for a run or a walk in the shade.

LOCAL TIP: on the last Sunday of July the Alameda hosts the Battle of Flowers, the finale of the Great July Fair: floats decked in nearly a million carnations parade past and the crowd throws flowers back with small wicker rackets. It's a tradition dating to 1891 that few visitors know about. Combine it with a walk along the riverbed following our guide to what to do in València, or the festivals of València section if you're here in July. More corners in places.