British holidaymakers have been handed a major boost with the announcement of a new budget air route to a Spanish city recently crowned the best in the world to live.
New Daily Flights from Gatwick
Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air will begin operating a daily direct service from London Gatwick to Valencia. The exciting new route is scheduled to take off on 29 March 2026, with promotional return fares starting from an incredibly low £40.
This connection opens up easy access to one of Spain's most vibrant and celebrated coastal cities, perfect for a spring or summer getaway. When the flights launch, Valencia typically enjoys pleasant balmy temperatures of around 20°C.
A City of Unmissable Wonders
Valencia's reputation is well-earned. In 2022, Forbes magazine named it the 'best place to live in the world', and it's easy to understand why. The city offers an exceptional quality of life with its blend of stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and remarkably affordable living costs.
According to data from the transfer platform Wise, visitors can expect:
- An average meal for €13.25 (approx. £11.09)
- A bottle of wine for about €5 (approx. £4.18)
- A morning coffee for just €2.04 (approx. £1.71)
The city's compact, walkable centre is a treasure trove of history and culture. Key highlights include the magnificent Valencia Cathedral, a blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles which is said to house the Holy Grail. Nearby, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda) stands as a testament to the city's 15th-century prosperity.
For relaxation, the Turia Gardens—a vast urban park created in a former riverbed—provides a green escape, while the city boasts 20km of Blue Flag beaches like Malvarrosa and El Saler, famed for their authentic paella restaurants.
A Rare Astronomical Event
Adding to the allure for 2026 travellers, Valencia will be one of the prime European cities to witness a total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026.
This unique astronomical phenomenon will not occur again over the Iberian Peninsula until 2090. In Valencia, at approximately 8:32 pm, the sky will darken completely for just over a minute. Open spaces facing west are predicted to offer the best views, creating a once-in-a-lifetime event for astronomy enthusiasts visiting the city.
With its combination of cultural riches, sunny climate, affordable pleasures, and now, enhanced budget flight access, Valencia solidifies its position as a top destination for British tourists seeking an exceptional European city break.
