Wizz Air has just announced a new route to a city named the best in the world to live in.

The Hungarian budget airline will run a new flight service offering daily direct flights from London Gatwick to Valencia. This route will launch on 29 March 2026 and fares will be available from £40 for a return journey.

Valencia will be one of the main European urban enclaves from which a total solar eclipse can be observed on 12 August 2026. The unique astronomical phenomenon that will not occur again in the Iberian Peninsula until 2090. Although it will still be daylight, at around 8.32pm the city will be plunged into total darkness for just over a minute. Open spaces facing west are expected to be the best observation points, this is sure to be an unmissable event for astronomy lovers.

The stunning Spanish city was crowned as the best place to live in 2022 by Fordes. It offers an idyllic escape with balmy 20C temperatures in March, when the first Wizz Air flights launch, and wine for just £4. The beauty of many Spanish cities, including this one, lies in their compactness, allowing you to explore food markets, marvel at ancient architecture, and relax on the beach with a refreshing sangria, all within a short stroll.

Considering that an average meal costs around €13.25 (£11.09), a bottle of wine is approximately €5 (£4.18), and a morning coffee comes in at a mere € 2.04 (£1.71), according to transfer platform Wise, it's no wonder Valencia was named the top place to live by Forbes. A must-visit spot is the old town, where you can witness a significant relic of Christian history - the Holy Grail - housed in the Valencia Cathedral.

Archaeological studies suggest this could be the very chalice used by Jesus during the Last Supper.

The magnificent Cathedral is a blend of Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque architectural styles, and if you're feeling adventurous, ascend the Miguelete Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Just a stone's throw away, you'll discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), which served as the epicentre of Valencia's thriving silk trade in the 15th century.

This building is a true testament to Gothic architecture, boasting grand columns, elaborate stonework and a spectacular ceiling that's worth straining your neck to admire.

Valencia is a city that truly embraces the outdoors - you'll often spot locals sipping coffee in sun-drenched plazas, embodying the quintessential Mediterranean lifestyle. Be sure to explore the stunning Turia Gardens, a former riverbed transformed into one of Spain's largest urban parks.

The city also proudly presents 20km of blue-flag beaches, home to some of the finest Paella restaurants. The only decision you need to make is whether to stroll to the nearby Cabanyal or Malvarrosa, or venture further to beaches like El Saler.

If, surprisingly, paella isn't to your taste, Valencia's Central Market offers an extensive range of fresh produce, including tapas, the juiciest olives, and fresh seafood.