valencia travel itinerary

A Perfect Valencia Itinerary for 1, 2 and 3 Days – 2023

Are you ready to start planning your Valencia itinerary and have a spectacular time in Spain?

When travelling to Valencia, many people may be unsure of what to do and how many days they should spend in the city.

Founded in 138 BC, this beautiful town has an interesting history, incredible architecture, with ancient buildings contrasting with ultra-modern ones, nice beaches, unique festivals, exquisite cuisine and to top it all, it is easy to get around and the prices are very reasonable.

I have been to Valencia several times and really think it’s one of the best places to visit in Spain. Therefore I have put together itineraries for 1, 2 and 3 days in Valencia to help you plan your trip.

* Affiliate disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small fee if you click through and make a purchase. There is never any additional cost to you, and I use some of these earnings for my monthly charitable donations .

Table of Contents

Helpful Tips For Planning a Valencia Itinerary

Where’s valencia.

Valencia, the capital of the autonomous community of Valencia and the third-largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona, is located on the east coast of Spain, around 300 Km (186 mi) from Madrid, Spain’s capital (check the map here ) .

How to get there?

There is an international airport in Valencia, and some of the airlines operating flights to Valencia are British Airways, Easyjet, Vueling, Iberia, Air Europa and Ryanair.

You can book your flights with  Skyscanner , which is the website that I use and trust.

Best time to visit Valencia

Valencia has a Mediterranean climate with consistently pleasant weather. Average high temps range from 15C (59 F) in the wintertime to 30C (85F) in the height of summer.

You can visit Valencia all year round and I would say that the best time is between May and September.

However, if you want to see the Fallas Festival you must go between the 15th and 19th of March.

How many days to spend in Valencia?

Three full days. For me, the perfect Valencia itinerary is 3 days. With it, you can see several points of interest and historical sites without rushing and if you visit the city from the end of May to September you can also enjoy its best beaches.

Where to stay in Valencia?

I stayed at Twenty Granada and if you’re looking for hotels in Valencia, I also recommend:

Budget : Hostal Antigua Morellana , Cantagua Hostel and The River Hostel .

Great Cost/Benefit : Sohotel Ruzafa , Hi Valencia Boutiqu e and Venecia Plaza Centro

Luxury : Vincci Lys , Hotel Medium Valencia  and  One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria 04

How to get around?

Valencia is a very walkable city with a good public transport system and you don’t need a car.

If you want to save some money during your stay, buy the Valencia Tourist Card . With this card, you travel for free on buses, metros and trams and get free entry to municipal museums and monuments.

The cheapest card, the 24h one, costs €15. Just the metro from the airport to the city centre costs € 6.70.

Valencia Tours

Here are some of the tours that I recommend.

Itineraries for 1, 2 and 3 Days in Valencia

1-day itinerary.

• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
• Strolling around Jardin del Turia
• See the old city gate
• Wander around the Old Town and Carmen district.

If you are going to spend only one day in Valencia, I’d suggest you start your day by visiting the City of Arts and Science , an architectural complex made up of six-ultra modern buildings and a white cable-stayed bridge.

You should get there around 9:00 – 9:30 AM in the morning to take some pictures then start your visit.

There is a lot to see and do in the City of Arts and Science but if you have limited time, I recommend taking a 1 ½ hour guided tour of the Opera House or visiting L’Oceanogràfic, the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe.

If you’re travelling with kids, the Museu de les Ciències Princípe Felipe and L’Hemisfèric (an IMAX/3D cinema and planetarium) are also good options.

Get your ticket to visit L’Oceanogràfic in advance here .

After visiting the City of Arts and Science, you could follow the old Turia Riverbed to Torres de Serrano by bus, metro or cab, but for me, walking is a better option.

I love strolling around Jardin del Turia as it’s one of the best things to do in Valencia .

After around a 40min walk, you will reach Pont dels Serrans Bridge with the imposing tower in front of it, and you can enter the Old Town through one of the city gates towers remaining from the walled city.

There are many things to do and see in Valencia’s Old Town but if you have limited time, I recommend visiting Plaza de la Virgen (one of the oldest squares in Valencia), Valencia Cathedral (where you can find the holy chalice used by Jesus during the Last Supper) and Plaza de la Reyna.

Then wander around the streets of Carmen district until you reach Iglesia de San Nicolás (Valencia’s Sistine Chapel), and finish at Plaza del Ayuntamiento (one of the most beautiful squares in Valencia).

At night you can have dinner in the Carmen neighbourhood where there are a few trendy and very nice restaurants serving delicious Spanish tapas . Some of the restaurants that I recommend are: Colmado de la Lola, Delicat and Celler del Tossal.

What to do in Valencia in 2 Days – Itinerary Overview

• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences,
• See the old city gate and wander around the Old Town.
• Dine in the El Carmen district.
• Start at Bioparc Valencia
• Visit Mercado Central, Església de Sant Joan del Mercat, La Lonja de la Seda, and Museo de Bellas Artes.
• Dine in the Ruzzafa neighbourhood.

If you’re wondering what to do in Valencia in 2 days, follow my 1-day itinerary for your first day.

On the second day, you should start by visiting the Bioparc Valencia, a 10-hectare (25 acres) animal park that recreates African ecosystems, such as the Savannah, Madagascar and an Equatorial Forest.

A visit to Bioparc is one of the best things to do in Valencia because you can get very close to wild animals in this park and there aren’t the traditional railings and cages common to many zoos. Instead, they use natural barriers to separate visitors from the animals, such as rivers, ponds, streams and rocks.

Quick Tip : Get there early in the morning and don’t miss the Birds and Mammals Exhibition held daily at the amphitheatre, an open-air arena surrounded by acacia and baobab trees.

After your visit, you can head to the nearby restaurant El Racó de la Paella which serves one of the best paellas in Valencia. In the afternoon, you should visit Mercado Central (a modernist-style building and one of the oldest markets still in use in Europe), the nearby Església de Sant Joan del Mercat (a beautiful Catholic church) and La Lonja de la Seda (a UNESCO heritage site and one of the city’s architectural treasures).

If you still have time, you can finish at one of the best museums in the city, Museo de Bellas Artes, which has a stunning collection of Valencian Gothic paintings.

Quick Tip : You can buy some souvenirs in the market, including Spanish sausages and jamón. But be aware that the market closes at 3:00 PM.

To finish your Valencia 2-day itinerary, I recommend having dinner in the Ruzafa neighbourhood with some really good bars and restaurants, such as: Rodamon, Almaden and Dos Estaciones.

3 Days in Valencia – Itinerary Overview

• Start at the City of Arts and Science, including the Opera House and L’Oceanogràfic
• Visit the Fine Arts Museum
• Wander around Valencia Old Town and visit some of its best attractions
• Dinner in Ruzafa district.
• Relax on Playa de la Malvarrosa (spring & summer) or visit the Valencia Institute of Modern Art and the Silk Museum (fall & winter).

On my Valencia 3-day itinerary, you will not only see more attractions, but you will also be able to do it more leisurely as you will have more time. Therefore, the first and second days will be different from the two previous itineraries.

3 days in Valencia is the best option, in my opinion, especially if you’re visiting the city during the summer.

In the morning, visit the City of Arts and Science. As you have more time you should take a 1 ½ hour guided tour of the Opera House and visit L’Oceanogràfic after that.

Quick Tip : Don’t miss the dolphin show in the largest Dolphinarium in Europe .

After visiting the City of Arts and Science, you can go for a walk in the old Turia Riverbed to the Fine Arts Museum to see the impressive Valencian Gothic paintings. Those are two of my favourite things to do in Valencia.

If you don’t want to walk, because it’s a 40min-walk, you can always take a bus, the metro, an Uber or buy the Hop-on-hop-off bus ticket .

In the evening head to the El Carmen district to have dinner there.

The second day is going to be dedicated to exploring Valencia’s Old Town.

In the morning start at Plaza del Ayuntamiento, one of the most beautiful squares in Valencia, then go to Mercado Central, the nearby Església de Sant Joan del Mercat, La Lonja de la Seda and, if you have time, also the Ceramic Museum.

Quick Tip: The Ceramic Museum is just a 5min walk from La Lonja de la Seda. If you don’t want to visit it, at least give a glance at its magnificent façade.

In the afternoon, start at Plaza de la Reyna, Valencia Cathedral, Plaza de la Virgen and its Basilica Almoina Museum (to learn about the origins of the city) and wander around the streets of Carmen district until you reach Iglesia de San Nicolás (Valencia’s Sistine Chapel).

Quick Tip : There is a very famous and traditional place in Valencia for churros, fartons, chocolate and buñuelos called Horchatería Santa Catalina . When you’re in this area, it’s worth checking it out for a coffee break. The decoration with traditional tiles is very cute.

End your day by having dinner in the Ruzafa district.

Finish your 3 days in Valencia with a visit to the Bioparc in the morning and after that head to Playa de la Malvarrosa, one of the urban beaches in Valencia.

If the weather isn’t good enough for a beach, you can visit the Valencia Institute of Modern Art (IVAM) , one of the leading institutions of modern and contemporary art in Spain and the Silk Museum (the best place to discover Valencia’s rich silk tradition).

Finish your day by having dinner in one of the beachfront restaurants. I recommend: Bodega Anyora, Casa Montaña, Bodega Aldeana and La Peseta. Another option is Bar Ricardo in La Petxina which serves one of the best patatas bravas in Valencia.

But if you prefer, you can have dinner at a Flamenco show. Just make sure to buy your ticket in advance.

Quick Tip : If you’re looking for things to do in Valencia at night, during the summer months La Marina de Valencia becomes one of the hottest spots in the city offering music, sports, culture, nightlife and gastronomy. And L’Umbracle, at the City of Arts and Science, is transformed into one of the most impressive and elegant summer terrace clubs in Valencia.

Of course, these are just suggested Valencia itineraries for 1, 2 and 3 days and you can change them according to your interests, budget and time.

I believe that following those directions will make your trip to Valencia much easier to plan and more enjoyable.

After spending 3 days in Valencia, you will understand why this is one of my favourite Spanish cities.

If you travel down to Alicante, a great destination on the Costa Blanca, here’s an Alicante travel guide to help you plan your visit.

Safe travels and have fun in Spain.

More posts about Valencia that might interest you:

• Fallas Valencia: A Uniquely Spectacular Festival
• If the bulls aren’t injured is it acceptable to watch a bullfight?

I always recommend buying travel insurance, which can literally be your lifeline if something happens to you and if your luggage is lost or stolen.

I always use World Nomads Travel insurance for independent travellers. It’s easy to buy, extend & claim online, even after you’ve left home.

Get yours here .

Don’t forget to save these pins 😉

• Book Your Flight Find deals on airlines on my favorite search engine: Skyscanner . Be sure to read my How to find cheap flights article.
• Rent A Car Rental Cars is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal.
• Book Accommodation Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. But Hotels.com and Hilton Hotels have very interesting reward programs.
• Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! I always use World Nomads  for short-term trips and SafetyWing for long-term ones. Find out why Travel Insurance: Much More Than a Precaution, a Necessity .
• Book Tours in Advance Book unforgettable experiences and skip-the-line tickets with GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book Ground Transportation BookaWay offers a stress-free experience with secure payments and no hidden fees. You pay online and receive your itinerary by email.
• Luggage Solutions Rent your luggage with Cargo or if you need to drop off your own luggage and enjoy your time without dragging it all over a city, find a LuggageHero shop here.
• Get a Travel Card Revolut Card is a pre-paid debit card that enables cash machine withdrawals in 120 countries. I’ve been using my Revolut Card for over a year and never paid foreign-transaction fees again. Get your Revolut Card with free shipping here .
• Packing Guide Check out my How to Pack a Carry-on Luggage For a Five-month Trip to help you start packing for your trip. Don’t forget your camera, chargers and other useful travel accessories.

3 thoughts on “A Perfect Valencia Itinerary for 1, 2 and 3 Days – 2023”

I want travel this place

You should!! Valencia is a really nice city.

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4 Days in Valencia – The Ultimate Bucket List Itinerary

  If you are planning a short visit to Valencia soon, and are wondering how to fit in all the best sites in under a week,  then this four-day itinerary is for you.

The vibrant city of Valencia is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and cutting-edge architecture, from the iconic City of Arts and Sciences to the historic silk exchange of La Lonja, to the stunning Cathedral and Basilica, each landmark narrates a story of the city's proud evolution.

Embarking on a 4-day journey in Valencia offers an enriching experience filled with the warmth of its people, delectable cuisine, mesmerising sunsets, and captivating architecture.

Indulge your senses at the Central Market, witness the grandeur of the Silk Museum, and stroll through the picturesque Turia Gardens.

For accommodation, we advise staying in the Ciutat Vela – Old Quarter of the city centre, as it will provide you with convenient access to all the top local attractions.

If you're wondering whether 4 days are sufficient to explore Valencia thoroughly, rest assured, if you follow our curated itinerary, as we did, you will enjoy a perfect balance of culture, history, nature, gastronomy and fun.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the best that the city offers, making these 4 days in Valencia truly thrilling!

4-Day Valencia Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Explore the Old Town

Start your day at the Plaça de la Verge ( Plaza de la Virgen ), enjoy the architecture and historic buildings of the area including the Basilica de la Virgen de las Desamparados, The Generalitat de Valencia, The Plaza de la Ayuntamiento, and the ornate Post Office building.

Head off to the impressive Central Market (Mercado Central) to experience local flavours and vibrant colours.

Wander through the historic Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Enjoy a traditional Valencian paella at a local restaurant. Try La Pepica or Casa Roberto for an authentic experience.

Head to the Valencia Cathedral to see the Holy Grail and climb to the top of El Micalet Tower for amazing panoramic views.

Visit the Serranos Towers, then stroll around the charming streets of Barrio del Carmen, filled with cafes, boutiques, and street art.

Have dinner at Plaza de la Reina, surrounded by historic architecture and a lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Arts and Sciences Complex & Fallas Museum

Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences . Start with the Oceanografic, the largest aquarium in Europe.

Visit the Hemispheric for an IMAX show, the planetarium experience and the Agora building ( Caixa-Forum )  or simply spend time exploring the stunning complex.

Have lunch at the popular Contrapunto de las Arts Restaurant.

Continue exploring the City of Arts and Sciences. Visit the Science Museum (Príncipe Felipe Science Museum).

Visit the Fallas Museum which is entirely dedicated to one of the best festivals in Spain.

Enjoy an early evening stroll through the Turia Gardens, a beautiful park in the former riverbed.

Head to Ruzafa, a trendy neighbourhood, for dinner at one of its many hip restaurants.

Day 3: Beach, City & Tapas

Spend a morning at Malvarrosa Beach, one of Valencia's most popular hangouts.  It takes around 35 minutes to get there via the Metro from the Ciutat Vela. To get there from Xativa Station, take the Metro Line 3 to Rafelbunyol, change at Benimaclet, then take Line 6 to Maritim, exiting at Platja-Malva-Rosa.

Grab breakfast at one of the beachside cafes. Take a stroll along the beach promenade or rent a bike.

Enjoy a light snack then head back to the old town to chill out in the Plaza

For the afternoon and early evening enjoy an incredible 4-hour Old Town Guided Walking Tour with wine and tapas included in an 11th-century monument.  Our advice is to book the 4 pm tour which ends around 8 pm.

On this amazing tour, you get to discover hidden treasures of the Old Quarter, stroll through the city’s most famous plazas, see the stunning St Nicolas Church, get entry to an 11th-century historic monument and dine on a 10-course tapas menu with award-winning wines.

 Day 4: Day Trip to Albufera Natural Park

Take a morning trip to Albufera Natural Park, just a short drive or Bus ride from Valencia.

Enjoy a boat tour on the Albufera Lake and learn about traditional rice cultivation.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, savouring authentic paella in its birthplace.

Explore the charming village of El Palmar or take a nature walk in the park.

Head back to Valencia, and for your last evening, fine dining at one of the current Michelin-starred restaurants such as the 2 Starred Ricard Camarena and Poblet, or the one-starred restaurants such as Lienzo, Riff, Fraula, La Salita or Arrels.

And if fine dining is not your thing and you may prefer a more relaxed dining experience, here are our top picks.

Pintxo i Trago - Plaza Redonda, 9  ( Google Maps ): The croquetas at Pintxo i Trago are absolutely amazing!  With five different fillings to choose from, we highly recommend the Croquetas de Rabo de Toro al Vino (oxtail) – crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with shredded beef. The Croquetas de Chipiron y Ajos Tiernos (squid and tender garlic) are also pretty incredible. Great place and atmosphere with window seats perfect for people watching.

Colmado LaLola - Calle Bordadores 10 ( Google Maps ) : Located next to the Micalet Tower of the Cathedral, Colmado LaLola offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of the area. Part grocery store, part tapas bar. You can grab wine and gourmet treats to go or savour a diverse selection of tapas at the bar or outdoor tables. Enjoy a selection of wines by the glass for under €3.50. And for tapas, the Patatas Bravas LaLola style is simply delicious and served with garlic alioli and a sprinkle of paprika.

Boatella Tapas - Plaza del Mercado 34 ( Google Maps ): This place is perfect if you're looking for an authentic Valencian tapas experience.  Located next to the Next to Silk Exchange, and the Mercado Central, this is a real hidden gem renowned for its spectacular fried seafood. Their fish and seafood is sourced from the nearby Mercado Central to ensure exceptional quality. The gambas fritas, delicately battered and crisply fried, are a real treat, accompanied by a squeeze of lemon and a cold draught beer, the pairing is simply perfection.

Taberna La Senia - Carrer de la Seenia, 2 ( Google Maps ):

Taberna La Senia may be on the small side, but the culinary wonders emerging from its tiny kitchen never fail to astound us. Established in 2009 by owners Julia and David, this charming eatery has five cosy tables. They serve delicious cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the nearby Mercado Central. Standout dishes include their homemade pate casero, "Tallarines" de Sepia con Pesto Casero, with thinly sliced cuttlefish replacing traditional pasta. And let's not forget the wrinkled potatoes, or Papas "Arrugas" con Mojo Picon, featuring baby potatoes smothered in a spicy red mojo sauce.

All You Need To Know

Before you start exploring Valencia you should buy two important travel passes, one is the Valencia Tourist Pass and the other is the Metro Valencia transport pass.

Valencia Tourist Card

We highly recommend you buy the Valencia Tourist Card ( VTC ) as it will save you money and is a convenient way to get around Valencia and see the best attractions the city has to offer.

The Valencia Tourist Card is available for 24, 48, 72 hours or 7 days.  With this convenient card, you can explore the city using public transport plus entry to renowned attractions like La Lonja.

The card also includes exclusive discounts at various establishments including tours, restaurants, and shops.

With perks ranging from cultural experiences to culinary delights, it's the ultimate companion for your Valencia adventure.

Extend your stay in the city by renewing your card at any Tourist Office with a 10% discount, ensuring uninterrupted exploration.

TOP TIP: Only the same card type initially purchased can be recharged.

What`s Included:

UNLIMITED free transportation on EMT (Urban Bus) within Valencia and zones AB for Interurban Bus (Metrobus), Commuter TRAIN (Renfe), Metro, and tram services. This includes journeys to and from Valencia Metro to the Airport (L3 and 5), zone +.

FREE ENTRY to all municipal museums and landmarks like the Silk Exchange, Serranos and Quart towers, Fallero Museum, Almoina, and more.

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS at top tourist spots such as the City of Arts and Sciences, Oceanografic, Tourist Bus, Marques de dos Aguas Palace, Valencia Cathedral, guided tours, restaurants, spas, and shops.

FREE: 2 tapas and 2 complimentary drinks as an added treat.

The 72-hour Adult Card costs just €22.50 so it's well worth the fee.

Cards can be purchased online or at one of the main Valencia Tourism Offices.

Metro Valencia Travel Pass

For our 4-day itinerary, we recommend you buy the Suma T3 pass which covers all the main central district and airport lines and includes unlimited travel on Metrovalencia , EMT, MetroBus and Renfe Cercanias local train service.

There are various options to choose from, the 72 hour pass costs just under 7€ so it's well worth the fee and is the perfect complement to the Valencia Travel Card.

The pass can be at the ticket vending machines available at any of the Valencia Metro stations. The machine accepts both cash and credit cards.

Attractions Included In Our 4-Day Valencia Itinerary

Placa de la verge  ( plaza de la virgen ).

The Plaza de la Virgen is a picturesque square steeped in history and cultural significance.

Surrounded by architectural gems like the Valencia Cathedral and the Basilica de la Virgen de Los Desamparados, the plaza is an exciting focal point of the city.

The plaza is especially vibrant during evenings, with the surrounding buildings beautifully illuminated and the throng of locals out for their early evening walk.

It´s also a great place to chill out in one of the bars or cafes that line the square, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the local hospitality.

Valencia Cathedral, The Holy Grail & Miquelet Tower

Valencia Cathedral, situated in the heart of Valencia's Old Town, stands as a remarkable example of Gothic architecture.

Located at the busy Plaza de la Reina, the cathedral is easily accessible to visitors.

Valencia Cathedral , also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia, is a majestic symbol of Valencia's rich history.

Built over several centuries, starting in the 13th century, its architecture reflects various styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque.

The cathedral houses numerous treasures, including the Holy Chalice , believed to be the cup used by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper, making it one of the most significant religious relics.

The Micalet Tower, or Miguelete, stands adjacent to the cathedral, offering panoramic views of the city and serving as a testament to Valencia's architectural heritage.

One of the cathedral's highlights is the Miguelete Tower ( an extra cost of 2€, offering panoramic views of the city.  You will need to climb up over 200 steps to the top, there are some stages where the steps are quite steep so this may not be suitable for everyone.

Modest clothing is recommended when entering the Cathedral and other religious sites in Valencia.

The entrance fee to the Cathedral and Holy Grail is just 5€ ( kids up to 12 enter for free ) includes an audio guide in various languages, which you pick up at the entrance.

You get 20% OFF the entry fee with the Valencia Tourist Card ( Miguelete Tower not included )

The city of arts & sciences.

One of the great attractions of Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences , a truly magnificent site not to be missed.

Designed by the visionary architects Santiago Calatrava and Felix Candela, this sprawling complex is a fusion of innovation and beauty, attracting millions of visitors annually.

The City of Arts and Sciences is divided into five main areas.

The centrepiece is the striking Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia hosts opera, theatre, and musical performances within its stunning modernist structure.

The Hemispheric, is an eye-catching IMAX cinema and planetarium, offering immersive cinematic experiences.

The L'Umbracle, an open-air garden, showcases a diverse array of Mediterranean plant species, while the Oceanografic is Europe's largest aquarium, housing over 45,000 marine creatures.

The complex's interactive Science Museum, Museu de les Ciencies Principe Felipe, invites you to explore one of the best science museums in Spain which includes lots of engaging exhibits so is perfect for families with kids.

The Basílica of Our Lady of The Fallen  - Basilica de la Virgen de las Desemparados

The Basilica de la Virgen de las Desemparados , is a sacred sanctuary dedicated to the city's patroness, the Virgin of the Forsaken.

Built in the 17th century, the basilica showcases magnificent Baroque architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and ornate decorations.

Situated in Plaza de la Virgen, the basilica is easily accessible by foot or public transportation. The nearest metro line is Line 5, with the closest station being Colon.

You can visit the basilica daily from 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM and from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM,  entrance is free.

The stunning altarpiece is a must-see historic relic, adorned with intricate gold leaf and precious gems, it pays homage to the revered statue of the Virgin Mary.

Valencia Regional Government  – Palacio de la Generalitat

The Generalitat Buildings date back to the 15th century, these iconic structures have served as the seat of the Valencian government for centuries.

This delightful building is flanked by two large turrets, with a central lower section that imparts a sense of harmony.  Construction began in 1421, built around a late Gothic style.

Located in Plaza Manises, near the Valencia Cathedral, the buildings are easily accessible by foot or public transportation, with the nearest metro line being Line 5, station Colon.

The building is open from 9 am to 2 pm Monday to Friday with guided tours also available.

The stand-out attraction is the ornate façade adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Valencia.

The Town Hall Square - Plaza de la Ayuntamiento

The Town Hall Square, or Plaza de la Ayuntamiento, is a bustling hub that dates back to the 18th century.

This historic square serves as the civic center of the city and is surrounded by architectural gems such as the Town Hall and the Post Office Building.

The plaza is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, with the nearest metro line being Line 3, station Xativa.

The plaza is always open to the public so no entrance fee, allowing you to stroll around at any time and admire the grandeur of the Town Hall and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

The stand-out attraction near the Plaza de la Ayuntamiento is the stunning Town Hall building, with its impressive facade and intricate architectural details.

Turia Gardens

Turia Gardens is a picturesque urban park born from the transformation of the former Turia Riverbed.

Following a catastrophic flood in 1957, the river was diverted, creating a vast green space that now serves as the go-to recreational area for locals and visitors alike.

The park is open to the public daily from dawn until dusk, with no entrance fees, making it an ideal destination for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities.

The City of Arts and Sciences is located at the southern end of the park.

Las Fallas Festival Museum

The Las Fallas Museum is located a 2-minute walk from the City of Arts and Sciences and is well worth visiting.

Established in 1971, the museum showcases a rich collection of intricate ninots (papier-mâché sculptures) that are prominently featured during the annual Fallas celebration.

Located in Plaza Monteolivete, the museum is conveniently accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro line being Line 3, station Túria.

You can visit the museum from Tuesday to Saturday, opening hours are  from 10:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Sundays it is open from 10 am to 2 pm

The admission fee is just 2€ and provides excellent value for an immersive cultural experience for all the family.

Entry is free for Valencia Tourist Card Audio guides are also available.

The stand-out attraction of the Las Fallas Museum is undoubtedly its vast display of ninots, each meticulously crafted and representing various themes and characters.

These vibrant sculptures offer insight into the festival's history, traditions, and the incredible craftsmanship of Valencian artisans.

Central Market

The Central Market of Valencia, locally known as Mercat Central, stands as an iconic symbol of the city's gastronomic heritage.

Dating back to 1914, this architectural gem is renowned for its stunning Modernist design, featuring intricate ironwork and colourful ceramic tiles.

The market is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, with the nearest metro line being Line 3, station Xativa.

This is a must-place to visit as it is one of the best indoor food markets in Spain. It is open Monday to Saturday, from early morning until mid-afternoon. The entrance is free, allowing you to freely wander through the bustling aisles filled with fresh produce, meats, seafood, and gourmet delicacies.

Silk Exchange  - Lonja de la Sede

The Silk Exchange, or Lonja de la Seda , is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural wonder like no other.

It was built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this stunning Gothic-style building served as a trading centre for silk merchants during Valencia's golden age.

Situated on Plaza del Mercado, the Silk Exchange is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, with the nearest metro line being Line 3, station Xativa.

You can visit and explore the Silk Exchange from Tuesday to Saturday, the opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

FREE Entrance is included with your VT Card.

Entrance fees are nominal, allowing guests to marvel at the intricate stone carvings, stunning arches, and the majestic main hall, known as the Hall of Columns.

The stand-out attraction of the Silk Exchange is its exceptional architectural beauty and historical significance, offering a captivating glimpse into Valencia's prosperous past as a major trading hub for silk production.

Torre Serranos

The Torre Serranos, also known as Serranos Towers, is one of Valencia’s iconic landmarks and a striking symbol of the city’s medieval past.

Constructed in the late 14th century, these imposing gates served as one of the main entrances to the city's fortified walls.

The Torre Serranos is located at the northern end of the old quarter ( Ciutat Vella ) right by Turia Gardens. The nearest metro line is Line 5, station Angel Guimera.

The towers are open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

FREE Entrance is included with your Valencia Tourist Card

The stand-out attraction of the Torre Serranos is its well-preserved medieval architecture and commanding presence. You can walk up to the top of the towers and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Bario del Carmen Neighbourhood

The Barrio del Carmen neighbourhood in Valencia is a vibrant and historic district known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and eclectic atmosphere.

Dating back to Roman times, this area has evolved over the centuries into a cultural hub filled with art galleries, trendy cafes, and lively bars.

Located in the heart of Valencia's old town, the Barrio del Carmen is a great area to stroll around. The nearest metro is Line 5, station Angel Guimera.

The stand-out attraction of the Barrio del Carmen is its unique blend of historical charm and modern flair, making it the perfect place to discover Valencia's vibrant culture and nightlife scene.

Places to Eat in the Bario El Carmen:

Enjoy a coffee and healthy brunch at the Mestizo Bar located on C/ del Portal de Valldigna, 9, ( Google Maps ) Mestizo serves a wide range of coffees from a Flat White to Matcha Latte, you must try out the delicious Café Mestizo made using Dulce de Leche sweet milk and Cardamom. And for a snack, the Baba Ganoush and Hummus and Avocado Sauce was an absolute delight.

Another great find was BoBoBar located at Carrer de Roteros, 21 ( Google Maps  ).  BoBo served up a delightful range of local dishes with a twist and left us wanting to return soon. Stand-out dishes included the Cocido, Oysters, Snails in a Spicey Sauce and some delicious cured Iberian Ham.

Russafa Neighbourhood

The Russafa neighbourhood is a trendy and eclectic area known for its bohemian atmosphere, colourful street art, and diverse culinary scene.

Originally an independent municipality, Russafa was incorporated into Valencia in the late 19th century and has since become one of the city's most vibrant districts.

Located to the southwest of Valencia's city center, Russafa is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, with the nearest metro line being Line 5, station Colon.

You can explore Russafa at any time of the day, as many of its shops, cafes, and restaurants operate throughout the day and into the evening.

The stand-out attraction of Russafa is its vibrant street art scene, with colourful murals adorning many of the neighbourhood's buildings.

Additionally, Russafa's lively market, Mercado de Russafa, offers a bustling atmosphere and a wide variety of fresh produce and local delicacies.

Recommended places to eat in Russafa include:

La Bien Parida, located at Carrer de Seuca , 52 ( Google Maps ).  This place serves up delicious local dishes such served up on wooden Platas.  Great atmosphere as well and is very reasonably priced.

Kea Varques, located at Carrer de Mossen Femenia 15, ( Google Maps  )serve up the most delicious fresh bread toasties of all kinds, salads, rice dishes and pulled pork tacos.

La Tasqueta del Mercat, is another place we really enjoyed. Located on C. del Mestre Aguilar, 2  ( Google Maps )

Here you will a whole selection of well-cooked local dishes from rice to steaks and tapas.  They offer daily mid-day and evening menus which are great value and allow you to taste various dishes in one go.

Estacion del Nord

Estacion del Norte, or North Station, is a historic railway station located by the famed Plaza de Toros in the heart of Valencia.

Constructed in the early 20th century, this magnificent Modernist building serves as a gateway to the city and a testament to Valencia's architectural heritage.

The stand-out attraction of Estacion del Norte is its stunning architecture, characterised by intricate ornamentation, grand arches, and colourful ceramic tiles.

Plaza de Toros

The Plaza de Toros de Valencia is a historic arena that dates back to the mid-19th century. It has been a significant cultural and sporting venue in the city for generations.

Situated next to the Estacion del Nord,  North Train Station, the bullring is easily accessible by foot or public transportation, with the nearest metro is on Line 3, station Xativa.

The bullring is open to the public for guided tours, where you can learn about the history and traditions of bullfighting in Valencia. Opening times vary, so it's advisable to check in advance.

The stand-out attraction of the Plaza de Toros is its impressive architecture, with a distinctive Neo-Moorish style facade.

You can explore the arena's interior, including the bullring itself, as well as the museum dedicated to the art of bullfighting.

Albufera Nature Park, El Palmer Village and El Saler Beaches

The Albufera Nature Park, situated just south of Valencia, Spain, is a stunning natural reserve encompassing wetlands, forests, and freshwater lagoons.

With a history dating back centuries, this area has long been cherished for its ecological significance and breathtaking beauty.

One of the best villages to visit located within the park is El Palmar, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation from Valencia city centre.

To reach the park, you can hop on EMT city buses 24 or 25 from central Valencia  Bus 24 goes to the village of El Palmar, while bus 25 will take you to El Perellonet, both in under an hour and for only €1.50 each way.

The EMT City Bus rides are included with the Valencia Tourist Card.

Once in this stunning park can enjoy activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and boat tours through the serene waters of the lagoon.

Highly recommend is the Albufera Park boat ride with Sunset Experience .

With its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife, the Albufera Nature Park provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering you a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of Valencia's coastal landscapes.

Best Beaches in Valencia

The city of Valencia boasts several beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

Platja de la Gorrotera, La Malvarrosa, and Las Arenas are among the closest and most popular beaches near the city center.

Platja de la Gorrotera is a hidden gem located to the north of Valencia, offering a quieter and more secluded atmosphere compared to other beaches. It is known for its picturesque surroundings in a tranquil setting.

La Malvarrosa and Las Arenas are two adjacent beaches located to the east of Valencia's port area.  These beaches offer a wide range of amenities, including beach bars, restaurants, and water sports facilities.

To reach these beaches, you can take the metro to the nearby stations of Maritim-Serreria or Eugenia Vines, which are both a short walk from the coast.

Our Overall Thoughts on Valencia

We really hope this itinerary guide to spending 4 days in Valencia will help you plan an incredible holiday experience and stay in one of Spain´s most iconic cities.

Our tried and tested itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, beach relaxation, and a taste of Valencia's natural beauty.

At first glance it may seem like a lot to achieve in four days, however, we did exactly this itinerary, and more!

Budget-wise, Valencia is not an expensive destination within Europe,  with numerous quality hotels in the city center priced under €100 per night for two. Even during the summer peak, prices remain comparatively reasonable.

Breakfasts are affordable, with many cafes providing a coffee and toast combo for around €3, and lunch deals in restaurants typically range from €15 to €20.

Public transport is efficient and budget-friendly. Opt for the Valencia tourist card to enjoy complimentary bus and metro rides, including airport transfers, along with free or discounted museum entries, and 2 tapas and drinks.

For budget travellers, free guided walking tours are available. While technically not entirely free, these tours do allow you to decide the amount you wish to pay in the form of a tip at the end of the tour.  

Getting  To and Around  Valencia

Getting to and around Valencia is a breeze thanks to its efficient transportation options.

If you plan to fly in,  Valencia Airport offers domestic and international flights, connecting the city to major destinations worldwide.

From the airport, you can easily access the city center via taxis, metro, train, buses, or car hire

If you're arriving by road, Valencia is well-connected to the rest of Spain and Europe via a network of highways and roads.

The main motorways that lead into Valencia include:

• From Barcelona: AP-7 (Autopista del Mediterraneo)
• From Madrid: A-3 (Autovía del Este)
• From Malaga: A-7 (Autovía del Mediterráneo) and AP-7
• From Murcia: A-7 and AP-7

Travelling by train is another convenient option, with Valencia's main train station, Estacion del Norte, offering high-speed AVE trains as well as regional and local services.

Several Spanish cities offer high-speed AVE train services to Valencia.

• Madrid: AVE trains from Madrid to Valencia take approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
• Barcelona: AVE trains from Barcelona to Valencia take approximately 3 hours.
• Seville: AVE trains from Seville to Valencia take approximately 4 hours.
• Alicante: AVE trains from Alicante to Valencia take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Malaga: AVE trains from Malaga to Valencia take approximately 4 hours.
• Zaragoza: AVE trains from Zaragoza to Valencia take approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.

The city's tram and metro systems provide efficient and affordable transportation within Valencia, linking key neighbourhoods and attractions.

For a more eco-friendly option, ValenBisi , Valencia's bike-sharing system, allows visitors to explore the city on two wheels.  A 1-day ticket costs just 3.99€. The first 30 minutes are free. You will then be charged for any journey that is over 30 minutes at the following rate:  1,04€ the first hour and 3,12€ each following hour. There are over 275 parking stations around the city.

With numerous bike stations located throughout Valencia, it's easy to rent a bike and pedal your way around the city's streets and bike paths.

Where to Stay in Valencia

Staying in the Ciutat Vella, the old quarter of central Valencia, all with easy access to the city's most popular attractions and historic landmarks.

Here are some excellent accommodations conveniently located within this charming area:

Palacio Santa Clara -  Autograph Collection: Situated in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace, Palacio Santa Clara offers luxurious accommodations with modern amenities. This boutique hotel is located near Valencia's iconic sights such as the Valencia Cathedral and Plaza de la Reina, providing guests with an ideal base for exploring the historic quarter.

Only YOU Hotel Valencia : Located in a historic building in the heart of Ciutat Vella, Only YOU Hotel Valencia offers stylish rooms with contemporary design and comfortable furnishings. This boutique hotel is just steps away from popular attractions such as the Central Market and La Lonja, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Valencia's vibrant atmosphere.

L&H Gran Via Valencia : Situated on Valencia's main thoroughfare, Gran Via, L&H Gran Via Valencia offers modern apartments with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas. This centrally located property provides guests with easy access to Valencia's top attractions, including the Mercado Central and the Valencia Cathedral.

SH Ingles Boutique Hotel : Housed in a historic building dating back to the 18th century, SH Ingles Boutique Hotel offers elegant rooms with classic décor and modern amenities. This boutique hotel is located near the Turia Gardens and the Palau de la Música, providing guests with a tranquil retreat in the heart of the old quarter.

Check out more hotels in Valencia using the interactive map below:

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Hey there! I'm Matt, your friendly neighbourhood explorer extraordinaire! For the past 15 years, I've been gallivanting around Spain, soaking up all its wonders and uncovering hidden gems like a modern-day Indiana Jones (minus the hat and whip, unfortunately). So, buckle up, amigos! It's time to dive straight into the heart and soul of Spain. Welcome to my world of Spanish wonders!

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Valencia Itinerary

Last Updated on February 28, 2024

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Valencia is one of the most vibrant cities in Spain, with a rich history reflected across the architecture as well as many cultural events keeping the city alive day and night. Planning a 2 to 3 days in Valencia itinerary is an excellent way to experience all there is on offer here.

There is an abundance of things to do in the city and plenty more to eat and drink within the fantastic restaurants and bars lining seemingly every street. This guide will take you all over to experience the best the city has to offer.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Valencia?

As the third-largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona respectively, it’s difficult to say exactly how many days to spend in Valencia.

While over 2 days, you can see the city centre’s historical buildings, eat some incredible food and experience the city’s nightlife, 3 days are ideal to do all of that, but at a comfortable pace so you can really get a sense of life in the city.

If you’re going for one of the many spectacular events, such as Las Fallas, you’ll definitely want 4 to 5 days in the city. This will ensure you can see the sights of the city as well as take the time to peruse the amazing works of art on display on every street corner.

Getting To & Around Valencia

Getting to Valencia is very easy, with bus companies Alsa and Flixbus able to take you from other cities in Spain (such as Madrid , Seville and Barcelona ) and other European countries, and many different airlines serving Valencia airport. You can view bus schedules here .

Valencia airport is not too far outside of the city and is well connected to the centre via metro line 3 or 5 to Xàtiva, the closest stop to Valencia-Nord train station, or bus line 150 to Angel Guimerá, also very central.

It is, of course, easier to take a taxi or pre-booked transfer directly to your accommodation, and it’s only a 15 to 20-minute drive to the centre. You can fly to the airport from most major European cities, including London , Rome and Palma de Mallorca.

Valenciano is the main language of the city although they do of course also speak Castillian Spanish, and most signs are in both languages so it’s easy to navigate yourself around with public transport.

Valencia has three main train stations, Nord, Joaquín Sorolla and Cabanyal. Valencia Nord is the closest to the centre and has services to other towns and cities within the region, although Joaquín Sorolla is located just behind it, serving cities outside of the region. You can view train schedules here .

Valencia-Cabanyal is nearer to the beach, just 15 minutes on the train from Valencia Nord. It’s also possible to reach the Port of Valencia via public transport.

If you plan to use public transport a bit during your trip to Valencia (and you generally will if you’re following this itinerary), then it can be worth it to purchase the Valencia Tourist Card .

This includes unlimited access to the city’s transportation network along with access to a number of museums and historic sites – such as La Lonja de Seda and the Fallas Museum to name a few.

The train prices in Spain can vary greatly, so it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid very expensive fares, as they may have sold out of the cheaper tickets on the day of your planned journey.

If you’re only staying in Valencia for a few days, it’s not necessary to rent a car as the city has excellent public transportation, however, if you’re planning to spend a longer time around the Valencian region, a car is almost essential to reach some of the more rural attractions. You can browse car rental options here .

2 to 3-Day Valencia Itinerary

When you sit down to think about everything there is to see and do in Valencia, it can actually be a little overwhelming. That’s why we’ve broken the city down into areas and highlights, so you can make the most of your time in Valencia.

Day 1 – City Centre Highlights

Although Valencia is a big city, many of the great sights to see are very close to the city centre so if you’re seeing Valencia in 3 days, you can easily walk around them in your first day.

If you would like to learn more about the history of the city there are a number of tours available such as this walking tour , this bike tour and this hidden gems and tapas tour.

The city hall, or Ajuntament de Valencia, is a grand building located in a huge square in the city centre.

Situated in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, it was first built in the 18th century and refurbished in 1934, this great landmark gives its name to the large square to its front, which makes a great starting place to get your bearings in the city.

The square has various small flower markets, a beautiful fountain that’s lit up at night, and an ice rink in the centre, with bars, cafes and shops surrounding the square.

If you visit during the Fallas festival in March, this large square houses the largest of the sculptures made for the festival, and sees a daily huge firework display, mascleta, before the final big bonfire on the last day.

If you want to be close to the action though, you’ll have to arrive very early; crowds fill all of the neighbouring streets as everyone tries to get the best view.

Don’t be alarmed by small crackles as you walk through the streets of Valencia, even if it’s not Fallas, there are often children playing with firecrackers in the streets!

Central Market

A short walk up from the main square, you’ll arrive at a beautiful Art Deco marketplace. Constructed in 1928, the Mercat Central (Mercado Central in Castillian Spanish), is an absolute must on your trip, and not just for the architectural beauty.

The market is home to a little taste of Valencia, with small stands of fresh produce, as well as dried meats and cheeses, chocolates and liqueurs. Try the typical Valencian drink Orxata (horchata) with Fartons, and taste the free samples as you wander around the stalls.

You probably won’t want to carry shopping around on your day out, but come back here before you leave to pick up some Spanish chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage) and local spirit Flor d’Azahar to take a taste of Valencia home with you.

Visiting the Central Market is one of the best things to do in Valencia if you’re interested in learning a bit more about the regional cuisine and want to experience Spanish market culture as a whole.

Plaça de la Reina and Valencia Cathedral

Continuing through the old town, with beautiful historic buildings all around, such as the la Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange – a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you’ll arrive in another square, the Plaça de la Reina.

This small square is lined with cute cafes, bars and restaurants and can be a great place to stop by to people-watch while you enjoy a delicious meal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the infamous ice cream shop Llinares is located on the edge of the square; here you can buy ice cream of many different flavours, from anchovy to smoked salmon, olives or chorizo. It sounds strange but I know you’re curious!

The main attraction in this quaint square, however, is the Seu de València, or Valencia Cathedral. This thirteenth-century cathedral is a striking building to look at due to its ornate facade, large bell tower and colosseum-esque outer wall, but more interestingly, it’s said to house the real Holy Grail.

Although there are already more than 200 claims in Europe alone that one place or another houses the real chalice that Jesus drank from at the last supper, Valencia Cathedral seems to have the most supported claim. But whether you’re religious or not, or believe in the legend of the Holy Grail or the biblical description, or none of the above, it’s impossible not to feel some reverence in its presence.

You can see it for yourself any day of the week for €9, which also grants you access to the Cathedral’s museum, or enter for free on Sundays. Access to the bell tower costs €2.50 but can be worth it for an upclose view of the city skyline. You can also book a guided tour of the cathedral.

Just behind the cathedral, you can also enjoy the smaller and delightful Plaça de la Verge (Plaza de la Virgen in Castillian Spanish), which is another lovely square in the Valencia city centre.

Porta dels Serrans and El Carmen

Moving on from the Cathedral towards the north of the city, you’ll walk through some very attractive city streets with independent shops and cafes until you reach the main old city gate, Porta dels Serrans.

Built at the end of the 1300s, this gothic structure still stands strong in Valencia today, despite the city wall being knocked down in the 1800s.

Used as a prison before being converted to a safe place to store art during the Spanish Civil War, the gates have a rich history, making them an integral part of your Valencia itinerary.

The city gate is also at the edge of one of the most beautiful districts in Valencia: El Carmen. Stumble across more historic buildings and spot some spectacular street art as you walk through the streets, especially down Carrer de la Beneficència.

As you wander, keep an eye out for the strangely adorable House of Cats. It’s a two-foot tall facade of a house, complete with miniature plaque, fountain and garden, built onto a wall with a stone cat perched on top, located on Calle del Museu.

Eating in Valencia

Since Valencia is so full of life, there are great places to eat in every part of the city, and Valencian cuisine is quite something.

You can’t spend any amount of time in Valencia without trying the paella Valenciana (you can even take a paella cooking class ), a dish of rural origin, complete with chicken, rabbit and snails (although the latter is less common these days), or the simple breakfast or side dish pan con tomate y alioli.

Arroz negro (black rice), a kind of seafood paella, tarmac-black due to the squid ink, is another coastal Spanish favourite, and of course, you have to have a taste of the classic patatas bravas. You can go on a food tour if you want to experience some of these dishes with a guide.

If, like me, you like to try the local beers, Mahou and Alhambra are Spanish classics, but while you’re in Valencia, you’ve got to try the local Turia!

Day 2 – Parks, Museums and the City of Arts & Sciences

Your second day in Valencia is the perfect time to explore the outer city. With museums, parks and trendy neighbourhoods, Valencia still has so much to offer.

Jardí del Túria and Gulliver Park

What better way to start your day than with a walk through the incredible Túria Park?

Located in a former riverbed that surrounds the northern part of the city, the park is full of life; you can see football matches, yoga classes, a music hall and many people looking to make their commutes prettier, as you walk through the orange trees and flowerbeds. You can also rent bicycles, tandems, segues and quadricycles for a faster route through greenery.

As you reach the end of the park, you’ll come across an unusual sight: the Gulliver Park. The Gulliver Park is a 70-metre figure of the character lying on the ground that has been designed as a play area.

Slide down his long legs, climb up his outstretched arms and play under his hair, this is a great activity for children and can be equally fun for adults too.

Fallas Museum

Just 500m from Gulliver, is the Museu de Faller. Home to a huge collection of sculptures created for the annual Fallas festival, if you’re visiting Valencia outside of March, you should definitely check out this museum to get an idea of the joint creativity and lunacy that the festival is known for.

Each year since 1934, all the sculptures except two are thrown on a huge bonfire in the main square on the last day, and the survivors are kept on display in the museum.

City of Arts and Sciences

Even if you’re just spending 2 days in Valencia, you cannot leave the city without planning to visit the City of Arts and Sciences, and luckily for us, it’s located just at the end of Túria Park.

This modern complex houses the incredible Queen Sofia Palace of Arts – a performing arts centre and opera house – along with the Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe and a massive aquarium.

Entry to the museum and aquarium can be pricey, although both have extraordinary contents, so if you’re visiting Valencia on a budget, it’s not necessary to enter the museum, but you can simply walk around the grounds instead.

It’s one of the most iconic buildings in Valencia and is magnificent to see in person and walk around, admiring the brilliant white architecture – and have your photo taken next to the big VALENCIA letters.

You should also visit the Umbracle onsite. Meaning an area shaded by nature, this small structure is like a cross between a greenhouse and a ribcage, with plenty of greenery bursting out and opportunities for some amazing photos, with the linear structure framing the intriguing shapes of the flora.

Those who want to see this area with a guide, consider this tour with wine and tapas .

If you’ve had enough walking for one day, head back to the central area of Eixample via tram or bus and stroll down to the trendy neighbourhood of Ruzafa – or walk for around 20 minutes directly from the City of Arts and Sciences.

Ruzafa is a really fun area of Valencia, with quaint streets of independent shops, a market, street corners bustling with diners and drinkers and an overall great atmosphere.

Make sure you walk down Calle de Cuba, as it has many colourful buildings along the street, an homage to the character of the Caribbean country.

On this street, you can also find my favourite shop in Valencia, Gnomo. It’s an independent art shop, with hundreds of amazing, creative knick-knacks that you never knew you needed.

Not far off is Ubik cafe, a bookshop-cum-resturant-bar-cafe, that’s definitely worth a visit too. You can enjoy from a choice of several local artisanal beers, or perhaps a vermouth, while picking up a book from their huge collection.

There is an English-speaking section, or you can find something that suits your level of Spanish (or Valencian!). You can also eat here, although Ruzafa is full of amazing restaurants, so it’s worth having a wander and see what takes your fancy.

After eating, you can finish up with a carajillo, stay for an agua de Valencia in one of the many bars, such as Cafe Berlin, or if you’re looking for a party, you can head down to la playa (the beach) to visit Valencia’s famous Marina Beach club and party into the night with views of the Mediterranean. They have great guest DJs and drinks but be prepared for long entrance queues.

Day 3 – Day Trip or Beach Day

While the city of Valencia itself still has numerous other activities to offer within the city, if you’ve got 3 days in Valencia, it can be a good chance to get out of the city and see something different. These are just a few suggestions for great day trips from Valencia:

A great day trip you can do from Valencia without the need of a car, is visiting the town of Sagunto. Just 30 minutes and a few euros on the train from Valencia Nord, this wonderfully old town has plenty to see in a day.

The town has a long history, beginning way beyond the year 0, and many of its old monuments remain. Sagunto castle sits on top of a hill, visible as you arrive into the train station, and still has many of its Roman ramparts.

It’s next to a Roman amphitheatre which has been restored and still hosts some events. Walking around the town you can see other very old churches and buildings, as well as the narrow streets of the old Jewish Quarter.

After your visit, head down to the Port of Sagunto for a paella valenciana, or take the train back to Valencia-Cabanyal, and walk a further 20 minutes to one of the best fish restaurants in Valencia: La Lonja del Pescado which overlooks the lovely Playa de la Malvarrosa.

It may not look like much from the outside, and even the inside is simple, but the fish is fresh, a very good price, cooked wonderfully and served with a smile.

Beach day at El Cabanyal

Valencia also has a great beach known as El Cabanyal, which is very easy to get to via metro to Passeig Marítim – Séquia de la Cadena. There are also several small shops around the beach with everything you need for a beach day, but bear in mind that they close on Sundays, except for the Día.

Coves de Sant Josep & Fanzara

If you have a rental car, you can drive around 40 minutes north to have a boat trip on the amazing underground river in the Coves de Sant Josep, or 1 hour towards Castellón to the small but incredible village of Fanzara. It is also possible to organise a guided tour .

It’s a popular attraction thanks to all the incredible murals lining the outer walls of the homes in this quaint village, which are updated and added to in an annual street art festival.

Benicassim is also only approximately an hour and a half driving or by train from Valencia, a small seaside town with a fantastic beach, bars and restaurants and regular festivals through the summer. Rock out at FIB or dance your worries away at Reggaeton Beach Festival if you want to spend some time in Spain full of music, sun and sea.

Where to Stay in Valencia

Cosmo Hotel Boutique – This quaint boutique hotel is a great choice for mid-range visitors to Valencia. Centrally located, they have a handful of comfortable and romantic rooms available, and have a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Vincci Lys – Luxury travellers will love this opulent hotel located in the heart of Valencia. They have a number of plush rooms to choose from, a location perfect for seeing all the city has to offer, breakfast each morning and plenty of other amenities to enjoy.

Macflats Ayuntamiento – If you prefer to have self-catering facilities, this aparthotel in the heart of Valencia has a range of apartments on offer suitable for families and smaller groups.

Home Youth Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this cool hostel located in Valencia’s old town. They offer both dorms and private rooms, have great communal areas and they even organise some social events for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Valencia hotels!

Seeing all of Valencia in 2 days is virtually impossible, but it’s a great place for a city break thanks to the history, culture, weather, and of course, the food and drink. Fortunately, thanks to its excellent transport connections, it’s very easy to come back!

Are you planning a trip to Valencia? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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2 Days in Valencia, Itinerary for First-Timers

Two days in Valencia is enough time to explore the highlights of Spain’s 3 rd largest city whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer trip around Spain. Located on the South-East coast, the port city of Valencia has become a popular international destination over recent years and offers tourists the best of both worlds with a well-preserved historic centre full of Gothic buildings plus incredible modern architecture and interactive museums in the city of Arts and Sciences, located in the new part of Valencia.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Tip: A great way to explore Valencia is a 24 or 48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket .

Table of Contents

2 Days in Valencia Quick Guide

Planning a trip to Valencia? Find here everything you need: Looking for transportation from/to the airport?  Click here for more information and to book your private transfer. Top-Rated Tours and Day Trips to Do in Valencia: – 24, 48, or 72-Hour Valencia Tourist Card –  Catamaran Cruise with Sunset Option –  City Highlights Guided Bike Tour –  Oceanogràfic Entry Ticket –  Palosanto Flamenco Show Ticket –  Valencia: Old Town Tour, Wine & Tapas in an 11th c. Monument Where to stay in Valencia:  Soho Boutique Turia (mid price+ great location), The Valentia Corretgería (great location), Vincci Lys (luxury + great location)

A Detailed 2-Day Valencia Itinerary

Valencia in 2 days: day one , the central market of valencia.

Housed in a beautiful Art Noveau building, Mercado Central or Mercat Central as it’s otherwise known is one of the oldest operating markets in Europe. With 8,000 square metres of floor space to cover which equates to more than 1,200 stalls along with food stands , you will find all sorts of fresh produce for sale including fruit and veg, meat and fish (don’t miss seeing the live eels!), cheeses, spices, nuts, olives, bread, wine and so much more to tempt your taste buds!

Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 7.30 am-3 pm

La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange)

This striking Gothic-style building has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1482-1533, it might look like a castle from the outside but it is actually the historic center for commerce, originally used as the Silk Exchange. Step inside the contract/trading hall and marvel at the grand architecture of the 15 th -16 th centuries with all the columns that support the domed ceiling before you head outside to see the walled orange patio garden.

Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-2pm and 4.30pm-8.30pm. Sunday and holidays 10 am-3 pm Cost: €2.00

Plaza de la Virgen

One of the oldest squares in the city, Plaza de la Virgen is ideal when you want to rest your feet for a while, enjoy a drink and snack at one of the street cafes, people watch and soak up the beautiful architecture that surrounds the square.

Enclosed by the cathedral, the basilica, and the Palace of the Generalitat, this square contains the Turia Fountain which features a sculpture of Neptune surrounded by 8 naked ladies. Be sure to visit here during the day and at night to take photos and see how the vibe changes.

Valencia Cathedral

The beautiful Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia, otherwise known as Saint Mary’s Cathedral, dates back to the 13 th century and features Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. An audio guide is including in the entrance fee so you can learn all about the history of the cathedral as you move around the impressive interior.

Opening Times: January-March and November-December Monday-Saturday 10 am-5.30 pm. April-October Monday-Saturday 10 am-6.30 pm and Sunday 2 pm-6.30 pm. Cost: €7.00

Torre del Micalet (The Bell Tower)

The Micalet Tower is a 14th-century octagonal bell tower that stands next to the cathedral. Together with the more recent belfry it measures 63 meters tall and invites visitors to climb its 207 spiral stairs to reach the top where they can admire the views across the city.

Opening Times: Monday-Friday 10am-6.30pm, weekends 10am-7pm Cost: €2

Torres de Serranos

Serranos Gate, otherwise known as Serranos Towers is the largest Gothic gateway in all of Europe. Dating back to the 14th century it is one of twelve gates that, along with city walls, formed the fortification of Valencia. Used as a defensive structure, prison, and triumphal arch, today visitors can climb up to the top to take in the view with the river and the city spread out below.

Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm. Sunday and holidays 10 am-3 pm. Cost: €2

Plaza del Ayuntamiento

This square is dominated by the neoclassical Town Hall and is the main square of Valencia ensuring even more people-watching opportunities along with photo opportunities of the various Spanish architectural styles. Usually filled with flower sellers, the square also contains the Central Post Office – write your postcards here so that you have an excuse to step inside the modernista building to admire the baroque-inspired interior!

Torres de Quart

These twin defense towers and city gates made up part of the city walls and date back to the 15th century. Used as a defense measure as well as a prison, the towers were originally known as the Limestone Towers (Puerta de la Cal) not due to what they were built from but because all of the limestone entering the city for construction work had to pass through these gates.

As you stand to look up at the towers stop to notice the damage done to the exterior, this was caused by cannons in the War of Independence against France.

Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm and Sunday 10 am-3 pm Cost: €2

Plaza Redonda

This unique and rather enchanting circular square was originally the location for the fish market but today is a hub of arts and crafts shops, souvenir shops, and tapas bars. After admiring the curved three-story buildings, explore the quaint backstreets of the Old Quarter that lead off from the plaza.

Church of San Nicolás

The Gothic-style Roman Catholic church is an architectural delight known as ‘the Sistine Chapel of Valencia’ due to its baroque interior with the ornate main altar and stunning wall frescoes. These restored works of art by Antonio Palomini and his apprentice show the lives of St Nicholas of Bari and St Peter Martyr with further scenes of childhood, miracles, and death covering an area of almost 2,000 square meters.

Opening Times: Tuesday-Friday 10.30am-7.30pm, Saturday 11am-6.30pm, Sunday 1pm-7pm. Cost: €5

Church of the Saints John (Los Santos Juanes)

Classified as a National Historic and Artistic Monument, this Catholic church is the oldest church in Valencia and features an iconic triangular bell tower adorned with statues of saints. A mixture of Gothic and Baroque architecture, it features stunning 17th-century frescoes by Palomino inside along with a beautiful domed ceiling. Be sure to walk around the exterior of the church to admire it from all angles!

Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 10am-7.30pm, Sunday 1pm-7.30pm Cost: €7

Col·legi de l’Art Major de la Seda (The Silk Museum)

Discover how silk shaped Valencia giving it a golden era The Silk Museum is housed in the same 15th-century building where the first silk and velvet factory was established by El Gremi de Velluters which later became the Higher Art College of Silk. Learn how silk was discovered, how it’s made from the breeding of the worms to the looms, and see some of the finest silk garments of the time.

Opening Times: Monday 10am-3pm, Tuesday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am-3pm. Cost: €6

Save Money! Get access to the Church of San Nicolás, the Church of the Saints John, and the Silk Museum for a combined ticket cost of 10 euros including audio guides for each. 

Valencia Nord train station

You don’t have to be catching a train to go and admire this beautiful art nouveau building. Dating back to 1917, Valencia Nord train station is a work of art comprising of a cream modernista exterior with the attention to detail inside second to none. Don’t just admire this building from the outside, step into the entrance hall to admire the original wall and ceiling tiles, decorated pillars, and stained glass windows and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time, aside from the modern screens and ticket machines!

Eat Paella at La Riua restaurant

After a busy day of sightseeing, there’s only one meal that you should tuck into to satisfy those hunger pangs – paella! Enjoy the traditional rabbit and chicken paella at this authentic family-run Valencian restaurant decked out in quaint décor with plates decorating the walls.

Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday 2pm-4.15pm and 9pm-11pm.

Valencia in 2 Days: Day Two

Ciudad de las artes y las ciencias (the city of arts and sciences).

This spectacular cultural space contains 4 museums housed in modern buildings and combined, makes up the top tourist attraction in Valencia whilst being 1 of the 12 treasures of Spain.

Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe

The modern interactive science museum, housed in a building designed in the shape of a whale skeleton, shows you the evolution of life, science, and technology across 3 floors. Have fun in the TV studio, see the Foucault Pendulum, the 15 meters high DNA sculpture, and the interactive Zero Gravity display along with so much more – There are no ‘stuffy presentations’, this is a hands-on museum that kids and adults will both learn from and enjoy.

Opening Times: Daily 10 am-7 pm with late opening until 9 pm during the Summer months. Cost: €8.00

Be entertained and educated at this stunning venue with a 3 in 1 IMAX cinema, planetarium, and laser show. Built in the shape of an eye to represent the eye of wisdom you’ll be looking at 900 square meters of the screen! Choose from 3D or IMAX films or see our planet as never seen before with an astronomical projection.  

Opening Times: Films shown Monday-Thursday on the hour between 11 am-7 pm and Friday-Sunday at 8 pm and 9 pm. Cost: €8.80

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia

The Sydney Opera House might be known the world over but Valencia’s 70-meter tall opera house and cultural center is equally impressive with its avant-garde design. Take a guided tour to learn more about this iconic building whilst seeing the impressive 1,500-metre square stage and other performance venues before seeing where the artists and actors train.

Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 10.30am-2.30pm and 3.30pm-6.30pm. Sundays and holidays 10.30am-2.30pm. Cost: €11

L’Oceanogràfic

This modern oceanarium is the largest aquarium in Europe and is dedicated to reproducing the world’s main marine ecosystems (the Mediterranean, Wetlands, Temperate and Tropical Seas, Oceans, the Antarctic, the Arctic, Islands, and the Red Sea) with 500 marine species including the only family of Beluga Whales in Europe. Watch the fish swim overhead as you walk down the longest underwater tunnel in Europe, visit the dolphinarium, watch the penguins, sea lions, and walruses, sea turtles and so much more with the chance to touch some of the creatures in the touch pool.

Click here for more information and to book your tickets.

Opening Times: Sunday-Friday 10 am-6 pm with late opening until 8 pm on Saturdays and until midnights on selected nights during the Summer months. Cost: €31.30

Save Money with Combo Tickets! If you want to visit more than 1 of the museums of the City of Arts and Sciences, get a combo ticket. Options are as follows: Oceanogràfic + Museu De Les Ciències Príncep Felipe: €32.20 Oceanogràfic + Hemisfèric: €32.20 Oceanogràfic + Hemisfèric + Museu De Les Ciències Príncep Felipe: €38.20 Hemisfèric + Museu De Les Ciències Príncep Felipe: €12.00

Playa de la Malvarrosa (Mavarrosa Beach)

Head to the beach if the weather is good enough whether it’s warm enough for sunbathing on this 1km stretch of urban beach or warm enough for a stroll along the sand. There are lots of activities to enjoy besides the sea and sand with exercise machines at the Healthy Park, play equipment for kids, and beachfront bars, cafés, and shops.

Festival Las Fallas de Valencia

Plan a visit to Valencia between 15th-19 th March to see the fiesta of fire that takes place in the city each year to celebrate the arrival of Spring. A combination of tradition, satire, and art this festival is one of the most unique in the whole of Spain with fireworks and bonfires, parades, brass bands, firecrackers, dancing in the streets, and so much more.

Practical Information for 2 Days in Valencia

How to get to valencia.

Plane : Direct flights are operated by BA, Iberia, Lufthansa, Air France, Swissair, KLM, TAP Air Portugal, Easyjet, and Ryanair fly into Valencia Airport (the 10 th busiest airport in Spain) from Europe with long haul flights flying into Madrid or Barcelona where you can get a connecting internal flight. Prices start at €12-€25 if you book early enough with average flight times of 1.5-2.5hours depending on where you’re flying in from. Train : High-speed AVE trains depart multiple times daily to/from Valencia > Madrid or Barcelona. From Madrid to Valencia the journey time is 1.5 hours and from Valencia to Barcelona for about 3 hours. Train ticket prices start at roughly €12 but can rise to €100+ if not booked in advance. Bus : There is a regular intercity bus (coach) service from Madrid and Barcelona to Valencia. Buses depart every hour from Madrid between 1 am-9.30 pm with a journey time of 4 hours at a cost of approximately €25. From Barcelona (both Sants and Nord bus stations) there are 30 buses per day between 12.15 am-8 pm with a journey time of 5 hours and prices averaging €30.

How to get to and from the airport in Valencia

Located 8km from the city center in Manises, Valencia Airport (otherwise known as Manises Airport) has transport options for all types of travelers whether backpackers on a budget or families just looking for the most hassle-free way of getting to the hotel possible! Private Transfer : A company such as Welcome Pickups offer passengers a comfortable stress-free way of reaching the city center. Book online and a driver will be waiting for you at arrivals, ready to help push the luggage trolley to the car.  The cost from the airport to the city center is around 21 euros.  Metro : The metro station is located on the ground floor of the regional flights terminal with trains running every 15-20 minutes from 5 am-11 pm Monday-Friday and from 7 am-11 pm weekends and holidays. There are 2 lines; line 3 (red) links Rafelbunyol to the airport and line 5 (green) links the port of Marítim Serrería – Torrent Av. to the airport. Both lines go to Xativa Station in the city center. AERO Bus: This is the express airport bus that has direct service between the airport and the city center with the city stops at Av. Del Cid, Carrer Bailén, and Carrer Àngel Guimerà. It runs daily every 20 minutes between 6 am-10 pm. Line 150 Bus : The intercity bus (Metrobus) makes 25 stops en route between the airport and the city center. Buses depart every 25-35 minutes between 5:25 am-10 pm Monday-Saturday but there’s no service on Sunday or public holidays.

2 days in Valencia will allow you to whet your appetite for this beautiful Spanish port city whilst seeing all of the main highlights as you admire the Gothic and Modernista architecture, people watch in the plaza’s and visit the futuristic-looking museums. Pace yourself for the best experience being sure to indulge in siesta time before getting your fill of paella!

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The Perfect 3 Days in Valencia Itinerary

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2020

Categories Europe

(This 3 days in Valencia itinerary was written by Valentina of Valentina’s Destinations . Follow all of her adventures on Pinterest , Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook . )

Yearning to spend 3 days in Valencia and plan the perfect Valencia itinerary ? 

Good, because I guarantee that you’re going to absolutely LOVE Spain’s third-largest city; a charming, Mediterranean metropolis that sits along Spain’s mesmerizingly beautiful, east coast. 

However, aside from the city’s alluring beauty:

You’ll enjoy adding the world-famous City of Arts and Sciences museum, as well as the La Lonja de la Seda (civic building)UNESCO world heritage site, to your Valencia itinerary.

Just be sure to relax, in between all that sightseeing, and savor some of the city’s delicious local foods, like paella and horchata, and exquisitely rich, red wines.

Yet, it gets even better!

Not only does Valencia have a ton of exciting things to see, do, and eat, but it’s also infinitely cheaper than neighboring Madrid and Barcelona .

As a result:

You’ll be able to experience more of the city’s fantastic beaches, museums, and cuisine, since your Euro goes a lot further here – a beautiful city that is home to some of the most iconic Spanish landmarks in Spain . 

If all this awesomeness has you even the tiniest bit curious about some of the top things to do in Valencia , then you owe it to yourself to sit back, relax, maybe grab a churro (or 10 since I don’t judge), and enjoy this expert’s guide to 3 days in Valencia.

Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high chance that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Top Places to Stay in Valencia

When deciding where to stay in Valencia, Spain , try and pick a hotel that is as close to the city center as possible.

You’ll be in the heart of Valencia and surrounded by some of the finest restaurants, shows, and stores in the entire city.

You’ll be just a short walk away from top Valencia attractions like the Silk Exchange, City Hall, and Valencia Cathedral (to see if your hotel is close to Valencia’s top attractions, visit this Valencia Tourist Map ).

• For the best luxury hotels in Valencia, try Vincci Lys (rooms here start at $165 per night) and Vincci Mercat (rooms here start at $120 per night)
• For affordable, boutique hotels , try Casual Vintage Valencia (rooms here start at $90 per night) and Host & Home (rooms here start at $70 per night). Both hotels are small so be sure to book a room well in advance.
• For a budget hotel , try the Colegio Mayor La Concepción (rooms here start at $66 per night) a fantastic place that is just a 20-minute walk north of the city center.

Day 1 in Valencia

Morning/early afternoon.

Start your 3 days in Valencia at La Manera Coffee & Cocktails , a trendy new restaurant that serves all your breakfast favorites, as well as a variety of vegan options for anyone with special, dietary needs.

Grab your beach bag and head to Platja del Cabanyal , one of the best beaches in all of Valencia.

Just a 15 minute drive from the city center:

You can easily get to the beach by using a cab or by taking the number 32, red bus from the Pl. de l’Ajuntament – Barques station. 

Buses depart every 15 minutes and take between 30 and 45 minutes to arrive at the Pavia – Platja de la Malva-rosa stop near the beach.

Upon arrival:

You’ll quickly see that Platja del Cabanyal is a busy Spanish beach with smooth white sand, temperate waters, a palm tree lined boardwalk, and a sea of lounge chairs that are available to rent. 

This nautical oasis truly is one of the most beautiful places in Valencia !

While at the beach:

We paid about 6 euros, per chair, for the entire day. 

All you need to do is pack a towel, sunblock, water, and a bathing suit and you’ll be fully prepared for a fantastic day of fun in the sun.

Just a short walk from the beach, you’ll find the lovely neighborhood of El Cabanyal , a historic fishing village that is just oozing with charm. 

Take some time to explore this area and admire the ecclectic assortment of vibrant ceramic tiles, and colorful houses, that Valencia is known for.

Before returning to the city center:

Stroll over to Jijonenca for some ice cream and horchata, a refreshingly cold and milky, tiger nut beverage that Valencia is famous for.

Late Afternoon/ Evening

As the sun slowly descends through the sky:

Make your way over to Torres de Serranos , an iconic tower that was built over 600 years ago as part of the ancient gates, and walls, that once protected the city. 

Built in Valencian style, Gothic architecture:

This tower is just a 5 or 10 minute walk north of the city center. 

Pay 2 euros to climb to the top and enjoy mesmerizing, panoramic views of the city.

Not far from the Torres de Serranos:

You’ll also find a charming, rainbow-colored, park bench, just northeast of the Església I Palau del Temple, that is perfect for some incredible Instagram shots that will definitely make all your followers jealous.

Continue onwards toward the Gate of Valldigna , and marvel at one of the few remaining pieces of the old city wall. 

Also done in Valencian style, Gothic architecture:

This archway was built in the 1400s and is home to an exquisite reproduction of a historic altarpiece that was dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

But after all this Valencia sightseeing, I bet you’re starving!

If you’re nodding your head in agreement, then you MUST end your night with some delicious paella, a rice-based,  famous food in Spain that is cooked in a large skillet and served with meat, seafood, vegetables, and more!

For some of the best paella in all of Valencia:

Walk 10 minutes to La Riuá , a family owned restaurant that is a favorite among locals since they’re known for cooking award-winning paella that is best paired with a young and fruity, local red wine, like tempranillo. 

Day 2 in Valencia

Grab some coffee and breakfast at La Fornarina, a fantastic local coffeehouse that serves a mouthwatering selection of fresh pastries and desserts. 

Because let’s be real:

When you’re on vacation, it’s never too early for dessert. 

Take a leisurely stroll over to the ever gorgeous, Pont de les Flors, which literally means bridge of flowers. 

Truly quintessential, Valencian beauty.  

We try to walk across this bridge whenever possible since it’s just so incredibly beautiful! 

Needless to say, you’ll want to take a lot of photos here…

Continue on towards the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia’s modern campus of museums like  L’Hemisfèric ( planetarium and IMAX theater) , L’Oceanogràfic (the largest aquarium in Europe)and El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe ( science museum) .

During your 30-minute walk, you’ll meander through the Jardín del Túria Tram XIII , a beautiful park filled with pools, statues, gardens, and flowers everywhere.

We definitely stopped along the way to dip or toes in the cool and refreshing water of the pool.

You’ll know you’re at the City fo Arts and Sciences when you see the unique design of the complex, modern architecture that is meant to represent the eye from the “eye of knowledge’ while the L’Oceanogràfic aquarium is meant to resemble a water lily.

In the many pools of this science center:

Adults can rent out clear canoes while children can play in inflatable bubbles that actually float on top of the water.

Children, and adults alike, will also love El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe since it is one of the coolest science museums that I’ve ever too.

Most of the exhibits here are totally interactive. Therefore, you’ll get to do all sorts of fun things like taste the differences in the salinity of the world’s oceans, take your own blood pressure, and even solve some puzzles.

If you have time:

You can also visit some of the other buildings in the museum complex, places like L’Umbracle (an open-air, landscaped garden where you can do the walk of the sculptures), El Palau de las Artes Reina Sofia , (an opera house), and El Pont de l’Assut de l’Or (a scenic bridge).

***If you’re interested in visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, you can save money by purchasing a combined ticket to the Hemisferic , Principe Felipe Science Museum, and the Oceanografic  aquarium . You can visit all three museums in one day or use the pass over a 2 or 3 dayperiod.***

Once you’re done exploring all of these amazing museums:

It’s time that you treat yourself to a uniquely wonderful, gastronomic experience at one of Valencia’s top restaurants, Canalla Bistro .

Just a 20-minute walk from the City fo Arts and Sciences:

This iconic restaurant is owned and operated by chef Ricard Camarena and specializes in creative, eclectic culinary experiences that are divinely delicious.

Be sure to make a reservation in advance since this restaurant is quite popular.

Save room for dessert since Utopick Cocoa is just 5 minutes away and pure heaven for anyone who LOVES chocolate.

At this modern, high-end chocolate shop:

You’ll find a variety of chocolate bars that are made with high-quality ingredients and that come in innovative flavors like Chai Tea, Mocachinno, Matcha Tea, Safron Cardamum, and more!

Late Afternoon/Evening

Once you’ve enjoyed a nice, relaxing meal:

Head back to Valencia’s city center and stop by the Plaza of the Virgin, one of Valencia’s most popular, and beautiful, town squares. 

While here:

You can watch the citizens of Valencia stroll by as you enjoy the square’s marvelous fountains and charming, historic buildings.

The true highlight of any visit to this square is a trip to Valencia Cathedral .

Built in the 13th century :

This cathedral is a mashup of different architectural styles and is rumored to be home to the true, Holy Grail (you’ll have to speak with Indiana Jones for verification). 

You’ll need to pay 7 Euros to enter the cathedral and cathedral museum, and another 2 euros if you want to climb to the top of the bell tower, the Tower of Micalet.

Both experiences are absolutely worth the price of admission, especially since you can enjoy gorgeous, sweeping views of Valencia from the top of the bell tower.

TOP your day off right (Get it, top, tapas? Okay, well I thought it was cute) with an authentic and delicious tapas experience at Escalones de la Lonja .

And while all of their tapas, or small shared plates, are delicious:

The patatas bravas (potatoes with a spicy sauce) and paella are exceptional.

And although this restaurant can get quite busy:

The staff are friendly and attentive, making this the perfect to end your second day in Valencia.

If you’re looking for a nice drink, order the Agua de Valencia during your visit. SOO GOOD.

Day 3 in Valencia

Start your last day in Valencia by visiting Playa Port Saplaya, a gorgeous beach that is lined with a variety of colorful homes and businesses.

Just a 20 minute taxi ride from Valencia city center. 

Playa Port Seplaya can also be reached in about 50 minutes, using the yellow, 112 bus. 

Just get off at the the Primado Reig -0.20 stop and prepare for a bit of a long walk to the beach.

Once there:

Rent a nice lounge chair for a few Euros, and just relax while you enjoy the soft sand and the calming sound of the waves.

When you need a respite from the intense heat of the sun:

Head over to this funky little tiki hut, on the beach, that not only serves refreshing drinks but that also has this quaint little chair swing and vibrantly colored decor that is totally Instagram worthy.

After a long morning in the sun:

Head back to Valencia city center and enjoy some delicious local foods from the Central Market of Valencia.

Known for its fresh produce, artisan meats, and local cheeses, this market is also a fantastic place to purchase some Spanish wine to bring home with you (Do this and your great aunt Mildred with love you forever).

While exploring the market:

Be on the lookout for sumptuous samples of tapas that market vendors may be offering to entice potential customers.

After snagging a free sample or two:

It’s just a short walk down the road (the walk is literally a minute) to La Lonja de la Seda or The Silk Exchange.

Open until 7 PM every evening (except Sundays when it closes at 3 PM) :

The Silk Exchange is Valencia’s most well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site since it sits inside the city’ historic civic building; an edifice that was first constructed in the 15th century and that stands today as a beautiful example of late Gothic style architecture.

To enter the building:

Visitors must pay 2 Euros; a fee that is waived every Sunday and public holiday (Sundays are also the only day of the week when guests can see the museum’s exquisite coin and stamp collection).

Before you leave though:

Take a moment to marvel at the stunning ceiling in The Hall of Columns and stroll beneath the enchanting orange trees in the building’s outdoor courtyard (it’s kind of your duty since the orange tree is a symbol of Valencia itself ).

While you’re in the area:

Stop by the charming Plaça de La Companyia, or La Compania square, and then continue on for another 10 minutes, to the Modernisme Plaza of the City Hall of Valencia. 

Within this Plaza:

You’ll find a fantastic assortment of statues, fountains, shops, and delicious eateries like Waffle Time, a perfect spot for anyone who has a sweet tooth and who is craving a sweet waffle.

If you’d like to explore the interior of Valencia’s City Hall while you’re here:

You can pay 3 Euros for a guided tour, before 2 PM between Monday and Friday (you can prearrange an after-hours tour if need be), of the building’s balcony, crystal room and on-site museum.

But, before you go back to your hotel and call it a night :

Be sure to grab a delicious cocktail from the delightfully chill, Ateneo Sky Bar Restaurant.

Not only are the drinks divine:

But this bar caters to a younger crowd, plays energetic house music, and offers patrons amazing views of Valencia’s nearby, City Hall. 

If you have more than 3 days in Valencia, here are some other amazing things that you can add to your Valencia Itinerary!

• Visit Playa Patacona: This beach sits in between Platja del Cabanyal and Playa Port Saplaya . it’s known for it’s vibrantly colored changing rooms and is surrounded by a number of vibrant and airy restaurants. To get here, you can take a 20-minute taxi ride or take an hour-long journey on the red, number 19 bus.
• Shop along the Street of Saint Vincent the Martyr : Start at Valencia’s City Hall and walk south toward the Street of Saint Vincent the Martyr. Once here, you’ll find a ton of shops, as well as popular European brands like Mango, Stradivarius, Zara, and El Corte Ingles (a popular Spanish department store). Another fantastic shopping area in Valencia is the Carrer de Colon, located northeast of the Valencia bullring.
• Valencia Museum of Enlightenment and Modernity : With a collection of influential pieces that date all the way back to the 18th century, this museum showcases both contemporary and historic works of art from within the disciplines of photography, advertising, and design.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!

I’m interrupting your regularly scheduled program to discuss one of the most mundane topics ever…travael insurance.

Travel insurance is definitely one of THE most boring things on the planet to discuss…except when you have a medical emergency and it saves you from incurring a lifetime of debt.

In that moment:

We all want to profess our undying love for travel insurance and tell anyone who will listen about the beauty, wonder, and pure magic that is this modern day miracle.

But I’ve been there.

I too have been tempted to save a few dollars (or yen, pounds, pesos, euros, etc.) by skimping on the travel insurance.

As you get older, wiser, and slightly grizzled, you, begin to see the error of your ways.

So moral of this parent size lecture? 

Always get travel insurance, even if it’s not from the company I recommend (COUGH… WORLD NOMADS TRAVEL INSURANCE  IS THE BEST). 

Why, you may wonder?

Well, as a maven of travel mishaps, I’m someone who would trip over an escaped tiger, during my 3 days in Valencia, plummet down the side of a mountain, and end up in a full body cast, all after a quaint and leisurely stroll along the beach. 

And while you probably aren’t as accident-prone as me, you also aren’t a psychic who can predict when you’ll need travel insurance.

That’s why you just need to suck it up, put your big girl (or boy) pants on, and purchase some decent travel insurance.

But what is the best travel insurance out there?

Personally, I LOVE World Nomads Travel Insurance! 

Not only do they cover you in almost any country that you might want to visit, (besides SUPER offbeat places like Pakistan), but they provide an amazing level of coverage, make it easy to customize your plan, and even let you extend/change your policy while you’re traveling,

Amazing no? 

But, how do you know what plan to get?

Easy! 

If all your gear is worth less than $1000, purchase the basic plan.

If you’re a travel blogger like me and carry a camera, laptop, tablet, and phone, all of which cost well over a $1000, then the explorer plan is the way to go since it will reimburse you for any gear that is lost or stolen while you travel (Both plans offer emergency medical coverage of up to $100,000).

So, my wantanabe of wanderlust:

Go forth, buy travel insurance, and be the awesome traveler that I know you are.

You did it! You made it to the end of my itinerary for 3 days in Valencia, Spain!

I hope you feel a mild sense of accomplishment and now feel comfortable enough to plan the perfect weekend itinerary for valencia. , so, if you’re ready to start planning your trip to valencia, then pin this now and read it again later.

About Valentina’s Destinations :

Valentina’s Destinations was born out of my need to meticulously research, organize, and plan all of my own travel itineraries. I’m originally from Nis, Serbia, but my family moved to the US when I was young. Since then, I’ve been living in Chicago and traveling the world with my boyfriend, Remigijus. When we’re not traveling, I work as a physician assistant in the field of psychiatry since the mental health field is just as rewarding as traveling to me.

Sunday 3rd of January 2021

I love it when I can site hop several museums in one day. Looks like a great plan for Valencia.

girlwiththepassport

Thanks so much! So glad to hear that!

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48 Hours in Valencia: A 2 Day Itinerary

Once known as the ugly sister of Barcelona and Madrid, this up and coming tourist destination is becoming popular as a summer and winter sun destination, it has truly blossomed as a tourist destination and is still one of Spain’s best kept secrets.

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain and is one of the oldest established cities in Spain, it was known as “Medina al-Tarab” or the “City of Sand” and was founded in 138 BC by the Romans.

Under Islamic rule, Valencia became a commercial hub with traders flocking to Valencia to sell paper, silk, ceramics and leather goods.

In the 15 th century the city had its golden age, during the kingdom of Aragon, there was an explosion of wealth and culture. Valencia has its very own language, Valencian that is spoken alongside Spanish.

With its beautiful beaches, historic city centre with a port that plays host to the America Cup yacht race, colourful cuisine and its famed regional dish, Paella, Valencia surely has something for everyone.

Wondering is 2 days enough in Valencia? Or how long should I spend in Valencia? Or what to see in Valencia Spain in 2 days?

This guide is perfect for those who only have 48 Hours in Valencia – A 2 Day Valencia Itinerary. We will show you what to do in Valencia, where to stay, what to eat and how to get around for 2 days in Valencia Spain.

Plan your trip?

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Table of Contents

The Best Time to Visit Valencia Spain

The best time to visit Valencia is in May, June or September. The temperature in May is in the mid 20 degrees Celsius range and temperatures rise to 30 degrees in June and September.

Most tourists travel to Valencia in the summertime so the costs of hotels and rentals are much higher and beaches are crowded with tourists both international and Spanish who flock there for their summer holidays.

Another time to avoid is in Fallas, which is one of the largest street parties in Europe and is a festival of fireworks and firecrackers.

This is the most expensive time to visit Valencia but if you want to experience the mayhem of the local festivities, then this is one party that you don’t want to miss.

Be prepared to pay more than double the normal costs of accommodation and book early as Valencia becomes booked out during Fallas week. Why not enjoy a weekend in Valencia if you’re short on time.

If you’re wondering how many days in Valencia is ideal or how many days do you need in Valencia? Well it all depends on what your plans are? You could easily spend a few weeks or even months in Valencia and still not see or do everything.

Below is a great guide on what to do in Valencia for 2 days because sometimes 2 days in Valencia is all you have, especially if you’re spending a weekend in Valencia or you’re travelling to Milan on short stop over trip and want to be able to tour some of the main areas within Valencia.

How to get around Valencia

Valencia has its own international airport situated just 8 km West of the city, the centre is accessible by metro via lines 4 and 5 and is a short 25 minute journey for only €2.10 per person. The best metro stop to get off in the centre is Xàtiva or Colón.

You can obtain a Valencia Tourist Card at the airport tourist office which gives you 48 hours of unlimited access to public transport and admission into some museums for only €20

Where to stay in Valencia

Valencia offers reasonably priced hostels from €21 per night and budget hotels ranging from €55 per night. Here is a selection of the best budget hotels in Valencia.

Hotel Alkazar – Though this Hotel only possesses one star, it offers a more luxurious experience than its rating suggests. It is located in the centre of the city and has stylishly decorated rooms with air-conditioning and even boasts its own seafood restaurant.

Hostal Antigua Morellana – This hotel offers one of Valencia’s best budget stays, it is located in the Centre in the middle of the old town and has a lot of character and friendly staff. The only down side is that it is often fully booked so make sure you book early!

Hotel Malcom and Barret – This executive style hotel offers cosmopolitan comfort with airconditioned rooms, wifi, onsite restaurant and bar and a 24-hour reception. Best of all it is just a short walk from Valencia’s old town.

Ad Hoc Carmen – This modern hotel in the heart of Valencia dates back to the 15 th century and each of the rooms are original, some of them have wooden beams and other period features, some have terraces and others mezzanine bedrooms.

Things to do in Valencia Spain

Take in the panoramic views of the city from the tower of micalet.

Visit the cathedral and climb up the 207 steps of the Cathedral tower to get views of the entire city of Valencia for an additional €2.

Go window-shopping

To visit the Milla de Oro or “golden mile” you can window shop in the designer shops on Calle Poeta Querol, here you can also visit Lladró, Calle Poeta Querol 9, to pick up an expensive porcelain figure made in Valencia region.

If you want something more affordable, you can pop into the newly revamped Ruzafa district, just east of the Estación del Norte, which is a trendy area full of  bars, Latin American eateries and vintage clothing shops.

Drink Horchata

This sweet treat hails from Valencia and is made from tiger nuts, which the Moors brought with them to Southern Spain and is still widely cultivated to this day.

A cool glass of horchata is usually served with fartons, which are traditional biscuits to be dunked into the horchata and eaten and one of the best places to try this local treat is at Horchateria Santa Catalina, Plaza Santa Catalina 6.

Sip on Agua de Valencia

This cocktail blended from cava, gin, vodka and the juice of Valencian oranges is a local favourite.

You can sip on a cool Agua de Valencia on a hot day and watch the world go by from the terraced bars of Plaza de la Virgen.

Visit the Central Market

This 1920s market, situated in Ciutat Vella or the old city is one of the oldest running food markets in Europe.

Admire the glass domes and mosaics and the bustling crowds where you can sample local produce such as Jamón, artisanal cheeses and is the perfect place to grab a freshly-squeezed Valencian orange juice.

If you can make it to the beach of Malvarossa you can enjoy views of the coast while eating an authentic paella on the beach, to get there you can take the metro/tram from Colon.

Take line 5 towards Maritim-Serreria and then change to line 8 and get off at Marina Reial Joan Carles or take line 6 towards Tossal del Rei, stop at Les Arenes or Eugenia Vines. It’s said you can get the best paella in Valencia.

If you are short on time here is a selection of the best Paella restaurans in Valencia old town.

The Los Gomez restaurant situated just beside the Local Town Hall in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento serves up some of the best local dishes in town. Here you can try arròs del senyoret, a rice dish with fish and seafood that is peeled for your convenience.

Legend says that this dish was invented for spoilt children who did not want to get their hands dirty as “Senyoret” is Catalan for “master” and therefore everything is peeled and prepared for you. Another excellent choice is arroz meloso, or creamy rice, with rockfish or lobster.

Rausell offers one of the best paellas, here you can eat like a Valenciano and rub shoulders with the locals at the bar or choose table service. This place, which has been open since 1948, is reasonable and well priced with excellent high-quality seafood.

This arroceria or rice restaurant is family run and has a simple, unpretentious atmosphere. Though it is unassuming it has been recognized with numerous awards for the best Arroz a Banda or seafood rice (1988).

Places to visit in Valencia

The city of arts and sciences.

The modern and ethereal structures reflected in surrounding pools seem like a scene out of a sci-fi movie.

Built in the mid-90s, the final touches were added in 2005, this ensemble of buildings houses cultural venues, one of the largest aquariums in Europe housing more than 45,000 individual animals and over 500 species, an IMAX cinema and a planetarium. 

Booking ahead for entrances to the aquarium and planetarium are highly recommended. You can even find a tourist card starting from €74, which will give you, access over 72 hours to the Oceanogràfic, the Science Museum, Hemisfèric and Bioparc.

La Lonja de la Seda

This 15 th century building is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a prime example of gothic architecture from Valencia at the time.

It was once Europe’s main centres for trade and its name means “the Silk Exchange”, centuries ago traders from far-flung countries travelled there to sell and trade their products and this building is a tribute to Valencia’s golden age and is well worth visiting.

Valencia Cathedral

Valencia is home to a gothic cathedral dating back to the 13 th and 14 th centuries with elements of baroque, neoclassical and renaissance modifications that have been added over the years.

Inside, you can admire the 15 th century paintings from the renaissance by famous Valencian artists like Jacomart.

The Chapel of the Holy Chalice houses a chalice which dates back to between the 4th century BC and the 1 st century AD and has been said to have been used by Jesus himself during the last supper to institute the Holy Eucharist. 

Entrance is free but to view the whole cathedral a ticket can be purchased for €5.

Malvarrosa Beach

Just minutes by metro from the old-town is one of Valencia’s most stunning gold sand beaches, stretching for a kilometre.

Malvarrosa is where Valencians go to sunbathe and you can enjoy the sun, sea and excellent paella at one of the popular beachfront restaurants. Or you could visit one of the nude beaches in Valencia .

Tours to do in Valencia

• Market visit and paella class – learn how to make Valencia’s most famous dish and visit to Central market for only €55 per person.
• Valencia Free street art tour – this free tour will take you around “El Carmen” neighbourhood where you can see the best street art Valencia has to offer as well as exploring a different side of the city.
• Albufera Boat Tour – Visit “El Palmar” fishing village situated in Albufera National Park, visit the marshlands and see the thatched cottages and enjoy a traditional meal. Prices start from only €13 per person.
• Wine tasting tour – Valencia produces four different types of wine: red, white, Moscatel and Rose. Moscatel is a special wine produced from local grapes that does not require a fermentation process, it is native to Valencia and should be on your list of things to try whilst you are in the City. This wine tour will take you through vineyards of a country estate and give you the opportunity to taste the different wines of the region. Prices start from only €30 per person.

48 hours in Valencia

Day 1 in valenica.

Start off your Valencia 2 day itinerary: Discover the old city on foot. Start your day on the right foot with a freshly-squeezed Valencian orange juice at Central Market, followed by a visit to The Silk Exchange.

Head towards the Plaza de la Reina and spend some time exploring the Gothic cathedral and climbing the 207 steps of the octagonal Micalet tower, afterwards take a trip to see the church of San Nicolas.

After this you will have surely worked up an appetite, enjoy an authentic paella (paella is usually eaten in the daytime) and head to the City of Sciences where you can wander around an take in the incredible ultra-modern structures and buildings.

Finish off with bar-hopping and tapas tasting or head to the trendy district of Rufaza for dinner and drinks. Here you can enjoy Michelin fine dining at Canalla Bistro, run by the famous local chef Ricard Camarena, followed by drinks at a bookshop-slash-bar called Ubik Café and rub shoulders with the locals.

Day 2 in Valencia

Head to Malvarrosa beach and enjoy a relaxing day sunbathing and enjoy the gastronomic delights of a paella served up fresh from the fire, taste a glass of local wine and take in the salty sea breeze at the same time.

After strolling along the beach you can make your way to El Cabanyal, the old fisherman’s quarter.

Admire the yachts in the marina before heading back into the city centre to explore El Carmen neighbourhood where you can check out the street art and cool jazz bars, a perfect way to end your 48 hours in Valencia.

If you have more time or dont want to spend the day at the beach you can enjoy a day trip from Valencia .

Recommend tours in Valencia and day trips from valencia

• Valencia: Food Walking Tour Including Mercado de Colon Visit and Wine Tasting
• Valencia Shore Excursion: City of the Arts and Sciences and Central Market with Rooftop Wine Tasting and Tapas
• Valencia Paella Cooking Class with Mercado Central Visit
• Valencia City of the Arts and Sciences with Rooftop Wine Tasting and Tapas
• Valencia Old Town Segway Tour
• Valencia Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional Oceanographic Aquarium Ticket
• Valencia Tourist Card 24, 48 and 72 hours
• Valencia City Sights Bike Tour
• Old City of Valencia Private Walking Tour
• Valencia Bike Tour
• Panoramic City Tour of Valencia with Paella Cooking Class

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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An Epic One Day in Valencia Itinerary (+Travel Tips)

Planning one day in Valencia can feel overwhelming with so much to see and do in the city. There is no chance you’ll get through it all on a day trip, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get the chance to add a whole lot of great things to your Valencia itinerary.

We recently visited Valencia in one day and had a blast! While there are enough things to do in Valencia to spend several days there, you’ll still get a good overview of the city in a day.

I suggest dividing your day in two so you get some time in the City of Arts and Sciences and some time in the old town.

Valencia is one of the best coastal cities in Spain and going on a day trip is such a great experience. In this post, I’ll go through what to see in Valencia Spain in one day so that you can start planning the perfect trip!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

 MORE FROM SPAIN

• Madrid in a day
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• Reasons to visit Madrid
• Madrid winter guide
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Table of Contents

Best time to visit Valencia in one day

Valencia is a great travel destination all year round, though it’s a popular summer destination. Winter in Valencia offers mild daytime temperatures that easily can reach 20+ degrees Celsius. However, the night temperatures drop drastically to 8-10 degrees, so it’s important to wear layers.

Spring and fall are great for sightseeing and September-October are still beach months in Valencia. Yet, with only a day in Valencia, I would spend the day exploring instead of chilling at the beach.

The summer months are hot with around 30 degrees Celsius in the daytime, so make sure you bring enough water, cover with a hat, and slap on enough sunscreen so you don’t get sunburnt.

How to get to Valencia

Valencia is well-connected with the rest of the world through Valencia International Airport, but is also easily reached by train and bus from other Spanish cities.

If you’re campervanning in Spain , it’s complicated to find parking, especially if you have a larger vehicle. For us, it’s fairly easy as Persistence (The Van) is small and can easily be parked up with other cars so we found free street parking close to the City of Arts and Sciences and walked from there.

With a normal car, you can also look into underground paid parking for the day as it’s safer than street parking. This way, you can enjoy your Valencia one day itinerary without worrying about the car being broken into.

Where to stay in 24 hours in Valencia

If you’re staying the night, one of the best areas to stay in Valencia is the old town. There, you’re within walking distance from the main attractions, restaurants, and bars.

Here are some of my top hotel picks:

LUXURY: Only YOU Hotel Valencia – a fantastic 5-star hotel set in Valencia Old Town with restaurants, a bar, and a fitness center. The service is great and pets are welcome. MID-RANGE: SH Ingles Boutique Hotel – a great boutique hotel with quirky decor set in the heart of the old town. It has a restaurant and bar on-site and welcoming staff. BUDGET: Cosmo Hotel Boutique – a lovely hotel in the heart of the old town. Quiet and modern rooms with a friendly atmosphere.

How to spend one day in Valencia (itinerary)

City of arts and sciences.

The City of Arts and Sciences, also known as Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, is one of the most impressive places to visit in Valencia in 1 day. Starting your day there makes sense as it’s one of the most prominent landmarks in Spain .

Whether you choose to enter any of the museums or just go for a stroll between the futuristic buildings, it is truly interesting. I loved the architecture and the water landscapes where you can even rent a paddleboard to cruise around.

For a different adventure, why not jump on one of the bike tours in Valencia that go by the City of Arts and Sciences?

If you want to explore any of the museums, I recommend booking in advance. Here are some popular ticket and tour options:

• Valencia: City of Arts and Sciences Segway Tour
• Valencia: Oceanografic, Hemisferic & Science Museum Combos
• Valencia: City of Arts and Science 3D Movie at Hemisfèric
• Valencia: Principe Felipe Science Museum Entry Ticket

You can easily expect to spend 2-3 hours at the City of Arts and Sciences as there’s plenty to see. If you don’t enter the museums, I suggest taking a look at the Garden of Astronomy. It’s free and super interesting as an interactive outdoor museum.

Lunch in the Old Town

Whether you visit the City of Arts and Sciences by segway tour, walking, or taking public transport, I suggest heading back to the old town for lunch.

There are so many lovely cafes and restaurants to choose from. Some great vegan options are Lo de Ponxe En El Kinto Pino for vegan tapas and Khambú, a vegan food truck with awesome vegan fast food!

Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral is one of the most unique cathedrals I’ve seen in Spain and is extremely picturesque from the outside.

Still, it’s well worth stepping inside its 13th-century old walls. Mostly Gothic, you can see hints of many different architectural styles.

I particularly enjoyed the Capilla del Santo Cáliz with its detailed stone carvings and chains on the walls. A visit to the cathedral should definitely top your list of what to do in Valencia Spain in one day.

To get the most out of your visit, I recommend a guided tour, and this walking tour includes the cathedral, St. Nicholas Church, and Lonja de la Seda. It’s a great way to see some spectacular places and learn about the history.

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00-18:30 Sunday: 14:00-18:30

Lonja de la Seda

Lonja de la Seda is a must-visit during any 1 day in Valencia itinerary. The 15th-century Silk Exchange is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The interior is impressive with its tall, spiraling columns and the orange garden is beautiful, especially if you visit Valencia in winter before the oranges have fallen off the trees.

The old silk trading place is an architectural wonder that holds centuries of history and is worth visiting with a guide. I loved this walking tour that included the cathedral and the Church of St. Nicolas too.

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00-18:30 Sunday: 10:00-13:30

Stroll through the old town

Spend the rest of the day getting lost in the old town and admire the incredible architecture. Plaza Redonda is a unique round square with 3-storey buildings surrounding it. There you will find interesting arts and crafts shops so you can shop for local souvenirs.

My favorite building might just be Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas where the National Museum of Ceramics (pictured below) is located. The architecture and details are just mindblowing. Inside, you can see works of Picasso besides other ceramic pieces.

Climb the Torres de Serranos for epic views of the old town. They were originally built in the late 1300s as part of the city walls but became free-standing towers when the city walls were demolished around 500 years later.

Altogether, the old town is full of quaint squares, beautiful architecture, and lovely restaurants and bars to end the evening of your Valencia day trip.

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO OF OUR LAST DAY TRIP TO VALENCIA

Reflections on this one day Valencia itinerary

Summing up this Valencia 1 day itinerary, there is enough to do without making it stressful. Valencia is such an amazing city so it certainly deserves taking the time to walk around and take it all in.

With only one day in Valencia Spain, it’s a good idea to book guided tours of the old town and the City of Arts and Sciences to get the most out of the day.

It also ensures you don’t miss out on the best. Nonetheless, this itinerary covers what I think is the most noteworthy for 24 hours in Valencia. The city is also great as a base for exploring all the fun day trips around Valancia .

Still need convincing? Read my top reasons to visit Valencia .

Happy travels!

THE BEST 2-DAY VALENCIA ITINERARY FOR FIRST TIMERS (SPAIN)

A 2-day Valencia itinerary should be just enough to understand why Valencia is described as a “city of contrasts.” On the one hand, the city boasts some of the finest medieval architecture in Spain. But it is also home to world-renown contemporary architecture.

Table of Contents

This 2-day Valencia itinerary aims to share the sights and experiences I encountered in Spain’s third largest city, after Madrid and Barcelona , and certainly one of its most interesting. Valencia is also the capital of its eponymous autonomous region where the Valencian language, Valencià, is spoken.

I found Valencia to be cosmopolitan, historical, beautiful and grossly underrated. Read on to see why.

What is Valencia known for?

The most striking feature of Valencia would have to be the stunning architecture. On the cuisine front, Valencia is the undisputed origin of the famous, delectable rice dish, the paella Valenciana . Valencia is also known for horchata, a milk-like drink made from almonds, Valencia oranges and unique festivals like the Fallas Valencianas. These festivals are celebrated with the coming of spring by burning spectacularly ornate paper mâché figurines.

A short history of Valencia

The city started its life as a Roman settlement founded in 138 BCE when it was known as Valentia, meaning “strength” or “fortitude.” During its Roman heyday Valencia was one of the most important Roman settlements in Spain. That’s really saying something because Spain was one of the major centers of the Roman Empire.

The Moors arrived in 718 CE ushering 5 centuries of Islamic culture until reconquered by the Spaniards in 1238.

In the 15th century the city flourished as a center of economic expansion, art and culture. It became a silk trading center as well as an important port.

The city suffered attacks from Barbary pirates in the 16th century and was subsequently fortified with structures you can still see today. Subsequent invasions, sieges and assaults impeded the city’s growth and development until a period of stability arrived with the reign of Isabela II (1833-1868).

World War I disrupted the city’s critical citrus market which negatively affected the city’s entire economy. The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) left many “Valencianos” dead as the city suffered over 442 bombardments.

A major flood of the Turia River in 1957 caused tremendous upheaval and destruction to the city. As a result, the river was rerouted. A lush and beautifully manicured park was created on the former riverbed which today winds its way around the city.

The city began to recover in the 1960s with increased immigration led by infrastructure projects. The advent of democracy after the fall of dictator, Generalissimo Francisco Franco, established Valencia as an autonomous region.

In 2009 Valencia was selected as the 29th fastest developing city in Europe and it hasn’t looked back since.

A 2-day Valencia itinerary – Old Town

Valencia Old Town-Day 1 of your 2-day Valencia itinerary

A 2,000-year-old-city is bound to have an abundance of interesting historical attractions. Valencia’s Old Town is no exception. The area reflects the city’s heritage and retains its original medieval layout as evidenced by the 12th century Torre Serrano (Serrano Towers) guarding one of the medieval gates to the city.

But for sheer aesthetic and historical appeal, you can’t beat the classic Old Town trio; the Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valencia Cathedral and the Central Market with its striking Art Nouveau design.

Everything in Valencia’s Old Town is easily walkable but the winding streets and alleyways can be a navigational challenge. Get lost in them!

The Valencia Cathedral

Although officially named the Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia, the locals just call it the Valencia Cathedral.

Begun in 1262 but not completed until almost 200 years later, the cathedral continued to add on improvements for hundreds of years. In fact, a building was added as late as 1970!

Of course, with all these additions over the years, the cathedral exhibits many architectural styles; Romanesque, Baroque, Renaissance and more. Inside there are paintings by accomplished Spanish artists dating from the 15th century.

Besides being beautiful inside and out, the cathedral has an important claim to fame. Many believe that the cathedral houses the true Holy Grail, a relic sacred to Christians. You can see it at the chapel of the Holy Chalice inside.

Plaza de la Reina (Queen Square)

One of the oldest plazas in the city, Plaza de la Reina began construction in honor of Queen Maria de La Merced on her wedding day to King Alfonso XII in 1878.

This plaza is one of the coolest places to visit in Valencia. It is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, cute little shops and amazing architecture not the least of which is the cathedral of Valencia.

A short walk away are the Silk Exchange and the Central Market, two of the must-see sights in Valencia.

Stop and enjoy a coffee or an authentic horchata in this lovely plaza before continuing on to your next Valencia attraction.

Iglesia y Torre de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina Tower and Church)

For the architecture aficionados, head to La Paz Street near Queen Square to see the Baroque bell towers of the Santa Catalina church. Inside you’ll see some of the best examples of religious art in Valencia.

Casa Francisco Ordeig (Francisco Ordeig House)

Barcelona has its architecturally significant Casa Batllo, but Valencia has its Casa Francisco Ordeig. It is a residential apartment building built in the modernist style in 1907 and considered an architectural work of art.

Mercado Central (Central Market)

One of the largest markets in Europe, the Mercado Central is another must-visit Valencia attraction and should be included in every 2-day Valencia itinerary. The market used to be an open-air affair until the city put out a bid so architects could submit their concepts for a new market in 1910.

Architects March and Vidal won the bid and completed the market in the Art Nouveau style in 1928.

Today the market is a popular destination for tourists as well as local with its restaurants, souvenirs and cafes.

Make time for a snack at this Mercado Central for an authentic and tasty experience.

Valencia tip: The hours are Monday to Saturday 8 AM to 2:30 PM so time your visit to enjoy your visit. There is much to see.

The Silk Exchange

Right across the street from the Mercado Central is the Silk Exchange. There is a reason why this is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This uplifting, glorious structure deserves every accolade the artistic and historical world can bestow upon it.

Valencia was a major trading center for centuries and this Valencia Gothic structure was at the center of it. The exchange has three sectors: the main hall, the contract hall (where the trading took place) and the pavilion of the consulate. There is also a lovely orange grove garden in a walled courtyard.

The furnishings are the originals for the period and lend an air of authenticity and historical significance to the Exchange.

The Silk Exchange is such a fascinating place. I don’t know what I liked the most about it, the historical significance or the sheer beauty of the architecture.

Valencia tip: Whether or not you’re a history buff, get the free audio tour for the Silk Exchange. You’ll learn about the significance of the gothic gargoyles and elaborate caricatures that decorate this building among other fascinating historical tidbits.

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Desamaparados (Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken)

Dedicated to the patron saint of Valencia, the basilica dates from the 17th century and was one of the first Baroque structures of the time. The basilica boasts an impressive, beautifully decorated dome.

There is a very small museum located behind the basilica of the Virgin. It was built over an existing Roman archeological site. The “display”, located below street level, are the actual Roman-period (and later) ruins/site of the city of Valencia.

One can see the first Roman roads built by the first settlers of Valencia. Instead of walking from one display cabinet to another, one walks through the actual ancient city, moving from one ancient structure (e.g., village granary, bath, roads, town hall, etc) to another that have been unearthed and left right where they were found.

Additional churches of Valencia’s Old Town

I addition to those already mentioned, there are a number of lesser churches worth visiting in Valencia’s Old Town if you have the time and interest.

• Parroquia de San Nicolas de Bari y San Pedro Martir (Church of Saint Nicholas)
• Iglesia de San Lorenzo (San Lorenzo Church)
• Iglesia de San Juan del Hospital (San Juan Church)
• Iglesia de Santo Tomas y San Felipe Neri (Church of Saints Tomas and Philip

Plaza del Ayuntamiento (City Hall Plaza)

The plaza is the heart of the Old Town, akin to a “ Times Square ” of Valencia. It is pedestrianized with performers dressed as cartoon characters offering photo opportunities for tips.

This wide, gracious plaza is surrounded by gloriously ornate 19th century buildings in blazingly white marble and stucco. The entrance to the plaza is a last stop for many buses because they cannot continue into the pedestrianized Old Town.

Many government buildings and high-end hotels are located here. The center is a lovely park with flower shops and many smart shops, cafes and tourist souvenirs lining the perimeter.

Here is where you’ll find the main tourism office where you can get free information and maps. You can also buy tickets to many attractions here.

Valencia Museums

Museo de la historia de valencia (museum of the history of valencia).

For a city with a history dating back for millennia, Valencia has lots to say. One of the most interesting aspects of this museum is the industrial architecture.

The museum showcases the important events that forged the history of the region. Well worth your time to better understand the city.

Museo Nacional de Ceramicas y Artes Decorativos (Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts)

I fell in love with this wonderful place. This museum is badly named. Yes, it has SOME ceramics, but it is really all about the former home of the Marquis of Dos Aguas. And what a home it was!

The ballroom opened out to a balcony facing a beautiful town square.

Room after room of sumptuous decorative arts are on display in this marvelous mansion. Similar to the Newport Mansions of Rhode Island, The Biltmore Estate of North Carolina, USA or the many museum mansions of Europe, this remarkable museum offers a glimpse of what life was like for the massively wealthy classes.

This museum is a perfect example of the little gems you find in unexpected places. It was one of the most pleasant museum surprises I’ve ever encountered. THIS is why you travel!

Museo Fallero (Fallas Museum)

Stop #3 on the Hop-On-Hop-Off red line bus, this small but fun museum displays the paper mâché figurines, known as “ninots” that are burned every year as a symbol of the coming of spring in traditional celebrations.

The figurines started off as scarecrow stick figures stuffed with hay and decorated with old clothes. Today, some of these decorations are worth tens of thousands of euros and are works of art.

Museo Historico Militar (Historical Military Museum)

For the military history buff. Stop #11 on the Hop-On-Hop-Off red line bus, the Military History Museum, details many important events in the city’s military history including its participation in the Spanish Civil War.

Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia (Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia)

Widely recognized as one of the finest collections of Spanish art in the world and second only to Museo El Prado in Madrid, this museum really packs an artistic punch.

The museum has been recently renovated and is housed in what was once a convent, hospital and headquarters for the Spanish government of the II Republic during the Spanish Civil War.

Don’t miss the collection of home-town-boy-done good, Joaquin Sorolla, and his glorious paintings of the Valencian countryside. If you’re a culture vulture, this is for you.

Turia River Gardens

As mentioned in the Valencia history section, the city suffered major floods throughout its history. On October 15, 1957, when the Turia River again overflowed, the city had enough. It was the most devastating disaster Valencia experienced since the Spanish Civil War.

The city successfully diverted the river which resulted in an empty riverbed snaking its way across the city from southeast to northwest. This reverbed was landscaped and populated with little cafes, gardens, street art and delightful little bike and walking trails. You can now walk from one side of the city to another via the Turia River gardens and in the process learn about the city.

As the Turia River Gardens snakes its way throughout the entire city, it will be easy to incorporate a stroll in one of its gardens into your 2-say Valencia itinerary.

Day trips from Valencia

Las Arenas (the sands) is part of Valencia proper. It is the beach area on the far eastern side of the city. Las Arenas is accessible by local transport and is a stop on the Hop-On-Hop-Off tourist bus.

The beach is wide with calm waters and ringed by surprisingly good restaurants and upscale hotels and spas. One of Valencia’s top restaurants, La Pepica, is in Las Arenas.

L’Albufera de Valencia

About 20 minutes south of Valencia is the Albufera de Valencia National Park. This beautiful fresh-water lagoon is a haven for over 300 bird species.

The national park makes for a great day trip to enjoy the area’s nature at its best. Bike the 78-kilometer circular route through forests and rice paddies or take a boat ride and explore the area close up.

After exploring the park, have an authentic paella in the very spot this iconic dish was invented. The town of El Palmar claims to be the inventor of the paella. The town hosts several restaurants on its main street, Arroceria Mirabel being one of the most popular.

To get to L’Albufera de Valencia take city bus # 24 and 25 from the center of Valencia to El Palmar €1.50 each way.

Another option is to buy a tour to L’Albufera which includes a boat ride. These can be purchased wherever you buy Hop-On-Hop-Off tickets.

How to get around in Valencia

Valencia is an eminently walkable city. It is compact and pleasant to stroll.

There are bike rental stations throughout the city.

The city offers traffic-free bike lanes and expansive parks to bike your way around the city. Pont L’Assut de L’Or in the background

The buses in Valencia take you everywhere you want to go, and they are cheap. Just ask your hotel to point out the routes to your destination. We took a 15-minute bus ride from our hotel in the City of Arts and Sciences to Valencia Old Town every day for €1.50 one way.

Valencia’s subway/metro system is efficient, clean and cheap. Single tickets at €1.50. Get your downloadable map here.

Hop-On-Hop-Off tourist bus

The Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is an excellent way to see the city. Especially on our first day as it will give you a sense of the city’s layout and the location of the attractions you are most interested in. You can purchase tickets at many hotels, tourism offices and on the bus itself.

How to get to Valencia

By car take V-21 if coming from the north, A-7/V-31 if coming from the south and A-3 and CV-35 if coming from the west. Renting a car in Valencia may be your best option if you’re traveling around the country and want maximum flexibility.

By train, you’ll find Spain has a far-reaching and efficient train system called RENFE . You can purchase your ticket online or at any train station.

Spain has a wide network of clean and modern buses covering the entire country. Bus stations are concentrated in convenient city locations with easy access to other transportation. Many Spaniards purchase tickets at Movelia.com.

A website people have recommended for travel in Spain is omio.com , sometimes referred to as the “Kayak” of Spain. It is used for train, bus and flights.

How to get to Valencia city center from the airport

Line 5 on the Valencia metro goes from the airport to the center of Valencia regularly. The trip takes 20 minutes and costs about €2. Fernanbús S.A. operates a bus from Valencia Airport to Valencia every 30 minutes. Tickets cost €3 and the journey takes 30 min.

A taxi will cost you about €15 – 20 and takes 10 minutes.

The hop-on-hop-off bus also stops at the local bus station which will go to the airport.

Where to stay in Valencia Old Town

High-end Hotels

Mid-range hotels

Budget hotels

A 2-day Valencia itinerary – City of Arts and Sciences

City of Arts and Sciences- Day 2 of your 2-day Valencia itinerary

The City of Arts and Sciences is an architectural and cultural complex in the city. The project was designed by Santiago Calatrava and Felix Candela. Built on the diverted Turia riverbed, the complex is comprised of a series of museums, aquariums, an opera house, restaurants and other performing arts centers.

Depending on your level of interest in the arts and sciences, you could spend anywhere from a couple of hours to several days exploring this area, one of the 12 Treasures of Spain . Alas! with only a 2-day Valencia itinerary, these are the highlights.

L’Oceanografic

The largest structure of this type in Europe, L’Oceanografic is an aquatic world unto itself. I expected a typical aquarium similar to what exists in many other cities.

What I found was a dolphinarium, shark tanks, incredible collections of over 500 different species from tiny reptiles to beluga whales, plants and many creatures in between…all 45,000 of them!

All this amazing flora and fauna live in ten areas, each representing earth’s various habitats: the Mediterranean Sea, the Arctic Oceans, the tropics, the Red Sea and others. It is really quite unique and a must-see during your 2-day Valencia itinerary.

Some of the habitats are reached via underwater tunnels surrounded by denizens of the deep: mantas, multicolored fish and sharks.

Nearby, but not in the actual L’Oceanografic complex, is the Restaurante Submarino , a unique underwater restaurant surrounded by a 360° aquarium. So, you can have lunch or dinner while you are entertained by multicolored fish, manta rays and the occasional shark.

You MUST make a reservation at the restaurant. You don’t have to have a ticket to the L’Oceanografic to dine at the Submarino. As dining experiences go, this is pretty cool.

If you’re pressed for time at the City of Arts and Science but want to add one of these attractions to your 2-day Valencia itinerary, make it the L’Oceanografic.

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia

The Queen Sofia Palace of Arts is named after Spain’s queen. It is a performing arts center and opera house. Check the schedule to see if you can catch a performance in this unique venue.

L’Umbracle

L’Umbracle is a sculpture garden showcasing works by renown contemporary artists. The sculptures are displayed in a garden with plant species indigenous to Valencia and the effect is magical.

Museu de les Ciencies Principe Felipe

The Prince Philip Science Museum is named after the current king of Spain (when he was still a prince). This interesting museum showcases a regularly rotating eclectic collection of displays like climate change, the human body and spy tradecraft.

Most displays are interactive and hands-on. It’s a fun place for the whole family and a serious learning experience to boot.

L’Hemisferic

L’Hemisferic is an IMAX theater, cinema and planetarium. It was built to resemble a giant eye, the “eye of knowledge” and is a spectacular centerpiece of the City of Arts and Sciences.

There are several theater experiences to choose from including several for kids

Besides being a remarkable architectural marvel, this structure is beautiful.

Montolivet Bridge

Another one of the little (actually quite large) architectural marvels created by Santiago Calatrava, this bridge lies between L’Hemisferic and the Palau des Arts Reina Sofia and connects the two shores of the Turia River.

Assut de L’Or Bridge

Rather than a destination, the Assut de L’Or Bridge (Dam of Gold in Valencian) is a work of art. The name refers to a nearby dam, but the locals refer to it as El Jamonero, the Ham Holder after a kitchen utensil that secures a ham while it is being sliced, or The Harp. It resembles both. But whatever you call it, it is larger than life and worth visiting.

L’Agora

This is a multifunctional covered space used for events, exhibitions and other purposes. It’s claim to fame is that is an unusual and visually as well as architecturally unique structure. It has a glass roof along its spine and a movable area to control the overhead light.

Where to stay in City of Arts and Sciences

Hotels close to the City of Arts and Sciences

Valencia Tip: When you purchase your ticket, you save money by purchasing 3 venues at once; L’Oceanografic, the Princ Felipe science museum and L’Hemisferic rather than purchasing them individually.

What to eat in Valencia and where to eat it on a 2-day Valencia itinerary

Valencia is an underrated foodie city. It has many excellent restaurants around the city and beyond. In the case of Valencia, like in most other cities on Earth, the number one rule for finding a good restaurant applies; look for a restaurant at least 5 blocks away from the major tourist attractions.

You can get perfectly fine meals right near a tourist attraction but, if you’re a foodie looking for the authentic dining experience, step away from the tourists.

Research the restaurants in the city, ask for recommendations (don’t ask locals where you should eat, ask them where THEY eat.)

The specialty in Valencia is the ubiquitous “paella Valenciana.” Invented in Valencia itself, this rice dish is cooked and served in a paella pan. Although we are most familiar with the seafood paella, the traditional paella is made with green beans, fava beans, snails and rabbit. Try and have the traditional dish for a real treat.

Paella is served all over the city and beyond in restaurants called arrocerias (rice places) that also serve other rice dishes.

Some Valencia restaurants I can heartily recommend include:

Casa Montaña. This restaurant has been around since 1836 so they must be doing something right. They are located between the beach and the Old Town. The main menu changes daily based on seasonality and freshness.

Although the specialty is tapas, they also offer much more including a tasting menu, accompanied by wine pairing, that allows you to sample multiple little culinary gems. Hungry yet?

Valencia tip: This is not a place to grab a quick bite and move on. Prepare to spend some time here to savor the experience. Prices are fair for what you get.

Casa Roberto . A lovely atmosphere with impeccable service and delicious food. Casa Roberto is a neighborhood restaurant in one of the city’s more upmarket areas. A tad pricy but worth it for the dining experience.

La Pepica offers authentic Valencian fare on a sundrenched terrace in Malvarosso Beach in the Las Arenas area. Las Arenas is one of the stops on the hop-on-hop-off bus. Prices are midrange.

Sagardi. If you’ve had your fill of paella and other rice dishes (tough to do but possible) head over to Sagardi for a delicious sampling of Basque-type tapas and roast meats. This restaurant is in Old Town and easy to walk to from most attractions.

Another Valencia specialty is the Horchata, a thick, chalky, refreshing beverage made from “chufa” or tiger nuts. Horchata is sold everywhere but enjoying it in specialized cafeterias knows as “horchaterias” (horchata places) is a must.

Some horchaterias are famous for being around forever. Among the best known are Horchateria Daniel and Horchateria Santa Catalina, in business for 200 years!

Traditionally horchatas are enjoyed with “fartons” fluffy pastries dusted with sugar. These are dunked in the horchata and wolfed down with a gulp of the delicious beverage.

Finally, the unofficial alcoholic beverage of Valencia is the “agua de Valencia” (Valencia water). This refreshing cocktail is a mix of fresh-squeezed Valencia oranges and cava, vodka or gin. It is an all-day drink enjoyed from breakfast to tapas-hopping evenings.

For an authentic experience, try to include one or more of these Valencia specialties in your 2-day Valencia itinerary.

What does Valencia cost

As European cities go, Valencia is not expensive and offers good value for money. Representative costs include:

• Hotel € 120 +
• Transport € 2
• Airbnb € 60 +
• Entrance fee € 3
• Average meal € 25
• Dining experience € 50 – 100

What’s the best time to visit Valencia?

With 300 sunny days a year, one could argue that it’s always a good time to visit Valencia.

If you want to really nail down the perfect temperature, the fall, with temperatures ranging from a high of 83°F to a low of 47°F, and spring, with temperatures from a high of 76°F to a low of 45°F are the best. The summer heat and crowded tourism season are gone at those times as are the chiller winter weather.

Keep these temperature ranges in mind when planning your 2-day Valencia itinerary.

If you want to visit Valencia during its most important and exciting festival, Las Fallas, plan your Valencia visit in mid-March.

Can’t get enough of Spain? Check out these Spain posts.

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5 INTRIGUING HISTORICAL CASTLES IN SPAIN –

8 EPIC, OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK ADVENTURES IN SPAIN THAT WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY

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A 2 WEEK ITINERARY FOR ASTURIAS: NORTHERN SPAIN’S PARADISE

EXPLORING FAMILY HERITAGE IN ASTURIAS, SPAIN –

Don’t forget to stock up on reference material before you visit Valencia. And try your hand at cooking a paella once you’re back home. I tried it and it was a lot of fun to make and specially to eat.

What are your thoughts on this 2-day Valencia itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

• Research and book your flight with Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
• For car rental in Europe that has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend Auto Europe .
• You can also book your car renta l through Skycanner .
• Book your accommodation with Booking.com . I find they have the widest selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
• Protect your trip and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use World Nomads and have been very happy with them.
• Looking for a small group tour to unforgettable destinations with top professionals? Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
• For more general tours to any destination or attraction, book with Viator . Check them out.
• Need a visa? Get your visa for all countries with iVisa .

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One Day in Valencia, Spain: The Best Itinerary [+FREE Map]

So you’ve got just one day in Valencia and you’re wondering how to make the most of it, right?

Whether you’re on a quick layover, squeezing in a day trip, or just trying to maximize a tight travel schedule, I’ve got you covered.

This Valencia 1 day itinerary will take you from the local buzz of Mercado Central to the futuristic wonders of the City of Arts and Sciences. Plus, you’ll even fit in the city’s must-try dish and the perfect spots to chill out.

By the end of this guide, you’ll see why 1 day in Valencia is a great introduction to this city – including to hopefully get you ready for a longer visit in the future!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Where to Stay in Valencia for a Day

How to get around valencia in 1 day, valencia 1 day itinerary overview & free map, valencia in one day step-by-step itinerary, best one-day tours & experiences, extending your valencia trip, faq about visiting valencia, final thoughts on this valencia one day itinerary.

Before we get into the details of the itinerary, it’s key to find the most suitable accommodation considering the short time you’ll be staying in Valencia .

With only 24 hours, you should stay in the city center, that is to say in the districts of Ciutat Vella, Extramurs, or El Carmen . Here are some good recommendations that will allow you to easily follow this itinerary:

✅ Best Hotel – MYR Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa : This is a great hotel located in the old town, modern with large spotlessly clean rooms, all furniture, friendly staff, and a spa/hammam! Perfect for relaxing after a long day.

💰 Best Budget Hotel – Bet Apartments – City Suites Abastos : Located in the Extramurs neighborhood, this is the best value-for-money accommodation you could find. Everything is great here, tastefully decorated with all the equipment and amenities nearby.

✨ Best Luxury Hotel – MYR Palacio Vallier : This is a 5-star hotel like no other in El Carmen. All rooms are simply exceptional, and some units even have balconies with a view of the town. The staff is highly qualified and the breakfast is fabulous according to customers.

The last thing to clear up to make this Valencia in 1 day itinerary work is transportation. Several possibilities are available to you:

Public Transport in Valencia

Valencia has a good and easy-to-use public transport network with subways, trams, and buses. It’s also budget-friendly.

There are 5 metro lines and 4 tram lines running from 4 am to 11.30 pm on weekdays and from 5 am to 12.30 am on weekends. Frequency varies from line to line, but you can expect to wait around 10 minutes between each metro.

As for buses, they run from 6 am to 10 pm, and night buses operate from 10 pm to 2 am.

To use the public transport, you’ll need to get one of these:

• Valencia Tourist Card : With this card, you’ll be able to use all types of public transport as you wish, and enter +15 museums and monuments for free. So this is the best option if you plan to use public transport a lot and/or visit several attractions. For 24 hours, the card costs 15€. Book your Valencia Card here .
• Metro & Tram : €1,50 to €3,90 one way depending on the zone, valid for 30 minutes
• Bus : €1,50 one way, valid for an hour with unlimited transfers between buses

Other Transportation Options in Valencia

🚌 Hop-on Hop-off Bus : This bus covers 17 of Valencia’s best-known attractions every 15 or 30 minutes, allowing you to board and disembark as often as you wish. It’s a very efficient way to visit Valencia in one day if you don’t want to walk or if you’re interested in specific places only. The 24-hour ticket is €22, you can book your spot here .

🚲 Bike : Valencia is one of Spain’s best cities for cycling. It’s completely flat, with over 150 kilometers of bike paths. If you’re ready to bike, I recommend using Valenbisi bikes for easy access to bike stations (€13.30/week).

🚕 Taxi & Uber : This is the most expensive option, but you can consider it if you need a really fast option or for a night trip. Simply wave at a driver on the street or wait at a taxi station. Uber is available in Valencia, but not as common as regular taxis so you might have a long waiting time.

Here is my recommended itinerary for 24 hours in Valencia, which is doable at a steady yet reasonable pace. However, feel free to remove or add steps as you wish.

• 10.00 am – Shop at the Mercado Central

10.45 am – Enter La Lonja de la Seda

11.30 am – discover valencia cathedral, 12.15 pm – stop at horchateria santa catalina, 12.45 pm – take shots of the plaza redonda.

• 1 pm – Lunch
• 2.30 pm – Wander the Ciutat Vella

3.30 pm – Plaza de la Virgen

4 pm – step into basílica de la virgen.

• 4.20 pm – Have a break at Café de las Horas for Agua de Valencia

5.20 pm – Climb the Torres de Serranos

• 5.35 pm – Stroll around Turia Gardens

6.35 pm – Explore the City of Arts and Sciences

• 8 pm – Enjoy dinner and have fun in Russafa District

To get your Valencia one day itinerary map for free, simply click on the image below to open it in Google Maps . Then click on the “star” icon to save it to your own maps.

Now, keep scrolling to discover the best things to see in Valencia in one day in detail + insider tips👇

I recommend being at the first step of this route at 10 am at the latest so you can enjoy Valencia to the fullest.

I haven’t included breakfast, but I strongly recommend doing it as the day is going to be busy. Take your breakfast at 9-9.30 am depending on the travel time you have between your starting point and the first stop of the itinerary.

If you’re not much of a breakfast person, make sure to pack some snacks along to keep you going through the morning.

Enjoy your day!

10 am – Shop at the Mercado Central

Allow about 45 minutes

Starting your day at Mercado Central is a good move. It’s a bustling food market housed in a pretty impressive building, a mix of Gothic and modernist styles.

This is where you’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce (including oranges – one of the things that Valencia is most famous for !), meats, olive oil, and local cheeses. If you’re looking to try some authentic Valencian food, you can’t really get more authentic than this.

It’s a working market, frequented by locals doing their daily shopping, which gives it an authentic feel. And if you’re on the hunt for souvenirs, several vendors offer locally made products that can easily fit in your suitcase.

After you’ve had your fill at Mercado Central, take the short walk over to La Lonja de la Seda, also known as the Silk Exchange. If buildings could talk, this one would have stories to tell.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. You’ll find it’s an impressive example of late Valencian Gothic architecture, right from the intricate carvings to the towering pillars.

While the interior is worth exploring, don’t skip the courtyard. It’s an incredibly serene space, complete with fountains and orange trees, where you could sit and contemplate for a while…especially if, say, you grabbed a coffee back at the market!

Once you’re done soaking in the history at La Lonja, it’s a short stroll to Valencia Cathedral.

First things first, this isn’t your average cathedral. It’s like a little timeline of architectural styles: Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements all find a place here. It kind of reflects the city itself, a blend of old and new.

The cathedral is also famous for claiming to house the Holy Grail – yes, that Holy Grail. If you’re intrigued, it’s displayed in a chapel inside, and it’s quite an experience to stand in front of a relic with so much lore around it.

If you’re up for it, don’t miss climbing the Miguelete Tower. It’s a bit of a hike with its 207 steps, but the panoramic view of Valencia from the top is totally worth it.

Allow about 30 minutes

By this point, you’re probably feeling peckish but not quite ready for a full lunch. That’s the perfect time for a quick pit stop at Horchateria Santa Catalina .

Oliver Townend / CC BY-ND

Horchata is a traditional Valencian drink made from tiger nuts, and it’s not like anything you’ve had before. It’s creamy and refreshing with just enough sweetness.

As for fartons, they’re elongated pastries, fluffy and a bit sugary, specifically designed to be dunked into horchata. The combination is, quite simply, comfort in a cup and on a plate.

Horchateria Santa Catalina has been around for ages, so you know they’ve got this down to an art.

Allow about 15 minutes

As you leave Horchateria Santa Catalina, head over to Plaza Redonda just around the corner. It’s a circular plaza, hence the name, and it’s a lovely spot that feels a bit like a tucked-away secret.

You’ll find an array of shops around the plaza selling everything from textiles to ceramics. There’s also a small fountain in the center, around which you can find people sitting and taking in the atmosphere.

It’s a nice place for some light people-watching or even to just catch your breath.

1 pm – Indulge in Paella for Lunch

Allow 1.5 hours (Spaniards take their time with lunch!)

By now you’ve been on your feet, you’ve seen some sights, and you’re probably getting hungry for something more substantial. You’re in luck because you’re in the home of paella – in fact, in my opinion, it’s one of the things that makes Valencia worth visiting !

And get this, locals usually only eat paella for lunch. So, you’ll fit right in with the crowd.

You’ll find a good number of restaurants serving authentic paella in the Old Town. A couple of recommendations to consider are La Riua and Restaurante Navarro . Both places have a strong local following, which is always a good sign. And yes, it’s best to book a table in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist season.

When you get to the menu, you’ll likely find a few different types of paella. The traditional Valencian paella has chicken, rabbit, beans, and sometimes snails. Seafood paella is another popular option. Regardless of which one you pick, it usually takes a bit of time to cook – good paella isn’t rushed, after all.

To accompany your meal, you can’t go wrong with a glass of local Valencian wine. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, the servers can usually point you toward a regional wine that pairs nicely with your dish.

Take your time here, as this is a meal that won’t only fill you up but also give you a true taste of the city’s culinary tradition. And once you’re fuelled up, you’ll be ready to continue exploring!

2.30 pm – Wander the Ciutat Vella (Old Town)

Allow about 1 hour

Post-paella, you might feel like you could use a walk. The Ciutat Vella, or Old Town, is perfect for that.

What’s interesting about wandering here is that you’ll stumble upon some seriously cool street art. Valencia’s got a vibrant arts scene, and you can see it splashed across walls, shutters, and doorways.

Each piece gives you a tiny window into local culture and current issues. And don’t worry about getting lost; that’s sort of the point. The narrow, meandering streets are part of the charm.

As you wander, you’ll naturally end up at Plaza de la Virgen. It’s a spacious square that often serves as a gathering point for locals and tourists alike.

The Turia fountain in the center is quite the sight, depicting Neptune surrounded by eight women representing the various entry points into Valencia’s Turia River. Plus, you’ve got Valencia Cathedral on one end and the Basilica de la Virgen on the other, so it’s like a trifecta of historical landmarks in one spot.

People often sit around the square, sometimes there are musicians, and the general vibe is unhurried. It’s a nice place to take in the atmosphere and rest your legs.

Allow about 20 minutes

Since you’re already at the plaza, it makes sense to pop into the Basilica de la Virgen. It’s not as grand as the cathedral you visited earlier, but it’s got its own understated elegance.

The interior has intricate frescoes and the main attraction is the statue of the Virgen de los Desamparados, a revered figure in Valencia. Spend a few moments inside; it’s pretty tranquil.

4.20 pm – Have a Break at Café de las Horas for Agua de Valencia

Allow about 1 hour (as there’s often a queue)

To cap off this part of your afternoon, head over to Café de las Horas. This isn’t just any café; it’s got a whimsical, almost theatrical, vibe.

This makes it the perfect spot to try Agua de Valencia, which is basically a cocktail made of cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin. It’s as Valencia as it gets, both refreshing and packing a punch.

Agua de Valencia

And yes, it’s totally acceptable to have a cocktail in the afternoon when you’re on vacation!

Once you’ve got that Agua de Valencia coursing through your veins, make your way to Torres de Serranos. These are some of the best-preserved medieval city gates in all of Europe.

Built in the 14th century, they once served as both defensive structures and as a kind of grand entrance into the city. Today, they offer another excellent vantage point for views.

It’s not as many steps as the Miguelete Tower, but climbing to the top still gives you a sweeping look at the area you’ve been wandering through.

5.35 – Stroll around Turia Gardens

After coming down from the towers, it’s a good time to head over to Turia Gardens. This expansive green space used to be the Turia River, which was rerouted to prevent flooding.

Now it’s an incredible linear park that winds its way through the city. The gardens are filled with walking and biking paths, sports areas, and even playgrounds for kids.

It’s a popular spot for locals to jog, bike, or simply hang out, and it’s easy to see why. As you walk, you’ll notice that the gardens take on different characters – some areas are lush and botanical, others more manicured and open.

Allow 1 to 1.5 hours (especially if you choose to go into any of the buildings)

Your walk-through Turia Gardens will naturally lead you toward the City of Arts and Sciences, and you’ll know you’re getting close when the architecture starts to look like it’s straight out of a sci-fi movie. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, the complex is a spectacle of modern architecture and of Spain’s major landmarks .

It consists of several buildings, each with a unique function, from an opera house to a science museum to a planetarium. Even if you don’t go inside any of the buildings, just walking around the complex is fascinating.

The reflecting pools make for some great photos, and the entire place has this futuristic yet organic feel to it.

From 8 pm – Enjoy dinner and have fun in Russafa District

As the sun sets, you’ll want to head over to Russafa, a district that’s a melting pot of cultures and styles. This is where Valencia gets its hipster on.

The area is known for some seriously good vibes, complete with art galleries, indie shops, and a wide range of eateries and bars. It’s a great spot to experience Valencia’s nightlife and more modern, edgy side after a day of traditional sightseeing.

For dinner , check out Canalla Bistro if you’re up for some creative fusion dishes. They take traditional Spanish ingredients and give them a global twist. Think paella but with international flavors.

If you’re craving something a bit simpler, El Rodamón de Russafa is another good pick. It’s got a laid-back atmosphere but the food is anything but casual, featuring a mix of Mediterranean and international dishes. You can’t really go wrong with their tapas selection, either.

Before or after dinner , if you’re in the mood for drinks, there are plenty of options. Café Berlin is known for its cocktails and frequently hosts live music, creating a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for kicking back and soaking in the local culture.

Ubik Café is another spot that’s worth visiting, especially if you’re a book lover. By day, it’s a bookstore and café, but at night, it transforms into a chill spot where you can enjoy a drink, often with the backdrop of some live acoustic music or even a local art exhibit.

Russafa offers a change of pace, showcasing the city’s diversity in food, art, and nightlife. You get the full spectrum from traditional to modern, all in one jam-packed day.

Hope you got your answer to what to see in Valencia in one day through this itinerary. But wait before leaving, I have more tips & recommendations for you that might be helpful!

If you love guided tours and activities while exploring a new city, Valencia won’t let you down, as the city has tons of options. Here are my top recommendations, tailored perfectly for a one-day adventure in Valencia.

• 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus: This is by far the most efficient way to discover the city when you have limited time.
• Valencia Bike Tour : This 3-hour guided bike tour will get you to the best city’s sights, monuments, and attractions.
• Valencia: Tapas and Drinks Evening Tour : Indulge in Valencia’s most delicious dishes thanks to this 3-hour food tour.
• Valencia: Catamaran Cruise with Sunset Option : This 1.5-hour cruise is a great way to unwind after a long day of walking, offering great views of the city skyline.

Plaza del Ayuntamiento

If you’re lucky enough to have more than a day in Valencia, you can choose to explore the city in more depth or take a day trip. Here’s a quick list of things you can do in your extra time in Valencia:

• Have a fun day at the beach : Valencia has several beaches, the best ones being La Malvarrosa and El Saler beaches. If you’re there in spring or summer, you should definitely enjoy basking in the sun and bathing.
• Discover Picasso’s best works at the Fundación Museo Miro
• Enter Europe’s biggest aquarium : The Oceanogràfic is one of the most popular attractions in Valencia, and it’s easy to see why.
• Explore Albufeira Natural Park : Located to the south of Valencia, this park offers an impressive lagoon perfect for beautiful walks, boat tours, or wildlife watching.
• Go on a day trip to Xàtiva : Located about 1 hour west of Valencia, Xàtivia hosts exceptional monuments much worth visiting.

Albufera Natural Park

Is one day in Valencia enough?

Valencia is Spain’s third largest city and as such, it offers plenty of things to do and see. So one single day in Valencia is certainly not enough to experience it to the fullest. However, you can still have a good glimpse of the city and enjoy yourself in a day rather than skipping it altogether. It’s worth it!

If you extend your trip though, I’d say the perfect amount of time to visit Valencia is 2-3 days.

When is the best time to visit Valencia?

The best time to visit Valencia is May-June (spring to early summer) and September-October (end of summer to early fall). These months present the most ideal weather to enjoy all the activities Valencia has to offer with average morning temperatures ranging from 13 to 18°C (32-64.4°F), and average afternoon temperatures about 25-29°C (77-84.2°F). Also, it’s less crowded than in the high season, and prices are more affordable.

But in fact, Valencia is one of the rare destinations that can be visited all year round thanks to a very pleasant Mediterranean climate.

Is Valencia safe?

Well, Valencia is one of the safest cities in Spain. The safety rate when walking alone in the street is above 91%, which is very high compared to other major European cities.

It’s a city where you can feel safe at any time of the day or night. You can walk home alone from your evening out, phone in hand, headphones on, and still enjoy peace of mind.

La Lonja de la Seda facade

There you have it – a whirlwind day in Valencia that packs in a bit of everything this vibrant city has to offer. From the historic side of things of La Lonja and the Valencia Cathedral to the modern marvel that is the City of Arts and Sciences, you’ll get a full-on crash course in Valencia’s diverse character.

Toss in some local flavors like paella and horchata, and you’ve got yourself a day that’s not just a checklist of tourist spots, but a genuine slice of Valencian life.

What’s impressive about this Valencia itinerary is that it all fits neatly into one day without feeling rushed. It’s a great reminder that you don’t need a whole week to get under the skin of a place.

Instead, sometimes all it takes is a well-planned day to see why locals are so in love with their city – and maybe fall a bit in love with it yourself.

More to visit in Spain:

• One Day in Malaga
• One Day in Cordoba
• Seville Day Trip from Malaga
• Best Day Trips from Madrid
• Best Castles to Visit in Spain
• Famous Landmarks in Spain

And discover even more Spain travel guides here .

I hope you enjoy your Valencia trip; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below. Help a fellow traveler and share this guide using the buttons below! 🙂

About the Author:

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired , where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire visitors to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Now living in Valencia, Anna’s made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country – with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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I'm a professional photographer, with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. I worked with countless travel brands, and my travel advice has been featured in major publications such as CNN, Forbes & the New York Magazine. But the best travel advice is definitely found here on my website! I'm all about adventure travel, hiking and exploring the outdoors - even if I often find myself exploring cities with my wife Nesrine. If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out by email at: [email protected]

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2 Days in Valencia: A Fantastic Itinerary (From A Local)

Valencia is the birthplace of paella, the cradle of Las Fallas , and for many, the best city to live in , so sooner or later, you might feel tempted to visit. Whether you decide to spend the weekend or include it in a longer Spain itinerary, 2 days in Valencia is just enough to scratch the surface and leave you longing for more.

That’s not to say you should postpone your plans until you have more free days. Yes, 3 or 4 days will allow you to see, taste and experience more of Valencia, but 2 days is a wonderful start for a first-time visit.

In This Article

About this 2 days in Valencia itinerary

Day 1: morning – walk around the city center of valencia, day 1: lunch – try the menú del día, day 1: afternoon – visit some museums, day 1: dinner – have tapas at a gastro market, day 2: morning – explore el cabañal and relax at the beach, day 2: lunch – eat paella, day 2: afternoon – visit the city of arts and sciences, day 2: evening – end your 2 days in valencia with a flamenco show, is 2 days in valencia enough.

Valencia has a great number of attractions and that number is only growing bigger. As the city is awakening to its new reality as a tourist hotspot, new museums, parks, and restaurants are popping up throughout the city.

I’ve designed this 2 day Valencia itinerary with active travelers in mind. This means that by following my itinerary you will be walking quite a bit, but I’ve also included plenty of tasty breaks so you can experience Valencia’s thriving coffee and food scene.

As for where to stay in Valencia during your 2 day visit, I recommend the Old Town, hands down. This is the best area if you want to be close to pretty much everything except for the beach.

To see the best of Valencia in 2 days, simply follow this itinerary. If you think you might have even less than 2 days, check out my 1 day in Valencia post. And if you have more time, check out my 3 days in Valencia itinerary .

The downtown features the oldest part of the city and this is where I suggest you start your 48 hours in Valencia. This area is comprised of 6 neighborhoods, each slightly different than the next.

The Old Town is where you’ll find some of the oldest and most striking buildings but also some of the most cutting-edge restaurants and shops. The best way to explore this part of Valencia is on foot, be it by joining a walking tour or exploring on your own.

When it comes to tours, you have plenty of options, including free walking tours. The best part of exploring Valencia with a local is that they will help you put things into perspective and you’ll likely discover some hidden gems you might not find otherwise.

I recommend you check out the tours below before you make up your mind.

If you want to venture on your own, here are some of the must-see spots around the city center. Depending on where your hotel or Airbnb is located, I suggest you start with the one that’s closest to you.

The City Hall and the City Hall Square are Valencia’s km 0, the heart of the city and the place where many events take place. The Town Hall itself can be visited every morning during work days and the visit is free. I really recommend you pop in to see the magnificent Salón de Cristal (Crystal Hall).

Also in the City Hall Square, the old Correos building has recently been converted into an exhibition space. Its imposing glass ceiling is reason enough to visit.

A couple of minutes away, the Mordernista-style North Train Station (Estación del Norte) and the bullring are two other impressive buildings. While the bullring is still in use and you might not feel comfortable visiting it, architecture-wise, it’s still beautiful.

Up next, I’d suggest you head to the Central Market (Mercado Central). This is the largest fresh food market in Europe and one of several must visit markets in Valencia . The Modernista architecture and the vast array of local produce make it a cathedral of the senses.

The market is open every morning from Monday to Saturday. Although it officially closes at 3 p.m., I don’t recommend you leave it to the last minute. This is a great spot for a coffee break or a mid-morning snack.

Across from Mercado Central, the UNESCO-listed Lonja de la Seda is another building worthy of your admiration. While beautiful on the outside, it’s even more impressive on the inside.

If you like heavily ornate Baroque churches, then prepare to be spoiled for choice. Many of Valencia’s beautiful churches are located in the Old Town and you should definitely visit at least one.

Next to Mercado Central and La Lonja, the Church of Santos Juanes won’t take much of your time, but it will definitely leave a long-lasting impression (book here). Not far away, the San Nicolás Church , nicknamed the Valencian Sixtine Chapel, is perhaps the most beautiful church in the city (book here).

If you want to see what might just as well be the real Holy Grail , make sure you budget some time for visiting the Cathedral . And if you like panoramic views, climbing the 207 steps up the bell tower is well worth it.

Come lunch, I recommend you look for a restaurant serving menú del día . You won’t have a hard time finding one and you won’t regret it.

The popular menú del día is a meal deal offered by most restaurants in Valencia. It includes a three-course meal and usually a drink. Sometimes, coffee is included as well, but most often than not you’ll have to choose between coffee and dessert.

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in Valencia . Valencianos love ending their lunch with a cup of coffee. They also love spending a good couple of hours chatting over lunch. So ordering a menú del día in a bustling restaurant is not only a culinary but a cultural experience as well.

The Old Town has hundreds if not thousands of restaurants. Of course, this can sound overwhelming, but I can recommend you some of my favorite ones, such as La Diva and Volteretta.

In the afternoon, continue your itinerary with a visit to some of Valencia’s best museums . As the third largest city in Spain, Valencia certainly has its fair share of noteworthy museums. While none of them are of the caliber of El Prado or Reina Sofía in Madrid they are the next best thing.

A short walk away from the Old Town, the Museo de Bellas Artes , is the second most important fine arts museum in Spain, after El Prado.

To get there, you simply have to cross on the other side of Turia Park and you’ll suddenly find yourself surrounded by thousands of fantastic masterpieces, some dating as far back as the Middle Ages. The best part? Unlike El Prado, this museum is completely free.

Another museum you can (and honestly, should) visit, is the Almoina archeological center. This unusual museum is situated in the Old Town, right behind the cathedral, and here you can learn about Valencia’s Roman origins while walking down the two millennia-old Roman roads.

There are many more museums in Valencia, all pretty much niched down and dedicated to a well-curated collection, be it Semana Santa, tin soldiers or rice, or local personalities.

With only 2 days in Valencia, it’s unlikely you’ll manage to visit many museums. But if you want to visit a third one, I’d suggest you choose the Ceramics Museum .

Situated inside the stunning Rococo palace of Marquez de Dos Aguas, this is the largest museum of its kind in Spain. The displays are hundreds, some thousands of years old and there’s even a set of plates designed by Pablo Picasso.

The first floor of the palace hosts the Museum of Sumptuary Arts, with gorgeously decorated rooms that will not let you indifferent.

Not too long ago, I’d have recommended you to have dinner either in the beautiful Mercado de Colón or in the Canovas area. These days, however, I believe you should head to the newly opened Mercado de la Imprenta .

This absolutely astounding gastro market in the Arrancapins neighborhood is only a short walk away from the city center, in a part of Valencia that until recently didn’t have much going for it.

So whether you are visiting Valencia for the first time or you are a repeat visitor, Mercado de la Imprenta will surely surprise you.

Housed in an old printing house, this gastro market is a welcomed effort to decentralize leisure and tourism and redirect people to the neighborhoods.

Here, you can dine on tapas, pinsa, burgers, sushi, or bao buns and wash everything down with a glass of draft beer or wine.

Most food stands, however, serve local dishes, with the added advantage that you can mix and match the plates as you like. This is great if you want to have a full culinary immersion in a fun and informal setting, without the pressure of having to order a whole meal.

Just be aware that Mercado de la Imprenta is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

If you are visiting Valencia on the first 2 days of the week, you still have plenty of options. For example, you could dine in the above-mentioned Mercado de Colón, in the nearby Canovas area, or even in the bustling Ruzafa neighborhood.

On your second day in Valencia, I recommend you take the metro and head to the El Cabañal neighborhood. This neighborhood is completely different from the Old Town, and will surely surprise you.

El Cabañal started as a fishing village separate from Valencia. But roughly a century ago, it became fashionable for the Valencian middle class to purchase a second residence here.

The influx of money was followed by an influx of ideas, and the whitewashed huts were soon replaced by Modernista-style houses.

When hearing Modernista, Gaudí’s lavish houses might pop to mind, but in El Cabañal, this style was adapted to the budget and taste of the Valencian middle class as well as the local climate. As a result, many of the facades are covered in colorful tiles with Modernista motifs.

I recommend you take your time to stroll along the streets of El Cabañal. It can be blissfully quiet here, contrasting immensely with the bustling streets of the Old Town. Personally, I have a hard time accepting that I’m still in Valencia whenever I visit, and you’ll probably experience the same.

After exploring El Cabañal, head to the beach, be it for a stroll, a drink or to relax on the sand.

Note: If you are visiting Valencia in the heat of summer, you might want to head to the beach first thing in the morning and explore El Cabañal later, especially if sunbathing is up on your list. The Valencian sun can be quite strong, so I wouldn’t recommend sunbathing in the middle of the day, and definitely don’t recommend skipping on the sunscreen.

Valencia has not one, not two, but three urban beaches.

Playa del Cabañal (also called Playa de las Arenas) is situated right next to the marina and borders the neighborhood with the same name. Next to it, Playa de la Malvarrosa is the most popular of Valencia’s beaches .

If you are looking for a more quiet beach experience, you can head to Playa de la Patacona. This beach is a bit further away and can only be reached by bus. The journey to and from the city center takes some 45 minutes, so if you only want to spend a couple of hours on the beach, you’re better off stopping at either Playa del Cabañal or Playa de la Malvarrosa.

Valencia’s urban beaches have fine golden sand and wide stretches of sand. Due to this, they rarely feel crowded. Plus you can enjoy a series of fun activities, from beach ball to sailing. Check out some of these activities below.

As I mentioned in the beginning, Valencia is the birthplace of paella . Well, not the city of Valencia per se, but the nearby village of El Palmar a few kilometers south.

El Palmar is situated on the shores of Albufera Lake, one of the best day trips from Valencia . But since you are visiting Valencia in 2 days, going all the way to El Palmar to eat paella doesn’t make much sense. Especially since Valencia has some absolutely fantastic paella restaurants right on the beach.

Most of the restaurants lining the promenade serve delicious paella, so you can pretty much stop wherever you feel comfortable and find a table. They really know what they are doing, since many of them have been preparing paellas for decades, so you are in safe hands.

One thing to take into account though is that the paella is made to order. This means you’ll have to wait some 40 minutes give or take for your paella to be served. But if you order a starter, the wait won’t seem long at all and it’s definitely worth it.

Another thing is that paella is always prepared for an even number of people (see these interesting paella facts to learn why). Also, paella is a rice dish first and foremost, so don’t expect a lot of meat or vegetables.

The point that I’m trying to make is that in Valencia, paella might not be exactly what you’ve grown used to in other parts of the world or even Spain. But this is the original recipe and I believe anyone should try it to form their own opinion.

Personally, I love paella the way it is prepared in Valencia and I wouldn’t change a thing.

But I had family and friends come over and some of them were less impressed, mostly because they had tried paella before and were either hoping for paella with chorizo (that’s a British invention!) or seafood paella that has more seafood than rice. Paella is a rice dish and the original recipe doesn’t even have seafood!

That being said, and while I definitely recommend you try the paella Valenciana (the one with chicken and rabbit), there’s a myriad of other local rice dishes you can try. Many Valencian dishes use rice as the main ingredient, but if rice is not your thing, you can try fideuá, paella’s lesser-known, noodly cousin.

Whether you visit Valencia in a day or a month, the one attraction that cannot miss from your itinerary is the City of Arts and Sciences .

This futuristic complex will surely captivate your imagination and will make you want to explore every nook and cranny.

Comprised of six interesting-looking buildings, most of which were designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava, this place was used for filming various TV series and movies, including Westworld and Tomorrowland. In fact, they are filming a new Star Wars movie here, as I write!

Walking around and admiring the buildings is completely free, but if you want to see an opera performance, an IMAX movie, or visit the science museum or aquarium, you must purchase tickets, ideally in advance.

The City of Arts and Sciences is a fantastic spot for a romantic stroll but it’s also a great place to visit in Valencia with kids .

The Oceanogràfic is probably the most family-friendly attraction in the city, as it is home to an incredible array of fish species and even some birds. They also organize dolphin shows and shark sleepovers, so if you are traveling with kids, this place is a must-visit.

If you don’t want to visit any of the buildings, but would still like to learn more about the City of Arts and Sciences and its architectural defiances and challenges, a tour of the complex might be right up your alley. You can check out some of the available tours below.

What better way to end your Valencia in 2 days itinerary than with a flamenco show? While flamenco is originally from Andalucia, Valencia has quite a few tablaos (venues where flamenco is performed) and they are pretty top-notch.

So whether you’ve attended a flamenco show in Seville or another part of Spain before and especially if you haven’t, seeing a flamenco performance in Valencia is a wonderful way to end your 2 days in the city.

Flamenco shows in Valencia typically involve both singing and dancing. Expect a lot of foot stomping and hand clapping. Traditional flamenco instruments such as the guitar and cajón are also commonly used.

The costumes tend to be colorful and eye-catching, often adorned with sequins and embroidery. The female dancers typically wear long, flowing dresses with ruffles or frills, while the male dancers wear tight-fitting trousers and shirts.

In many places, the audience is encouraged to participate by clapping along with the music. So don’t be shy and join in the fun!

Many flamenco shows in Valencia are accompanied by a drink or even dinner. Check out some of the most popular ones below.

If flamenco isn’t your thing or there’s no flamenco performance during your visit (most flamenco shows are organized in the second half of the week), you might want to check out one of the jazz clubs in the Old Town.

Two days is just enough time to visit some of Valencia’s highlights such as the City of Arts and Sciences and the historic Old Town, as well as relax on the beach for a couple of hours and sample some delicious local food (the world-famous paella included).

However, keep in mind that Valencia has much more to offer, including vibrant nightlife , interesting museums, beautiful churches, and a thriving tapas scene . If you have specific interests or want to delve deeper into the city’s cultural and culinary offerings, you might want to consider extending your stay.

Whether 2 days in Valencia is enough or not for you, will greatly depend on your personal preferences and the time you have available. Two days might be enough to give you a taste of the city, but most likely it won’t be enough if you want to explore all the attractions.

My 2 day itinerary reflects how I would spend 2 days in Valencia if I were to visit for the first time. However, if two days is all you have, make sure to plan your itinerary wisely and prioritize the attractions that interest you the most.

If you’d like to swap any of the activities or attractions I included for something that better matches your interests, make sure you check out my list of top things to do in Valencia for more inspiration.

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2 Days in Valencia: Complete Valencia Itinerary

Planning to spend 2 days in Valencia and wondering what to do? I have prepared a complete Valencia itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Valencia is a popular tourist destination located on the southeastern coast of Spain . It is the place where tradition meets modernity and you don’t want to miss out. Valencia is not as busy as Madrid or Barcelona, so it can be a great place to visit in Spain during the peak season and a perfect weekend getaway.

In this article, we will discover the best things to do in Valencia, how to tick off your Valencia bucket list in 2 days, and other useful tips that you should know before visiting Valencia.

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Is Valencia worth visiting?

You are about to discover that this city has something to offer for any kind of traveler. It welcomes art addicts, history geeks, hungry foodies, beach lovers, and even digital nomads to settle down permanently.

Valencia is known as the birthplace of Paella, the home of futuristic architecture and persistent sun all year around. Besides that, Valencia is a perfect destination for nightlife, fun festivals, and quirky events. And it might be known for its modern designs, but you can surely find a lot of culture and history in the Old Town of Valencia. Also, Valencia has some great beaches nearby to enjoy the warm weather and freshen up on those hot summer days.

For example, here you can find the narrowest building in Europe and one of the largest aquariums in the world. Keep on reading to discover more about these top attractions in Valencia.

Are 2 days in Valencia enough?

Valencia is a popular weekend getaway and I suggest you plan at least 2 nights in Valencia. 2 full days will give you enough time to see the main attractions of Valencia, visit some cool museums, eat local food, and even discover hidden gems. You can also tick off most of the top things to do in Valencia in 2 days.

If you want to do some day trips and relax on the beach, I suggest you stay in Valencia for anywhere between 5-7 days. Trust me, you won’t get bored as there is always something fun to do in Valencia.

Where to stay in Valencia?

Choosing the right accommodation for your trip is essential. I suggest you stick to the central areas within walking distance away from the top attractions. Here is the list of the best hotels in Valencia for any budget. The choice is yours.

LUXURY: Palacio Vallier 5*

Conveniently situated in the Ciutat Vella (City Center) part of València, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. This 5-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the quality and joy of your stay. It doesn’t need an introduction.

Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this luxury hotel in Valencia.

BOUTIQUE: Hotel Puerta Serranos 4 sup

If you are looking for a unique hotel in Valencia, Hotel Puerta Serranos 4 sup should be your number one choice. This boutique hotel is one of a kind and offers a fantastic design for aesthetics. Some rooms have balconies and offer great city views.

Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this boutique hotel in Valencia.

MID-RANGE: YOURS boutique stay

YOURS boutique stay is one of the best-rated hotels in Valencia, yet it will not break your budget. It has an outdoor swimming pool, and a great variety of breakfasts, and some rooms have city views right from your balcony.

Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this mid-range hotel in Valencia.

AFFORDABLE: Hotel 19-30 Valencia

And if you need something affordable, Hotel 19-30 Valencia is a great price-value ratio. You can still benefit from the central location and keep it within the budget. Rooms are simple, well isolated, and have comfortable beds to offer you the rest that you need after a long day of exploring.

Click here to see rates & availability and book your stay in this affordable hotel in Valencia.

2 days in Valencia itinerary

Overview of day 1 of your 2 days in Valencia

• Morning : Plaça de la Verge, Basílica de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats, Valencia Cathedral, Hortchateria Santa Catalina, Plaza de Lope de Vega, Plaza Redonda.
• Lunch : Mercado Central.
• Afternoon : La Lonja de la Seda, Sant Nicolau de Bari i Sant Pere Màrtir, Bairro del Carmen.
• Dinner : La Riuá or Bienvenido a Bali.

RELATED : Valencia Bucket List: 20 Top Things to Do in Valencia

Plaça de la Verge 

Plaza de la Virgen is the oldest square in Valencia and it holds three very important attractions of the city – Valencia Cathedral, Basílica de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats, and Passatge d’Emili Aparicio Olmos. In the center of the square, you will find an astonishing fountain that represents the irrigation of the Turia River.

Considering how busy this square gets, it feels absolutely magical to see it almost empty early in the morning! So this is the perfect place to start your 2 days in Valencia and it is totally worth waking up early to start a day of exploration.

Basílica de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats

After having the square all for yourself, it’s time to continue your Valencia itinerary discovering the beauty of the Basílica de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats.

The real beauty is hidden inside the Basilica, so head inside and take a look at the ceiling. It took almost 200 years to build the Basilica, therefore, it has a unique blend of architectural styles including Baroque, Renaissance, Rococo, and Neoclassicism.

Don’t miss the basilica as it is one of the best things to do in Valencia for free. It is open every day from 7 am to 2 pm and from 4.30 pm to 9 pm.

Valencia Cathedral

After paying a visit to the basilica, walk to one of the top attractions in Valencia. The cathedral of Valencia is built in the Gothic style after the Reconquista and it was built over the ruins of a Visigoth cathedral converted to a mosque after the Arab invasion of Spain.

The locals will proudly tell you that there is Holy Chalice in the Cathedral of Valencia and that is something that you should see. Documentation and archaeological studies lead us to think that the Holy Grail of Valencia is the one used by Jesus in the last supper, so the mystery still surrounds the building.

Attached to the cathedral you will find the Micalet, a bell tower with a spiral case. It’s still open to visitors. I recommend you visit it, as it is one of the top things to see in Valencia and you will have a fantastic panoramic view of the city.

Hortchateria Santa Catalina

After diving into architecture and art, it’s time to take a break and find some fun things to do in Valencia. And that means eating delicious churros in a beautiful place!

For those of you who don’t know, the churro is fried-dough pastry and you will find it everywhere in Spain. It is usually accompanied by hot chocolate, but calories don’t count when traveling, right?

I already have told you about churros in my Madrid, Seville, and Cadiz articles, so I was on a mission to find the best churros in Valencia. Horchatería Santa Catalina is the most famous place and you don’t want to miss it during your trip to Valencia. It has been in business for more than 200 years, so the recipe is traditional and authentic.

The lovely design and ceramics inside make it one of the best cafes in Valencia and it is a perfect breakfast spot to fuel up for the rest of the day.

Plaza de Lope de Vega

Next, your Valencia itinerary takes you to Plaça de Lope de Vega where you will see two important attractions in the city.

The first is the Estrecha house which is the narrowest building in Europe and the second narrowest in the world. The legend says that the girl who used to live in this building often had to dress on the street because her Fandango dress simply was bigger than the door. It is 107cm wide, so you can imagine.

The other one is the Church of Santa Caterina with its famous bell tower, where you can have an astonishing view of the Plaza Redonda and the old city of Valencia.  It is open from 11 am until 1 pm, so make sure you plan accordingly. Unfortunately, I missed it, but from what I have seen – the view is worth the climb.

Plaza Redonda

Plaza Redonda is a must-visit during your 2 days in Valencia as it is the most famous spot in the city. It was built in 1840 in a circular square and in the middle of it, you will find a fountain with drinkable water. This is the perfect place to bring a piece of Valencia with you back home, so come here for some souvenir shopping.

This nice round square should be added to your Valencia itinerary for some cool photo opportunities., However, I have to say that this square looks the best from the top, and Torre de Santa Catalina as I mentioned in the previous paragraph.

RELATED : 130+ Best Spain Quotes and Spain Instagram Captions + Beautiful Sharable Photos

Mercado Central

Mercado Central is one of the most loved places in Valencia by locals and tourists. Here you can find all the best that Spanish gastronomy has to offer. From the typical tapas and sangria, to slow food paired with the best wines. There is something for every taste in the central market of Valencia.

La Lonja de la Seda

Just outside the market, find the Lonja de la Seda – another must-add to your Valencia bucket list. It has been called a World Heritage site, the land of silk and money, and the best example of late Gothic architecture in Europe.

It is a place where you should get a guide (or audio tour) because it is so full of history. Most of the silk coming into Europe was actually being transported through North Africa, so Valencia was in the perfect location to become the distributor to the rest of the continent. And this is the place where the trading was performed.

San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir

Located a few meters away from the Lonja de la Seda, find one of the hidden gems in Valencia Spain.  Recently renovated, San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir, known as the Spanish Sixtine chapel, is a gothic-style church decorated with baroque interiors. Some tourists miss it as it looks pretty ordinary from the outside, but once you step in, you will discover magnificent frescos and breathtaking decorations.

Bairro del Carmen

After discovering the paintings of, Sant Nicolau de Bari i Sant Pere Màrti, take a break and enjoy your weekend in Valencia walking the Bairro del Carmen. This is one of the most lively districts in the historical district of Valencia and there are some important attractions you shouldn’t miss here.

The most relevant is the Portal de Valldigna, which is an archway with a unique architecture built in 1440 as an entrance to the old Arab quarter. Another remarkable place you shouldn’t miss is the entrance to the Carmen district, the Torres de Serranos.

La Riuá or Bienvenido a Bali

La Riuá serves the best paella in Valencia. Typical Spanish restaurant that serves late dinner and requires a reservation at least one day in advance. And, they have a lot of options – original Paella, vegetarian dishes, and fish. Just don’t forget to book your table!

If you feel more in an exotic mood, try Voltereta, Bienvenido a Bali which is a unique restaurant in Valencia.

Overview of day 2 of your 2 days in Valencia

• Morning : City of Arts and Sciences.
• Lunch options : Restaurante Vertical or Alqueria del Pou.
• Afternoon : El Cabanyal, Jardins de Neptú.
• Dinner : Casa Montana.

City of Arts and Sciences

On your second day, your Valencia 2 days itinerary starts with the modern part of the city. Originally budgeted at €300 million, it has cost nearly three times the initial expected cost and it is one of the 12 Treasures of Spain.

You can easily spend an entire day at the City of Arts and Sciences. You can start your day visiting the Oceanogràfic, the biggest building of its kind in Europe, discover the Science Museum, and finally take your iconic photo of the city at the  Hemisfèric.  Makes sure you read these useful tips before visiting the City of Arts and Sciences .

Restaurante Vertical or Alqueria del Pou

If you feel in the mood for a fancy dinner while visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, check out Restaurante Vertical. If you are looking for a simple and affordable lunch, Alqueria del Pou is your place.

El Cabanyal

Located away from central Valencia, El Cabanyal is a residential area where you will not meet many tourists. Admire tiled facades, get to know old fisherman’s quarter, or grab a bike to get an authentic experience. A true hidden gem in Valencia and it has to be added to your Valencia 2-day itinerary.

Casa Montana

Within El Cabanyal you will find a famous local restaurant – Casa Montana. It is a charming tavern founded in 1836 offering refined tapas, tasting menus & a vast wine selection. This historical restaurant should be your number one choice if you are a seafood lover like I am.

Jardins de Neptú

After a long walk around El Cabanyal and an unforgettable meal, connect with your inner spirit at the best sunset spot ever – the Mediterranean beach. You get a bunch of palm trees, live music, and a lot of other great minds who came to enjoy the moment.

Looking for travel insurance for Spain?

Take advice from someone who travels full-time and get travel insurance. Unexpected situations can happen at any time, so having travel insurance will give you a piece of mind during these situations and won’t ruin your travel experience or break your wallet. Especially during these unpredictable times.

After long research, I decided to settle with Heymondo and I highly recommend that you check them as well. Heymondo offers:

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• Heymondo assistance app

Click here and get 5% off when purchasing your travel insurance. Please note that I joined the affiliate program only after I purchased it myself, so this is not paid content.

In conclusion…

This is the end of your 48 hours in Valencia and I hope this Valencia itinerary will help you plan your trip. Everything from where to stay and how to plan your time in this cool destination in Spain.

If you still have some doubts, make sure you check the Valencia travel guide .

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save this itinerary for 2 days in Valencia!

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This is the best itinerary for 2 days in Valencia! all the essentials are covered and it brings back so many cool memories! Valencia is such a cool city and I can’t wait to go back!

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A 5 day Travel Guide to Valencia

By: Author Monica

Categories Europe , Spain , USA

If you’re looking to plan a 5 day trip to Spain’s third-largest city then read on for my guide to Valencia. In today’s Valencia guide, you’ll find my full five-day itinerary and suggestions on places to eat, see and stay while you’re in the city.

If you saw Sunday’s post then you will already know that I fell head over heels in love for Valencia but for anyone planning to visit Valencia for a long weekend break, I thought I’d share what I got up to while I was there…

Day 1 in Valencia

I flew into Valencia from Manchester via Dusseldorf and I arrived with that fresh and excited optimism that comes with visiting a new city. I didn’t know what to expect at all, having read no guides to Valencia before arriving. I know some people would find this pretty terrifying but I love the excitement of an unknown city.

I was met by David from the tourism board at the airport. We took a quick stop at my hotel before heading for lunch at a very traditional restaurant, Palace Fesol . I was so happy to have David with me as this was the kind of restaurant I would have walked straight past if I were on my own. He gave me a brief guide to Valencia and told me a lot about their way of life and it was here that I began to pick up on their love for long lunches and great food.

So, after a long lunch I was free to start exploring the city. Of course, the moment David left me I became hopelessly lost. My battery had died on my phone so I couldn’t use Google Maps to figure out where I was and I’ve never been any good with paper maps.

Getting lost in an unknown city used to terrify me. I’d be following Google Maps so closely that I’d miss everything around me and I wouldn’t feel comfortable unless I knew exactly where I was.

But here I was strolling around Valencia feeling as lost as you can possibly get, and I didn’t even care. It got me thinking about how much I’ve changed since I started travel blogging. As this is my job, I often have to travel solo. I’m not a natural solo traveller and I always rather travel with someone else but I’m totally happy to travel alone. I’m now way more confident and comfortable being alone – even in a new city. I don’t think I would have believed it if I’d been told this a few years ago.

Anyway, I strolled through the city until I was too tired to stroll any more and then I jumped in a taxi to take me back to my hotel. I’d had a vague feeling I was getting closer to my hotel but I still had no idea how to find it.

I was staying at Caro Hotel , a beautiful hotel in the historical district of Valencia and just a couple of minutes walk from the main cathedral. Of course, I didn’t know this at the time and I had an embarrassingly short taxi journey where the meter didn’t even change from the initial €4.00.

I was meant to be going out for dinner but once I’d relaxed and had a shower the only place I wanted to go was bed. The 5am start to the day and that long walk had caught up with me and I slept like a baby for the first time in ages – probably the first time since George was born! I missed my little guy but in some ways it was nice to be away and be a normal, baby-free adult again.

Day 2 in Valencia

My second day in Valencia began with a cycling tour with Passion Bike . Bike tours are my favourite way to see a new city as you move fast enough to see a lot but no so quickly you can’t take it all in. If you’re looking for things to do in Valencia, I highly recommend one of the cycling tours.

My guide, Alexia, was bright, fun and very knowledgeable. She was Italian but after holidaying in Valencia with her family she knew it was the kind of city she wanted to live. She soon moved here with her boyfriend while she studies and works as a tour guide.

We began the tour in Plaza de la Virgen. This is essentially the historical heart of Valencia and any visitor to the city should start here.

We cycled through the park, which is one of my favourite things about Valencia. The 9km long park was once a river that ran through the city. The river flooded in 1957 so it was redirected to avoid it flooding the city again. The dry riverbed was then turned into a park that runs the length of the city. At one end you’ll find the zoo and a gorgeous lake. At the other is the Museum of Arts and Sciences. In between, there are 16 bridges, each with its own unique charm and design.

My favourites are the flower bridge, Puente de las Flores, with 27,000 flowers lining the walls. The flowers are replaced 3 times a year, making it the most expensive bridge of them all. The simple and modern white bridge is stunning and the old stone bridges reminded me of the history of the city.

I guess these bridges all represent Valencia. Sometimes it’s grand and historical. Sometimes it’s sleek and modern and sometimes it’s bright and playful.

The tour ended in the park with a coffee before I said a sad goodbye to Alexia. I wish she could have stayed with me all week. She gave me the confidence to negotiate the city by bike on my own. It’s a bike friendly city so this really is the best way to get around.

I had lunch at Lienzo Restaurant where I had ‘gastro tapas’. If you’re a real foodie then you’ll love it here but the quiet atmosphere and complicated dishes weren’t for me.

At around 5pm I headed up to the top of the bell tower in the cathedral. Alexia had given me the tip and said sunset is a great time to head up. There are 207 steps to reach the top so I was happy to get stuck behind an elderly lady who was taking things slowly. So slowly I wondered if we’d ever make it to the top before sunset. Thankfully, we did and the views were beautiful. The wind whipped a warm breeze as bells rang and echoed around Valencia.

Day 3 in Valencia

I spent most of Friday doing a paella cooking course at Escuela de Arroces y Paella Valenciana.

Valencia is the home of paella and I was learning how to make it properly, which felt like a fantastic thing to do in Valencia itself. The locals are very particular about their paella and getting it ‘just right’ is a national skill.

The course began at the Mercado de Colon where over 400 stalls sell fresh produce. It’s one of the biggest food markets in Europe and it’s a joy to wander around. We took it slowly, picking up everything we needed for our paella before returning to the restaurant.

I was taught how to make the perfect paella and I finally got to enjoy it at the end. It was a really fun course and I’d definitely recommend it if you’re travelling with a group of friends. It’s much more fun than just going out for lunch and you also get to try some tapas and plenty of wine.

When I emerged from the cookery school it had turned into a beautiful day so I spent some time taking photos and strolling around the city.

I stopped at Horchateria de Santa Catalina , a traditional café in the historical district. The beautiful, ceramic façade enticed me in and I ordered horchata and fartons . This is a very traditional snack and makes the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Horchata is made with ground tigernuts and tastes and looks like a very sweet milk. It’s served icy cold and usually enjoyed with fartons which is a pastry similar to a croissant sprinkled with icing sugar. Apparently, you’re meant to dip your farton in your horchata but soggy farton seemed pretty gross so I couldn’t do it.

Later that afternoon I headed to Ruzafa which is the trendy ‘hispter’ area of the city. They say it’s the Soho of Valencia but it’s more the Shoreditch of Valencia. This is where the cool kids hang out and I wanted a slice of the action. I had a fabulous guide called Carla who lives in the area and showed me all of the hotspots. We visited galleries and artist’s workshops, stylish boutiques, craft shops, cute cafes, trendy restaurants and, my absolute favourite, a cocktail and cake bar. Why aren’t cocktails and cakes a popular thing!?

I left Carla and did a spot of shopping (OK, a lot of shopping) before heading back to my hotel.

Day 4 in Valencia

I couldn’t believe how different Valencia felt on Saturday. I was used to having every tourist spot to myself and suddenly there were crowds of tourists gathered around tour guides and historical monuments.

On Saturday I messed up and missed a tour I was scheduled to be on. I was meant to be touring the Cabanal District which is said to be becoming the new hotspot in the city. But I read my itinerary wrong and missed it so I pretty much had a day to do my own thing.

I headed back to Passion Bikes where I rented a bike for the day and went straight to the park. It was such a beautiful day and I loved joining the other cyclists as we effortlessly breezed through the park. Cycling is such a joy when you have nice weather, nice surrounds, and a nice smooth path.

I cycled to the City of Arts and Sciences which absolutely took my breath away and should definitely feature in every guide to Valencia.

I finally tore myself away and cycled to the beach. I actually got ridiculously lost on my way to the beach and spent a lot of time cycling around residential apartments. Looking back, I have no idea how or why I got so lost – but at least it was good exercise and makes up for all those spin classes I’ve missed.

I cycled around the marina and saw the old Formula One Grand Prix track and the old stock buildings. I then cycled all the way along the beach. It was so nice to be out in the fresh air, weaving between palm trees and feeling the sunshine on my face. January is such a miserable month in most of Europe so I couldn’t have been happier to have escaped it.

I stopped for a few beers and burger at a nice restaurant overlooking the beach. It’s not very traditional, I know, but after so much cycling I really needed a beefy burger and chunky chips.

That evening I had dinner at Ma Khin Café within Mercado de Colon . It’s a healthy fusion food restaurant serving delicious, healthy Asian food. I had a 5 course tasting menu which was pretty epic.

Day 5 in Valencia

I visited Café de las Horas on Sunday morning. It’s a café with a dramatic and theatrical twist with grand décor and elaborate touches. I sipped my coffee and freshly squeezed juice while listening to American tourists chatting about their stay.

I left Valencia with a mixture of feelings on Sunday. It was the longest I’d ever been away from George and I missed him so badly – especially when he’d shouted Mama for the first time when I’d FaceTimed him. I couldn’t wait to get home to George and Sam and Louie but Valencia was a city I could have happily stayed in for a few more weeks. I was just getting to know the place, find my way around and discover my favourite places, I didn’t want to leave!

I would love to go back to Valencia, possibly in a few years when George is a little older. It’s such a family-friendly city and tiny travellers could have such a great time here.

I visited Valencia with The Travel Mob with the support of Valencia Tourism. 

If you enjoyed this post you can sign up to my weekly newsletter for more updates from Valencia.

Friday 12th of August 2016

Seems that you enjoyed my city a lot! Thanks for the nice words about it :)

TheTravelHack

Saturday 13th of August 2016

I loved it! You're so lucky to call it home :)

10 reasons why Valencia is perfect for a weekend escape

Thursday 4th of February 2016

[…] Read more: My 5-day travel journal from Valencia, Spain […]

Tuesday 26th of January 2016

Love your pics! And it looks like I need to hit up Valencia sooner than later -- beautiful!

Wednesday 27th of January 2016

Thanks Dane. You definitely do!

Friday 22nd of January 2016

My heart is beating a bit faster having seen these pictures and read about your trip - knowing I'm going there myself soon! I visited that Horchateria when I went to Valencia a few years ago and I still remember the beautiful ornate tiling to this day. I also remember thinking I'd stumbled on a really perfect city break destination and was almost glad not too many others knew about it, as I wanted to keep it all for myself!

I know what you mean, Valencia feels like one of those insider secrets that you kind of want to tell the world about but kind of want to keep all to yourself!

Cathy (MummyTravels)

This sounds so gorgeous. I'd love a long weekend with my daughter here - although there might be a bit less paella making and bike riding. I reckon I can manage a cocktail if she gets some cake though :)

It's SO kiddie friendly, she'd love it! Cake + cocktails = perfect mum and daughter date!

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Series: Holiday itineraries

Weekend in valencia: a complete itinerary.

• Rachel Dixon
• The Guardian , Saturday 16 November 2013

Valencia might just be the perfect weekend destination: historic centre; a unique arts and science complex; sandy beach; lots of green space; fantastic food; and a great climate. Spain's third city was established by the Romans, occupied by Muslims, and won for Aragon in 1238, when its influence grew until it was one of the most important Mediterranean cities of the 15th century. These days, it attracts nearly 2 million international visitors per year (about 80,000 from the UK). Many come for the extraordinary Las Fallas in March, a wild five-day fiesta in honour of San José, when hundreds of giant puppets are paraded and set on fire. But it is a party town all-year round – and if you miss Las Fallas, you can always visit the Museo Fallero to see the ninots (figurines) that have survived the flames.

Head out to bar-hop and eat tapas in the Ciutat Vella (old town). Calle de Caballeros is thronged with bars and restaurants , as are the streets and squares north, into Barrio del Carmen, and south, into the Centro Histórico. The city's La Tassa district is particularly well-served by tapas restaurants. One, La Taberna de Marisa ( latabernademarisa.com ), 1 , is known for its morcilla de Burgos – rounds of rice-heavy black pudding, crispy without, soft within – but its salted anchovies and croquetas are equally delicious. Try agua de Valencia at one of the bars on Plaza del Negrito: it is a more lethal version of buck's fizz (cava, orange juice, sugar and spirits), invented in the 1920s and still widely drunk. Restaurants stay open until at least midnight at the weekends and most bars until about 2am, but if you want to stay out later, try Radio City ( radiocityvalencia.es ), 2 , a club with flamenco nights and other events.

Spend the morning exploring the old town, where all the sights are within walking distance. Valencia has three main squares: Plaza de la Virgen, Plaza de la Reina and Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Start the day with a coffee at one of the outdoor tables in the atmospheric Plaza de la Virgen.

From here, head to the vast 13th-century cathedral ( catedraldevalencia.es ), 3 , a hotchpotch of Roman, gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture on the site of the old mosque. Inside, have a look at San Vincente's withered left arm, a relic that has terrified generations of Valencian schoolchildren; the "Holy Grail", a chalice dating to at least Christ's time; two Goya paintings, one of which depicts a fantastically horrifying exorcism; and the windows – they are made from fine alabaster, because Valencia's light is too dazzling for glass. Climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete tower for the best views of the city.

Next go to La Lonja de la Seda ( whc.unesco.org ), 4 , a gothic chamber of commerce built to impress visiting merchants in the 16th century and to symbolise the city's wealth and power. It is now a world heritage site and beautiful in its own right, but also fascinating as a secular building designed with the splendour usually reserved for religion.

On the other side of the Plaza del Mercado is the biggest fresh-produce market in Europe, built in the modernismo style (the Spanish variant of art nouveau). Mercado Central ( mercadocentralvalencia.es ), 5 , is still the place where most Valencians buy their groceries and is a great, light-filled place to wander around and haggle for ham. Stop at La Huertana, a little stand-up cafe inside the market, for the archetypical Valencian snack: horchata and fartons . Similar to churros con chocolate , this is a milky drink and a pastry, but the Valencian version is served cold. Horchata, made from tiger nuts, is creamy, slightly grainy and incredibly sweet. Fartons are light, finger-shaped buns, thickly dusted with sugar. Dangerously moreish.

While you're in the old town, squeeze in a quick visit to the National Ceramics Museum ( mnceramica.mcu.es ), 6 , housed in a rococo palace said to be Valencia's Versailles in (extreme) miniature. At the very least, take a look at its brilliantly over-the-top facade: the doorway is flanked by two muscular figures, with a statue of the virgin – who can be seen all over the city – above. Decorative ceramic tiles are also ubiquitous – to buy ceramic souvenirs, try Artesania Yuste (Plaça Miracle del Mocadoret), 7 .

Take a tram to the beach for lunch. Restaurants and bars line the seafront, but the quality is variable so get off the tram a couple of stops early (Grau is closest) and head to the old fishermen's quarter. Calle José Benlliure (and surrounding streets) is full of bars and tapas restaurants, including Casa Montana ( emilianobodega.com ), 8 , one of the oldest restaurants in Valencia. You can eat in the busy front bar, lined with wine barrels, or in the more spacious back room, but the best table is squeezed into a space between the two. You have to duck under the bar to get to it, next to the kitchen and the jamón-carving station. Don't miss the fat boquerónes fritas (fried anchovies), meaty brown broad beans stewed with chorizo, roasted piquillo peppers stuffed with béchamel and tuna, and, of course, the translucent slivers of jamón ibérico.

Follow a long lunch with a siesta on the beach (Las Arenas or Las Malvarrosa), a 10-minute walk away. Valencia has three kilometres of long, sandy beaches and more than 300 sunny days a year – it can be warm enough to swim and sunbathe into November. Have an early-evening pick-me-up at a bar on Paseo Neptuno, the palm tree-lined beach promenade. Valencians have embraced "gin tonic": Destino 56 ( destino56.es ), 9 , for example, has 15 craft gins and three premium tonics – measures are huge and served in a proper balloon glass with lots of ice.

Choose between upmarket or hip Valencia. L'Eixample is a wealthy district just south of the centre, with wide boulevards and grand art nouveau buildings. Its boutiques and delis include Espacio 1880 ( turron1880.com ), 10 , which specialises in all kinds of turrón, and Torreblanca ( torreblanca.net ), 11 , which made Prince Felipe's wedding cake. Mercado Colón ( mercadocolon.es ), 12 , a gorgeous example of modernismo, is now full of cafes and bars, though it still has a gourmet food market downstairs.

For dinner, the city has four Michelin-starred restaurants. One of them, Vertical ( restaurantevertical.com ), 13 , is on the ninth floor of a hotel east of L'Eixample, with incredible night-time views of the City of Arts and Sciences. (The entrance is quite confusing – go to Hotel Confortel Aqua 4 and take the lift.) There is no choice, only a daily changing, multi-course set menu. Dishes might include a ruffled egg yolk, beef with foie gras, and deconstructed fudge cake.

Alternatively, head further south to Ruzafa, which has overtaken Carmen as the city's hippest area. It is a working-class, ethnically diverse quarter that is being colonised by young creatives – Valencia's version of Brixton in London. It is full of vintage clothes shops (eg Kauf Vintage ), bike shops, and homeware stores such as Gnomo ( gnomo.eu ), 14 , which sells work by contemporary Valencian artist Paula Bonet and displays a mural by Vinz, Ruzafa's answer to Banksy. Espacio 40 (c/Puerto Rico), 15 , is an art gallery/wine shop run by a Valencian woman and her Chilean husband. The covered market (c/Padre Perera), 16 , gives a taste of pre-gentrified Ruzafa – its one bar caters to older locals. Younger drinkers head for three "bookshop bars" – Cosecha Roja , Slaughterhouse and Ubik Cafe , 17 – a Parisian theatre bar (Café Tocado), or "The Corner", a crossroads with a bar on each corner. Restaurants range from traditional tapas and bocadillos (El Rus) to oysters (De Claire), South American restaurants, and fusion (El Rodamón). It's a small district, so wander around and you won't go far wrong.

Most cities have riverbanks to stroll along; Valencia has a whole river. The Jardín del Túria is a unique, 9km-long swathe of greenery through the city. When the river Túria flooded – again – in 1957, it was diverted south. The former riverbed is now a landscaped parkland walk with trees, sculptures and water features, crisscrossed by 18 bridges – some designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava . The gardens connect the Bioparc in the west and the City of Arts and Sciences (CAC) in the east. The zoo ( bioparcvalencia.es ), 18 , is a modern, immersive animal park that recreates natural habitats, but in a weekend you'll probably only have time for CAC ( cac.es ), 19 . You can walk there along the gardens in about 45 minutes. The futuristic complex was mainly designed by Calatrava and includes an opera house, science museum and planetarium. Oceanogràfic is best: more than 45,000 specimens swimming around Europe's biggest aquarium. Look out for the spooky sandfish, awe-inspiring white whales and schools of leaping dolphins.

Stroll back towards town and stop for lunch at Les Graelles ( grupo-jbl.com ), 20 , a traditional restaurant with arched stone ceilings, dark-wood furniture and crisp white tablecloths. Paella was invented in Valencia and this is the place to try an authentic version – which, surprisingly, doesn't contain seafood and is only eaten at lunchtime. Saffron-flavoured rice is served with hunks of rabbit and chicken and a handful of snails, plus some vegetables – perhaps green and broad beans and artichokes. Everyone around the table digs in to the communal pan with their own wooden serving spoon, and washes it down with rioja. (Locals often head to L'Albufera, a nature reserve about 30km along the coast, for their Sunday paella lunch.)

From here, it's a short walk to the Museo de Bellas Artes ( museobellasartesvalencia.gva.es ), 21 , Spain's second-biggest art collection, housed in a beautiful 17th-century convent. It has paintings by Spanish greats such as Velázquez (including a masterful self-portrait), El Greco and Goya, plus Valencian artists Pinazo, Benlliure and Sorolla. If admiring modern works of art is more to your taste, IVAM (Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno, ivam.es ), 22 , was the first contemporary art gallery in Spain – you'll need to catch the Metro or take a cab, though, as the museum's back in El Carmen.

Paula Sancho Torregrosa, web editor

By the Flowers bridge , 23 , there is a statue of King Jaime I, where children can learn something of our history in a show about him until 24 November ( eltorneodelrey.com ). Gulliver Park , 24 , also in the river gardens, is a great play area. Canguro Verde ( facebook.com/canguroverde ) 25 , is a coffee shop in Ruzafa where kids are welcome.

Alejandro García Llinares, restaurant manager,

Semana Santa Marinera, maritime holy week, in El Cabanyal, the fishermen's area is an interesting experience. And El Mercado de la Tapinería ( mercadodetapineria.com ), 26 , is a concept market in a downtown square. El Jardín de Monforte , 27 , is a quiet and relaxing garden in the centre.

Carla Carrión Palanca, blogger

Few tourists go to Calle Alta and Calle Baja but these two streets in El Carmen (or El Carmé in Valencian), 28 , are popular with locals for their charming bars and shops. Jazz lovers might like to try the Jimmy Glass Bar (Calle Baja 28, jimmyglassjazz.net) . Or, if a bar crawl is what you're after, look no further than Calle Alta's drinking dens.

Where to stay

Accommodation was provided by Hotel Caro (doubles from €137, +34 963 059 000, carohotel.com ), 29 , a former palace, 200m from the cathedral, which opened in 2012 after seven years of refurbishment. It is one of the oldest buildings in Valencia, with astonishing Roman, Arabic and gothic remains on display alongside sleek, modern furnishings: lots of glossy black and moody lighting. You can eat breakfast – a spread of meats and cheese, bread and fruit, plus unlimited cava – next to the old city walls, or sink into a sunken bath under an ancient beamed ceiling. There are 26 rooms – the three in the attic are especially romantic.

Getting there EasyJet ( easyjet.com ) flies from Gatwick to Valencia; Ryanair ( ryanair.com ) flies from Stansted, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol and East Midlands

Getting around Valencia has an easy-to-use metro and bus system. Metro lines 3 and 5 take you from the airport to the city centre in about 20 minutes. The Valencia tourist card gives you unlimited travel on public transport, plus discounts at shops, restaurants and museums (€13.50 for 24 hours, €18.00 for 48 hours or €22.50 for 72 hours, valenciatouristcard.com ). Valencia is very flat, so cycling is a good way to explore: BEbike has five rental outlets around the city (€2 for 1 hour, €8 for 4 hours, €10 for 24 hours, bebike.es )

For further information on Valencia, go to visitvalencia.com

• This article was amended on 19 November 2013. We originally said that Valencia was "won back for Spain in 1238". This has been changed to "won for Aragon".

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2 Days in Valencia Itinerary for 2024

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: January 28, 2024

If you are planning to spend 2 days in Valencia this weekend itinerary will help you explore the best that this stunning Spanish city has to offer.

After spending over a month living here, exploring the history and museums, eating tons of tapas, and even checking out the local fútbol teams, I can say without a doubt that after spending 2 days in Valencia, you will be planning a return trip to explore more.

This Valencia itinerary will help you get a taste of the history, culture, and outdoor lifestyle that has made Valencia a haven for expats from around the world and is quickly becoming a Digital Nomad hub as well.

There is an abundance of things to do in Valencia . If you have more time, be sure to check out our 3-day Valencia itinerary or explore some of the surrounding area with our guide to the best day trips from Valencia .

How to Get to Valencia

Getting to Valencia is pretty easy thanks to the excellent trains in Spain as well as the nearby Valencia Airport .

Valencia Airport is connected to most major airports around Europe, however, if you are coming from the US or further afield, you may have to fly into Madrid Airport or Barcelona Airport first and then take a high-speed train to Valencia from there.

You can find all of the route options including planes, trains, and rental cars on 12Go . It will allow you to check timetables, find the cheapest prices, and book your travels directly.

Once you are in Valencia, you can use the excellent public transportation network to get around without a car.

Best Hotels in Valencia

With only two days in Valencia, you want to be in the center of all of the action. This means booking a place to stay around the El Carmen or Ciutat Vella neighborhoods.

However, if you are coming for a weekend to simply enjoy the beaches in Valencia, then you’ll want to book a place in El Cabanyal .

From here you can walk to all of the top attractions in Valencia and explore. Here are our top picks for every budget.

• Blanq Carmen Hotel : This beautiful hotel is located in one of my favorite neighborhoods in Valencia, El Carmen. It has a rooftop pool to as which turns into a stylish bar by night. The breakfast is fantastic and the rooms are stylish and comfortable. You are close enough to walk to the best local tapas bars or across the street for a stroll through Turia Park. Rooms start at €90 per night. Book a stay at Blanq Carmen Hotel here .
• Hotel San Lorenzo : Between the two neighborhoods of El Carmen and La Xerea, San Lorenzo is in a great location for exploring the different things to do during your two days in Valencia. At San Lorenzo, you get old-world vibes with upscale finishes and excellent service. Rooms start at €90 per night. Book a stay at Hotel San Lorenzo here .
• Home Youth Hostel : If you are looking for a budget place to stay where you can meet fellow backpackers to explore more of the city with, then Home Youth Hostel is a great destination for you. Beds start at €24 and the location is unbeatable. You step outside your door and walk straight out to the Central Market, the Lonja de la Seda, and tons of awesome restaurants. Book a stay at Home Youth Hostel here .

Explore all of the beautiful plazas during your 2 days in Valencia.

Day 1 of 2 Days in Valencia

Start your day right with a strong coffee at Cafe de Camilo. They roast their own beans that you can take home as a souvenir, or you can simply have a cafe con leche for under €2 and head out on your way to explore more.

While you’re in this vicinity, check out the skinniest building in Europe. At only 42 inches or 107 cm wide, the narrow La Estrecha as it’s known, was originally built as a family home with one room on each of its five floors. It is now part of the bar next door (which serves up a deliciously cold caña by night).

From here, wander through Plaza Redonda, a round plaza filled with restaurants that you’ll no doubt be noting down to return to later for lunch. El Leon Bar and Bistro is my personal favorite.

Valencia Cathedral and Old Town Exploring

The rest of your morning should be spent exploring the historical sites around the Ciutat Vella or Old Town of Valencia.

A place you don’t want to miss is the Valencia Cathedral, home of the supposed Holy Grail (the cup Jesus drank from during the Last Supper). You can explore the interior of the cathedral, but the best part (in my humble opinion) is climbing up to the top of the cathedral’s tower, El Micalet.

The only way to get to the top is to climb the tower’s 207 winding stone steps. From the top, you can see the entire city, all the way to the coast.

Once you’re done, wander through Plaza de la Reina, the open area in front of the cathedral. It will eventually lead you to one of the main streets in the Old Town, Sant Vicent Màrtir.

The street is packed with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and ice cream stands. It is always bustling with people, especially during the busy summer months.

After a few minutes of walking, you’ll find yourself in another of the city’s beautiful plazas, Plaça de l’Ajuntament or the City Hall Plaza.

The buildings around this area are breathtaking, including the City Hall building itself, which you can visit for free most days of the week. Head up the stairs once through security and walk out onto the balcony.

Explore the history of this beautiful city on your 2 days in Valencia itinerary.

Lunch at Central Market

If you would prefer to dine at a restaurant, head back to Plaza Redonda to the above-mentioned favorite El Leon Bar and Bistro. There are tables outside where you can enjoy a few drinks and plenty of delicious tapas.

However, I highly recommend spending at least some of your 2 days in Valencia inside the stunning Mercat Central, the city’s central market.

Like many beautiful cities in Spain , the central market is a meeting place, a hub for the community. This means that in addition to having tons of stalls selling seafood, meat, cheese, freshly baked bread, and tons of produce, there are also places to eat and drink.

Unlike any other city in Spain, the market in Valencia has a food stall that is run by a Michelin-starred chef.

Central Bar by Ricard Camarena, is an outpost of the chef’s main restaurant which currently holds two Michelin stars. While you may wait weeks to get a table at his restaurant, you only have to wait 15-20 minutes to get a table at Central Bar where you can sample some tapas versions of the chef’s top dishes as well as plenty of other delicious Spanish classics.

La Lonja de la Seda

One of the most majestic buildings in Valencia, visiting La Lonja during your 2 days in Valencia is an absolute must.

La Lonja de la Seda was once home to the silk exchange here in Valencia. Originally built between 1482 and 1533, the Gothic-style architecture is some of the best preserved in the country.

Entry is free on Sundays, so if you are visiting on a weekend, you may want to wait until then for your visit. Otherwise, it is only €2 to enter and it is well worth it. You can grab an audioguide which I highly recommend so that you can learn even more as you tour the interior of this historical site.

Wander the streets of Valencia to discover all of the incredible street art!

Sunset at the Beach

Even if you are not staying by the beach, no trip to Valencia is complete without a sunset with your toes in the sand.

You can easily catch the bus from the downtown area to one of the city’s three nearby beaches. If you plan to take the bus, be sure to download the EMTicket App. You can download it for Android here  or  Apple here . This allows you to buy up to 10 tickets at a time which will save you money on each ticket.

If you are only going to take the bus once or twice, you can pay with any contactless card or Apple Pay when you enter the bus.

If you are visiting during the summer, you’ll have plenty of daylight well into the evening. You can bring a blanket and relax on the sand, take a dip in the Mediterranean, and then head to one of the  chiringuitos or beach bars that sit right on the sand and have a few drinks while watching the sunset.

Even in the cooler months, evenings by the beach in Valencia are spectacular. Many people come down to have a few drinks or play beach volleyball with friends. There is always a convivial atmosphere.

Tapas at Casa Montaña

While you’re near the beach, you can end the night with tapas and drinks at the famous Casa Montaña.

Casa Montaña was founded in 1836, so in addition to being one of the most famous places to eat in Valencia, it’s also one of the oldest.

Sit amongst wine barrels while you dine on tons of different seafood options. The stuffed squid and fried sardines are two of my personal favorites.

The wine menu here is extensive, so wine lovers will be particularly happy to spend the evening sampling much of what they have to offer. If you are visiting on a weekend, especially during summer, be sure to book a table a day or two in advance .

The City of Arts and Sciences is a must visit on any Valencia itinerary.

Day 2 of 2 Days in Valencia

Your second day in Valencia can be a sort of choose-your-own-adventure. You spent most of day one seeing the main sites in the old town, so now it’s about exploring the things that are most important to you.

Do you prefer food tourism? In this case, don’t miss the chance to take a food tour around Valencia.

Perhaps you’d rather take a bike tour that includes stops at different major tourist sites around the city.

Or do you love museums? Dozens of different amazing museums around Valencia are worth exploring.

City of Arts and Sciences

One place that you don’t want to miss on your 2 days in Valencia itinerary is the City of Arts and Sciences. It is one of the most photographed places in all of Valencia. This stunning architectural marvel is packed with things to keep you busy for an entire day.

The construction of this area began in 1996 and the most recent building was completed in 2009. It is part of the beautification that the city is doing in the Turia Park area, a dried-up river bed that has been turned into a hub of outdoor excitement in Valencia.

Inside the different buildings at the City of Arts and Sciences, you’ll find an IMAX, a Planetarium, a theater, the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe, an interactive science museum, a botanical garden, and so much more.

The Central Market in Valencia is one of the best places to visit on your trip to the city, the food quality here is exceptional.

Museums to Explore

If you like exploring different museums, be it art, history, or culture, there is plenty to enjoy on your second day in Valencia. These are my absolute favorites.

• Art Modern Institute Museum of Valencia : Without a doubt, one of my favorite art museums in Spain. Modern and contemporary art lovers will not want to miss exploring the different exhibits at this wonderful museum.
• Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia : If you love places like the Prado in  Madrid  or the El Greco Museum in  Zaragoza , you’ll love this fine arts Museum.
• Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts : This is a museum for history and architecture lovers. Both the exterior and interior of this former palace will blow you away. On the ground floor of the museum, you’ll find old carriages used by the families who once lived here as well as some rotating art exhibits. Follow the marble staircase up to see how the other half lived. The rooms have been set up to demonstrate life for the 18th-century aristocrats who used to call this palace home.
• MuVIM : Known as Museu Valencià de la Il·lustració i de la Modernitat, this museum is small but interesting. On the lower floor, you’ll find the ruins of an old fortress. On the main floor, you’ll find a complete scale model of the city as it looked during the 18th century. Upstairs is a small exhibition hall and then outside in a second building you’ll find a larger exhibition area with fascinating temporary art exhibitions.

Tapas is an essential part of any trip to Spain and Valencia is no different. Be sure to try all of the best tapas spots around Valencia during your 2 days in the city! There are so many delectable local cheeses to sample!

Take a Tour of Valencia

If you want to get to know the city better during your two days in Valencia, consider taking a tour.

Whether you want to dine on the best paella in Valencia or get out to explore more of the history with a knowledgeable guide, these are our top picks for those who are visiting Valencia for the first time.

• Guided Bike Tour : Biking is one of the best ways to explore Valencia (except when it’s over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in August). This bike tour will take you all over the city to explore some of the most emblematic places around Valencia. It lasts for three hours, so you can take your time exploring with a very knowledgeable guide. Book that tour here .
• Catamaran Sunset Cruise : With only 2 days in Valencia, an evening tour is a great way to add an extra fun activity to your sightseeing while still being able to pack your daylight hours full of activities.  Seeing the sunset from the water and being able to look back over the Valencian coastline is a pretty special way to end your trip to the city. Book that tour here .
• Paella Making Class : Paella comes from Valencia, so this is the place to learn how to make it! Learn about the history of the dish as well as each step it takes to make this famous Spanish classic. It also doubles as a souvenir, a recipe you can take home and replicate with your friends. Book the paella cooking class here .
• Tapas Tour : Taking a food tour around local restaurants and bars is one of my favorite things to do when I travel and this is one of the best tours out there. Explore lesser-known spots with local guides who will share their knowledge about the local cuisine with you over a few glasses of cava and plenty of delicious food. Book a tapas tour here .

Dinner in Valencia

On your last night in Valencia, you will want to enjoy a meal to remember.

If your budget is tight, you’ll find tons of great tapas spots where you can share different plates with friends or family and eat very well for very little.

A few of my favorite spots in the city for tapas are:

• El Molinon : A great little Asturian cider bar with a handful few tables inside to create a very intimate environment.  The tapas here are some of the best in the city. Be sure to book a table if you want to come on a weekend.
• La Lateria : If you’ve been to Portugal, this style of bar may feel familiar. It is a tapas bar that focuses on tinned seafood (an incredibly popular thing here) as well as local cured meats and cheeses.
• Bodega La Rentaora : Great hot tapas, platters of cheeses and cured meats, and excellent service. They also have an extensive wine menu. Reservations are an absolute must in summer.

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Valencia itinerary 4 days — how to spend 4 days in valencia perfectly.

If you have been to Barcelona or Madrid, traveling to Valencia is also another place worth experiencing in Spain. Valencia is the third largest city located on the east coast of Spain, facing the Mediteranean Sea with a long history of over 2000 years old with many outstanding blending architectures from Roman to Medieval times and vibrant, diversity of cultures. In addition, I really love the long sandy beaches here. Because most of European beaches are rocky beaches, or coves with very steep sea cliffs and high mountains surrounding, of course it is also very beautiful, I just love places with long sandy beaches. So, what to do and where to go if you are planning a perfect and budget trip for 4 days in Valencia? Let’s check out our suggested Valencia itinerary 4 days in my recently field trip to Valencia, Spain to find out the answer! You can also based on this itinerary to make your own itinerary, such as cut the itinerary down to 3 days (Valencia itinerary 3 days) if your visit time is tight!

• Valencia travel blog — The fullest Valencia guide for first-timers
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Valencia itinerary: How to get to Valencia?

By plane: There are many cheap flights to Valencia. If you fly directly, you can choose some low-cost carriers such as Transavia or Vueling with flights from Paris or Amsterdam to Valencia. If you have to transit, you will usually transit in Madrid or Barcelona and then fly to Valencia later. So, visitors often visit these two largest cities first on their Spain journey before heading to other cities such as Seville or Valencia.

By train: If you traveling from other European cities, you will usually have to take the train to Barcelona or Madrid first and then continue to catch the train to Valencia. If you depart from Barcelona, ​​you can catch the Renfe high speed train from Barcelona Sants railway station, it takes about 3 hours and costs about 50 Euros. Regular trains are cheaper but will take longer. Spain has a very developed railway network, so you can take advantage of it. To know how to getting Valencia from European cities you can refer to OMIO.com .

See also: Traveling in Spain – Why do you fly while you can take a high speed train easily?!

By ferry: Spain has many famous and beautiful islands, if you depart from Ibiza or Mallorca islands, you can absolutely take a ferry to Valencia which is quite convenient because Valencia is also a port city. See ferry timetables here .

4 days in valencia: Where to stay?

There are many types of hotels and accommodations you can choose to stay in Valencia. You can go to Booking.com , Agoda.com to choose the best one. In general, room prices in Valencia are quite good compared to other cities in Europe.

If you have a good budget and want to stay at a resort with a beautiful sea view, you should definitely refer to the 5-star Las Arenas Balneario Resort with an “expensive” sea view and a blue infinity pool. There is also the Palacio Vallier , a 5-star hotel just 100 meters from the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, with a luxurious royal style that is worth experiencing.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Venecia Plaza Centro ( Booking.com ).
• Hotel Ilunion Aqua 4 ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Kramer ( Booking.com ).
• Hotel Melia Valencia ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Valencia itinerary: Valencia travel costs

The total cost for this trip is about EUR 650/person including air tickets (Ryanair airline: EUR 170/person), Las Arenas Balneario hotel cost (EUR 150/night/person), Valencia Tourist Card (the price I bought online is €22.5 and at the counter was €25, including train & bus tickets for 3 days in Valencia with entry discounts to access many tourist attractions), other entertainment and dining costs.

Here is my itinerary for 4 days in Valencia

Valencia itinerary: Day 1 – Valencia Sea

I just got off the plane at 3pm, so I went back to the hotel to resting, eating and then went to the beach. Here is the Paella dish, I would like to take the liberty to name it as a “super huge fried rice pan” with many options such as seafood, pork, chicken, vegetarian, … This is a very famous and must-try dish in Spain, so delectable.

Spain is famous for its fresh orange juice, which is more delicious, juicy than in any other country in Europe, but the Fanta soft drink here is also delicious, unlike the usual Fanta I’ve ever tried before, maybe thanks to its high quality of orange fruit here.

The beach is quite gentle slope, it was still bright until 10 pm (typical summer time in Europe especially in Mediteranean Region), so bathing was quite comfortable, not like swimming in Vietnam, at 6 pm, you have to leave beaches due to dark.

In the evening we walked around the beach and went to the port to play. There’s Marina Beach Club , it was playing music until 1am and Burger King right around the corner if you’re hungry in the middle of the night.

4 days in Valencia: Day 2 – Valencia Center

If you plan to visit the downtown of Valencia, remember to fully charge your camera to capture great photos of the churches, El Miguelete bell tower, Mercado central market in the old town… Wandering in alleys that look like narrow streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter with gentle cafes and restaurants intertwined. Or strolling along streets selling all kinds of items from phone cases, selfie sticks to scarves and souvenirs, very crowded, bustling and vibrant. If your foot are too tired, let drop by a seafood restaurant and order a plate full of seafood to regain your strength, I ate at a seafood restaurant here… It was quite delicious and the price is also reasonable.

We also went to visit La Lonja, a very old Gothic-style historic building built in 1942, also listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Right opposite it is the Central Market, advertised with fresh and authentic seafood which caught from the Mediterranean Sea. Personally, I didn’t see much difference, but I really like the atmosphere here, you should also try to come to experience local lifestyle.

In the center, there are many free admission museums, we chose to visit Center del Carme (Address: Carrer del Museu, 2, 4, 46003 Valencia, Spain/Hours: 11AM–9PM/Monday: Closed), actually calling it an exhibition in an old building is more proper. The display concept will be changed once in every few months, from art to satire, historical events.

In the evening, we visited a Korean restaurant called Dodo’s Mediterrasian Restauran to eat, we still like to eat Asian food, in fact, there are not much options, the bibimbap (Korean mixed rice with meat and vegetables) was quite delicious.

Especially, there is a super delicious Gelateria La Romana homemade ice cream shop. The staffs make ice cream in front of me, you can try various flavors if you want, I chose mango and yogurt flavors, it’s really better than the ice cream I’ve eaten in Italy.

Valencia itinerary: Day 3 – City of Arts and Sciences / Valencia Aquarium Oceanografic

Is an architectural complex located right next to each other, including an aquarium, theater, 3D cinema (note: only documentaries), science and technology museum, Turia dome gardens (Spain’s longest urban garden). The aquarium in Valencia is the largest one in Europe with all kinds of sea life, they are all adorable, but if you ask me their names, I could not answer, LOL. The garden and ground area are very large, you can walking for sightseeing or rent a vehicle to getting around.

The outside space is free to visit and comfortably explore, it’s also open until late at night, but if you want to go inside the building, you have to buy a ticket. But admiring from the outside is also very impressive with its futuristic architecture with the lake, spectacular design, a perfect spot to taking virtual photos. These descriptions are quite short, but it really took me almost a whole day to visiting, from 10am to 6pm, then we went back to the beach and have another meal to relieve cravings.

4 days in Valencia: Day 4 – Walking around the beach, testing COVID-19

It was quite unfortunate for us that going back to Germany still needs a test for people who haven’t had 2 doses of Covid-19 vaccines, so after having breakfast and walking around the beach, we had to go to Test Antigen at IMED Hospital, the test price was quite expensive at 50 Euros per person. At present, if you want to traveling to Spain, if you have not fully vaccinated, you will need to show a valid PCR test within 48 hours. There is no test room at Valencia’s airport, so you should remember to take advantage to test in advance in the city. It takes about 20 minutes from the city center to the airport, and another 20 minutes to the beach.

Public transport here is extremely convenient with S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses. You will not have to wait long. There are 3 flights/days on weekends or holidays, so you can rest assured and comfortable when traveling. Actually, I think this cost is more expensive than usual, because I couldn’t fly on another day with cheaper tickets, with Ryanair, you can definitely find tickets under EUR 100 for the round-trip to and from Valencia within Europe.

Valencia is a beautiful memory for me. This place is not so great in terms of its beach, but it is definitely a port city worth visiting in Europe.

Valencia blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Valencia you can refer to

• City of Arts and Sciences Tickets in Valencia
• Oceanogràfic Valencia Entrance Ticket
• Valencia Old Town Walking Tour With Tapas Experience
• Valencia Segway Tours
• Bike Tour in Valencia
• Valencia City of Arts and Sciences Tour with Rooftop Wine and Tapas
• Valencia: Catamaran Cruise with Swim Stop
• Valencia: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Sparkling Wine
• Valencia: 24 or 48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket
• Valencia: Sunset Catamaran Crusie with Cocktail
• Valencia: 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour
• Valencia: 24, 48, or 72-Hour Valencia Tourist Card
• Valencia: 48-Hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus & Oceanogràfic Ticket
• Valencia: Pub Crawl With Free Shots
• Valencia: Catamaran Cruise with Drink

Are you looking for more top things to do in Valencia: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Spain here .

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for Solo Travel Over 50

Best of Valencia 1 Day Itinerary Before Your Ibiza Ferry

Welcome to Valencia, Spain’s third-largest and vibrant city on the east coast full of history, arts and charm. If you’re in Valencia on a brief stopover from Madrid or awaiting your ferry to the Balearic Islands, take advantage of this 1 Day in Valencia Itinerary to explore historical landmarks, dive into local cuisine, and relax on one Valencia’s spectacular beaches for a memorable Mediterranean day in Valencia that will have you longing to revisit.

As you’ll notice from the tips throughout , this Valencia itinerary is intentionally written for the first time Valencia solo traveler and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been traveling solo FOREVER). Yet, anyone can use this travel itinerary and guide it to plan and book the perfect day in Valencia.

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All You Need to Book 1 Day in Valencia

Spain solo travel guide, valencia travel packing essentials, top tips for this valencia 1 day itinerary, 1 day in valencia itinerary, more spain solo travel ideas.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book this perfect day alone in Valencia, Spain.

I even give you my suggested Valencia hotel as a budget friendly and centrally-located stay in Valencia’s Cuitat Vella, an ideal location for one day in Valencia solo travel while awaiting your Valencia to Ibiza ferry.

I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your Valencia day itinerary and get the best Valencia travel deals.

Cheap Flights to Valencia

Valencia Train Tickets

Valencia Bus Tickets

Valencia to Balearic Islands Ferries

Best Valencia City Center Hotels

My Valencia Hotel Pick

Best Valencia City Center Hostels

If you need more Spain travel tips to supplement your Valencia solo travel planning, consult my ultimate Spain Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more to plan solo travel in Spain.

Book Your Flight to Valencia Early to Save Money

Trainline has cheap train and bus tickets.

Here some travel essentials ideal to making your solo travel in Spain easier, if not more eco-friendly.

More International Travel Tips

• 10 Must Know Planning Tips for First-Time International Travel
• 6 Tips on How to Avoid Airport Lines
• Five Easy Tips for the Novice International Traveler
• How to Travel Carry-On Only
• Why Learning a Language Improves International Travel

• This itinerary assumes staying in the vicinity of my suggested Valencia hotel in Valencia’s Cuitat Vella.
• This 1 day itinerary is best if arriving Valencia the night before or by 10am the day of arrival.
• Travel in the shoulder season for good weather and long daylight hours, less tourists, and lower costs.
• Most of this itinerary is covered by walking in Valencia, which is flat and consisting of concrete and cobblestones. Wear comfortable walking shoes .
• Additionally, there will be options for riding the Hop On Hop Off Bus , to see more of Valencia, and taking a sunset cruise .
• Dress in layers to allow for different outdoor activities and changes in weather if traveling Valencia in the shoulder or low seasons.

Reserve in Valencia City Center Early for the Best Deal

How to absorb as much of Valencia in 1 day? Here is how I spent an incredible day in Valencia with alternate options if they better suit your tastes. With such a limited time, always check entry admission times and days, and do all tour bookings, in advance.

Late Morning

Embark on a self-guided Cuitat Vella walking tour, taking in the beautiful architecture of Plaça de l’Ajuntament and seeing the historic La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia (Silk Exchange), Tribunal de las Aguas (Water Tribunal) and the Fallas – a combined UNESCO World Heritage Site , and Església de Sant Joan del Mercat .

• Optional: If you don’t feel like self-guided walking, you can choose a 2-hour World Heritage Site Walking Tour .

Take a break from site seeing for local cuisine. Grab a bite to go at Mercado Central de Valencia if you want to keep moving, or relax at an outdoor restaurant of your choice for a leisurely, late lunch.

Once rested, walk to the closest Hop On Hop Off Bus stop in Cuitat Vella for an open-rooftop ride to see more of Valencia while making your way to Valencia’s marina and expansive coastline.

Get off at the port stop for a short walk to the beach that stretches as far as the eye can see. Spend a few hours doing whatever you want: walk along the Passeig de Neptú, relax on the beach, or pop into the Marina Beach Club for a cocktail, music and incredible beach views.

The sun may be setting or you’re getting hungry again, leave the beach area to grab the last Hop On Hop Off Bus port pick up back to Ciutat Vella for a night of fresh paella and sangria at a restaurant of your choosing.

• Optional: If you wish to remain longer at the beach, consider taking a 1-hour sunset boat ride with cocktail from the Valencia Marina (Uber back if you miss the bus).
• Optional: If you want some company for dinner on your Valencia solo travel in Cuitat Vella, consider a paella cooking class with dinner , a 10-tasting food tour with a local , or a tapas and drinks tour .

Best Things to Do in Valencia in 1 Day

Start planning your valencia day budget, let me hear from you.

I would love to hear if this 1 day in Valencia solo travel guide and itinerary was helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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