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3 Days in Valencia: The Perfect Itinerary (+ Map)

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Valencia is a sunny Mediterranean city perfect for a long weekend break. If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Valencia , I’ve crafted a cool itinerary that will take you around the city, show you the most interesting bits and sit you at the table of some of the most delicious restaurants.

Valencia has long been an off-the-beaten-path destination. However, in recent years it became a cool place to be and a digital nomad hotspot. As the birthplace of paella and the cradle of the Las Fallas festival , Valencia is a wonderfully refreshing destination just perfect for a 3 day trip, whether you want to visit it during the week or you’re planning a fun Valencia weekend trip.

My 3 days in Valencia guide is designed for foodies and culture lovers. But history buffs and architecture enthusiasts will surely have a great time as well.

This itinerary is a mere suggestion for what to do in Valencia in 3 days . If any of the attractions I mention here don’t interest you, you can always check out my extensive list of things to do in Valencia as well as these Valencia hidden gems .

Also read: Where to Stay in Valencia: The Ultimate Neighbourhood Guide

How to spend 3 days in Valencia

I’m starting from the premises where you have limited time and want to see Valencia in 3 days. So I’ve only included the best of Valencia in this itinerary.

The reason why I haven’t made any breakfast suggestions is that everyone’s needs will be different. You might have breakfast included or want to take advantage of your Airbnb’s kitchen even if you’re only visiting Valencia for three days.

However, if you want to eat out and are looking for suggestions, I recommend you have a look at my list of the best breakfast and brunch spots in Valencia .

Also, if you’d like to learn more about the local customs, events, and cultural differences, and ultimately see Valencia through the eyes of a passionate local, a tour is the perfect introduction to Valencia.

Day 1: Explore the Old Town

The Old Town (Ciutat Vella) is my favorite part of the city so I’ll start this guide on what to see in Valencia in 3 days here. This is the heart of the city, with the largest concentration of museums and attractions. My suggestion is to spend the first out of your 3 days in Valencia walking around this area.

You can explore the Old Town on your own or you can join a tour and learn the interesting stories behind Valencia’s most famous landmarks. It really is up to you.

La Lonja de la Seda

Start your day with a visit to La Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange). Back in the 15th and 16th centuries, this was the most important silk trade center in the Mediterranean.

The grandeur of the building can already be appreciated from street level. But you should really go inside because the imposing Contract Hall is out of this world. Its huge twisted columns reminiscent of palm trees create one of the most impressive interiors in Valencia.

The smaller rooms have gorgeous ornate ceilings as well and they are guaranteed to leave you speechless. Plus, La Lonja has an inner patio with orange trees and a central fountain and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry is free with the Valencia tourist card.

If you want to know more about the historical legacy of the silk trade in Valencia and visit other silk-related attractions (including the Silk Museum) a guided tour is a must.

Mercado Central

Now cross the street to the bustling Central Market. This is Valencia’s most beloved and colorful market. It’s ideal for buying fresh produce from nearby vegetable gardens and orchards as well as fresh seafood, cured meats, aged cheeses, olive oils, and spices.

If grocery shopping doesn’t fit into your schedule, you can still have a freshly squeezed smoothie or a glass of horchata from one of the stalls. For a quick mid-morning snack, check out one of the many stalls selling baked goods.

After you’ve feasted your eyes on all the deliciousness around you, direct your gaze and point your camera towards the ceiling. This is one of the most stunning Art Nouveau buildings in Valencia. Take a moment to appreciate it in all its glory. It’s one of the most stunning buildings in Valencia.

Saint Nicholas Church

A few minutes away, on Calle Caballeros, you’ll find yourself in front of Iglesia de San Nicolas. While this is the most astonishing church in Valencia, the entry couldn’t be more nondescript.

You might be staring at the map on your phone in disbelief, and wonder if the little alley squeezed in between two residential buildings will really lead you to anything special. It will indeed!

The Saint Nicholas Church is often described as the Valencian Sistine Chapel due to its gorgeously painted ceiling and walls. In fact, it’s difficult to find a square inch that hasn’t been masterfully covered in colorful frescoes.

Take your time to admire the Baroque paintings that blend to perfection with the Gothic style of the church. The irregular ceiling is more than double that of the Sixtine Chapel in Rome!

Mid-morning break — Coffee with views of Plaza de la Virgen

Continue along Calle Caballeros all the way to Plaza de la Virgen. Here you’ll find a series of sunny terraces and arguably the best views in Valencia.

Right in front of you, the Basilica of Our Lady of The Forsaken (Basilica de la Virgen de Los Desamparados) stands out due to its unusual oval nave. What’s even more surprising in my opinion, is the bridge that connects it to the cathedral.

Have a look inside or have a coffee break on one of the terraces before exploring further.

Visit the Cathedral and climb the Miguelete

Next, take a quick walk around the cathedral to discover the three gates, each in a different architectural style. Then find your way to the main entrance as it’s the only one where you can gain access to the cathedral floor outside service hours.

If you are a fan of panoramic views, climbing the bell tower which the locals affectionately call El Miguelete is really worth it. You might discover that it’s an even more interesting experience than touring the cathedral itself!

Keep in mind, however, that there are 207 narrow steps all the way to the summit and they will give you a good workout for the day.

The cathedral is also famous for hosting the Holy Chalice (the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper). Depending on your interests, you might want to get a combined ticket or not.

Lunch — Take advantage of the ‘menu of the day’ deal

Time for lunch. You’ve earned it! The good news is that you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving menú del día (lunch deal) in the city center. These menus are usually priced between 10 and 15 EUR and they include a starter, main dish, dessert, and a drink.

The bad news is that most restaurants don’t serve lunch until 1:30 – 2 pm. Some more touristy ones might start serving lunch a bit earlier, but the food might be lacking.

You will find lots of good restaurants in the city center, way more than you’ll have the chance to try during 3 days in Valencia. One restaurant I personally like is Commo Fusion , a Mediterranean-Peruvian fusion restaurant in Calle de Pascual y Genís. Another one is Atmosphère , a restaurant serving delicious meals with a French twist, in Calle Quart.

Palace of the Marques de Dos Aguas

After lunch, head to the Palace of the Marques de Dos Aguas. This is the most beautiful palace in Valencia and though it’s oftentimes advertised as a ceramics museum due to the fact that it’s the most important museum of its kind in Spain, the first floor still preserves the fabulously decorated rooms of the old palace.

You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the out-of-this-world entrance. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen!

After you tour the palace, you can stroll along Calle Poeta Querol. Here you’ll find some big brands and the Lladró flagship store. If you don’t have time to visit the Lladró factory during your 3 days in Valencia, this shop is the next best thing.

However, if you do have more than 3 days in Valencia, my list of the best day trips from Valencia might come in handy, so make sure you check it out.

Mid-afternoon — Churros and chocolate at Chocolates Valor

Time for a mid-afternoon snack! If you have a sweet tooth and a predilection for churros, Chocolates Valor is the place for you. This is a Valencian institution that has been around for well over a century. Plus, they serve the best thick, hot chocolate in Valencia!

While the menu is quite extensive, I recommend the churros and chocolate deal. Their churros are a bit thicker, somewhat between classic Spanish churros and porras (a thicker version of churros and a typical Las Fallas food ). Many locals even prefer their churros over the traditional ones. Personally, I find them really delicious.

Wanna know more about churros? Check out these interesting churro facts .

Serranos and Quart Towers

These two massive towers are pretty much all that’s left of the old medieval city walls. They both can be climbed (free entry with the Valencia Tourist Card) so if you want to burn all those churros and chocolate calories, this is your chance.

The views from the top are pretty nice as well. Although not as high as the cathedral tower, it’s a different perspective.

Stroll around El Carmen for some shopping and graffiti spotting

Dedicate the rest of the afternoon to strolling around the El Carmen neighborhood. This is the oldest part of Valencia, yet it attracts a young and dynamic crowd.

You can browse independently owned boutiques, go graffiti hunting, or relax on a terrace. You can also do some souvenir shopping (see the best souvenirs to buy from Valencia and the shops that sell them).

El Carmen has many crumbling buildings. But for every decaying property, there are at least two others that have been given a second chance and are now cool restaurants, tapas bars, or jazz clubs. This makes El Carmen the ideal neighborhood to have dinner and/or go out for some typical Spanish drinks .

El Carmen is packed with architectural gems and shrouded in legend. I highly recommend you join a private walking tour that will take you on winding narrow streets and inside hidden courtyards so you don’t miss out on all the marvels this neighborhood harbors.

After-dinner drinks — agua de Valencia

You cannot visit Valencia without trying its most famous cocktail — agua de Valencia . While the name says agua (water), that’s highly misleading. In fact, this boozy beverage has absolutely no water in it (unless you count the water in the ice cubes).

Instead, Agua de Valencia is made with freshly squeezed orange juice and cava (local sparkling wine), plus a couple of other ingredients. The result is a sweet yet potent concoction, that is best enjoyed while relaxing on a terrace after a day of sightseeing.

I recommend you stop by either Café de las Horas or Café Infanta, both in El Carmen. They serve some of the best agua de Valencia in town.

Day 2: A walk in the park and a visit to the City of Arts and Sciences

For the second out of your 3 days in Valencia, I suggest you go for a relaxing walk in the park and visit the most interesting building complex in the city. Enjoying a relaxed morning could be quite nice, especially if you’re spending a long weekend in Valencia and also plan to recharge your batteries. In between all the sightseeing, don’t forget to try some typical Valencian food.

Browse some shops

Start the days with a walk along the streets of Eixample. This is the fanciest area in Valencia, with gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings and cute boutique shops.

I especially love walking along Calle Cirilo Amoros. This is a quiet tree-lined street where you can start your day on your own terms. After you’ve explored the nearby streets, stop for a mid-morning snack at Mercado de Colon.

If you’d like to spend more time browsing Valencia’s boutiques and retail stores, check out my Valencia shopping guide .

Mid-morning snack — Horchata and fartons at Mercado de Colon

This absolutely gorgeous Art Nouveau market named after Christopher Columbus (Columbus is Colon in Spanish) is one of the best places to relax in Valencia. Although it used to be a proper food market in a different life, in recent years it got completely refurbished to the delight of the locals who now love to hang out here.

If you’re lucky, you might find an artisanal market inside. Local artists and makers often exhibit their creations here, from handmade jewelry to quirky clothing.

If you’re hungry and would like something sweet, stop by Suc de Lluna or Orxata to have some horchata and fartons . This is a drink made from chufa (tigernut) tubercles and it hardly gets any more local than this. Valencianos love to treat themselves to a glass of horchata and fartons , especially in the afternoon, but I think we can make an exception here.

Explore the old Turia riverbed, now a lush park

If you’ve been missing your workout routine, a walk through Turia Park, one of Valencia’s most beautiful gardens, will give you the opportunity to catch up.

These 8 km long gardens divide Valencia into two halves and are the result of the diversion of the Turia River to the outskirts of the city.

If you walk along Calle Cirilo Amoros, you’ll find yourself right in front of Puente de la Mar (the Sea Bridge). This is one of the most interesting of the 19 bridges that used to cross the Turia River.

Only a few meters to the left, you’ll find Puente de las Flores (Flower Bridge), one of the most Instagrammable places in Valencia. After taking all the selfies you want, turn right and walk through the park all the way to the City of Arts and Sciences. Or you can rent a segway and explore the park in the opposite direction first. Then find your way to the City of Arts and Sciences.

Lunch: Aqua Commercial Centre

As you’ll notice, the Turia gardens change their landscape every few hundred meters. You’ll pass by Palacio de la Musica (Valencia’s old concert hall) and Gulliver Park (an unusual playground).

If you’re hungry already, once you’ve reached the end of the park, I recommend crossing the street to Aqua Commercial Centre. Another alternative is the El Saler Commercial Center, but I think Aqua is nicer. So this is the place I recommend if you’d like to stop and freshen up with a drink or have lunch.

This commercial center has plenty of restaurants to choose from, plus a dozen shops you can browse. For a quick and unpretentious lunch, you can stop by Cerveceria 100 Montaditos. As their name says, they serve 100 different kinds of pinchos (small snacks served on top of bread).

Oceanographic visit

After lunch, cross Puente de la Presa del Oro to the Oceanographic. This is the biggest aquarium in Europe and one place you should visit in Valencia regardless of your age.

While part of Santiago Calatrava’s City of Arts and Sciences complex, the Oceanographic was designed by the architect Félix Candela. It’s home to 45,000 animals and it’s a wonderful opportunity to see sharks, penguins, and beluga whales.

I especially like to watch the adorable dolphins (they organize several shows each day).

You’ll need at least two hours to see the whole place, however, you can easily spend the whole day here. Depending on your degree of obsession with sea creatures, you might want to budget more than just a couple of hours for your visit.

City of Arts and Sciences + food tour

The City of Arts and Sciences is a reason for pilgrimage for many architecture students and enthusiasts. Plus this is the attraction that marked the beginning of Valencia’s renaissance as a tourist destination.

Apart from the aquarium mentioned earlier, the complex also has a science museum, an opera house, a sports arena, a 3D cinema, and a covered green area. Whether you decide to visit any of these attractions or not, walking around the blue pools of water is pretty relaxing and fun and one of the most epic experiences in Spain .

After a walk around the City of Arts and Sciences, the tour ends with a tapas tasting on one of the highest rooftop terraces in Valencia. This is a wonderful opportunity to try Spanish cuisine at its best and have dinner at the same time.

Day 3: Relax on the beach, then explore Ruzafa

We’ve already covered a lot in this 3-day Valencia itinerary. For the last day, I suggest you spend some time on the beach (weather permitting) before you return back to the city center to discover another one of Valencia’s gentrified neighborhoods. This will conclude your three days in Valencia itinerary.

If you’ve followed my suggested itinerary so far, the first two days of your trip to Valencia were pretty intense. On the third day, I thought it would be nice for you to relax on the beach.

Valencia has a 5 km long promenade and several urban beaches. Depending on the time of the year you visit, you might feel like sunbathing or going for a walk. Either way, the sea breeze, and the sand are super inviting and will help you relax.

During the warm months of the year, you’ll find a street market along Playa de Cabanyal (once you pass Hotel Las Arenas). There you can buy all kinds of trinkets and last-minute items that you might have forgotten to pack such as beach towels and swimsuits.

Lunch — Try the world-famous paella

If you haven’t tried paella yet, you are in the right place to do so. The restaurants along the beach are some of the best for trying this famous dish.

Here you’ll find authentic paella Valenciana (the one with chicken, rabbit, and beans), paella mixta (with meat and seafood), as well as other local rice dishes.

I recommend you try the traditional version if you can. And keep in mind that authentic paella is always prepared for a minimum of two people. To understand the difference between an average paella and an exceptional one, read these paella facts .

For foodies, I wrote a whole post about what makes paella authentic and the best restaurants that serve it. So make sure you read where to eat the best paella in Valencia before you sit at the table in a random restaurant.

Discover Ruzafa

After lunch, you could take the metro back to the city center or spend a few more hours on the beach. It’s up to you, but it would be a pity to miss a stroll through Ruzafa.

This is the most hipster neighborhood in Valencia right now (although some might argue that Cabanyal, by the sea, is even more so).

In recent years, this area of Valencia has gone through a fascinating process of gentrification. Today you’ll be met with a vibrant and young atmosphere.

This is the perfect place to go out in the late afternoon or evening due to the wealth of terraces and bars. Ruzafa is also great for shopping, as it has plenty of unique shops to explore.

Mid-afternoon snack — Cake at La Mas Bonita or Dulce de Leche

For your mid-afternoon snack (you’re in Spain after all!) you could head to Dulce de Leche Boutique (Calle de Pintor Gisbert) or to La Mas Bonita (Calle de Cadiz).

Both places are fantastic for coffee and cake and I could never have enough of their delicious creations. I honestly believe you can’t go wrong regardless of what you order!

While you might enter analysis paralysis due to the great number of colorful options, I recommend you go for what you know works best for you. If you’re a chocolate fan, order something chocolaty. If now, order something else.

Flamenco show with dinner

As your 3 days in Valencia are coming to an end, it’s time to finish with a bang. I always love to end a trip with a memorable show, and in Valencia, it doesn’t get any better than a live flamenco performance at La Buleria.

This restaurant is an authentic tablao flamenco with an Andalusian atmosphere. Besides the show, dinner is also included. As you can expect, they serve local and Mediterranean dishes, which is another great chance for you to try something new.

La Buleria is located in the Montolivet neighborhood, between Ruzafa and the City of Arts and Sciences, so you might need to return by taxi. But taxis in Valencia are really inexpensive, so this shouldn’t deter you.

Is the Valencia tourist card worth it?

For your 3 days in Valencia, it might make sense for you to buy the Valencia tourist card. The card is valid for 24, 48, and 72 hours and is really inexpensive (€15, €20, and €25 respectively). If you want to see the best in Valencia in 3 days, this card can help.

The Valencia tourist card includes:

• free or discounted entry to museums
• free public urban transport (including bus, tram, metro, and airport transfers)
• 2 tapas + drinks
• discounts (i.e. 15% off at Café de las Horas, 10% off at Mon Orxata stalls, etc.)
• money off local tours and activities (i.e. bike rental shops, catamaran cruises, etc.)

As is the case with any such passes, the Valencia tourist card is worth it if you use it. While many of the museums I’ve included in this 3 day Valencia itinerary are quite inexpensive and you can easily explore the old town on foot, the City of Arts and Sciences and the beach are far enough for you to need to take a bus or metro.

On top of that, the shop and activity discounts can add up fast, so you might end up saving quite a bit of money when using the card. If you decide to buy the card, I recommend you do so online, in advance, to take advantage of the free transport from the airport to the city center.

Where to stay in Valencia for 3 days

If you’re visiting Valencia for 3 days only, I recommend you book accommodation either in the Old Town or in Ruzafa. This way you’ll be close to pretty much all the attractions I mentioned above.

• Palacio de Rojas : A charming hotel located in a refurbished 19th-century palace right in the heart of the El Carmen neighborhood. Each apartment has a kitchenette. This hotel comes highly recommended for its super comfy beds.
• Vincci Mercat : Offering a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool and enchanting views of the old city, this hotel is centrally located close to the Central Market and the City Hall.
• Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa : Situated right in front of the Central Market, this hotel has ample rooms with a fully equipped kitchen that comes in handy if you want to prepare your own meals with fresh ingredients from the market.

3 days in Valencia itinerary map

Here’s a map of all the places mentioned in this 3 day Valencia itinerary. You can click on the little arrow to see the index or click on any of the locations to see which place it is. Each of the 3 days is highlighted in a different color.

Final thoughts on spending 3 days in Valencia

I bet that when you set to visit Valencia in 3 days you didn’t think it was possible to see so much in so little time. Yet, Valencia is a pretty compact city and easily navigable too.

Of course, there are plenty of other museums and attractions that you can visit, but the ones I covered in this Valencia itinerary are arguably the most important and fun.

If you want to know more about this Mediterranean city, check out my compilation of Valencia facts .

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Spain’s Coastal Gem: A Perfect 3 Day Valencia Itinerary (+ Map)

Plan the ultimate trip with this wonderful 3 day Valencia itinerary. Discover the best things to do in the city, plus everything you need to know before you go.

Nestled along Spain’s sun-drenched eastern coast, this vibrant city is a treasure trove of contrasts. Here, old meets new and labyrinthine streets wind between bustling food markets and crumbling plazas.

Whether you’re wandering through the historic centre, marvelling at the avant-garde architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, or escaping to the nearby Chulilla, Valencia promises an adventure that will ignite your wanderlust.

Explore This Itinerary

• Day 1 – City of Arts and Sciences
• Day 2 – Historic Centre of Valencia
• Day 3 – La Malvarrosa and Marina of Valencia

Valencia Itinerary: Extend Your Trip

Map – valencia itinerary.

• How to Get Around Valencia

Where to Stay in Valencia

• Valencia Trip Costs

Best Time to Visit Valencia

3 day valencia itinerary, day 1: city of arts and sciences, turia gardens, russafa.

Kick off your first day in Valencia by heading to the City of Arts and Sciences, AKA an architectural wonderland and museum hub. You could easily spend an entire trip here visiting the different museums and galleries (and taking photos), but we suggest you pick one or two. 

While pricey, the Oceanogràfic is one of the best things to do in Valencia and a must-visit if you love aquariums. Likewise, make sure you head up to L’Umbracle and step inside the leafy enclosed garden. 

We also recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy in the Turia Gardens that surrounds the City of Arts and Sciences – you’ll spot people lounging, playing football, and maybe even flexing their aerial rope skills.

Nearby is Russafa, a trendy neighbourhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and Moorish architecture. Head here in the late afternoon to admire the colourful buildings and stop by a cool bar for a drink – La Catrina Café y Rock and Ubik Cafe are two popular options.

Read Next: The Best Things to do in Valencia

Day 2: Historic Centre of Valencia

The second day of your Valencia itinerary is jam-packed with history. Pay a visit to the stunning La Lonja/Silk Exchange in the morning (free to enter on Sundays) and spend some time snapping photos of the soaring Gothic columns inside. 

Around the corner, the Central Market is a popular place to grab a bite to eat in the morning – choose between fresh fruit, jamon sandwiches, olives, and more. It’s common to grab lots of smaller snacks here and wander through the market as you chow down.

Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, head towards the Plaza de la Reina to see the magnificent Valencia Cathedral. This area is buzzing with tourists and locals at all times of day, and you’ll often see street performers here. 

Make sure to swing by Plaza de la Virgen behind the cathedral. Plus, Horchateria Santa Catalina around the corner is the best place to try a Valencian specialty: fartons dunked into a cup of milky nectar. Delicious.

Day 3: La Malvarrosa Beach, Marina of Valencia

Day three sees you enjoy Valencia at a slower pace. It’s time to make the most of the city’s beautiful beaches by heading to La Malverossa. You could also head to Cabanyal Beach but we think it’s worth the extra 10 minute walk to a nicer stretch of sand.

Once you’ve had your fill of beach bumming, head south towards the Marina of Valencia. This is one of the most peaceful places in the city and, if you’re a Formula 1 fan, you can take a stroll around the old racetrack and spot the remnants of the pit lane. Afterwards, head back into the centre of Valencia to grab some dinner – we love Begin Marine .

Day 4: Day Trip to Chulilla

We really hope you have an extra day in Valencia, as visiting the Hanging Bridges of Chulilla is one of our top recommendations. The hike along the scenic Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes, towards the pair of suspension bridges crossing over the deep canyon, is worth the visit alone.

Chulilla itself has plenty to offer, including the ruins of a castle, the Charco Azul (a postcard-worthy blue pool), and an adorable little town. We rented a car from Valencia Airport and it took us around an hour to get there.

Read Next: Visiting the Hanging Bridges of Chulilla

Day 5: Port Saplaya or Albufera Natural Park, Colon Market 

For day five of your Valencia itinerary, you’ve got a couple of options. You can head up to Port Saplaya and wander around an adorable seaside town that looks like it has been plucked straight out of Italy. Or you can go south to Albufera Natural Park, which offers hiking trails, beautiful views, and wildlife in abundance.

End your day by visiting another of Valencia’s top foodie spots, Colon Market. This beautifully-restored building is home to a selection of gourmet spots – why not finish your trip with a special dinner?

How to Get Around Valencia 

The public transport options in Valencia are excellent. The metro, trams, and buses are fast and reliable, connecting the airport to the city and running from around 5:30 am to midnight. You can purchase tickets at metro/bus stations or opt for the Valencia Tourist Card, which gives you unlimited access for 24, 48, or 72 hours.

Cycling is also popular – there are cycle lanes everywhere in the city. Just make sure you brush up on the rules of the road as we found the locals had very little patience with tourists.

Because Valencia is so well connected, there are a handful of areas we recommend you to stay in. Eixample or Ciutat Vella (Old Town) are popular as they are both central and near the main attractions. We recently stayed in L’Amistat and loved how laidback it was, plus we had plenty of stellar cafes and restaurants on our doorstep.

Check out available hotels in Valencia ➜

Book a hostel for your trip to Valencia ➜

Stay in an amazing Airbnb in Valencia ➜

Valencia Trip Costs 

Transportation.

Valencia’s public transportation is relatively inexpensive. Bus and metro tickets start at  €1.50 for travel within Zone 1. We recommend purchasing a 10-journey metro ticket if you’re going to be travelling multiple times throughout your trip. The price of this starts at €8.50 depending on which zones you will be passing through.

If you are going to be relying on Uber (or Cabify/Freenow) to travel between the city and the airport, expect to pay around €25 for one way. Within the city, it’s often easier to travel by bicycle than car – these are cheap to rent and will set you back around €5 per day.

Accommodation

If you’re planning to travel to Valencia in the peak summer season, hotel prices are on the expensive side. That said, middle of the range hotels in Valencia start at around €80 per night, while hostel dorms can be found for as little as €18 . 

If you’re looking to visit Valencia on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, we suggest booking a private dorm at a hostel. In our experience, Airbnbs can often be cheaper than hotels, though you might need to compromise on location.

If you’re travelling from the UK or the USA, you’ll find that food is a similar price in Spain. There are restaurants and cafes to suit all budgets, from cheap takeout to high end spots, and everything in between.

If you want to save some cash, head to a Carrefour or Mercadona for bread, meat. cheese, and snacks. Hitting up the City of Arts and Sciences for a mid-afternoon picnic is one of our favourite things to do in Valencia.

Entrance Tickets

We love that there are so many cheap things to do in Valencia. It’s free to amble through the City of Arts and Sciences and Turia Gardens, though you’ll need to pay to get inside the Hemisfèric or the Oceanogràfic. You’ll also need to pay a small fee (usually between €1-3) to enter the majority of historic buildings, including Valencia Cathedral and the Silk Exchange. 

Mobile Data

Looking for WiFi in Spain? We love using Airalo’s e-sims as they are easy to install on your phone and work out very cost effective. You can choose between a Spain-only, Europe, or Global e-sim and top up as you go.

With its toasty Mediterranean climate, Valencia boasts pleasant weather year-round. We recommend visiting in the shoulder months of May, June, September, and October for warm weather sans heaving crowds.

We visited in May and, while it was certainly a little bit chilly in the evenings, the days were between 12°C (54°F) to 23°C (73°F).

Discover more of

The Best Things to do in Valencia for Adventure Lovers

Visiting the Hanging Bridges of Chulilla

Disclaimer: Some of our articles contain affiliate links to products, hotels, and tours we love. When you purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting us! 😊

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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!

Related Posts:

9 Best Areas to Stay in Madrid For Tourists

The Perfect Madrid to Segovia Day Trip

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Marbella Itinerary

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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14 Must-Know Valencia Travel Tips for First Time Visitors

I’m all about helping you make the most of each trip, so I thought a post dedicated solely to essential Valencia travel tips would be handy.

After sharing the best free things to do in Valencia and some hidden gems you should check out, I figured that the logistics and other tips I’ve learned from personal experience are equally as important.

So let’s dive into all the things you should know before planning a trip to the beautiful city of Valencia.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Trip Planning Tips for Visiting Valencia

How to get to valencia.

Both international and national flights arrive daily at Valencia’s airport, which is located only 10 km (about 6.2 miles) from the city center. You can also get to Valencia by train from Barcelona or Madrid.

Compare train and flight prices in one place on Omio (formerly GoEuro).

Where to Stay

The old district of Ciutat Vella is probably the best area to stay in Valencia ( unless you’re visiting during the Fallas festival when most of the city is closed for both private vehicles and buses – see my accommodation recommendations on my Fallas post ).

You’ll be at the center of all the action, surrounded by the most beautiful streets, historical landmarks, and countless restaurants and bars.

Here are a few highly-rated accommodations in Ciutat Vella :

Budget – Pensión Alicante : This guesthouse offers budget-friendly single, double, and triple rooms with either a shared or a private bathroom. Read reviews and book it here.

Mid-Range – L’Esplai Valencia : Located a stone’s throw away from Plaza de la Reina, this b&b offers spacious double and triple rooms with a small balcony. The area is packed with cafes and restaurants, and the hotel has a score of 9+ in every category. Read reviews and check availability.

Mid-Range – Sorolla Centro : This 3-star hotel is centrally located near Valencia’s train station and City Hall Square, and it offers spacious rooms for up to 3 people, some with a private terrace. The front desk is available 24/7, and you can also enjoy a highly-rated breakfast. Browse the latest prices here.

Luxury – Hotel Helen Berger : This 4-star hotel offers big modern rooms, 24/7 reception, an on-site restaurant, and optional breakfast. Check its latest prices and availability.

You can also find great places to stay in the hipster neighborhood of Ruzafa or the coastal neighborhood of Poblats Marítims .

Take Day Trips

I absolutely LOVE taking day trips outside the big city. Though Valencia itself is incredibly gorgeous and interesting, there are tons of places around it that are also worth the visit. Here are a few day trips from Valencia you can add to your itinerary:

1. Village of El Palmar and the Albufera National Park

If you’re looking for the best paella in Valencia , you should also visit the exact place where this iconic rice dish was born. The Albufera is Spain’s biggest lake, offering an interesting mix of natural landscapes and Valencian countryside magic. You can visit it on your own by bus (line 24 or 25) or book a half-day tour .

2. Port Saplaya

This colorful little coastal town is located only 8 km (less than 5 miles) away from Valencia and is easily reached by bus (line 112).

3. MORELLA & PEÑÍSCOLA

To step back in time, head to these two enchanting towns and their medieval castles. To visit them, book a guided day tour .

4. Other Ideas

If you’re a wine lover, you can also book a full-day wine tour of Valencia’s countryside . To sail down the longest underground river in Europe, book this highly-rated half-day caves tour .

If you’re traveling in a car, you can visit places like Torrevieja Pink Lake (Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja) or Tortosa .

Lastly, you can use Omio (formerly GoEuro) to compare bus and train prices and book a ticket from Valencia to beautiful nearby places like the city of Alicante or the historic towns of Sagunto , Xativa, and Denia .

When to Visit

As a coastal city sitting on the Mediterranean, Valencia offers pleasant weather from spring to fall.

While July and August are obviously the busiest months, March is when you can attend the most amazing festival called Las Fallas . Welcoming spring in Europe , this celebration is an experience of a lifetime. For more info, read my Fallas festival guide.

Valencia is also one of the best places to visit in Spain in winter . You can absorb some Christmas spirit yet enjoy much milder temperatures than other European winter cities have to offer.

How to Get Around

Valencia’s public transport system includes both Metro and buses, and you’re gonna need both to explore the city.

To get around Ciutat Vella (the old district and the most touristic part of Valencia), you can either walk or use buses. Surprisingly, the Metro is only convenient when you want to move between different neighborhoods of the city.

Another option to consider is a bike rental. With about ten different rental companies, it’s a super popular way to get around the city.

How to Get From the Airport

Apart from taxis, there are two easy ways to get to the city. Metro lines 3 and 5, and  bus number 150  (consult all stops  here ) go directly from the airport to the city center, and the journey should take about 30-45 minutes.

You Can Enjoy It on a Low Budget

I wouldn’t call Spain a budget-friendly destination, but there are plenty of places to visit in Spain that are suitable for all budget ranges, and Valencia is one of them.

From cheap eats and tapas bars to accommodations to attractions, you can enjoy the best of Valencia even if you’re on a tight budget. This city offers dozens of cheap and free things to do and see , including visiting some of its most famous landmarks.

You can also check out these free tours offered in Valencia:

• Free tour of Valencia
• Free street art tour
• Free mysteries and legends night tour

Valencia Tourist Card – Yes or No?

In comparison to other European city cards, the Valencia Tourist Card is pretty budget-friendly.

It offers unlimited use of public transportation and countless discounts you can check out here . However, whether it’s going to save you money depends on what exactly you want to do and see.

If you only have one day in the city and you won’t visit that many paid museums and sites, though the card isn’t expensive, I’m not sure it’ll be worth the investment.

For a longer stay, I’d consider purchasing it because it can potentially save you money, but again, it all depends on how many and which tourist spots you’re planning to visit ( many can already be visited for free but be sure to check out the full list of discounts ).

Read reviews and get your 24/48/72-hour Valencia Tourist Card here.

Learn Some Basic Spanish (And Valencian)

Like other places in Spain, the region of Valencia also has its own language called  Valenciano , which sounds similar to Catalan.

The locals also speak Spanish, but English is a whole other story. Most people speak very little English or not at all, so it’s better to know some basic phrases .

Go to a Football Game

Football is a huge part of the Spanish culture, and attending a game is a must.

The atmosphere and energy in the stadium, as well as the love of the fans for their team, are unbelievable. You don’t have to be a fan to enjoy and appreciate this experience.

Tickets are available on  Valencia CF’s official website , and you should purchase yours a few weeks in advance, if possible.

Food Related Valencia Travel Tips

Where to eat paella.

Paella, oh, paella. What’s better than getting the opportunity to feast on Spain’s most recognizable rice dish where it was actually born?

Now, I’m not saying there aren’t any tourist traps, but when you know where to find those traditional restaurants, you’re in for a major treat.

Here are a few of my most favorite spots to devour some authentic paella:

La Pepica (Passeig de Neptú, 6):  Opened in 1898 and beloved by Ernest Hemingway, this restaurant is one hell of an institution in Valencia. It is quite big, but still manages to feel homely and inviting, and the paella is delicious.

El Coso (Passeig de Neptú, 12):  From the decor to the service to the food itself, I had such a positive experience here. I would definitely go back for one more bite!

La Riua (Carrer del Mar, 27): With a unique decor of ceramic tiles and plates surrounding you and the most amazing food, the traditional atmosphere in this restaurant will surely win you over.

Good to know:  The paella is usually made for a minimum of 2 people, and the prices stated on the menus are for one person.

Here are several other recommendations for the best paella in Valencia.

Don’t Pay for Hotel Breakfast in Advance

Apart from the fact that a hotel breakfast in Spain is not always worth the money, Valencia is packed with the sweetest bakeries and cafes.

A few to check out are Ubik Cafe, La Petite Brioche, and Dulce de Leche, but you can find dozens of other great breakfast and brunch spots.

Other Valencia Tips

Don’t worry too much about the siesta.

In a big city like Valencia, not everything closes during siesta time.

You can go sightseeing in Valencia and visit museums from morning to evening, and most tapas bars and restaurants are open during these hours (1 PM – 4 PM) since it is when the locals eat their lunch.

It’s a Safe City

In general, Valencia is considered a very safe city (one of the safest in Spain) and can be a great solo travel destination.

Nevertheless, I always recommend following basic rules like watching your belongings and avoiding walking alone at night, just like you would in other cities.

Read more about Spain:

• Spain travel tips
• Spain’s hidden gems
• Spain travel quotes
• Best road trips in Spain
• Novels about Spain
• Spain themed gifts
• Monuments in Spain
• Long weekend breaks in Spain

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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!

Visiting Valencia: The Complete Travel Guide

I have written many articles about visiting Valencia. From things to do in Valencia to where to stay, the best restaurants, and much more.

Valencia has been my home for a few years now and I love sharing tips to make your trip to Valencia the best it can be.

So, to make it easier for you, this is an overview of all the articles I have written about visiting Valencia.

Whether you’ve already started planning your trip or are just wondering if Valencia is worth visiting, I hope these articles will answer all your questions.

Visiting Valencia: Everything You Need to Know for a Perfect Trip

1. the best things to do in valencia.

When you’re planning to visit Valencia, you probably want to know what the highlights of the city are . 

And maybe a few hidden gems too.

In this article I give you a very practical list of things to do in Valencia. From sights to see to what to eat.

Valencia really is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. And, even better, many of the things I list to see and do are free!

READ THE ARTICLE

2. Things to Do With Kids in Valencia

Are you visiting Valencia with kids?

Then you’ll be happy to hear that there actually is a lot to do in the city to keep your kids entertained .

From museums focusing on kids to one of the most unique playgrounds you’ve ever seen…

3. Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Valencia

Valencia has changed a lot in recent years and has become a lot more eco-friendly. So much so that it was named the  European Green Capital of 2024 .

In this article I share a wide range of activities, places to visit, restaurants to try, etc., all with a more sustainable focus.

READ THE ARTICLE  

4. Where to Stay in Valencia: the Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Valencia isn’t the biggest city you will ever visit, but it’s definitely big enough to have very distinct neighborhoods with different vibes and different pros and cons .

What the best place to stay is for you depends on your preferences.

In this article I share the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in, depending on what you want to see and do in the city.

5. How to Use the Metro & Save Money

Figuring out public transport when visiting a new city can be a pain.

Valencia only has a few metro lines so figuring out which one to take isn’t too difficult. Deciding which ticket to get gets a little more complicated though, especially if you don’t want to pay more than you have to.

In this article I explain how to use the metro when visiting Valencia, and specifically how to use the TuiN and SUMA cards , which can make using the metro cheaper and more convenient.

6. The Best Tapas Restaurants in Valencia

You can’t come to Spain without trying some tapas, right?

Valencia has a wide range of tapas places and some are definitely better than others.

If you’re visiting Valencia for the first time you’ll quickly end up in the touristy bars and restaurants that often charge too much for low quality, inauthentic food.

Therefore I wrote this article to help you find the better tapas bars around the city .

7. The Best Rooftop Bars in Valencia

It might just be me, but I love going to rooftop bars when exploring a new city.

It’s both a nice break from sightseeing and a great way to get a view of the city .

Valencia has a number of nice rooftop bars and I have been to all of them many times.

In this article I list all of the rooftop bars and their pros and cons.

8. The Best Paella Restaurants in Valencia

Did you know that Valencia is the birthplace of paella ?

So when you visit Valencia you definitely have to try some paella!

But the same as with tapas restaurants, many tourists visiting Valencia end up at restaurants that serve low quality paella and cater just to tourists.

Spoiler alert: most of the best paella restaurants are not in the city center or close to any of the must-visit sights.

So, you might have to factor in some extra time to get to these restaurants, but if you like authentic experiences I promise it’s worth it!

9. Taking a Paella Cooking Class in Valencia

Looking for something special to do when you visit Valencia?

Then I can highly recommend taking a paella cooking class !

It takes you to the local market to buy fresh ingredients and teaches you everything there is to know about this traditional dish.

Note: apart from the traditional paella you can also choose to cook a vegetarian or a seafood paella.

10. The Best Restaurants for Authentic Chinese Food in Valencia

Ok, tapas and paella are great, but after a few days of that, you might want to try something else.

And, Valencia has its own Chinatown with some great restaurants that are well worth checking out!

11. Camping Around Valencia

Although there are no campgrounds in the city itself, there are actually great options to go camping in the area.

Camping is very popular along the Spanish coast, especially as a summer vacation.

But not all campgrounds offer the same quality and facilities, which is why I wrote this article.

The article includes information about where to camp, rules & regulations, and a list of recommended campgrounds.

12. The Best Day Trips From Valencia

I’d say a complete Valencia travel guide should include some information about the surrounding area too.

Valencia is a great city to visit in itself. But if you have the time these day trips will give you a much more diverse experience.

From castles worth visiting to hikes, wineries, beaches, and more.

13. Celebrating Las Fallas in Valencia

If you happen to visit Valencia in March you have to check out this festival!

Las Fallas is truly unique… It starts with fireworks and giant street parties and ends with the burning of impressive statues that took a year to build.

Valencians are very proud of this festival and as a visitor it gives you an interesting look into an important part of their culture.

In fact, Las Fallas is such an important festival that it even made it onto UNESCO’s World Heritage List !

Things to Know Before Visiting Valencia

1. the weather in valencia.

It can get really hot in summer, especially in August, and surprisingly cold in winter, mostly in January and February.

You might not think of Valencia as a destination where it ever gets cold, and although the temperature won’t normally ever drop below zero degrees Celcius (32 degrees Fahrenheit), most houses don’t have central heating and are poorly insulated. This makes a mildly cold day all of a sudden feel a lot more unpleasant than you expected.

In summer temperatures occasionally hit 40 degrees Celcius (104 Fahrenheit) and with many places not having air conditioning, and you probably wanting to explore parts of the city on foot or by bicycle, this heat can get quite annoying!

I’d therefore say spring and fall are the best times to visit Valencia .

2. Tipping in Valencia

Most locals leave no tip and therefore most local bars and restaurants don’t expect you to do so either.

That being said, many bars and restaurants in the more touristy parts of the city have gotten used to tourists tipping and therefore expect it more, but it is never mandatory.

Salaries in Spain are quite low, especially for hospitality staff, so tips will always be appreciated .

I’d recommend at least leaving some small change, up to 10% of the value of the bill.

Tipping taxis isn’t very common, but simply rounding up the fare is appreciated and makes a cash transaction easier for the driver.

Tipping hotel staff or hairdressers and other services is not a common thing to do in Valencia.

3. Siesta in Valencia

Although more and more shops stay open all day long, you’ll still find some smaller shops and other businesses closed for siesta, which can be anywhere between 1pm and 5pm.

Almost all bars and restaurants stay open, but several restaurants won’t serve food from around 4pm until 7 or 8pm, which, if you like an early dinner, is something to keep in mind.

4. Taxis in Valencia

Taxis are relatively inexpensive in Valencia. They are a great option to get to places that take too long by public transport, or to get home at night after the metro has stopped running.

It’s generally fairly easy to just hail a taxi on the street, but there are also two taxi apps : Cabify and Free Now.

Cabify is most similar to Uber, and Free Now is the app from the traditional Valencia taxis. Both are good and offer similar prices. I’d recommend downloading both, because I’ve had times where Cabify couldn’t find me a driver and Free Now could, and the other way around.

5. The Beach and the City are Far Apart

I love Valencia but there is one thing that’s a bit annoying: the city center and the beach are located just far enough from each other to make it feel as if you have to choose between the two.

If you are a beach person and your main reason for visiting Valencia is to enjoy time by the beach, then definitely make sure your accommodation is close to the beach.

If you are visiting Valencia as a city break, then I’d recommend staying in the city center. But just know that going to the beach might then require a bus ride, a metro ride, or both, and probably a taxi ride back if you want to stay by the beach in the evening, as metros stop running and buses become very infrequent.

Or you can of course do what more and more locals do: cycle between the city center and the beach.

6. In August Most Things Close

Shops, bars, restaurants, and government offices; many of them close for most, if not all, of August.

August is when the Valencians traditionally leave the city to spend time in their summer homes.

This combined with the August heat for me is a reason to not recommend visiting Valencia in August. But, the city does get nice and quiet in August which gives it a vibe that is different from the rest of the year.

Useful Articles About Spain

If you are visiting Valencia, you might find these articles about Spain helpful as well.

1. Things to Know Before Traveling to Spain

In this article I answer some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Spain.

From questions about safety and prices to dos and don’ts when in Spain.

2. The Best Time to Visit Spain

Spain is a diverse country and the best time to visit depends both on where you want to go and what your reasons for visiting are.

This article explains it all.

3. Famous Spanish Food You Should Try

If you are anything like me, part of your reason for visiting Valencia, or any new place, is to try the local food.

And apart from paella and tapas there are quite a few other Spanish delicacies worth trying.

4. Christmas in Spain

Celebrating Christmas in Spain is a bit different from celebrating Christmas in most other countries.

For starters, Christmas here lasts 14 days!

So if you plan to visit Valencia around Christmas time you might want to read this article to find out more about how Christmas is celebrated here.

5. Facts About Spain

Do you want to know more about Spain and the Spanish? Then this list of facts about Spain is for you.

From useful to surprising and some shocking facts…

Have a Great Time Visiting Valencia!

Enjoy your trip to Valencia and feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions about this beautiful city.

• How to Find the Cheapest Flights
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• What It’s Like to Live in Valencia – Interview

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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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3 Days in Valencia

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3 days in Valencia

You can visit Valencia in three days! Follow us!

If you only have three days in which to visit Valencia, you can take a basic tour without missing any of the most important sights. We’ll tell you where to go, so you can get the most out of your visit.

Before we start, it’s a good idea to organise your visit using all of the city information and practical documentation available. Download the Valencia Tourist Guide in order to get recommendations on where to eat, what to see and what to do. It’ll also give you unbeatable maps of the city and suggest a number of interesting sightseeing routes. You can also download a map of Valencia, sightseeing routes in Valencia , and the Valencia Tourism app for Android and iPhone . Having a tourist guide on your phone means you won’t miss a thing! 

HISTORIC CENTRE

Discover the historic city centre and its rich artistic heritage. You can visit the genuine Holy Grail at Valencia Cathedral; the Silk Exchange, a jewel of Gothic civil architecture; the Central Market, one of the largest and finest purveyors of fresh produce in Europe; the spectacular frescoes at the Church of San Nicolás; and many other breathtaking sites.

What to visit

La Lonja (The Silk Exchange) Unesco World Heritage

Central Market

Cathedral, Miguelete and Holy Grail

Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir de Valencia

The Water Court (Tribunal de las Aguas)

Serranos Towers

Round Square

Quart Towers

Ceramics Museum. Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace

Norte Railway Station

Colón Market

Do not miss anything of the historical center.

So that you don't miss anything, book a guided walking tour through the center of Valencia or take a panoramic tour of the city on the Valencia Tourist Bus.

Valencia Tourist Bus Tour (red bus)

Entrance ticket to San Nicolás, the Sistine Chapel of Valencia

Essential Valencia and its World Heritage Sites

Marina, beach, oceanogràfic and ciutat de les arts i les ciències.

Take advantage of your visit to Valencia to experience the city’s beaches at Las Arenas and La Malvarrosa, explore the Marina, and enjoy an authentic paella beside the sea. In the afternoon, head to the City of Arts and Sciences, where you can discover the secrets of science at the Science Museum, explore the seabed at the Oceanogràfic, or take in a film at the Hemisfèric. If you have any time left over, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll through the Turia Gardens, which stretch for 8.5 kilometres along the bed of the diverted river.

Marina of Valencia

Valencia Beaches

City Of Arts and Sciences Monuments

Turia Garden Valencia

Valencia Aquarium Oceanografic

Veles e Vents

Forget about queues.

Buy your tickets for the City of Arts and Sciences in advance and enter the venue by showing the tickets on your mobile. Forget queues!

Bike rental in Valencia

Ticket to the Entire Complex of the City of Arts and Sciences

Oceanogràfic Valencia Aquarium Ticket

Valencia Tourist Card 72 hours and Entry to Oceanogràfic, Science Museum, Hemisfèric and Bioparc

Albufera and bioparc.

In the morning, escape to Valencia’s Albufera: an ecological paradise just 10 kilometres from the city. You can enjoy a trip in a traditional fishing boat and savour a Valencian paella in its genuine place of origin. In the afternoon, transport yourself to the African savannah with a trip to Valencia’s Bioparc! If you're visiting in summer, the park is open until 20:00. In winter, it’s open until 18:00.

Albufera Natural Park

Bioparc Valencia Information

Beaches of the La Albufera Natural Park

Complete your visit to l'albufera.

Take a boat ride through l'Albufera natural park and enjoy the best Valencian cuisine in the middle of nature. And if you don't have a vehicle, you can go by bus with the Valencia Tourist Card or the Albufera Bus Turistic.

Boat trip and Paella in the Albufera

Bike rental to the Albufera with boat ride

Bioparc Valencia Tickets

València itinerary in three days.

Discover the Valencia itinerary in three days and don't miss a thing.

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Valencia Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 16, 2024

However, after I wandered the streets, relaxed on the beach, stuffed my face with paella on the seaside boardwalk, and visited the futuristic art museum, I left realizing Valencia had grown on me. It was a cool city with tons of history, art, and good vibes.

Originally a Roman colony and once the capital of Spain , Valencia is the birthplace of paella (and is allegedly home to the Holy Grail). With three UNESCO Sites, one of the largest markets in Europe , and the massive City of Arts and Science complex, Valencia is well worth a visit. I’d recommend spending at least three days here.

This Valencia travel guide can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Valencia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Valencia

1. Visit the City of Arts and Sciences

This huge complex is a piece of art in itself. Its futuristic look and design makes it one of the most photographed places in Valencia. Construction started in 1996, and the first part of the complex opened in 1998 (with the newest addition opening in 2009). The complex is one of the 12 Treasures of Spain and sees over 4 million visitors each year. It’s home to an IMAX theater, planetarium, museum, marine area, opera house, a massive open garden, and more. Admission to the museum is 8.70 EUR. A combo ticket is 38.90 EUR. You can easily spend half a day here just casually wandering around or a full day if you visit several of the sites within the complex.

2. Throw tomatoes at La Tomatina

Started in 1945, this festival is held on the last Wednesday of August in neighboring Buñol, about 25 miles outside of Valencia. La Tomatina is an epic hour-long tomato fight that draws upwards of 20,000 people to the small town (only 10,000 people live in the town itself). Over the hour, more than 360,000 pounds of tomatoes are used during the festival. Once the food fight is over, stay for a giant celebration with live music and sangria. It’s as messy and chaotic as you’d expect, and It’s the most amazing festival I’ve ever been to! Tickets cost 12 EUR and sell out quickly.

3. Wander Casco Histórico

This is the impressive historic district of Valencia where you can find the main square (the Plaza de la Virgen) and the Gothic Valencia Cathedral. It’s a great place to explore the ancient winding streets of the Barrio del Carmen and its typical Spanish-style buildings with their large doors, balconies, and windows. The history here stretches back over 2,000 years, as the region was home to the Romans, Visigoths, and Muslims over the centuries. It’s also one of the largest historic centers in Europe, making it the perfect place for a stroll or to grab a seat at a cafe and people watch over a beer or a hot chocolate.

4. Retreat to the Albufera

This national park and nature reserve contains a beautiful freshwater lagoon— the largest in Spain. Located less than 15 miles outside the city, this a nature lover’s perfect day trip. Go on a hike around the lake (there are 6 different trails), or take a bike ride on one of the paved paths. There are also over 300 species of birds here, making it an ideal place to spot wildlife. The lake is surrounded by rice fields, which explains how this area became the birthplace of paella. It’s worth it to stick around for sunset views. To get here, take city bus 24 or 25 for an hourlong trip that costs 3 EUR roundtrip. Another great way to see the area from a different perspective is by taking a boat tour, which costs 10-20 EUR.

5. Cross Calatrava’s Bridge

This was designed by Valencia’s most famous son, Santiago Calatrava, who also designed the City of Arts and Sciences, the Hemisferic, and the Umbracle. It’s a very modern and ultra-cool-looking bridge worth seeing up close. It’s a small bridge, and there’s not much to do here, but you can’t visit the city without walking across it and snapping some photos.

Other Things to See and Do in Valencia

1. take a free walking tour.

My favorite way to get to know a city is to take a free walking tour. They’re a budget-friendly way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Tour Valencia offers a daily tour that lasts a couple of hours and covers all the main sights, from the gothic cathedral to the historic towers and town gate. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Admire Valencia Cathedral

In the 8th century, the Balansiya mosque stood on this site. It wasn’t until the 13th century that the present Gothic-style cathedral was built, which took almost two centuries to complete. Today, the cathedral is home to medieval frescoes and an ornate Holy Chalice considered by some to be the actual Holy Grail. The chalice dates to the 1st century and has been used by various Popes over the centuries. It’s 9 EUR to tour the cathedral and museum (including an audio guide) and an additional 2 EUR to go up the octagonal bell tower (known as “Miguelete”). It’s worth the visit, and the view from the bell tower is one of the best in the city.

3. Explore Central Market

Although this site originally started out as an open-air market, the city decided to move it indoors in the 19th century. Officials hosted several architectural competitions to come up with a new design. The result was a brand new modernist style known as Valencian Art Nouveau, which somewhat resembles a cathedral with its roof domes and the large cupola at the center. The entire building is filled with iron columns, bright ceramic tiling, and delicate stained glass. It’s one of the largest markets in Europe. Come here to people watch, shop for food and souvenirs (there are more than 1,200 stalls), and sample tapas. Make this one of your first stops of the day, as the market closes at 3pm and is closed on Sundays.

4. Visit La Lonja

This 15th-century former silk market and commodity exchange were built between 1482-1533, and is now an UNESCO World Heritage site. The late Valencian-Gothic building with soaring ceilings and an austere, castle-like appearance is one of the best preserved of its kind in Europe and a must-see. Walk through the main gate and into a cool courtyard filled with orange trees and see the Pavilion of the Consulate of the Sea, with its richly decorated ceilings and an elaborate stone staircase. Found in the Old Town, it’s just around the corner from the Central Market. It’s 2 EUR to visit. On Sunday mornings, there’s a flea market held in front of La Lonja.

5. Celebrate Las Fallas

This festival in March is one of the biggest in Valencia, and a chance to party with the entire city. It celebrates the arrival of spring and locals do so by constructing huge model heads and sculptures and then burn them down in a dramatic finale. According to legend, this “build and burn” follows the Pagan tradition where people would gather their unwanted belongings in the streets and then burn it all to welcome spring. Las Fallas goes on for a full month with daily events. For the finale that takes place at the end of March, be prepared to celebrate until the wee hours of the morning with fireworks and drinks!

6. Cycle the Jardí del Túria

Jardí del Túria is a long stretch of park, one of the largest in Spain, that runs through an old dried-up riverbed (the river was diverted to prevent flooding in the city). The government wanted to build a road in its place, but locals fought for the green space to be made instead. It’s dotted with sculptures, sports fields, gardens, open grassy spaces, and buskers. Rent a bike, pack a picnic, and spend a couple of hours taking in the sights as the path snakes east to west and passes several major monuments, including the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, Museum of Fine Arts, and more.

7. Lounge on the beach

Although this isn’t as much of a beach destination as the Costa Blanca further south, you can still find beautiful sand at the beaches in Valencia. Malvarosa, which is easily accessible from the city and has a long promenade, is the most popular place to hang out but be prepared for high prices if you plan to eat here. Las Arenas, Patacona, and El Saler (located in the La Albufera nature reserve) are other popular beaches. If you’re looking for something less crowded, El Puig, which is slightly further away from the city, and is a mix of pebbles and sand, is a good option.

8. Eat paella

Valencia is the birthplace of paella (there are several kinds of paella now; this version is known as Valencian paella). The dish, made from locally grown rice, takes its name from the Valencian word for frying pan (referring to the large pan the paella is made in). The original Valencia version is traditionally made with rabbit, snails, and green beans, and has been around since the 1800s as a filling dish for farmers. You’ll see it on menus everywhere from nicer restaurants to beach shacks. It’s a major part of the culture, so be sure to try some while you’re here!

10. Explore the Sagunto Roman settlement

Around 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Valencia is the coastal town of Sagunto. It was both an Iberian and Roman settlement and still has several historic sites to explore, including a castle that overlooks the town, a heavily restored Roman theater, and city walls that date back to the Islamic occupation. There’s a history museum here as well as an exhibition room at the top of the castle. The town has some nice churches to admire too. It makes a great place to explore for an afternoon, and the views on top of the castle are pretty impressive. The bus to Sagunto takes about 30 minutes and costs 2-4 EUR.

11. Check out Valencia’s towers

In addition to the cathedral’s Miguelete tower, there are two more towers to see in Valencia, both of which make up the last remnants of the ancient city wall (the wall had 12 towers but was pulled down in 1865). There is the Gothic Serrans Tower or Serrano Tower which was built at the end of the 14th century. The massive city gate and watch towers are one of the best-preserved monuments in Valencia and is less than a 10-minute walk from the main square. The other tower is the 15th-century Quart Towers which has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, including a women’s and military prison, and most notably, the cannonball marks document how the massive structure stopped Napoleon’s troops in 1808. Admission is 2 EUR for each tower, which you can climb.

12. Visit the Ceramics Museum

The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, one of Spain’s best examples of Baroque architecture, is home to the González Martí National Museum of Ceramics (Museo Nacional de Cerámica y Artes Suntuarias González Martí). Founded in 1947, here you can find an enormous collection of ceramics, some dating from the 18th century. The museum also has some of Picasso’s works. It’s interesting enough for a quick stop, and you can easily see everything in less than an hour. Admission is 3 EUR.

13. Wander the Museum of Fine Arts

The building this museum is in is a work of art itself. Built between 1683 and 1744, it was originally a seminary college (its architect was Juan Bautista Pérez Castiel, who also designed Valencia Cathedral). The museum has art by medieval painters and by painters from the Valencian School. It also has works of well-known artists including Pintoricchio, Andrea del Sarto, Van Dyck, Murillo, Velázquez, El Greco, and a room devoted to Goya. Exhibits include drawings, etchings, sculptures, and archaeological pieces. If you like Renaissance art or are a fan of Goya, I’d recommend a visit. It’s free to enter.

14. Visit the Caves of Sant Josep

The Caves de Sant Josep are a system of natural underground caves that house the longest navigable underground river in Europe. LED lights illuminate the UNESCO-recognized paintings and engravings on the walls dating back to the Paleolithic era. You can also kayak through the caves on a two-hour tour. Boat tours cost 10 EUR and kayaking is 35 EUR (book in advance). The caves are a 45-minute drive from the city.

  For more information on other cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Granada Travel Guide
• Madrid Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide

Valencia Travel Costs

A basic private hostel room for two starts at 90 EUR per night during peak season but can go as high as 150 EUR. Prices are about 10% less for private rooms in the off-season.

Camping is available just outside the city, with plots ranging from 15-25 EUR per night for a basic tent plot for one person without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Hotel pricing has increased in recent years. Those within Valencia average around 150 EUR. Hotels a few miles outside of the city start around 75 EUR. While a few budget hotels in the city offer free breakfast or a pool, most are pretty basic so don’t expect anything too luxurious.

Airbnb is available around the city, with private rooms starting at 30 EUR per night (but averaging closer to 65 EUR). If you want an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least 100-120 EUR per night (though prices can easily be double that when not booked in advance).

Food – In Valencia, paella is one of the major culinary staples, owing to its origin here. Other favorites include arròs negre (a squid and squid ink paella), cured sausages, gazpacho, and all el pebre (a local stew-type dish made from garlic and peppers).

A casual meal of traditional Valencian cuisine costs around 12-15 EUR. If you want a multi-course meal and a drink, expect to pay 25-35 EUR.

If you plan to eat at the beach, expect to pay more than 10 EUR for a sandwich and at least 30 EUR for a seafood dinner. Beer and wine are about half-price if you buy them yourself (instead of at a bar or restaurant).

Cheap fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. Pizza is around 12-15 EUR.

Beer is usually around 3 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is under 2 EUR. Bottled water is about 1.50 EUR.

If you buy your own food, expect to spend 55-65 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Valencia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Valencia, expect to spend about 90 EUR per day, you can afford to stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like free walking tours and relaxing in the parks or at the beach. Add at least 20 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of about 200 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel, eat out for most meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid tours and activities like seeing the City of Arts and Sciences and the Cathedral.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for most meals, drink as much as you’d like, take more taxis or rent a car, and do as many paid tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Valencia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Valencia is generally more affordable to visit than Madrid or Barcelona. However, food, drinks, and tours can really add up if you aren’t watching your spending. Here are some tips on how to save money in Valencia:

• Take a free walking tour – Free Tour Valencia offers a variety of free walking tours that can introduce you to the city and show you the lay of the land. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Budget extra for food – Valencia has a lot of wonderful seafood restaurants (it’s what the city is famous for). Splash out once in a while and get a good meal down by the beach.
• Cook more meals – When you’re not splurging on local favorites, stick to buying your own groceries and cooking your meals. It’s not fancy, but it’s much cheaper and will help you save money for those nicer meals.
• Visit the Mercado Central – This is the main fruit and vegetable market in Valencia. Buy snacks, small meals, and groceries here to cut down on your food budget and give you a taste of local life.
• Stay with a local – While hostels are cheap in the city, staying with a local drastically lowers your expenses. It’s also a great way to connect with the local scene and get a better sense of the city and its people. Use Couchsurfing to find a local host who can show you around. Just be sure to send your requests early.
• Get the tourist card – If you plan on seeing a lot of attractions and using a lot of public transportation, consider getting the Valencia Tourist Card. It comes in 1-,2-, and 3-day options for 15 EUR, 20 EUR, and 25 EUR respectively. It offers discounts all over the city in addition to free transportation and free entry into certain attractions.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Valencia

There are several excellent hostels in Valencia and a few budget hotels. My recommended places to stay are:

• The River Hostel
• Purple Nest Hostel
• Red Nest Hostel
• Cantagua Hostel
• Urban Youth Hostel
• Olympia Consul del Mar
• Rooms Ciencias

How to Get Around Valencia

Public transportation – Buses cost 1.50 EUR per trip within the city limits. A 24-hour Valencia Tourist card gives you free transit and costs 15 EUR.

Valencia’s underground subway is particularly useful in the summer months because of the air conditioning. A one-way ride costs 1.50 EUR and the metro also reaches the airport.

If you’ll be taking bus and metro, purchase a SUMA card for 10 trips on city buses, metro, tram and suburban trains for 10EUR.

Getting to and from the airport is straightforward, with one-way city bus tickets costing 1.50 EUR.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented in the city, either per hour or per day, with prices varying depending on the season. Valenbisi is the public bike rental service with hubs all round the city. Expect to pay around 10-15 EUR per day (or just 6 EUR for three hours).

Taxis – Taxis start at 4 EUR (6 EUR at night), with the normal tariff being 1 EUR per additional kilometer. Skip them if you can as the prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber in Valencia lets you request traditional cabs. There is also an app called Cabify that works in a similar way.

When to Go to Valencia

Because of Valencia’s temperate climate (it sees more than 300 days of sun per year), beach season extends from July to October. During this time it can get crowded and accommodations prices are about 40% higher. If you don’t mind the crowds, this is the time of year to party all night at beach clubs. Expect daily highs above 31°C (88°F) in the summer.

Personally, I think the best time to visit is in late spring or early autumn when crowds haven’t peaked but the weather is still warm enough for swimming but not too hot for exploring on foot. At this time of year, you’ll be able to see and do everything you want (there are no major holidays or closings) but at a more relaxed pace.

In the winter (December-February), the weather is still comfortable, reaching highs of 18°C (65°F). While the crowds disappear during this time, some museums have shortened hours. In December, the old town is all lit up with Christmas lights.

Keep in mind during the Las Fallas de San José festival in March, accommodation books up quickly so allow plenty of time for planning (prices rise too).

How to Stay Safe in Valencia

Valencia is a safe place to visit. Violent crime is rare, but like other Spanish cities, pickpocketing is common (especially in the major tourist areas and on public transportation). Keep your valuables secure and out of sight at all times.

When at a cafe or restaurant, don’t leave any valuables like phones or bags on the table unattended. They can disappear quickly.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Several of the hostels have female-only dorm rooms, but these sometimes sell out befor the larger dorm rooms. For specific tips on staying safe, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on Spain. They’ll be able to provide specific advice that I, a man, can’t.

Tourist scams are prevalent as well, so keep an eye out for groups of kids trying to distract you, as they’re probably trying to take your money. Also, be wary of people offering to carry your luggage. They may try to charge you a large fee. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When out at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if intoxicated.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Valencia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Valencia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

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Valencia Trip Planner

Popular road trips from Valencia

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• Valencia to Cartagena drive
• Valencia to Caracas drive

Explore nearby places

• Puerto Cabello
• Ocumare de la Costa
• Puerto Colombia
• La Victoria
• San Juan de los Morros
• Jose Rafael Revenga
• La Colonia Tovar
• Chichiriviche de la Costa
• Chichiriviche
• San Antonio de los Altos
• Catia La Mar
• Morrocoy National Park
• Los Roques National Park
• Canaima National Park

All related maps of Valencia

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• Map of Puerto Colombia
• Map of Choroni
• Map of La Victoria
• Map of San Juan de los Morros
• Map of Jose Rafael Revenga
• Map of La Colonia Tovar
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• Map of Chichiriviche de la Costa
• Map of San Felipe
• Map of Cocorote
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• Map of Carayaca
• Map of Los Teques
• Map of San Antonio de los Altos
• Map of Catia La Mar
• Map of Morrocoy National Park
• Map of Los Roques National Park
• Map of Canaima National Park
• Map of Maiquetia
• Map of Caracas

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Valencia?

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