VALENCIA: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Valencia, located on Spain's Mediterranean coast, is a vibrant city rich in history, modern attractions, and delectable cuisine. From relaxing on the beach and exploring contemporary art galleries to wandering through the charming streets of the old town, Valencia offers something for everyone. To help you make the most of your time in this remarkable city, we've prepared the ultimate guide for you. Let's discover together why Valencia is regarded as one of the best cities to visit in Spain!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before diving into the details of our carefully planned itineraries, here's a quick overview of what to expect and a recap to help you plan easily:
Day 1: Historical Marvels
Valencia Cathedral, Miguelete Tower, Silk Exchange, Old Town, Barrio del Carmen, Serrano Towers, Turia Gardens, Ruzafa District
Day 2: City of Arts and Sciences
City of Arts and Sciences, Hemisfèric, Science Museum, Oceanogràfic, Plaza de la Virgen
Day 3: Nature and Culture
Bioparc Valencia, Mercado de Colón, Playa de la Malvarrosa, Sunset Cruise
Guided Bike Tour, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Flamenco Show, Montanejos Thermal Springs, Albufera Natural Park
Sagunto, Xàtiva, Peñíscola, Denia
GETTING AROUND VALENCIA
Getting around Valencia is easy thanks to its well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro network. Consider getting a Valencia Tourist Card for unlimited rides on public transport and discounts on attractions. The compact city center makes exploring on foot convenient, with many attractions within walking distance.
If you're flying into Valencia, Skyscanner offers the best deals on airfare. Valencia Airport (VLC) provides connections to major European cities. From the airport, reach the city center via the metro or airport shuttle for an easy transfer.
If you prefer driving, renting a car at Valencia Airport or within the city offers the freedom to explore Valencia and its nearby attractions at your own pace.
2-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Historical Marvels
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the impressive Valencia Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Explore its stunning interior, including the Holy Grail Chapel, and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the chance to visit the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture.
Lunch: Treat yourself to a traditional Valencian paella, the iconic rice dish that originated in the region. Head to La Riuà in the Old Town, a highly-rated family-run restaurant known for its authentic paella and warm atmosphere.
Afternoon: Explore the historic heart of Valencia in the charming Barrio del Carmen neighborhood. Wander through its narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, cute cafes, and artisan shops. Make sure to visit the iconic Serrano Towers nearby, a perfect spot to capture a memorable photo of your Valencia adventure.
Evening: Walk through the lush Turia Gardens, a beautiful green space that runs through the city. Admire the sunset over the City of Arts and Sciences, then head to the Ruzafa district for dinner at one of the trendy restaurants there.
Day 2: City of Arts and Sciences
Morning: Start your day off right by diving into the world of art and science at the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia's iconic cultural complex. Explore its futuristic buildings, including the Hemisfèric, the Science Museum, and the Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium. Tip: To save money, consider getting a combo ticket to enjoy all of these top attractions.
Lunch: Eat at one of the restaurants in the City of Arts and Sciences. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the views of the impressive architecture surrounding you.
Afternoon: Continue your visit at the City of Arts and Sciences. Immerse yourself further in the interactive exhibits and captivating displays, ensuring you experience everything this cultural landmark has to offer.
Evening: Head to Plaza de la Virgen and soak up the lively atmosphere. Admire the majestic Valencia Cathedral and Basilica while enjoying a drink at one of the outdoor cafes lining the square. Don't miss the opportunity to try horchata, a refreshing local beverage made from tiger nuts.
3-DAY ITINERARY
If you're planning to spend three days in Valencia, consider adding these activities for an even better experience:
Day 3: Nature and Culture
Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Bioparc Valencia, an immersive zoo that recreates the natural habitats of Africa. Explore the lush landscapes and observe a wide variety of exotic animals, including lions, giraffes, and elephants, roaming freely in spacious enclosures.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Mercado de Colón, a stunning market hall that has been transformed into a gourmet food market. Try out some local treats, artisanal cheeses, and freshly prepared tapas from the market's different stalls.
Afternoon: Spend a relaxing afternoon at Playa de la Malvarrosa, Valencia's most famous beach. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea, or enjoy a walk along the promenade lined with palm trees.
Evening: Finish off your day with a sunset cruise along the Valencia waterfront. Hop on a boat and take a tour of the city's port and harbor, and admire the stunning skyline as the sun goes down.
WHERE TO STAY
Valencia offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to every budget and preference. From luxurious accommodations to mid-range stays, there are many choices in this vibrant city. Here are some recommended options:
Mid-Range:
Hotel Malcom and Barret: Experience comfort at this conveniently located hotel near Valencia's main attractions. Enjoy cozy rooms and easy access to the City of Arts and Sciences and the historic center, making it an ideal choice for your stay.
Cosmo Hotel Boutique: Discover modern comfort at this chic boutique hotel in Valencia's vibrant center. Enjoy stylish rooms, a trendy bar, and friendly service.
Pamphylia Hotel: Experience comfort and convenience at this welcoming hotel near Valencia's marina. Enjoy spacious rooms, a casual dining restaurant, and lovely sea views.
Luxury:
Only YOU Hotel Valencia: Discover a blend of contemporary design and local charm at this stylish hotel in the city center. Enjoy comfortable rooms, a vibrant restaurant, and a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views.
MYR Palacio Vallier: Step back in time with a stay at this beautifully restored historical palace in Valencia's old town. Featuring elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views, it offers an ideal setting for a memorable and refined stay.
Caro Hotel: Experience a fusion of history and modernity at this boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century palace. Enjoy individually designed rooms, an exclusive restaurant, and personalized service for a truly unique stay.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you've got some extra time to spare in Valencia, consider adding these activities to your trip:
Guided Bike Tour: Explore Valencia's cozy streets and major landmarks like the Cathedral, Túria River Gardens, and the City of Arts and Sciences on a guided bike tour. Book here →
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: See Valencia at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Explore major attractions such as the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, and the Valencia Cathedral, with the flexibility to hop on and off at multiple stops around the city. Book here →
Flamenco Show: Feel the heat, passion and energy of flamenco with a traditional flamenco show. Watch talented dancers, musicians, and singers perform captivating routines in intimate venues across Valencia. Book here →
Montanejos Thermal Springs: Visit the Montanejos Thermal Springs, known for their healing properties and stunning natural surroundings. Enjoy swimming in the warm, crystal-clear waters of these thermal springs, located in a beautiful mountainous area. Book here →
Albufera Natural Park: Get away from the city hustle with a visit to Albufera Natural Park, located just south of Valencia. Explore the beautiful wetlands, take a boat ride on the lagoon, and enjoy a traditional paella lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the water. Book here →
Alternatively, check below for other curated activity options that offer a memorable journey through the heart and outskirts of this vibrant city.
BEYOND VALENCIA
While Valencia has lots to offer, there are also several amazing places nearby worth exploring:
Sagunto: Discover the rich history of Sagunto, a charming town located just north of Valencia. Explore its ancient Roman ruins, like the hilltop castle and amphitheater, and walk through its picturesque old town streets.
Xàtiva: Head to the historic town of Xàtiva, famous for its imposing hilltop castle and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the castle's towers, walls, and dungeons, and learn about its fascinating history dating back to Roman times. Explore here →
Peñíscola: Head south to Peñíscola, a coastal town famous for its medieval castle and beautiful beaches. Explore the narrow streets of the old town, visit the castle where Pope Benedict XIII once resided, and relax on the golden sands of Playa Norte. Explore here →
Denia: Escape to the charming seaside town of Denia, located to the north of Valencia. Check out its historic castle, busy marina, and lively fish market, and enjoy fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine at one of its many waterfront restaurants.
Be sure to check here for curated day trips from Valencia that allow to combine some of the destinations above or explore additional locations, making the most of your Valencia trip.