Back in 2012 I found myself living in Valencia, Spain. Without realizing it, I slowly developed an itinerary for whenever friends and family would visit me. It ended up being perfect for any first time visitors to see the best of the city with just a few days. Whenever I hosted a visitor to “my” city, this is how I split it up! 

My love for Valencia and the surrounding areas knows no bounds, so hopefully you will come to love it too!

Walking map of all the spots mentioned in my article below-

Day 1– Easily done on foot, here is the walking tour route you should follow for your first day in sunny Valencia! 

1. Marqués de Dos Aguas – An ornate early 18th century estate (well, technically a “rococco palace”) with a ceramics museum inside. If you don’t want to go in, just look at its gorgeous exterior!

2. Plaza de la Reina – One of many beautiful Spanish plazas, this one is notable because it has an epic view of the Cathedral. Near to the church entry, try a Valencian beverage specialty called horchata at the historic Horchatería Santa Catalina! Be sure to also order some fartones to dip in it!

   

3. Cathedral of Valencia – Constructed at the end of the 13th century, this site was at one point a mosque, and now a Catholic church home to the legendary Holy Grail. The interior of the church is worth a visit, but climbing the bell tower (added in 1459) and its 300ish steps is a MUST. For just a few euros you can climb the winding stairs to the top of the cathedral, and spend time near the old bell (“El Miguelete”), while also enjoying a fabulous view!

   

   

   

   

4. Plaza de la Virgen – My favorite spot in the city, this cozy outdoor area is just behind the cathedral. It has a great environment and vibe I just can’t describe. You can spend hours here people-watching, eating tapas (patatas bravas are life!!) and watching the world go by.

5. Museo de la Almoina – Nearby to the main plazas, you can make a quick stop and see the 2nd century Roman ruins of the city. If it intrigues you, there is an on-site museum as well. Normally I would just take my friends over to the viewing area where you can walk on a glass platform, and look down at the ruins beneath.

6. Torres de Serranos– These towers formed what was once one of twelve entries through the original medieval city gates. Constructed in 1392, they are one of Valencia’s most iconic sights! You can walk up into the towers, read a bit about the history, and check out the surrounding view. If time permits, visit the nearby Torres de Quart too- a place riddled with bullet holes from Napoleon’s troops.

7. Barrio del Carmen– Depending on how much time you have, try to check out the street art of this artsy, young, urban neighborhood of the city. There are organized tours, but exploring on your own is fine too! If you’re not too tired, this is also a great place to go out on the town and experience a little of the amazing Spanish nightlife!

Day 2– Also easily done on foot, the only exception would be getting from the Central Market to the City of Arts and Sciences. This could be a quick cab ride, or use the very clean and easy to navigate metro system.

1. Ayuntamiento (City Hall)– With its marbled streets, beautiful buildings, and sprinkling of fountains, this area has a sophisticated and refined air to it. Stroll the streets in the nicest outfit you packed, stop in and try some tapas or grab a glass of vino, and hit up the shops like Zara, Mango, and of course… El Corte Inglés.

2.  Plaza de Toros– If bull-fighting isn’t your jam, at least take a minute and check out the exterior of this historic building! If you enjoy blood and gore, there are bull fights a few nights a week each summer. 

3. Valencia Nord – This train station is not only practical to get in and out of the city, but it has some stunning architecture. My favorite part in the building is the tiled murals of the Valencia countryside. Walk in and take a look!

4. Mercado Colón – What’s not to like about a beautiful building filled with food, arts and crafts, and horchata? Serving locals since 1916, this is definitely worth a stop. I recommend hopping inside for a snack!

5. Lonja de la Seda – A bit of a walk away from the last stop, this destination is a UNESCO world-heritage site. If you have time, the inside is worth a visit (however isn’t necessarily at the top of my list). This 15th century structure “is of outstanding universal value as it is a wholly exceptional example of a secular building which dramatically illustrates the power and wealth of one of the great Mediterranean mercantile cities.” – Basically, it’s a very old silk market. It has cool architecture, and gargoyles.

   

   Catedral de San Juan

   

6. Mercado Central – Similar to Mercado Colón, but this market seems to be more populated with locals. There are less arts and crafts, and more food. It’s fun to visit though just to see all the colorful flowers, fruits and veggies.. and of course to gawk at all the unique cuts of meat! While here, step outside and try Valencia’s official alcoholic beverage, “Agua de Valencia“. There are walk up stalls serving it right by the entrance!

   

7. City of Arts and Sciences– A truly unique, futuristic, and stunning architectural complex, planned by architect Santiago Calatrava, this area has rapidly become a cultural, educational, and entertainment based icon. Walk around, gaze at the beautiful structures, or pay a visit to the planetarium, the 3D cinema, or the large aquarium. There are even these giant plastic balls that you can run around inside of on the water! Nearby, you can take a walk or go biking in the Turia River Gardens. This park is located in dried up riverbed of the Turia, and is definitely fun if you have time!

   

   

   

   

8. Night out at L’Umbracle– End your night by partying under the architectural structures of the City of Arts and Sciences! By day, it is a garden display, but in the evening it is transformed into a night club (Terraza L’Umbracle). Great place for dancing!

   

Day 3– Valencia is known for having amazing beaches, and they truly don’t disappoint! The sandy stretches are wide, with walking paths and places to change and rinse off. The beachfront walkways are lined with great shops and restaurants too! 

1. Playa Malvarrosa – Have a beach day here. I think it’s self explanatory! This area can get crowded in the summer, but is still great! Also check out the Las Arenas area if you still want in on the action! For a quieter beach experience, check out La Patacona, or the nearby “Little Venice” of Port Saplaya (30 min bus ride)

2. Paella – At some point, leave your beach towel behind and walk over to the waterfront restaurant La Pepica for some traditional Valencian paella. This dish originated here in the city, so what better place to try it?

3. Marina Beach Club– A sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing spot by the water, stop here for cocktails and pool time (if you’re willing to pay the price!)

   

4. Dinner at Panorama – This place seems to have mixed reviews, but regardless it has a great view and ambiance!

5. Ruzafa- A trendy, hipster neighborhood, this is a great place to visit by night!

Extra time?

Go to a soccer game and support Valencia CF at the stadium

Take a day trip to the nearby beach of Peñíscola, and check out the medieval fortress

Leave the city and explore the marshlands and nature of the Albufera

Swim in natural hot springs and waterfalls in Montanejos

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As always, all reviews and opinions are my own. However, should you choose to book any of the tours or hotels listed above I will receive a small commission which will help me continue creating content for you!