Valencia Itinerary for 3 Days
Day 1: Discover the Heart of Valencia – History and Culture
Morning:
- Start your trip in the Old Town (Ciutat Vella), Valencia’s historic center.
- Visit the Valencia Cathedral, a stunning mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture, and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Stroll through Plaza de la Virgen and admire the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados and the Turia Fountain.
Afternoon:
- Explore the Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s best examples of Gothic architecture.
- Visit the Central Market (Mercado Central) across the street — one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. Wander among colorful stalls filled with local produce, jamón, cheese, and seafood.
- Have lunch at a nearby restaurant — try Paella Valenciana, the city’s signature dish.
Evening:
- Wander through the El Carmen district, known for its lively atmosphere, street art, and tapas bars.
- Enjoy a relaxed dinner or have drinks in Plaza del Tossal or Calle Caballeros, where the nightlife is vibrant yet local.
Day 2: Modern Valencia and the Turia Gardens
Morning:
Begin your day with a walk or bike ride through the Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia) — a 9-kilometer-long park built on the former riverbed.
Make your way to the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias), Valencia’s most famous modern attraction designed by Santiago Calatrava.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at one of the restaurants near the complex or enjoy a picnic in the Turia Gardens.
- Visit the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, the city’s opera house, known for its futuristic architecture.
Evening:
- Head to the Marina de Valencia for dinner by the sea.
- Watch the sunset from Malvarrosa Beach or Las Arenas Beach and enjoy a cocktail at a beachfront bar.
Day 3: Albufera Natural Park and Local Life
Morning:
- Take a short trip (about 10 km south) to Albufera Natural Park, the birthplace of paella.
- Explore the tranquil lagoon, rice fields, and small fishing villages.
- Take a boat ride on the lagoon and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch in El Palmar, the small village within Albufera famous for authentic Paella Valenciana.
- Return to the city and spend some time shopping or relaxing in Ruzafa, a trendy neighborhood known for its boutique stores, galleries, and cafes.
Evening:
- Visit the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the city’s main square, beautifully lit up at night.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner — try Agua de Valencia, a local cocktail made with orange juice and cava.
Valencia Itinerary for 5 Days
If you have two extra days, you can dive deeper into Valencia’s culture, art, and surroundings while keeping your pace relaxed.
Day 4: Museums, Street Art, and Local Markets
Morning:
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia), home to works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
- Alternatively, explore the IVAM (Institut Valencià d’Art Modern) if you prefer modern art.
Afternoon:
- Walk through Ruzafa, Valencia’s bohemian neighborhood full of color and creativity.
- Stop by the Ruzafa Market or enjoy a coffee at one of its many stylish cafes.
- Stroll through Colón Market, a beautifully restored modernist building with restaurants and artisan shops.
Evening:
- Experience Valencia’s artistic side in El Carmen — take a self-guided street art tour through its graffiti-covered alleys.
- Enjoy dinner in the area, where you’ll find a mix of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine.
Day 5: Beaches, Shopping, and Leisure
Morning:
- Spend your last day relaxing at the Malvarrosa or El Saler Beach.
- Enjoy a morning swim or a long walk along the promenade.
Afternoon:
- Have a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants — La Pepica is a local favorite that has been serving since the early 1900s.
- Do some last-minute shopping in Calle Colón, Valencia’s main shopping street, or pick up local souvenirs like ceramics, olive oil, or orange-scented products.
Evening:
- Take a sunset stroll through the Marina de Valencia or return to the Turia Gardens for a peaceful evening walk.
- End your trip with a final dinner in a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city — a perfect farewell to Valencia.
Additional Tips for Your Valencia Trip
- Best time to visit: March to June and September to October for pleasant weather and lively festivals.
- Getting around: Walk, cycle, or use the Metrovalencia, trams, and buses. A Valencia Tourist Card gives unlimited public transport and discounts at attractions.
- Food to try: Paella Valenciana, fideuà (seafood noodles), horchata with fartons, and Agua de Valencia.
- Festivals: If visiting in March, don’t miss Las Fallas, Valencia’s most spectacular annual celebration.
Summary: At a Glance
| Duration | Highlights | Experience Type |
| ------------ | ------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------- |
| 3 Days | Old Town, City of Arts & Sciences, Albufera | Best for first-time visitors |
| 5 Days | Adds museums, Ruzafa, beaches, shopping | Deeper cultural exploration |
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend 3 days or 5 days in Valencia, you’ll find that the city perfectly balances old-world charm with modern elegance. Three days are ideal for covering the highlights — the historic center, the City of Arts and Sciences, and Albufera — while five days allow you to slow down, savor local food, and explore the neighborhoods more deeply.
Valencia is a city to be enjoyed at an easy pace — full of sunshine, history, and flavor at every turn.
