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Valencia is the third largest city in Spain and often flies under the radar in favor of Madrid and Barcelona, which makes it a bit of a hidden gem. The city is the perfect mix of history and modernity, and no matter the type of traveler you are, you’ll find something you like: sightseeing, culture, nature, or food!
With just two days to explore, you might think it’s impossible to do it justice but fear not. We designed this two-day itinerary to help you experience the highlights without feeling rushed.
Are two days in Valencia enough?
Yes, two days is plenty of time to experience Valencia’s main attractions. The city is much less touristy than Madrid or Barcelona, and its landmarks are pretty close together. Valencia is also very walkable, with good (and affordable!) public transport like trams and metros to help you get to farther spots like the City of Arts and Sciences or Malvarrosa Beach.
Day 1: Explore Valencia’s history
On your first day, you’ll stay entirely in Valencia’s Old Town, also known as Ciutat Vella. Take your time to wander the cobblestone streets and admire the historical buildings.
Morning: Must-see landmarks in Ciutat Vella
Start your day in Plaza de la Virgen, arguably the prettiest square in Valencia. Grab a coffee at one of the cafés and take a moment to soak in your surroundings. This square is flanked by some of the city’s most famous landmarks:
- Valencia Cathedral: Step inside and check out the interior, where you’ll find the city’s claim to fame: the Holy Grail.
- Ticket price: 9€
- Opening hours: 10:30 AM–6:30 PM on weekdays; 10:30 AM–5:30 PM on Saturdays; 2 PM–5:30 PM on Sundays and public holidays.
- Miguelete Tower: If you’re feeling ambitious (and don’t mind 207 steps), climb this bell tower for fantastic views of the city.
- Ticket price: 2.5€
- Opening hours: 10 AM–6:45 PM every day.
After that, wander over to the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas, a stunning Rococo-style palace just a short walk away. Inside, you’ll find the National Museum of Ceramics, which includes ceramics from the 18th century to the modern day, including pieces by Picasso.
- Ticket price: 3€, free on Saturday evenings and Sundays.
- Opening hours: 10 AM–2 PM and 4 PM–8 PM Tuesday to Saturday; 10 AM–2 PM on Sundays; closed on Mondays.
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Lunch at Central Market
By now, you’re probably ready to eat. Head to Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest markets and you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to local delicacies like horchata and fartons. Don’t leave without trying the oranges, Valencia is famous for them.
Afternoon: The Silk Exchange and a stroll through the town
Right across from the market is La Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Gothic building is a symbol of the wealth of Valencia as a mercantile city in the 15th and 16th centuries. It’s a quick visit, but a memorable one.
- Ticket price: 2€, free on Sundays and public holidays.
- Opening hours: 10 AM–7 PM Monday to Saturday; 10 AM–2 PM on Sundays.
From here, just wander. The Old Town is full of hidden squares and little shops selling handmade crafts. Here are some lesser-known landmarks you can visit:
- Plaza Redonda: This circular plaza is a quaint spot for shopping or relaxing with a coffee.
- Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir de València: This church is known as the “Sistine Chapel of Valencia” for its beautiful frescoes.
Evening: Tapas and drinks in Barrio del Carmen
In the evening, head to Barrio del Carmen, Valencia’s bohemian neighborhood, for dinner and a taste of the city’s nightlife. This area is packed with tapas bars, restaurants, and spots for a drink.
Pair your tapas with the city’s iconic agua de Valencia, a local cocktail made with cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin. You can also look for live music or flamenco shows.
Day 2: Valencia’s modern side and natural beauty
On your second day, you’ll shift from historic Valencia to its modern side, and end your trip with some contact with nature.
Morning: The City of Arts and Sciences
You can’t visit Valencia without seeing the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Even if you’re not into science or architecture, the design of this place will blow you away. This futuristic complex is huge, so focus on the highlights:
- L’Oceanogràfic: Home to Europe’s largest aquarium. It has dolphins, penguins, and an underwater tunnel. Ticket prices start at 25,75 €.
- Hemisfèric: An eye-shaped building with a planetarium and IMAX cinema. Even if you don’t catch a show, it’s worth it to admire from the outside. Ticket prices start at 6,70 €.
- Science museum: Interactive exhibits make this spot perfect if you’re traveling with kids. Ticket prices start at 6,90€.
Check their website for combined tickets and discounts and for the opening times of each venue. Even if you don’t go inside every building, the whole area is a great place for a walk and some cool photos.
Lunch at a local spot
After your morning of exploring, treat yourself to lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. If you want to skip the tapas, head to a local arrocería (rice restaurant) for a traditional Valencian meal. While paella is the most famous, there are plenty of other delicious rice dishes to try, like arroz a banda or arroz negro.
Afternoon: bike through Jardín del Turia
Jardín del Turia is one of the largest urban parks in Spain. This park stretches for nearly 9 kilometers through the city, following the old Turia Riverbed, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy Valencia’s sunny weather.
Plan your ride:
- Rent a bike: There are rental shops all over the city, and prices usually range from 10–12€ for a few hours. You can also join a guided bike tour through the garden.
- What to see along the way:
- Gulliver Park: Playground shaped like a giant lying on the ground. A fun stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
- Puente de las Flores (Bridge of Flowers): One of the prettiest bridges in the park, covered with flowers.
- Palau de la Música: A concert hall with beautiful architecture and a huge glass dome entrance.
If cycling isn’t your thing, no problem. A walk through the park is just as enjoyable!
Late afternoon and evening: Malvarrosa Beach
After your park adventure, head to Playa de la Malvarrosa. The beach is a little far from the city center to walk, but the tram or a short taxi ride will get you there quickly from the Turia Gardens.
Wrap up your trip with a proper Valencian dinner by the beach. Paella is the star of the show here, and Malvarrosa Beach has some of the best restaurants to enjoy it. The perfect way to say goodbye to Valencia.
Extra tips for visiting Valencia
- Best times to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) have the best weather, warm but not too hot. Avoid late summer if you’re not a fan of humidity.
- Transportation tip: Valencia’s metro and trams are efficient and affordable, but the city is also extremely walkable and bike-friendly.
- Fallas Festival: If you’re visiting in March, plan around the Fallas Festival, a city-wide celebration with fireworks, music, and massive sculptures that are burned on the last night.
- Local etiquette: Lunch is typically later than you might expect (2 PM to 3 PM), and dinner can be as late as 9 PM or 10 PM, so be aware of that when looking for places to eat.
Pro Tip: Enjoy Valencia without your luggage!
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