3 Days in Valencia: The Perfect Valencia Itinerary

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Planning a whirlwind 3 days in Valencia and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options? I get it – Spain’s third-largest city has a knack for dazzling first-timers with its mix of history, modern flair, and mouthwatering cuisine. 

But, I’ve handpicked the best experiences Valencia has to offer. From centuries-old markets to futuristic architectures, and yes, the true home of paella, you’re in for a treat. Keep reading, and I promise you’ll leave with a game plan that’ll make your Valencia itinerary unforgettable.

The Perfect 3 Days in Valencia Itinerary

Day 1 – The Main Sights

On your first day in Valencia, we’ll dive into the main cultural experiences in the city. This will allow you to tick many of the city’s top sights off your bucket list.

9:00 am – Central Market

Your first day in Valencia should start at the Central Market, one of the best places in the city for witnessing culture and, of course, food.

As one of the oldest markets in Europe, it’s been one of the best places to visit in Valencia for centuries. You can find all sorts, here, from the freshest fruits to artisan cheeses. Plus, it’ll give you a taste of local life. 

Don’t forget to sample a fresh orange juice while you’re here!

10:30 am – La Lonja

A stone’s throw away is La Lonja. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, it’s historically significant, having once been a silk exchange, and is easily one of the things that Valencia is most known for. 

The intricate stonework and its tall columns are absolutely beautiful. You can spend a good 30 minutes here, admiring the detailed craftsmanship and exploring the monument.

For a walking tour of the old town, click here.

11:00 am – Valencia Cathedral

Next, make your way to the Valencia Cathedral. Central to the city’s religious history, it is believed to house the Holy Grail. 

While the authenticity is debated, the sheer magnificence of the cathedral’s architecture is undeniable. Take a moment to soak in the serenity, and maybe even climb the tower for a panoramic view of Valencia.

Top Tip: Consider buying a Valencia Tourist Card for unlimited public transportation and discounts at museums and attractions.

12:00 am – Plaza de la Reina

Wrap up your morning at the Plaza de la Reina. This square, surrounded by charming cafes and shops, is the heartbeat of the city. It’s a perfect spot to relax with a coffee, perhaps a slice of tortilla, and observe the daily life of Valencia.

13:30 – Lunch

When lunchtime rolls around in Valencia, I recommend heading to the El Carmen district. Valencia might be the birthplace of paella (don’t worry, we’ll get to that on another day), but today, let’s embrace its lesser-known but equally delicious fideuà.

Essentially, fideuà is paella’s noodle cousin. Instead of rice, it uses short, thin noodles, which soak up the flavours of the broth and the various ingredients it’s cooked with. The dish is usually garnished with prawns, mussels, and other fresh catches of the day.

El Carmen isn’t only one of the oldest parts of the city, it’s also a great place to experience the arts as it’s full of quirky shops, street art, and historic buildings. Tucked away among its narrow streets are authentic Valencian eateries where you can savour the best fideuà in town. It’s an absolute must-try!

Paired with a chilled glass of Valencian white wine, it’s the perfect mid-day meal.

Top Tip: Beyond paella and fideuà, be sure to try horchata (a local drink) and fartons (a sort of pastry), especially if you’re in the Alboraya area.

15:00 pm – Torres de Serranos

Now that you’re well-fed, it’s time to continue on our 3 days in Valencia itinerary. I recommend staying in the El Carmen area for a bit longer and meandering through its winding streets. This district is both historical and artistic with some fantastic street art. It offers an intriguing contrast between the old and the new.

From there, make your way to Torres de Serranos. Once a gate of the old medieval city wall, it now stands as a proud testament to Valencia’s rich history. 

If you’re up for it, climb to the top – the views of the city are remarkable.

16:30 pm – Plaza de la Virgen

Next on the agenda is the Plaza de la Virgen. This is one of Valencia’s oldest squares and is surrounded by some of the city’s most significant landmarks. The Basilica here is one of the best places to see. Its elegant architecture and intricate interiors are worth a visit.

White you’re here, if you fancy a refreshment, make your way to Cafe de las Horas and order their signature Agua de Valencia. This citrusy cocktail, made with fresh Valencian oranges, cava, vodka, and gin, is a local favourite and the perfect way to wind down the afternoon.

18:00 – Russafa

As the sun sets, Valencia’s Russafa district comes alive. Known for its vibrant nightlife and bars, this area is the place to be when the stars come out.

Start by bar hopping through some of the most popular spots. Each bar in Russafa has its unique ambience and selection of drinks, from craft beers to locally-inspired cocktails. It’s a fantastic opportunity to mingle with locals or meet fellow travellers.

For dinner, you’re in for a treat. Russafa is teeming with diverse dining options, from traditional Valencian cuisine to international dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for tapas or a full-course meal, you’ll find pretty much anything you could be craving in this part of the city.

Top Tip: Spaniards eat much later than most of us in the rest of the world. You’ll often find restaurants closing after lunch and not re-opening again until 8pm or later. It can take some getting used to!

Day 2 – The Modern World and the Mediterranean 

Day 2 on this 3 day Valencia itinerary, is about embracing the blend of nature and modern architecture in the city. 

9:00 am – Turia Gardens

Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll through the Turia Gardens. This unique park was once a riverbed, but now it’s an expansive green space that meanders through the city. You can see lush trees and greenery, beautiful water features, and calming open spaces.

10:00 am – City of Arts and Sciences

Following the garden’s pathways, you’ll eventually reach the iconic City of Arts and Sciences. 

This futuristic architectural complex is a testament to Valencia’s commitment to art, culture, and innovation. Its gleaming structures, reflecting in clear pools, make for some memorable photo ops.

If you’re up for it and have some time to spare, consider stepping into one of the buildings. Valencia’s Aquarium, part of the complex, is a great choice. It’s the largest in Europe and offers a chance to learn about the vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean and beyond.

To buy tickets for the Oceanografic, click here.

13:30 – Lunch

After exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, you might be feeling peckish. Make your way to the historic maritime district of Cabanyal and head straight to Casa Montaña.

This legendary eatery has been serving locals since 1836 and is an absolute haven for tapas lovers. You’ll find cured meats, fresh seafood, delicious cheeses, and other mouthwatering small plates, all paired with an extensive list of wines and sherries.

It’s a pretty popular place, so I highly recommend booking a table in advance. The entire ambience of the places with its historical charm combined with the fantastic flavours make this one of the best places to visit for food during your 3 days in Valencia.

15:00 – Cabanyal

Once you’re fueled up on the tapas, it’s time to saunter through Cabanyal’s unique landscape. The district is famous for its mosaic-style houses. These are a must-see in the city and the blend of vibrant colors and intricate patterns is beautiful.

16:00 – Valencia Beach

After you’ve explored that beautiful district, it’s time to head to the beach. This inviting stretch of sand isn’t far away. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, this is the perfect setting to unwind. Whether you choose to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply people-watch, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.

If the sea breeze stirs your appetite (as it often does), there are a couple of places in the vicinity that you shouldn’t miss. La Fabrica de Hielo is a chilled-out spot, ideal for a drink. It’s a cultural space turned cafe bar, and its artsy vibe is infectious.

If you want something a tad more filling, then Mercabanyal promises a fun street food vibe. Here, you can sample various treats, ranging from classic Valencian to global favourites.

To buy tickets for a sunset catamaran cruise, click here.

18:00 – Valencia Old Town

As the sun starts to set, Valencia’s Old Town starts to come alive. You’ll find a great atmosphere in the old town after dark. The winding alleyways are lit by soft lamplight and you’ll find both locals and tourists exploring the streets.

With hundreds of restaurants tucked away in its cosy corners, the Old Town has a rich culinary scene. Many of these restaurants, whether you opt for a cosy, family-run place, or a more upscale establishment, are also deeply rooted in Valencian traditions. 

I recommend exploring the streets for a bit and trying to find a restaurant that isn’t geared towards tourists. Avoid places with pictures on the menu. Local establishments are always the best and the old town is the perfect place to find a delicious meal for your second day on this Valencia itinerary

Day 3 – Back to Nature

The third day of your 3 days in Valencia takes you south of the city to the beautiful Albufera. The region is often referred to as the birthplace of paella, and for good reason.

9:00 am – El Palmar

Your journey begins with a trip to El Palmar. If you’re relying on public transport, hop on a bus headed there. However, if you’ve got the energy and the day’s bright and sunny, you could also consider biking from Valencia. The route is scenic, and it’s not too much of a strenuous journey.

10:00 am – Albufera National Park

Once in El Palmar, a boat tour of the Albufera National Park is a must. The waters here are bordered by rich green wetlands.

The guides are usually locals, so this is a great place to learn more about the region’s ecology, history, and culture.

14:30 – Lunch

By now, the region’s fresh air has probably worked up your appetite. It’s time for the highlight: paella. Being in Albufera and not tasting paella would be like visiting Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower!

There are several traditional eateries here, but if you’re looking for a personal recommendation, Restaurant El Graner is easily one of the best paellas in Valencia.

While the seafood paella enjoys worldwide fame, the authentic paella Valenciana is a hearty mix of chicken, rabbit, and occasionally snails. So be sure to check the menu and ingredients before you order!

Pair your meal with a wine from the Valencian region for a truly authentic experience. If you’re not sure which wine to go for, you can always ask the staff at the restaurant. They’ll be more than happy to help.

Top Tip: Did you know that Spaniards only eat paella for lunch? In fact, if you see a restaurant advertising paella for dinner, it’s best to avoid it as it’s probably a tourist trap.

16:00 – Head back to Valencia

Those late Spanish meal times often mean that a leisurely lunch can spill into the afternoon. As the sun starts to cast a warm, golden hue over Albufera, it’s time to start your journey back to Valencia. 

17:30 – Grab some more tapas!

Now, it’s very likely that the scrumptious paella still has you feeling pretty full, but there’s always room for a bit of tapas, right? Plus, it’s your final night of these 3 days in Valencia and there’s likely one tapas place that caught your eye, but you hadn’t gotten a chance to pop into. Tonight’s your chance!

With so many tapas varieties and such little time left in Valencia, consider this your last opportunity to try more of the city’s delightful culinary scene. Sample those dishes you’ve been curious about, pair them with a glass of white wine, and enjoy your last evening in this fascinating Spanish city.

Are 3 days in Valencia enough?

Three days in Valencia is a sweet spot for hitting Valencia’s highlights while also indulging in those spontaneous moments that make travel so magical. 

With this amount of time, you can immerse yourself in its architectural wonders, from the medieval Torres de Serranos to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. There’s also plenty of time to savour the city’s gastronomic delights, discover the vibrant neighbourhoods, and watch a sunset on the beach.

That said, like any destination, the more time you have, the deeper you can dive. With more than 3 days in Valencia, you could explore lesser-known neighbourhoods, indulge in leisurely café hopping, or take day trips to surrounding regions.

But if 3 days is what you’ve got, then that’s great! With a bit of planning, you’ll leave Valencia with plenty of fantastic memories – and, hopefully, a plan to return!

Practical Tips for 3 Days in Valencia

Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your 3 days in Valencia:

• Language: While Spanish is the official language, Valencian is also a co-official language. While English is widely understood in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way.
• Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency. Cards are very widely accepted, although it’s a good idea to carry some cash, just in case.
• Public Transport: Valencia boasts an efficient metro and bus system. The Valencia Tourist Card also offers unlimited public transportation.
• Biking: The city is incredibly bike-friendly with many dedicated bike lanes. Renting a bike to explore is always a great idea, especially the Turia Gardens and beachfront.
• Stay Hydrated: Summers can get very hot and humid. Carry a water bottle, and you can refill it at various public fountains.
• Safety: Valencia is generally safe, but like any city, be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets.
• Local Festivals: If your dates are flexible, consider visiting during Las Fallas in March. It’s a unique and lively festival, but the city gets very busy, so book accommodations in advance.

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