Valencia is Spain’s sun-soaked city of contrasts, where futuristic architecture rises beside Gothic cathedrals, and orange groves stretch all the way to the sea. It’s a city of long sandy beaches, lively markets, and Spain’s most famous dish: paella.
Located on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia blends old-world charm with modern creativity. The Old Town invites you to wander cobblestone streets and hidden plazas, while the City of Arts and Sciences dazzles with bold design. Add in beachside bike rides, vibrant festivals, and endless tapas, and you have one of Spain’s most underrated gems.
Highlights
-
City of Arts and Sciences – A futuristic complex of museums, an aquarium, and an opera house designed by Santiago Calatrava.
-
Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete Tower – Climb the bell tower for sweeping views of the city and glimpse the legendary Holy Grail inside the cathedral.
-
Mercado Central – One of Europe’s largest food markets, bursting with fresh produce, seafood, and spices.
-
Turia Gardens – A 9 km green park created in a former riverbed, perfect for cycling, jogging, or lazy picnics.
-
La Lonja de la Seda – A UNESCO-listed Gothic silk exchange that tells the story of Valencia’s trading wealth.
-
The Beaches – From Playa de la Malvarrosa to El Cabanyal, Valencia’s golden sands are just a tram ride from the center.
-
Las Fallas Festival – Every March, the city explodes with fireworks, giant sculptures, and parades in Spain’s most spectacular fiesta.
Day 1 − Old Town & History
Begin in the Mercado Central, grabbing a glass of fresh orange juice before exploring the Valencia Cathedral. Climb El Miguelete Tower for panoramic views, then wander through La Lonja de la Seda. Spend your afternoon in the narrow streets of El Carmen, filled with street art, quirky cafés, and hidden plazas.
Food tip: Try horchata with fartons, a sweet, milky tiger-nut drink paired with soft pastries.
Day 2 − City of Arts & Sciences + Turia Gardens
Spend your morning in the City of Arts and Sciences, where you can visit the Oceanogràfic Aquarium, the Science Museum, or simply marvel at the futuristic architecture.
Afterwards, stroll or cycle through the Turia Gardens, the city’s green artery, filled with fountains, playgrounds, and shady paths. Evening is for tapas in the lively Ruzafa district.
Wanderlab tip: Rent a bike, Valencia is flat, sunny, and perfect for cycling.
Day 3 − Beaches & Paella by the Sea
Head to Playa de la Malvarrosa or El Cabanyal for a lazy morning by the Mediterranean. For lunch, indulge in authentic paella Valenciana, traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, and beans.
Spend your last afternoon wandering the colorful fishing quarter of El Cabanyal, with its tiled houses and seaside charm, before ending with a sunset drink by the beach.
Food tip: Locals eat paella at lunchtime, not dinner, join them for the real experience.
Tips for your trip
Food & Drink in Valencia
-
Paella Valenciana – The city’s most famous dish.
-
Agua de Valencia – A cocktail of cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin.
-
Horchata & Fartons – A sweet Valencian classic.
-
Tapas in Ruzafa – From modern fusion bites to rustic taverns.
Getting Around Valencia
-
On foot & bike: Compact and flat, Valencia is ideal for walking or cycling.
-
Public transport: Trams, buses, and metro lines connect the city and beaches.
-
Airport: Just 20 minutes from the city center by metro or taxi.
Travel tip: Get a Valencia Tourist Card for unlimited transport and discounts on top attractions.
When to Visit Valencia
-
Spring (Mar–May): Best weather, fewer crowds, Las Fallas Festival in March.
-
Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, lively, and perfect for beaches.
-
Autumn (Sep–Oct): Warm, quieter, and ideal for cycling.
-
Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild weather, Christmas markets, and orange harvests.