3-day itinerary in Valencia

Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, is a Mediterranean jewel that offers a perfect balance of millennial history and avant-garde architecture. Founded by the Romans in 138 B.C., the city has passed through centuries of cultural influences, from Moorish and Christian domination to the modern urban revolution. Today, Valencia presents itself as a versatile destination, capable of satisfying the most diverse interests: from lovers of art and architecture to gastronomy enthusiasts, from history buffs to fans of the outdoors.

In this three-day itinerary we will guide you through the wonders of Valencia, allowing you to savour the essence of this fascinating city. We will explore the historic centre with its centuries-old monuments, immerse ourselves in the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex, and discover the authentic flavours of Valencian cuisine. There will be no shortage of moments of relaxation in the green urban oases and golden beaches that embrace the city.

The cultural richness, the vibrancy of urban life, the quality of the gastronomy and the friendliness of the Valencians will surely leave you wanting to return to explore even more of this Mediterranean gem. Whether you are an art lover, a food lover, a history buff or simply looking to relax, Valencia has something to offer every type of traveller. Discovering what to see in Valencia in three days is just a taste of what the city has to offer, an invitation to discover and fall in love with Valencia, a city that knows how to surprise and enchant at every turn.

Day One: Valencia’s historic centre

Your journey of discovery through Valencia begins in its fascinating historic centre, a labyrinth of narrow streets and squares that tell centuries of history. Start the day in Plaza de la Virgen, the beating heart of the old city. Here you can admire the majestic Valencia Cathedral, a building that blends Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. Then don’t miss the opportunity to climb the Torre del Micalet, the cathedral’s bell tower, for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

Continue to the Lonja de la Seda, the old silk exchange, a masterpiece of civil Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its twisted columns and richly decorated ceilings will leave you breathless. A few steps away is the lively Mercado Central, one of the largest covered markets in Europe. Here you can immerse yourself in the colours and aromas of Valencian gastronomy, perhaps tasting some local specialities.

For lunch, take a break in one of the area’s many traditional taverns. You cannot leave Valencia without tasting paella, the signature dish of Spanish cuisine that originated here.

In the afternoon, take some time to visit the Barrio del Carmen, Valencia’s oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood. Lose yourself in its narrow streets, admire the graffiti decorating many of the buildings and stop in one of the many small squares for a coffee or horchata, the typical Valencian drink made from chufa.

End the day with a visit to the Torres de Serranos, one of the city’s ancient gates, from which you can enjoy an impressive sunset over the old town.

Day Two: Turia and City of Arts and Sciences

The second day is dedicated to the more modern and futuristic Valencia. Start the morning with a walk through the Jardín del Turia, a unique urban park. This green lung, which winds for 9 kilometres along the bed of the ancient Turia river, is the ideal place for a morning run or a relaxing picnic.

Following the course of the park, you will reach the spectacular City of Arts and Sciences, the architectural complex designed by Santiago Calatrava that has become a symbol of modern Valencia. Devote the whole day to exploring this extraordinary complex.

Start with a visit to the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, an interactive experience that will immerse you in the world of science and technology. Continue to the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, where you can admire marine ecosystems from around the world and watch dolphin shows.

For lunch, choose one of the restaurants inside the complex, many of which offer spectacular views of the futuristic structures.

In the afternoon, don’t miss the Hemisfèric, with its IMAX cinema and planetarium, and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, Valencia’s opera house shaped like a futuristic helmet. Then take a stroll through the Umbracle, a sort of hanging garden with native plants and contemporary sculptures.

End the evening with dinner at one of the restaurants in the nearby Ruzafa district, known for its lively gastronomic scene and nightlife.

Day Three: Beaches and Albufera

For your last day in Valencia, start the morning with a visit to the Albufera Natural Park, located a few kilometres from the city centre. This unique ecosystem, consisting of a freshwater lagoon and surrounding rice fields, is the birthplace of paella. Take a boat ride on the lagoon and admire the area’s rich avian fauna.

Return to town for lunch and head to the maritime quarter of Cabanyal. This old fishing village, with its colourful houses decorated with traditional tiles, offers an authentic and relaxed atmosphere. Have lunch in one of the area’s fish restaurants, enjoying the freshness of Mediterranean produce.

In the afternoon, enjoy a few hours of relaxation on Playa de la Malvarrosa, Valencia’s urban beach. Here you can sunbathe, bathe in the Mediterranean waters or simply stroll along the promenade.

To end your Valencian stay on a high note, head to the Veles e Vents, the landmark building of Valencia’s port. Here you can enjoy an aperitif overlooking the sea, perhaps tasting some local tapas.

For dinner, choose one of the city’s starred restaurants for an unforgettable gastronomic experience that fuses tradition and innovation.

How to organise a weekend in Valencia

To best organise a 3-day weekend in Valencia, start by booking your flight well in advance to get the best rates, preferably arriving Friday morning and departing Sunday evening to make the most of your time. Next, choose a hotel or B&B located in a central area, such as the Old Town or, if you prefer, near the City of Arts and Sciences.

Book tickets in advance online for the main attractions, such as the Oceanogràfic, to avoid queues. If you want to try authentic paella, reserve a table at restaurants such as La Pepica or Casa Roberto: check out our recommendations on the Where to eat the best paella in Valencia page.

Also consider buying a Valencia Tourist Card: you’ll save a lot of money if you want to visit Valencia’s best museums and attractions and travel on city transport.