Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, offers an amazing mix of culture, history and modern charm that makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. This guide will help you explore the best of Valencia in just three days. From sightseeing to delicious meals and nightlife options, we have you covered!
Day 1: Friday Afternoon - Arrival and First Impressions
Arrival: After arriving in Valencia on Friday afternoon, settle into your accommodation—whether you’re staying in a charming Airbnb in the historic city center or a luxurious hotel along the coast. Once you're settled, it’s time to start exploring!
Evening Highlights:
Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen: Begin your journey in the heart of Valencia's old town. Stroll through these bustling squares, lined with historic buildings, cafes and shops. Don't miss the stunning Valencia Cathedral, where you can climb the Micalet Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Torres de Serranos: As the sun sets, head towards the Torres de Serranos, one of Valencia's ancient gates. It’s a great spot to capture photos and enjoy the sunset over the Turia Gardens.
Dinner Options:
La Papardella: For authentic Italian cuisine with a Spanish twist, La Papardella near the cathedral is a must-visit. Known for its fresh pasta and charming ambiance, it’s perfect for a cozy first-night dinner.
Casa Carmela: For a more traditional Spanish experience, head to Casa Carmela, a renowned local restaurant famous for its paella cooked over a wood fire. Situated near Malvarrosa Beach, this place is ideal for seafood lovers.
Nightlife Options:
For Drinks and Clubbing: Start at Café Negrito, a trendy spot in El Carmen for cocktails and then head to Mya, a popular nightclub that’s part of the City of Arts and Sciences. Dance the night away with a mix of local and international music.
For a Relaxed Evening: Enjoy a laid-back night at Horchatería Santa Catalina, where you can sip on traditional horchata and indulge in fartons (sweet pastries). Then, take a moonlit stroll through the Turia Gardens, an urban park that stretches through the city.
Day 2: Saturday - A day of Culture and Adventure
Morning: Start your day with a hearty Spanish breakfast.
Café de Las Horas: Located in the city center, this eclectic café offers a variety of breakfast options, from traditional Spanish tostadas with tomato and jamón to international choices like croissants and fresh juice.
Dulce de Leche Boutique Ruzafa: For those with a sweet tooth, this café in the trendy Ruzafa neighborhood is famous for its pastries, cakes, and excellent coffee.
Midday Adventure:
City of Arts and Sciences: Spend your morning exploring Valencia's most famous attraction, the City of Arts and Sciences. Visit the Hemisfèric for an IMAX experience, wander through the Science Museum, or admire the marine life at the Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe.
Lunch Options:
El Coso del Mar: Located along Malvarrosa Beach, this restaurant offers both seafood and classic Mediterranean dishes with sea views. It’s perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Central Bar by Ricard Camarena: For a more casual experience, head to the famous Mercado Central and dine at Central Bar, where Michelin-starred chef Ricard Camarena serves up delicious tapas and sandwiches using fresh market ingredients.
Afternoon Highlights:
Bioparc Valencia: In the afternoon, head to the Bioparc, a unique zoo that focuses on the conservation of African wildlife. It’s perfect for families or animal lovers looking for an engaging experience.
Dinner Options:
Navarro: Close to the city center, this family-run restaurant is known for its paella and seafood dishes. Its warm atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Sagardi Valencia Centro: If you’re in the mood for Basque cuisine, Sagardi is an excellent choice. Specializing in grilled meats and pintxos, it offers a different twist on traditional Spanish dining.
Evening Entertainment:
For Drinks and Clubbing: Start your night at Radio City, a lively bar in El Carmen known for its live music and eclectic vibe. Then, head to Marina Beach Club, where you can dance to beachside beats until the early morning hours.
For a Relaxed Evening: Visit Palau de la Música for a live concert. Have a nice walk through El Carmen. Or visit Juan Llorens street in the Extramurs neighbourhood, which is just a 15-minute walk from central Valencia to experience some local latin vibes.
Day 3: Sunday - The soul of Valencia
Breakfast Options:
La Mas Bonita Patacona: Right by the beach, this café is perfect for a Sunday brunch. With its beachy vibe and delicious offerings like avocado toast, smoothies, and pastries, it’s a local favorite.
Bastard Coffee & Kitchen: This hipster spot offers a mix of hearty breakfasts, from Spanish tortillas to American-style pancakes and good coffee. They have three locations, one in Xúquer, in Russafa and in Mercado Colón.
Midday Activity:
Turia Gardens and Gulliver Park: Walk off breakfast by exploring the Turia Gardens, an 8-kilometer stretch of greenery that winds through the city. Don't miss Gulliver Park, a playground designed like the character Gulliver, where you can climb and slide around.
Lunch Options:
Alqueria del Pou: A traditional Valencian eatery that offers delicious paella in a beautiful rustic setting. It's located near the City of Arts and Sciences, making it a convenient choice for your last day.
Voltereta: An amazing restaurant chain with four complete different concepts, but with the same quality dining. Try out Voltereta Bali, Voltereta Manhattan, Voltereta Kioto or Voltereta Casa!
Afternoon Highlights:
El Cabanyal Neighborhood: Spend your final afternoon exploring the colorful streets of El Cabanyal, Valencia’s traditional fishing district. Discover its unique architecture, vibrant street art, and quaint local shops.
Dinner Options:
Canalla Bistro by Ricard Camarena: Located in Ruzafa, this bistro offers a blend of global flavors in a casual, trendy setting. It's a great way to end your Valencia journey.
La Pepica: One of the oldest and most famous paella restaurants in Valencia, located along the beachfront. Enjoy a traditional Valencian dinner with a sea breeze.
Evening Entertainment:
For Drinks and Clubbing: For your last night in Valencia, head to Umbracle, a beautiful open-air club with stunning views of the City of Arts and Sciences. Dance under the stars and enjoy Valencia’s nightlife one last time.
For a Relaxed Evening: A quiet evening can be spent at Café Madrid, the birthplace of the famous Agua de Valencia cocktail. Sip on a refreshing drink while reminiscing about your weekend adventure, and perhaps enjoy a quiet walk along the Marina Real Juan Carlos I.
Day 4: Monday Morning - Departure
As your weekend in Valencia comes to an end, enjoy a final coffee and a light breakfast at a local café before heading to your next destination. Valencia's combination of history, modernity, gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife ensures you leave with wonderful memories and a desire to return.
Tips for an unforgettable Valencia weekend:
Getting Around: Valencia is a very walkable city, but the public transport system, including buses and metro, is efficient. Consider renting a bike to explore the Turia Gardens.
Local Delights: Don't miss trying horchata with fartons, a refreshing local drink made from tiger nuts.
Dress Code: Valencia is casual, but some clubs and restaurants may have a smart-casual dress code.
With this guide, you’re all set for an exciting weekend in Valencia that captures the essence of the city in just a few days!
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