How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days in Valencia, Spain!
Valencia is often overshadowed by Barcelona and Madrid, but this coastal city boasts a stunning mix of ancient and futuristic architecture! The local cuisine, highlighted by the world-renowned Valencian paella and refreshing horchata, is a food lover’s dream. Plus, Valencia’s picturesque beaches, lush parks, and lively festivals like Las Fallas provide endless entertainment and relaxation. We really loved our trip to Valencia, keep reading to find out how to spend 3 days full of adventure and excitement in this wonderful city!
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Valencia
Stay: Airbnb in Soternes
We checked into our Airbnb in the Soternes area. We were very happy with the location as it was affordable andwell-connected via public transit, allowing us to get around the city with ease.
Morning
Our day began with coffee and pastries at a charming pastry shop called Pastisseria Monpla. Here, we indulged in local Spanish pastries and savored Café con Leche, the preferred morning coffee in Spain, which has more milk than a cappuccino and less foam. We were surprised to see locals enjoying a beer at 10 in the morning, but apparently that’s normal in Spain!
Next, we headed to the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, a hub for arts and sciences. This futuristic complex is a marvel of modern architecture and offers several museums and exhibits. We discovered an arch where if one person stands on each side, you can hear the other person speaking from over 100 feet away! Tickets for the museums can be purchased online or at the entrance, and we highly recommend planning ahead to make the most of your visit.
Midday
For lunch, we sampled a variety of cheeses, hams, breads, olives, and empanadas at the Mercat Central de Valencia. This is one of the largest fresh food markets in Europe and a popular spot for locals to do their shopping. The freshness and variety of the food made it a feast for our taste buds!
After lunch, we visited the Catedral de Valencia, an impressive structure that allegedly houses the Holy Grail! The intricate architecture and historical significance of the cathedral were awe-inspiring.
We then headed back to our Airbnb for a siesta. In Valencia, it’s a cultural tradition for shops and restaurants to close in the afternoon, allowing for a restful break. This was a refreshing change from our typically busy lives in America, but we also didn’t realize it also meant you couldn’t buy a bus ticket from the tobacco shops at this time!
Evening
In Spain, dinner is eaten late, with some restaurants not opening until 9 PM. We embraced this tradition and had a late dinner at Casa Montana, a charming tavern founded in 1836. The atmosphere was cozy, and the tapas and drinks were exceptional.
Day 2: A Day of Activity and Culinary Delights
Morning
We woke up feeling energetic and went for a bike ride in Turia Park, a lush green space that used to be a riverbed. The park is perfect for biking, jogging, or a leisurely stroll and provides a beautiful escape within the city.
After our ride, we were ready to try Valencia’s famous Agua de Valencia at Café Sant Jaume. This refreshing drink, made from local oranges, was the perfect thirst-quencher. We suggest making a reservation or you might have to wait over an hour like we did.
Midday
Valencia is known for its paella, and we couldn’t leave without trying it. We were recommended Restaurant Yuso by some locals and ordered the Valencian Paella, which includes chicken, rabbit, and tomatoes. It was our first time trying rabbit, and while it wasn’t our favorite, the dish overall was delicious. We also had a vegetable paella which was very tasty.
We spent the afternoon wandering around the Old Center (Ciutat Vella), admiring the historical architecture and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Ciutat Vella is the oldest part of Valencia, dating back to the Roman period. It has seen a fascinating evolution through various epochs, including Visigoth, Muslim, and Christian influences. The architectural styles in this area reflect these diverse periods, making it a living museum of Valencia’s history.
Evening
The bell tower of the Valencia Cathedral, known as El Miguelete, provides panoramic views of the city. Climbing the 207 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking vistas.
For dessert, we stopped at Orxateria Santa Catalina for churros and hot chocolate. The churros were light and crispy, and the thick, rich hot chocolate was perfect for a chocolate lover like myself.
Day 3: Relaxation and Beach Fun
Morning
We spent our last day on Valencia’s beautiful beaches. Malvarrosa Beach is a great option with its golden sands and clear waters.
Before heading to the beach, we revisited Mercat Central de Valencia to pick up jamón, cheese, bread, and olives for a picnic. Enjoying a meal by the sea was a highlight of our trip and something we highly recommend
Midday
After a fun morning at the beach, we cooled down with fresh horchata at Orxateria Els Sariers. Known for their traditional horchata tigernut shakes and fartons (sweet pastries), it was a perfect refreshment on a sunny day.
Another thing we wanted to note is that many visitors to Valencia enjoy taking outdoor bachata classes. Locals often dance in the parks, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can join in! It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet new people.
Conclusion
Valencia offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, delicious food, and beautiful sights. Whether you’re marveling at futuristic architecture, savoring local delicacies, or enjoying the sun on the beach, there’s something for everyone. Our three days in Valencia were filled with memorable moments, and we hope you get to experience the magic of this city for yourself!
Dining
Pastisseria Monpla $
Enjoy local Spanish pastries and a delicious Café con leche, the morning coffee of choice in Spain.
Mercat Central de Valencia $$
This is one of the largest fresh food markets in Europe, offering an incredible variety of cheeses, hams, breads, olives, and empanadas. It’s a great place to sample local flavors and experience the hustle and bustle of Valencia’s food scene.
Casa Montana $$
A historic tavern founded in 1836, Casa Montana is known for its traditional tapas and charming atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for a late dinner, embracing the Spanish tradition of eating late.
Yuso $$
Known for its authentic Valencian paella, Yuso is a favorite among locals. Try the Valencian Paella with chicken, rabbit, and tomatoes, or opt for the vegetable paella.
Orxateria Els Sariers $
Traditional horchata tigernut shakes and farton sweets, this is a perfect spot to cool down after a day at the beach.
Café Sant Jaume $$
A great place to try the infamous Agua de Valencia, a refreshing cocktail made from local oranges. Ideal for a mid-day break.
El Poblet $$$
Experimental take on traditional Spanish cuisine, located in the city center. Michelin-starred.
General Tips for Visiting Valencia
Best Time to Visit – The best time to visit Valencia is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. The famous Las Fallas festival in March is also a fantastic time to experience Valencia’s vibrant culture.
Siesta Time – Remember that many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon for a siesta, typically from 2 PM to 5 PM. Plan your activities and meals around this tradition to avoid inconveniences.
Public Transportation – Valencia has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. Consider purchasing a travel pass at https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/plan-your-trip-to-valencia/getting-around. You can also purchase tickets at the tobacco shops around Valencia.
Dining Hours – Spaniards eat late, with lunch often starting at 2 PM and dinner not until 9 PM or later. Embrace the local dining schedule to enjoy the full culinary experience.
FAQs:
What are the must-see attractions in Valencia?
Must-see attractions in Valencia include the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex with an aquarium, planetarium, and interactive museum, and the historic Valencia Cathedral, home to the Holy Grail. Don’t miss the Central Market, a hub of local food and culture.
How many days should I spend in Valencia?
Spending 3-4 days in Valencia allows you to explore its main attractions, enjoy its beaches, and savor its delicious cuisine. This amount of time would provide a good mix of cultural sightseeing and relaxation.
What are the best areas to stay in Valencia?
The Ciutat Vella (Old Town) and Ruzafa are among the best neighborhoods to stay in Valencia, offering a mix of historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and a range of dining options. For a budget conscious option, we stayed in the Soternes area and really enjoyed it. It is well connected via public transit and a very safe area.
What are the best day trips from Valencia?
Popular day trips from Valencia include visiting the Albufera Natural Park, known for its beautiful lagoon and rice fields, and the medieval town of Morella, with its stunning castle and historic streets.
What are the best restaurants in Valencia?
For an authentic dining experience, try Casa Montana and Yuso for its traditional paella. If you want to try Spanish high cuisine you can check our El Poblet in the city center for its Michelin-starred modern cuisine.
