3 Days in Valencia: The Perfect Guide From a Travel Expert

I last went to Valencia in September 2022 with my family, and we had an absolute blast! Even though we spent an entire week in the city, we have not stopped talking about a return trip. It’s a city that stays with you for a long time!

With a reported 300 days of sunshine every year, Valencia is the perfect place to visit at all times of the year and a great option for first-timers. Relatively unknown compared to its larger siblings, Madrid, and Barcelona, it is a versatile city offering fascinating history, a phenomenal culinary scene, cool street art and great festivals. And there’s even a beach!

Let’s dive in and find out how to spend a perfect 3 days in Valencia.

Short on time? Here’s what to expect?

• Day One – Start at the Serranos Towers, admiring the old gates to the city; explore Valencia’s Old Town, getting lost in its winding streets; enjoy fantastic Valencian tapas at Tasquita del Mar; see the chalice of the Last Supper in Valencia Cathedral; climb El Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city; and finish the day with a well-earnt Horchata at Santa Catalina.
• Day Two – Begin by discovering Valencia’s iconic Mestalla stadium; explore the trendy district of Ruzafa; head to Colón Market and sample some authentic local cuisine; stand in awe at the City of Arts and Sciences; and finish the day relaxing at Malvarrosa Beach.
• Day Three – Check out the ornate decorations of North Station; explore Valencia’s central square and town hall; immerse yourself in the sights and smells of the Central Market; learn about Valencia’s merchant past at the Silk Exchange; and finish your trip gazing out over Valencia at the Quart Towers.

Day One – Serranos Towers, Old Town, Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete Tower

Serranos Towers

Start your Valencian adventure at the impressive Serranos Towers (Torres de Serranos/Torres dels Serrans). Located to the north of the Ciutat Vella, these twin towers date back to the end of the 14^th century. The towers were originally the entry point for the road to Barcelona.

Over the years, the towers have been used as fortifications, a prison and even as art storage during the Spanish Civil War. Nowadays you can climb the towers for the small sum of €2. Getting to the top offers you great views of the Ciutat Vella and the nearby Turia gardens.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Valencia during the Las Fallas festival in March, the opening ceremony of the festival known as the crida takes place here. The Fallera Mayor or First Lady of the Fallas declares the festival open from a platform in front of the towers.

Cultural Note: Valencia has two languages: Spanish and the regional language, Valencian. Both languages are common throughout the city and place names are referred to in both languages. For the purposes of this guide, I have used the English name with the Spanish and Valencian names in parenthesis.

Old Town

After climbing the Torres de Serranos, make your way into the Old Town (Ciudad Vieja/Ciutat Vella). Valencia’s Old Town is absolutely stunning. The buildings are incredible, and it is well worth taking the time to explore slowly. Let your sense of adventure take over and walk down side streets that take your interest.

Valencia dates back to Roman times and has one of the largest historic centres in the whole of Europe. Head down the labyrinthine streets which will bring you to the majestic Virgin Square (Plaza de la Virgen/Plaça de la Verge). Featuring Valencia’s most famous fountain, Fuente del Turia, it depicts the Turia River and Neptune.

This square is also host to a curious tradition. Every Thursday, the Water Tribunal meets at 12 PM. This ancient tradition is quintessentially Valencian and draws lots of onlookers. Elected representatives sit in a circle on 17^th century chair and make rulings on local issues. It’s a nostalgic way of making decisions and is a great cultural experience in the city.

Lunch at Tasquita del Mar

Before venturing into the cathedral, head down one of the side streets from Plaza de la Reina. Tasquita del Mar is a fantastic place to try local Valencian food at affordable prices. Grab yourself some tapas and a well-earned drink before taking on Valencia’s cathedral. Have a look below at my restaurant recommendations for more information.

Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral is one of the most impressive in the whole of Spain. It dominates the Old Town skyline and feels like the focal point for the neighbourhood. The square in front of the cathedral has various cafés, restaurants and shops and particularly comes alive after dark when locals come out to enjoy the evening.

Heading inside Valencia Cathedral is like taking a step back in time. The church is Gothic in style and construction began in the 13^th century. The grandeur of the nave and the intricate detailing within the cathedral is impressive. The cathedral has survived for that long through fires, civil wars, and reconstructions that it is seen as a sign of the city’s resilience.

The two highlights of the cathedral are related to two of its artifacts. The first is the Chapel of the Holy Grail. Within the chapel is the chalice that is believed to have been used by Jesus during the Last Supper. It is one of the most revered relics in Christianity and whether you’re a believer or an atheist, it is a fantastic sight.

The second is a little more gruesome and one for more squeamish readers. Towards the back of the cathedral, you can find ‘The Hand of the Virgin’. Preserved in a glass case, this mummified hand is believed to belong to Saint Vincent Martyr, patron saint of Valencia. It is a little unnerving but a fantastic story within the cathedral.

El Miguelete Tower

Your next stop isn’t far! El Miguelete Tower is the cathedral’s iconic bell tower. Soaring above the cathedral and the Old Town, this bell tower is not for the fainthearted.

207 steps lead you to the top where you’ll be rewarded with fantastic panoramic views of the entire city. You can see the winding streets of the Ciutat Vella, the lush green gardens of the Turia and in the distance, the iconic City of Arts and Sciences.

The tower was first built in the 14^th century and stands at 51 metres tall. It is a fantastic spot to take in this beautiful city. The tower is open from 10 AM to 7:30 PM in summer and tickets are €2 for adults and €1 for children.

Horchata at Horchatería Santa Catalina

To finish off your first day sightseeing, head to Horchatería Santa Catalina. Serving Valencia’s famous tiger nut milk drink, this café is an absolute institution. Check out my restaurant recommendations below for more information on what to order and where to find it.

Day Two – Mestalla, Ruzafa, Colón Market, City of Arts and Sciences & Playa de la Malvarrosa

Mestalla (Optional)

Your first stop will be an optional one depending on what your preferences are. As a football fan, I always like to see the local stadium and discover a bit about the local team’s links to their city.

Valencia CF are one of the biggest clubs in Spain. The winners of 6 La Liga titles, their home stadium Mestalla is a behemoth of a structure in the middle of a residential district. First built in 1923, the stadium is one of the oldest and most iconic in Spain and has been the host of some incredible matches.

As well as hosting Valencia’s home matches, it hosted all three of Spain’s home matches in the 1982 World Cup.

If you are a football fan like me, you may want to do the Mestalla Forever Tour. Tickets cost €13.30 for adults and take in the dressing rooms and pitch side where you can sit in the Valencia manager’s seat.

Ruzafa

After getting your football fix, it is time to venture to the trendy district of Ruzafa. This was once a working-class district but has undergone a massive transformation over the last few years and is now one of the trendiest in the city.

Expect lively cafés, boutiques and art galleries giving the area a bohemian vibe. Standing in the middle of the neighbourhood is Ruzafa Market which is worth visiting (although don’t be too tempted by the food as you’ll be heading to another market soon).

At night, Ruzafa comes alive. Bars and restaurants spill into the streets which buzz with activity. If you’re looking for a great place to party in the evening, Ruzafa will not disappoint.

Colón Market

Next stop, lunch and Colón Market (Mercado de Colón/Mercat de Colón) is the place to go. Located in the Eixample district, the market is one of the oldest in the city. Built in the early 20^th century the market itself is beautiful and a Modernist masterpiece with a huge glass dome.

Entering the market, you’ll be met with a bustling atmosphere, numerous boutiques and rows of stalls. The market is a treasure trove of gastronomy. There is plenty of fresh produce, artisan products and speciality foods from Spain and beyond.

As a food haven, there is something for everyone. Explore the market at your leisure and then decide where is best for your well-earned lunch!

City of Arts and Sciences

One of Valencia’s most iconic sights, the City of Arts and Sciences is our next stop. Designated one of the 12 Treasures of Spain alongside other famous sites such as Granada’s Alhambra Palace, Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela amongst others, this is a must-see when visiting Valencia.

The complex was built in stages with the L’Hemisfèric, an IMAX cinema, planetarium and laserium, the first to be built in 1998. The final building was L’Àgora, a multifunctional space, originally built for the Valencia Open 500 ATP tennis tournament.

In addition to the two buildings above, there is an interactive science museum, the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe and an opera house. The buildings themselves are spectacular with modernist influences making them look like something from another planet.

Given there is so much to see here, you could spend a whole afternoon exploring the complex!

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Valencia sign close to the complex. It offers a great photo souvenir. Also heading to the complex around sunset will give some fantastic colours over the various buildings, a truly magical experience.

Malvarrosa Beach

Valencia is the city that has everything, and our final stop proves it. Malvarrosa Beach (Playa de la Malvarrosa/Platja de la Malva-rosa) is one of the best urban beaches in the world. After a couple of days of sightseeing, it is the perfect place to relax and chill out.

The beach is one of the most popular in Valencia and it’s easy to see why. Malvarrosa beach has beautiful golden sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and bathing in. There is a laid back vibe and it attracts both tourists and locals who come to relax after work.

The wide promenade is lined with cafés, bars and restaurants and is the perfect place to unwind. If you’re staying in Valencia for longer than 3 days, I would recommend spending a full day there as it is beautiful. On our week-long trip in 2022, we spent a day at the beach and had the best time!

Day Three – North Station, Town Hall Square, Central Market, Silk Exchange & Quart Towers

North Station

It might seem strange to start your final day in Valencia at a train station, but North Station (Estación del Norte/Estació del Nord) is no regular train station. The station is located next to the city’s Plaza de Toros and only 200m from the city hall (your next stop!).

The station was first opened in 1852 and now is the main terminal for regional trains. The building is part of the Valencian Art Nouveau and is adorned with intricate details and decorations. The entrance alone is impressive with arched windows and ornamental columns.

The interior is even more impressive. With sleek marble floors, sweeping staircases and graceful arches, it looks too beautiful to be a major transport hub. The tile work is exquisite and the whole atmosphere transports you back in time. You can imagine the various passengers passing through the station.

Town Hall Square

The next stop on your list is Valencia’s Town Hall Square (Plaza del Ayuntamiento/Plaça de l’Ajuntament), . The square is surrounded by some of Valencia’s most iconic landmarks including the City Hall building. It also serves as a focal point for the city’s many cultural events

The City Hall building is a majestic building with an ornate façade and towering bell tower. There is the opportunity to visit the interior of the building and learn about its history. Step inside the building and enquire at the desk as to when the next guided tour is.

Outside the town hall, there is a beautiful fountain that provides the perfect backdrop for photos in the evening. If you’re in Valencia during the Fallas festival, Town Hall Square transforms into a vibrant stage and focal point for the festivities. You’ll see towering ninots (giant papier-mâché figures) lining the square.

At night, the square is the focal point for the city’s fireworks and pyrotechnics displays so head there for an authentic Valencian experience. Be aware though that things can get very loud.

Central Market

Central Market (Mercado Central/Mercat Central) in Valencia is more than just a market—it’s a bustling hub of activity, offering a glimpse into the city’s culinary scene and everyday life. Located in the historic district, this market is housed in a stunning Modernist building with iron columns and a striking dome.

Inside, you’ll find a vibrant array of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and meats to seafood and cheeses. The Central Market has some great stalls and food and is still a fully functioning market used by the locals. It’s a great place to pick up food for a picnic or a tapas-style dinner or just to sample some of Valencia’s fantastic produce.

Lunch at Rincón 33

After tickling your tastebuds at the Mercat Central, it’s time for some paella. Luckily the restaurant is only a 4-minute walk away.

Rincón 33 serves up some of the best paella in town with friendly service. We shared a delicious seafood paella here and had some fantastic sangría too. Check out my restaurant recommendations below for more food options if paella doesn’t take your fancy.

Silk Exchange

After lunch, head to the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda/Llotja de la Seda), the city’s old Silk Exchange. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Exchange is located opposite the central market. Built between the 15^th and 16^th centuries, this stunning Gothic building is a testament to the city’s rich mercantile past.

The building itself is a stunning Gothic building adorned with intricate stone carvings and ornate windows. Inside, visitors are transported back in time as you explore majestic halls. The highlight is the Contract Hall, where merchants used to negotiate deals.

Tickets are €2 for adults and can be bought online beforehand.

Quart Towers

A nice way to bookend your trip to Valencia having started at the Serranos Towers. The Quart Towers (Torres de Quart/Porta de Quart) is the other remaining gate of the old Valencia city wall. Built between 1441 and 1493, it survived destruction due to its use as a prison, similar to that of its counterpart, Torres de Serranos.

Climb the towers for another fantastic view over the city and take in your last panoramic view of this incredible city. Keep your eyes peeled for holes in the walls. These were from French bullets and cannonballs from the Battle of Valencia in 1808. Subsequent restorations have preserved them in memory of the battle.

As with the Serranos Towers, it costs €2 to climb the towers with free admission on Sundays and public holidays. The towers are open from 10 AM until 7 PM on Mondays to Saturdays and until 2 PM on Sundays.

Getting to Valencia

As a major city, there are plenty of ways to get to Valencia. Depending on whether this is your only stop, or one of many on a Spanish adventure, I’ve got you covered with the best ways to get to this magical Mediterranean metropolis.

By Plane

Valencia has its own airport, which is the second largest in the region after Alicante. Situated 8km/5 miles west of the city centre, there are numerous flights to other parts of Spain and internationally. Ryanair is the most popular airline at the airport, operating flights to many European countries as well as some in North Africa.

The airport is well-connected to the centre of Valencia. Make your way through the terminal, following the signs for the metro and get on either line 3 or 5. Both lines go to the centre of the city. The metro runs from around 5:30 AM and stops around 10:30 PM. Tickets cost €4.80 plus €1 for the card.

By Train

Valencia is well-connected to the rest of Spain via the country’s Renfe train network. As a major city, Valencia is home to two train stations: the historic Estació del Nord and the more modern Joaquín Sorolla.

Both are close to each other with Estació del Nord serving the local train network (cercanías) and Joaquín Sorolla serving longer distances including the AVE high-speed trains.

If you’re coming to Valencia from another Spanish city, the train is a great option to get to the city. Due to Spain’s high-speed rail network, the journey from Madrid is less than two hours. Unfortunately, there is not a high-speed rail line between Valencia and Barcelona yet so this journey is on a slower regional train and takes around 3 and a half hours.

Tickets can be as cheap as €15/$16/£13 one-way between Madrid and Valencia so the train is a fantastic option. Madrid could even be visited as a day trip from Valencia!

Pro-Tip: Keep an eye out for OUIGO tickets on the Trainline app. This low-cost rail company was established in 2013 as part of the SNCF group and offers cheap tickets. The cheapest ticket I’ve found for Madrid to Valencia was €9/$10/£8 which is an absolute bargain!

By Bus

Anyone who is a regular reader of this blog will know that I am a big Alsa lover. I love the reliability and the prices of their services. In some regions of Spain, the train simply isn’t an option so it is Alsa to the rescue!

Whilst I am a big fan of the bus, if you’re traveling to one of the other big cities in Spain, the train is most likely going to be your best option. However, if you are traveling from one of the region’s smaller towns or cities, the bus may be your best bet. I would always check the bus prices and times just in case the train doesn’t fit your schedule.

By Car

For those wanting more freedom, a hire car is the perfect way to see Spain’s beautiful countryside. The Valencian countryside is absolutely stunning with many smaller towns and villages dotted around. Hiring a car just gives you that freedom to go where you want when you want.

Spain’s roads are very good quality but beware that some of the major motorways are toll roads so factor in this added cost. Also depending on where you are staying in Valencia, parking can be tricky. If you’re staying in the Ciutat Vella, you will have no chance of finding on-street parking so hiring a car could end up being more expensive than you first thought.

A good compromise is BlaBlaCar. Very popular in Spain, this carpool ride sharing app can be a great option if you want to get from one city to another by car without hiring one. The downside is that you can’t choose the exact pickup and drop-off points and there is no guarantee that there will be your journey available at the time you want, but it is always worth checking.

Best Accommodation for 3 Days in Valencia

Budget – Purple Nest Hostel Valencia

If you’re looking for budget accommodation in a great location, look no further than Purple Nest Hostel Valencia. The hostel is located ten minutes walk away from all the main attractions and five minutes from two metro stations.

The hostel is comfortable and clean with colourful décor and an outdoor terrace. I stayed here with a friend for three nights on our trip to Valencia and found it to be the perfect location for sightseeing in the city. The hostel staff were friendly and helpful, and the prices were great for central Valencia.

Mid-range – Vincci Mercat Valencia

Located near the central market in the heart of Valencia, you won’t find a more central hotel than the Vincci Mercat Valencia. This 4-star hotel offers chic elegance in the middle of the historic old town. With sleek furnishing and modern amenities it is the perfect choice for your trip to Valencia.

The rooms are tastefully decorated, hotel staff are welcoming and friendly and despite its central location, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is a cosy restaurant and even a rooftop pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing under the Valencian sun.

Luxury – Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort

For those looking for a luxurious experience, stay at the Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort. This 5-star resort is located right on the beach, offering guests a luxurious escape from the city. Situated on the coast, the hotel is a 20-minute taxi ride or 30-minute bus ride from the centre, offering a different way of seeing Valencia.

The hotel epitomises luxury and elegance. The hotel is set within a restored historic building and features elegant rooms, suites, and amazing sea views. There are outdoor swimming pools, fine dining restaurants and even a spa to help you wind down after a busy day. If you’re looking for a special hotel experience in Valencia, this is the one!

Best Restaurants for 3 Days in Valencia

On my last trip to Valencia, I was in the company of my brother’s girlfriend, an enthusiastic foodie and accomplished baker. We had so many great meals, from Valencian cuisine to international cuisine that I am still dreaming of what we ate.

Here are my top picks for eating out in Valencia:

Tasquita del Mar

Tasquita del Mar is a great tapas bar close to Plaza de la Reina. They serve traditional Valencian tapas as well as tapas from elsewhere in Spain. The staff are super friendly, and the food was tasty. Drinks were also great. We loved it that much we went back on our last day to end up disappointed as it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Make sure you try the Esgarraet, a traditional red pepper and cured cod salad, typical of the Valencian region and the albóndigas, Spanish meatballs which are delicious. My brother was the most disappointed out of all of us that it was shut as he’d been talking about them all week!

Rincón 33

If you’re looking to try Valencia’s most famous dish paella, look no further than Rincón 33. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, this charming restaurant serves up some of the best paella in town.

The seafood paellas we ordered were to the highest quality and the service was perfect. The owners came out to speak to us and recommended which dishes to try which was a lovely touch. The sangria was refreshing and delicious and the prices were very reasonable. If you’re looking for a paella, you’d be hard pressed to find somewhere better!

Restaurant Navarro

Not content with just one paella, we went back for another one! This time we tried a traditional rabbit paella at Restaurant Navarro. A bit more expensive than Rincón 33, I would recommend going here if you have a special occasion to celebrate.

The day we went, the restaurant was packed out with Valencians (always a good sign!) all tucking into paellas. The rabbit paella was delicious, and the food was plentiful. The drinks were great and the service was also to a high standard. A great option if you want to try a traditional rabbit paella.

Horchatería Santa Catalina

One of Valencia’s most famous tourist spots, Horchatería Santa Catalina is a must-visit when in Valencia. Famous for serving the milky drink horchata, this historic café has been serving patrons for over two centuries.

The café not only serves horchata with its accompanying fartons but also serves chocolate con churros, another Spanish favourite. The interior of the café is adorned with tiles depicting scenes from Valencia’s history and is a great way to escape the afternoon sun.

La Ofrenda

Looking for a break from Spanish food, look no further than La Ofrenda, located a stone’s throw away from the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, this cool restaurant serves authentic Mexican food and great cocktails.

The tacos are to die for and the Fundido de queso was a particular favourite of ours. Prices are very reasonable and the staff who work there are an absolute delight. Spend the evening dining on the best tacos in town and enjoying a cocktail or two!

MASA MADRE

Another international option, MASA MADRE is a great option if you’re looking for pizzas. Located in the Old Town, this pizzeria has rave reviews and for good reason!

Made with the freshest ingredients, the restaurant offers a wide range of pizzas and salads and will accommodate different dietary needs and requests. The service is friendly and quick, and the pizzas are truly delicious. It has a good claim to being the best pizza in Valencia!

FAQs

Are 3 days enough for Valencia?

3 days will give you a good idea of what the city is about. You’ll get to see all the major sites and have the opportunity to taste some great food. My first trip to Valencia back in 2012 was for 3 days and I feel we got a good introduction to the city. It did leave me with the desire to go back however!

With 3 days you can see everything, but it would be at a quick pace. Depending on what type of tourist you are, you might want to take things at a gentler pace and discover the true pace of life in Valencia.

How many days should I spend in Valencia?

If you’ve got the time, you could spend a week in Valencia and not get bored. The city is so diverse and culturally rich that there are plenty of things to do, both old and new. The city is constantly growing and innovating and there are new things to see every year.

Valencia is also the perfect base for exploring more of the wider Valencian Community region. There are plenty of beaches, historic sites, vineyards and nature reserves to explore, all within a couple of hours of the city. You can even get to Madrid in two hours!

Is Seville or Valencia better?

Seville and Valencia are two of Spain’s finest cities. Incredible cities in their own right, it is truly impossible to say which one is better. Both have gifted Spain two of its most emblematic traditions: the Valencian paella and the Sevillan flamenco.

Both feature in both my 20 best places to visit in Spain for first timers and 11 best gay-friendly places to visit articles, underlining them both as fantastic places to visit. If you can, visit both!

What is the most beautiful part of Valencia?

Valencia is a truly stunning city. With its origins dating back to the Roman period, there are a ton of beautiful streets and buildings to explore. The most beautiful part of the city has to be the Old Town. Situated in the centre of the city, the area is a maze of alleyways and old streets.

You could spend an entire morning or afternoon exploring the streets and marvelling at the beautiful architecture that greets you around every corner. In fact, the Ciutat Vella is that beautiful you’ll find yourself coming back on more than one occasion, desperate to uncover more of its intriguing past.

Final Thoughts: 3 Days in Valencia: The Perfect Guide

And that’s my perfect guide to 3 days in Valencia. As one of my favourite Spanish cities, I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is a truly amazing place with the perfect blend of historic sights, iconic modern spaces, phenomenal cuisine, and great nightlife. With so much competition across Spain, it is no mean feat that Valencia made it to number 1 on my list of best cities in Spain for first timers.

Whether you enjoy sightseeing, gastronomy or relaxing by the beach, Valencia is the perfect destination. In 3 days you will get to experience the city but there is no doubt that you’ll be left dreaming of your next trip to this Mediterranean gem. I hope you love your time in Valencia as much as I do!