Valencia is a stunning city that sits on the southeastern coast of Spain, attracting millions of tourists each year. The city boasts of its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and pristine beaches. If you’re planning a trip to Valencia and wondering how to make the most out of your time, this 5-day itinerary guide is perfect for you. We’ve compiled a detailed itinerary that covers the best attractions, restaurants, and activities in the city, allowing you to experience the best of Valencia in just five days.
ITINERARY:
Day 1: Explore the Old Town and the City of Arts and Sciences
- 10 am to 12 pm: Begin your day at the Old Town, starting with the iconic Torres de Serranos, a gothic-style gateway that once served as the main entrance to the city. Walk down the streets of the Barrio del Carmen, admiring the colorful buildings and street art.
- 12 pm to 2 pm: For lunch, head to the Central Market, where you can find some of the freshest produce and seafood. Sample some local dishes like paella, arroz al horno, and esgarraet.
- 3 pm to 6 pm: In the afternoon, visit the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex of buildings designed by Santiago Calatrava. Explore the Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe, and the Hemisfèric, an IMAX cinema and planetarium.
- 7 pm to 9 pm: End your day with a traditional Valencian dinner at La Pepica, a restaurant that has been serving paella since 1898.
Day 2: Visit the Historical Sites and Gardens
- 10 am to 12 pm: Start your day by visiting the Cathedral of Valencia, a gothic-style cathedral that houses the Holy Grail, the chalice that Jesus used at the Last Supper.
- 12 pm to 2 pm: For lunch, head to Mercado de Colón, a beautiful modernist building that now houses a gourmet food market with a variety of restaurants.
- 3 pm to 6 pm: In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Turia Gardens, a park that runs through the city along the former riverbed. Visit the Gulliver Park, a playground with a giant model of Gulliver.
- 7 pm to 9 pm: Enjoy some tapas and wine at Casa Montaña, a popular restaurant that has been serving delicious tapas since 1836.
Day 3: Discover the Beaches and Port
- 10 am to 12 pm: Start your day at the Port of Valencia, one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. Visit the Clock Building, a stunning modernist building that now houses a shopping center.
- 12 pm to 2 pm: For lunch, head to the beach and enjoy some fresh seafood at La Pepica Beach Club, a beachfront restaurant with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
- 3 pm to 6 pm: Spend the afternoon relaxing at Malvarrosa Beach, one of Valencia’s most popular beaches. Take a dip in the sea, soak up the sun, and enjoy some cocktails at one of the beach bars.
- 7 pm to 9 pm: End your day at Marina Beach Club, a trendy beach club with a rooftop bar, live music, and a swimming pool.
Day 4: Visit the Albufera Natural Park
- 10 am to 12 pm: Start your day by taking a boat ride through the Albufera Natural Park, a beautiful wetland located just south of Valencia. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many species of migratory birds.
- 12 pm to 2 pm: For lunch, head to El Palmar, a charming village in the heart of the park that’s known for its delicious paella. Try some of the local dishes like arroz a banda and all i pebre.
- 3 pm to 6 pm: In the afternoon, take a bike ride through the rice fields and enjoy the stunning scenery. You can rent a bike in El Palmar or bring your own.
- 7 pm to 9 pm: End your day with a sunset boat ride through the Albufera Natural Park. The park is particularly beautiful at sunset, and you’ll have the chance to see many species of birds returning to their nests.
Day 5: Visit the Museums and Enjoy the Nightlife
- 10 am to 12 pm: Start your day by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia, one of the best art museums in Spain. The museum houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
- 12 pm to 2 pm: For lunch, head to La Pilareta, a traditional seafood restaurant located in the heart of the city. Try some of their famous clams and squid.
- 3 pm to 6 pm: In the afternoon, visit the Museum of the Fallas, a museum dedicated to the famous Valencian festival. The festival takes place every March and celebrates the arrival of spring with parades, fireworks, and giant sculptures made of paper mache.
- 7 pm to 9 pm: End your day with some drinks and live music at Radio City, a popular bar and concert venue in the city center.
Valencia has something for everyone, from stunning architecture and rich history to beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine. With this ultimate 5-day itinerary guide, you’ll be able to experience the best of Valencia in just five days. Don’t forget to bring your camera, your appetite, and your sense of adventure!
