Welcome to Valencia, a beautiful, sunny city with fun attractions perfect for all ages. Join us on a whirlwind tour as we explore the highlights of this vibrant coastal gem in just 24 hours, exploring its rich culture, indulging in culinary delights, and soaking up Valencia’s breathtaking beauty. Although you can spend much more time relaxing in Valencia, day trips are also feasible. With this itinerary, you can see a handful of the city’s largest attractions within a day in case you’re on a tighter schedule.
- 24 Hour Itinerary
- Morning: A Journey Through Time in Old Town
- Afternoon: Sun, Sea, and Savory Delights
- Evening: Modern Marvels and Culinary Adventures
- Conclusion: A Day to Remember
- Q: Is public transportation easily accessible for getting around Valencia during the day trip?
- Q: What is the best time of year to visit Valencia for a day trip?
- Q: Are reservations required for restaurants and attractions in Valencia?
- Q: Are there any safety precautions I should take while exploring Valencia?
24 Hour Itinerary
Morning: A Journey Through Time in Old Town
Step back in time as we wander through Valencia’s labyrinthine streets, with gorgeous old cobblestones beneath your feet. Being the third oldest city in Spain, Valencia is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, from the imposing Valencia Cathedral to the majestic Torres de Serranos. Lose yourself in the narrow alleys and hidden plazas, where every turn reveals another glimpse into the city’s storied past. Explore the small shops along the way and try to really breath in the history of the city! For a more in-depth understanding of the city, opt for a free walking tour!
La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)
Our journey begins at La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to Valencia’s rich mercantile history. Built in the 15th century, this Gothic masterpiece served as the city’s silk exchange, a hub of commerce and culture during Valencia’s golden age. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and soaring arches that adorn its façade, each telling a story of wealth, power, and artistic excellence. Despite its grandeur, La Lonja is relatively small, allowing visitors to easily navigate its corridors and marvel at its stunning architecture within a short time block.
Costs:
– Entry fee: 2 euros, reduced to 1 euro for students (as of Apr 2024)
Mercado Central (Central Market)
From La Lonja, we make our way to the bustling heart of Valencia’s culinary scene: the Central Market. Dating back to the 19th century, this vibrant marketplace is a testament to Valencia’s agricultural prowess and culinary heritage. Here, amidst the hustle and bustle of vendors and shoppers, you’ll find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood—all sourced locally and bursting with flavor. The market’s proximity to La Lonja makes it the perfect next stop on our morning adventure, allowing us to immerse ourselves in Valencia’s history while indulging in its culinary delights. Be sure to try the city’s signature drink, horchata, a refreshing beverage made from tiger nuts, and dip a crispy fartón pastry into its creamy depths.
Plaza de la Virgen (Virgin Plaza)
Our morning exploration continues at Plaza del Virgen, a charming square steeped in history and surrounded by architectural wonders. Here, you can marvel at the Valencia Cathedral, a majestic Gothic masterpiece that has stood as a symbol of the city for centuries. Nearby, the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados invites visitors to admire its Baroque façade and explore its sacred interior. In the center of the plaza, a sparkling fountain adds a touch of tranquility to the bustling surroundings. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of this historic square before we continue our journey through Valencia.
Afternoon: Sun, Sea, and Savory Delights
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, we make our way to Malvarrosa Beach for an afternoon of relaxation and indulgence. Sink your toes into the soft sand and feel the warm embrace of the Mediterranean sun as you unwind on the shores of this beach. But it’s not just the sun and sand that draw us here—it’s also the promise of authentic Valencian cuisine. From beachfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood paella to casual gelato shops specializing in creamy flavors, Malvarrosa Beach is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Savor each bite of traditional paella or sample a variety of gelato flavors bursting with local ingredients as you soak in the beauty of Valencia’s coastline.
Malvarrosa Beach
After a morning of exploration, it’s time to unwind on the sun-drenched shores of Malvarrosa Beach. Stretching for miles along the Mediterranean coast, this pristine beach in Valencia is the perfect place to soak up the Spanish sunshine and dip your toes in the azure waters. In centuries past, Malvarrosa Beach served as a bustling port, where ships laden with goods from distant lands would dock and unload their cargo. Today, remnants of this maritime history can still be seen along the shoreline of Valencia, from weathered fishing boats bobbing in the waves to watchtowers standing guard over the horizon. Whether you’re swimming in the waters, sunbathing on the golden sands, or taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this coastal paradise.
Lunch: Authentic Paella by the Sea
No visit to Valencia is complete without savoring its most iconic dish: paella. For an authentic experience, head to El Trompo, a charming restaurant overlooking the beach. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as tables fill up quickly. Keep in mind that traditional paella takes about 40 minutes to cook from scratch. While the wait may seem long, the end result is well worth it—a flavorful and aromatic masterpiece that captures the essence of Valencia’s culinary heritage.
I recommend that you order the traditional Valencian paella, made with tender rabbit, succulent chicken, and fragrant crispy rice. As you dine with the sea breeze caressing your skin, you’ll understand why paella is more than just a meal.
Ice Cream by the Beach
After lunch, treat yourself to a sweet indulgence with a scoop of artisanal gelato from one of the local ice cream parlors. From creamy classics like pistachio and stracciatella to inventive flavors like horchata and turrón, Valencia’s gelaterias offer a taste of pure bliss in every bite.
Evening: Modern Marvels and Culinary Adventures
As the day transitions into the evening, our exploration takes us to Valencia’s modern marvels, where futuristic architecture and innovative design redefine the city skyline.
Gulliver Park
Located within the sprawling Turia Gardens, Gulliver Park is a whimsical playground inspired by Jonathan Swift’s classic tale, Gulliver’s Travels. Here, children and adults alike can climb, slide, and explore the giant Gulliver sculpture, whose body serves as a playground for adventurous souls. Lose yourself in the imaginative world of Gulliver Park as you marvel at its creative design and playful spirit.
City of Arts and Sciences
A short walk from the sculpture is the iconic City of Arts and Sciences, a cultural complex that stands as a symbol of Valencia’s commitment to innovation and creativity. Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic masterpiece is a captivating blend of architecture, science, and art. Explore the interactive exhibits of the Science Museum, marvel at the marine life in the Oceanogràfic, or simply stroll through the serene surrounds of the Turia Gardens. Make sure to go to this attraction earlier if you want to be able to tour the inside. For my short day trip, I opted to just admire the outside of the attraction. Still worth it, it’s a gorgeous infrastructure that’s so beautiful, especially against the sunset.
Dinner: Tapas Tasting
Our whirlwind tour concludes with a culinary adventure through Valencia’s vibrant tapas scene. Wander through the bustling streets of the old town and discover hidden gems where locals gather to enjoy small plates of culinary delights. Given Valencia’s coastal location, seafood plays a prominent role in Valencian tapas. You’ll find an abundance of seafood-based dishes, from crispy fried calamari to succulent grilled sardines, as well as traditional rice dishes like seafood paella (again) or arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish broth).
Savor each bite as you raise a glass of agua del valencia (Valencian cocktail) to a day filled with good sights and good food.
Conclusion: A Day to Remember
In just 24 hours, we’ve experienced the essence of Valencia – from its older landmarks to its modern wonders, from its culinary delights to its scenic shores. As we bid farewell to this beautiful city, we carry with us memories of a day filled with adventure, discovery, and the timeless allure of Spain’s Mediterranean jewel. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to comment and ask!
Curious what sweets and traditional Spanish desserts to try while abroad? Check out this article to learn more about what typical Spaniards eat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is public transportation easily accessible for getting around Valencia during the day trip?
A: While Valencia’s attractions within each section (morning, afternoon, evening) are conveniently located within a 3-15 minute walk of each other, transportation between the sections may vary. Generally, you can expect a 20-minute taxi ride or a 30-45 minute public transport commute between the different areas. However, the exact travel time may depend on factors such as traffic and the specific locations you’re traveling between. It’s advisable to plan your transportation beforehand to ensure a smooth and efficient day trip experience. I wouldn’t recommend renting a car, parking is limited and difficult to sort.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Valencia for a day trip?
A: Valencia has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The spring and fall months (April to June and September to November) are often considered the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasantly warm and there are fewer crowds. However, each season offers its own unique charm, so the best time to visit may depend on your personal preferences and interests.
Q: Are reservations required for restaurants and attractions in Valencia?
A: While reservations are not always required, they are recommended for popular restaurants and attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. Making reservations in advance can ensure that you have a seamless and enjoyable experience during your day trip. For restaurants, it’s particularly important to book ahead if you have specific dining preferences or dietary restrictions.
Q: Are there any safety precautions I should take while exploring Valencia?
A: Valencia is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it’s always important to take common-sense safety precautions while exploring. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in touristy areas. It’s also a good idea to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months, and to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night. Finally, be sure to familiarize yourself with emergency contact information and the location of the nearest embassy or consulate before your trip.