4-Day Weekend Guide to Vibrant Valencia, Spain

Experience the magical fusion of stunning architecture, delicious food and energetic atmosphere in Valencia.

22 April 2023

Valencia, Spain is a vibrant city located on the eastern coast of the country. It boasts stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors to this city can enjoy touring historic landmarks like the City of Arts and Sciences, indulging in traditional paella dishes, and relaxing on the picturesque beaches along the Mediterranean Sea.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into the cozy Ad Hoc Carmen hotel in Valencia's historic center
  • Wander through the cobbled streets of the atmospheric Barrio del Carmen neighborhood
  • Admire the Gothic splendor of the Valencia Cathedral and climb its bell tower for sweeping views
  • Stroll around the lively Mercado Central and sample local delicacies like jamón and paella
  • Sip on artisanal cocktails at the quirky and bohemian Café de las Horas
Day 2

Arts, Sciences, and Nature

  • Take a bus or metro to the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias complex
  • Explore the exhibits at the impressive Oceanogràfic aquarium, the largest in Europe
  • Admire the avant-garde architecture of the Hemisfèric planetarium and the Palau de les Arts opera house
  • Relax in the lush gardens of the Turia riverbed park, which used to be a river until it was diverted
  • Have a seafood feast by the beach in the charming seaside village of El Cabanyal
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Learn about Valencia's colorful past at the sprawling Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda) UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Marvel at the ornate Baroque façade of the Church of Saint Nicholas (Iglesia de San Nicolás)
  • Visit the modernist Central Market (Mercado Central) and shop for fresh produce and local specialties
  • Take a tour of the atmospheric underground tunnels of the San Miguel de los Reyes monastery
  • Sample a variety of craft beers at the trendy and industrial-style Tyris On Tap brewery
Day 4

Gardens and Castles

  • Admire the vibrant ceramics and mosaics at the colorful and whimsical Palau dels Arts Reina Sofia
  • Follow the winding paths and waterfalls of the charming Jardines de Monforte garden
  • Explore the impressive and imposing Castillo de Sagunto, a hilltop fortress with stunning views
  • Enjoy a sunset drink at the trendy and chic Marina Beach Club with views of the Mediterranean
  • Tuck into a Michelin-starred meal at the elegant and refined Ricard Camarena restaurant.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Valencia by plane is to fly into Valencia Airport. Airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Iberia offer flights to Valencia from cities throughout Europe.

Car

Driving to Valencia is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding areas. From Madrid, take the A-3 motorway south towards Valencia. The journey takes around 3 hours depending on traffic.

Train

One option for travelling to Valencia by train is to take the high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid. The train journey takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes and arrives at Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station.

Boat

If travelling internationally, you can take a ferry from the island of Ibiza to the port of Valencia. The ferry takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes from Ibiza town to Valencia Port.

Bus

Travelling to Valencia by bus is a cost-effective option. There are many bus companies that operated a direct service from other cities in Spain. Companies such as ALSA have routes from Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga among other cities.

More travel plans

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Valencia, Spain offers a wide range of attractions for tourists, such as the city's stunning Gothic architecture, cozy restaurants and cafes, and picturesque beaches. A visit to the impressive City of Arts and Sciences is a must-do, showcasing futuristic buildings, a planetarium, and an IMAX cinema. And no trip to Valencia would be complete without trying the famous traditional dish of paella, enjoyed alongside a glass of refreshing Sangria.

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4-Day Weekend Guide to Vibrant Valencia, Spain

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