Here’s the ultimate itinerary to enjoy 3 days in Valencia. If you’re planning a Valencia city break, this local’s guide has you covered.

• This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read my disclosure. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

An Ultimate 3-day Itinerary for Valencia

An Ultimate 3 Days in Valencia Itinerary

Here’s the ultimate itinerary to enjoy 3 days in Valencia, perfect for those who want to experience the best this Spanish city has to offer, from popular landmarks to lesser-known gems and unique experiences. Do not miss out these top Valencia activities with my 5% discount code ‘ATC5‘ (excludes combos and bundles).

Day 1: Explore Valencia’s Old Center

For your first day in Valencia, I recommend focusing on the Old City Center. You can follow my 1-day in Valencia itinerary via Google Maps here or read more about it in this post. Only skip the last stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, since you have a few days for this Valencia city break, there’s no need to rush.

To sum it up, I recommend starting your day at the City Hall of Valencia (there’s a Tourist office there, so you can grab a free map or ask any potential questions). Afterwards, head to the Ceramics Museum, a top spot for fans of Spanish pottery, then head to The Silk Exchange. Then, Valencia’s Central Market is a great stop to grab a few bites (check out Central Bar by Ricard Camarena), or you can enjoy lunch at one of the nearby top-rated restaurants – Escalones de la Lonja or Sant Joan’s Taberna.

In the afternoon, dedicate time to Valencia’s iconic religious landmarks, La Seu Cathedral and San Nicolás Church. If you have extra time, stop by the Portal de Quart, one of the medieval entrances to Valencia, built between 1441 and 1493. Here, you can also walk up to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Day 2: Explore The City of Arts and Sciences

Spend your second day in Valencia exploring the iconic City of Arts and Sciences, one of Spain’s most futuristic landmarks. Designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this complex features a science museum, an opera house, and the impressive aquarium. The science museum and aquarium are particularly enjoyable for families visiting Valencia with kids, but they offer something for all ages.

Right next to the City of Arts and Sciences, you’ll find two large shopping centers: Aqua and El Corte Inglés. Aqua has a high-end restaurant Vertical with panoramic views, which I visited a few years ago with my husband for a romantic dinner. We both really enjoyed the experience.

If you still have time after exploring the modern museums, consider taking a bike tour around the area or enjoying a peaceful walk. The City of Arts and Sciences is located in the former Turia riverbed, which was transformed into the city’s green hub years ago. This area is filled with greenery and is a favorite spot among locals for picnics, jogging, and cycling.

• Museo de las Ciencias Principe Felipe (get your tickets in advance)
• Oceanografic Valencia (get your tickets in advance)
• Combined guided tour of both places (check availability)

Nearby, you can also visit the lesser-known Museu Faller, dedicated to Las Fallas, Valencia’s famous festival celebrated every March. This museum provides an interesting glimpse into the traditions and artistry behind the festival’s spectacular sculptures.

Alternatively, you can spend your afternoon at one of Valencia’s beaches, such as Malvarrosa or Cabanyal. Personally, I’m a bit biased here because I’m not a huge fan of the city beaches. Parking can be difficult in summer, and the area is often filled with people offering parking “help” in exchange for tips, which makes me uncomfortable. I feel conflicted about giving money this way, as it might support illegal activity and exploitation, but I sometimes feel pressured to avoid potential problems. That’s why I prefer to visit the beaches outside Valencia, like Canet d’En Berenguer or Benicassim.

Day 3: Paella Cooking Class and Secret Museums

You really can’t visit Valencia without picking up some tips on cooking paella and, of course, trying an authentic one. Below, I’ve listed suggestions for the top-rated cooking classes available in Valencia. However, the third day of this Valencia city break itinerary is planned around this Eatwith Valencia cooking class, which I’ve personally tried. This was my first-ever experience cooking in someone’s home, and it was such a blast because I brought my Valencian husband along (whose mom cooks paella every Sunday), and even he learned a few new tricks! Spanish cuisine is incredibly versatile, and with so many creative takes on traditional dishes.

The class is conveniently located near the IVAM (Valencia’s modern art museum), the Prehistory Museum, and the L’Etno Museum, all of which are worth a visit. With IVAM, your experience will depend on the temporary exhibitions, which were fantastic during my visit. The Prehistory Museum is perfect for history buffs in Spain, since the country has been home to so many civilizations, from the Celtiberians and Romans to the Moors. However, my biggest surprise was the L’Etno Museum, which focuses on Valencian culture. It had so many unique exhibits that I feel like this museum is truly underrated.

Now, I doubt that after the cooking class and exploring these three museums, you’ll have much time left. But if historical artifacts, modern art, or even a paella cooking class aren’t quite your thing, there’s another hidden gem nearby – Casa Benllure. It’s a tiny house-museum set in a traditional Valencian house that once served as the home and studio of the famous local painter Vicente Benllure.

Also, if you’re a fan of gardens, the Botanical Garden of Valencia is in the same area, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Valencia Day Trips: My Honest Opinion

While I’ve shared plenty of ideas for a Valencia city break, you can always swap one of those daily plans for a day trip from Valencia – it’s really up to you! You can check out the full list in this post. Personally, my favorite day trip is the furthest one: Morella and Peñíscola. I find both places truly magical. However, the most popular choices among travelers tend to be the San José Caves, Montanejos, and the Hanging Bridges hike.

As for hiking near Valencia, I wouldn’t recommend it if you only have three days in Valencia. You can read more about Valencia hikes in this post to see if it’s something you’d like to explore. That said, in my opinion, the most popular hikes around Valencia can’t be included on the list of the most spectacular Spanish trails. The region around Valencia lacks dramatic mountains or lush greenery, and in the summer, there’s little to no shade. So, while hiking is a great idea if you’re staying in Valencia for a week, with just three days, I’d suggest focusing more on unique local landmarks (unless, of course, there’s a specific hike that appeals to you based on your personal interests).

• Albufera Day Trip with Boat Tour and Transfer (check availability)
• Boat Tour Little Venice Portsaplaya (check availability)
• Caves of San José Guided Excursion (check availability)
• Montanejos Guided Hike with Thermal Pools (check availability)
• Utiel-Requena Cave & Winery Day Trip with Tasting (check availability)
• Guided Cheese Factory Tour with Wine Tasting (check availability)
• Morella and Peñíscola Day Trip with Transfers (check availability)
• Day Trip from Valencia: Xàtiva and Anna (check availability)
• Chulilla and the Hanging Bridges Day Trip (check availability)
• Bocairent and Covetes dels Moros Day Trip (check availability)
• Peña Cortada Aqueduct Hiking Day Tour (check availability)

Top Valencia Tours with local guides

Popular tours to make the most of your 3 days in Valencia include Essentials and World Heritages Sites Walking Tour, City Highlights Guided Bike Tour, and Segway Tour of Old Town. If you enjoy Spanish shows – check Palosanto Flamenco Show and Flamenco Show with Dinner at La Bulería. Foodies might enjoy Daytime Tapas-Tasting Tour w/ Central Market Visit, Old Town Tour, Wine & Tapas, Traditional Paella Cooking Class & Dinner, Valencia Street Food Tour, Wine Tasting with Professional Sommelier, or City of Arts & Sciences Tour with Rooftop Wine & Tapas.

Best areas to stay in Valencia

For this 3-day itinerary I would pick a central location, like MYR Puerta Serranos, Cosmo Hotel Boutique, and Helen Berger Boutique Hotel, or the modern neighborhood near the city of Arts and Sciences, like Sercotel Valencia Alameda 41 or AC Hotel Valencia by Marriott.

How safe is Valencia?

Valencia is relatively safe. In my opinion, it’s much safer than Barcelona, which is known for its massive pickpocketing problems. However, you still need to take precautions because pickpocketing can happen in Valencia too. During my 15 expat years, nothing has ever happened to me personally. My Spanish husband studied in Valencia for eight years, and he was only robbed once, near the University of Valencia, by two people on a motorbike.

As for the old city center, much of this area is closed to vehicles (except for residents), and there are police cameras, so it’s not as easy to commit theft. The area is also full of people during the day, making it hard for thieves to run away with stolen items. Anyway, I still recommend using any type of an anti-theft bag (which I mention in my Spain packing list) to keep your important belongings secure.

Is Valencia Worth Visiting?

My home region of Valencia is a perfect blend of traditional charm, futuristic architecture, Mediterranean small towns, and delicious food. Valencia city also has something for everyone, and it’s not nearly as touristy as Barcelona. In many ways, the reasons to visit Valencia are similar to those for visiting Spain in general, as the city offers a perfect blend of everything the country is famous for, yet it also has its unique appeal. If you plan on doing any of the popular day trips from Valencia, you’ll discover that the region of the Valencian Community is still full of hidden gems.

While the city of Valencia grows in popularity with international travelers every year due to iconic celebrations of Las Fallas and its port receiving more and more Mediterranean cruises, the region remains a unique blend of old and new. The city itself is home to trendy cafes and the futuristic architecture of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, while nearby small towns, like Bocairent, still preserve a touch of old Spanish lifestyle. In addition, the weather in Valencia is amazing all year round, making it one of the top winter sun destinations in Spain.

Is Valencia a walkable city?

In my opinion, Valencia is one of the most walkable cities in Spain. While the local public transport system is decent, I always enjoy walking across the city. It’s a great way to discover new cafes, shops, and marvel at the local architecture. Plus, walking aligns with the Spanish lifestyle of savoring life and taking things at a slower pace. The only downside to walking in Valencia might be during the heat of July or August, when noon temperatures can be quite intense. Otherwise, it’s a fantastic city for walking.

When is the best time to visit Valencia?

Valencia is a great destination year-round, but my favorite times to visit are early autumn (September-October) and late spring (April-May). During these periods, you can enjoy amazing weather without the crowds that arrive during the summer peak season.

How Many Days to Spend in Valencia?

While I believe three days is the ideal amount of time for a Valencia city break, on my blog, you can find Valencia itineraries ranging from one day to a full week. Under the hashtag #Valencia, you can find numerous articles on the region and ideas for traveling around Valencia for months!

More Valencia Travel Tips:

To explore the Valencia region like a local – check all of my Valencia articles: 

• Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Weekend in Valencia (read it)
• How to Spend an Epic Week in Valencia (read it)
• The Best Day Trips From Valencia (read it)
• Valencia With Kids (read it)
• Breakfast in Valencia – Cute Cafes You´ll Love (read it)
• Spanish Eating Habits – Almuerzo in Valencia (read it)
• Valencia Day Trip to Manises (read it)
• Valencia Hidden Gems Blog Series (read it)
• The Coolest Hikes near Valencia (read it)
• Beautiful villages of Valencia – Bocairente (read it)
• Top Valencia Day Trips by train (read it)
• Madrid To Valencia Road Trip (read it)
• Fun & Adventurous Things to do in Valencia (read it)
• An Ultimate 7-day Valencia Road Trip Itinerary (read it)
• Unique Valencia Gifts to Get Right Now (read it)
• Hiking to Penyagolosa: one of the Highest Peaks of Valencia (read it)
• The Borgia Sights in Valencia (read it)

Pin it: