Valencia 2 weeks

Valencia's international airport, well-connected to the city center via metro and taxi.

Check into your accommodation and leave your luggage. Consider a hotel near the city center or beach depending on your preference.

• Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
• Look for hotels with good public transport links.

Visit the impressive Valencia Cathedral, believed by some to house the Holy Grail. Admire its blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture.

• Climb the Miguelete bell tower for panoramic city views (separate ticket required).
• Check opening hours as they can vary.

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this historic square, surrounded by the Cathedral, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken, and the Turia fountain.

• Great spot for people-watching and enjoying street performers.

Savor traditional Valencian cuisine, particularly their renowned paellas. This mid-range restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and authentic flavors.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• Try the Fideuà, a noodle-based paella alternative.

Explore this futuristic complex of buildings designed by Santiago Calatrava. It houses an opera house, science museum, aquarium, and more.

• Purchase tickets online in advance to save time.
• Allocate at least half a day to explore.

Visit Europe's largest aquarium, located within the City of Arts and Sciences. It features diverse marine ecosystems and species from around the world.

• Check the feeding times for dolphins and other marine life.

Stroll or rent bikes through this vast, dry riverbed park that winds through the city. It's a vibrant green space perfect for relaxation and recreation.

• Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
• Find shaded spots for a picnic or a break.

This beautifully restored modernist market building is now a hub for gourmet food stalls, cafes, and bars. Enjoy a drink or light bite in a stunning setting.

Experience a fusion of international flavors with a Valencian twist at this popular eatery. It's known for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

• The tasting menu offers a great way to sample many dishes.
• Expect a lively and sometimes noisy environment.

One of Europe's oldest and largest covered markets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies.

• Go early to experience the market at its liveliest.
• Try some fresh juice or a small tapa from one of the stalls.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning Gothic building was once the center of Valencia's silk trade. Admire its intricate architecture and grand hall.

• The Contract Hall (Sala de Contratación) is particularly breathtaking.
• Combine with a visit to the adjacent Church of the Santos Juanes.

Enjoy a casual and authentic Valencian lunch. This spot is known for its affordable tapas and traditional dishes, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

• Try the 'esgarraet' (roasted peppers and cod) or 'clóchinas' (mussels).

One of the twelve gates that formed part of the ancient city wall. Climb to the top for excellent views over the Turia Gardens and the city.

• Offers a less crowded alternative to the Miguelete tower for views.

Wander through the historic El Carmen district, known for its narrow, winding streets, street art, vibrant nightlife, and numerous tapas bars and restaurants.

• Look out for the impressive street art murals.
• This area comes alive in the evening.

Enjoy a lively tapas experience in the heart of El Carmen. This popular spot offers a wide selection of traditional and modern tapas.

Relax on Valencia's most famous urban beach, known for its wide sandy shores and promenade. Enjoy the Mediterranean sun and sea.

• Rent a sun lounger and umbrella for comfort.
• The beach can get crowded on weekends and holidays.

Stroll along the vibrant promenade bordering Malvarrosa Beach. It's lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars offering sea views.

A historic restaurant on the promenade, famous for serving fresh seafood and traditional paellas to celebrities and locals alike since 1898.

• Consider their signature rice dishes.
• Book a table with a sea view if possible.

Explore this traditional neighborhood market, offering a more local experience than the Central Market. Find fresh produce, local goods, and a few small eateries.

• Admire the unique modernist architecture of the market building itself.
• Try some local fruits or pastries.

Enjoy sunset cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere at this stylish beach club located near the marina. It's a great spot to unwind after a day at the beach.

Discover a rich collection of Valencian art, from medieval paintings to contemporary works. It's housed in a beautiful baroque palace.

• Admission is free for EU citizens.
• Don't miss the works by Joaquín Sorolla and Francisco Goya.

Escape to this tranquil botanical garden, featuring a diverse collection of plants from around the world, including Mediterranean flora and tropical species.

Experience a true Valencian tradition by trying horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, served with fartons (sweet pastries).

• Horchata is an acquired taste for some, but worth trying.
• Fartons are perfect for dipping into the horchata.

Visit another of the ancient city gates, known for its distinct Gothic style and battle scars from past sieges. Climb to the top for views.

Indulge in a fine dining experience at this Michelin-starred restaurant, showcasing innovative Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• This is a splurge, book well in advance.
• The tasting menu is highly recommended.

Take a scenic boat trip on the freshwater lagoon, the birthplace of paella. Enjoy the unique landscape of rice paddies and diverse birdlife.

• Consider visiting at sunset for stunning views.
• Bring binoculars for birdwatching.

This charming fishing village within the park is renowned for its authentic paella restaurants. Enjoy a traditional meal in its place of origin.

• Try 'All i Pebre', a local eel and potato stew.

Walk or cycle through the picturesque rice paddies surrounding El Palmar. Learn about the cultivation process and enjoy the serene rural landscape.

Head back to Valencia city after a day exploring the natural beauty and culinary heritage of Albufera.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner back in Valencia, perhaps trying some more tapas or local dishes in a traditional setting.

Housed in the stunning Baroque Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, this museum showcases an impressive collection of ceramics and decorative arts.

• The building itself, especially the alabaster portal, is a work of art.
• Explore the carriage museum in the basement.

Take a guided walking tour to discover the vibrant and ever-changing street art scene in the historic El Carmen neighborhood. Learn about the artists and their messages.

• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking a lot.
• Ask your guide for recommendations for local eateries.

Experience a historic bodega dating back to 1836, offering traditional tapas and a vast selection of local wines. It's a true taste of old Valencia.

• Try their anchovies and vermouth.
• The atmosphere is rustic and authentic.

Visit this lively neighborhood market in the trendy Ruzafa district. It's a great place to see local life and find fresh produce and artisanal products.

Many stalls within the market transform into small eateries in the evening, offering diverse culinary options from around the world in a casual setting.

Explore the underground ruins of the ancient Roman city of Valentia. Discover artifacts and remnants of the city's early history, including baths and a forum.

• The site is located directly beneath the Plaza de la Virgen.
• Look for the remnants of the Roman theatre.

Learn about the evolution of Valencia from prehistoric times to the present day through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.

A classic tapas bar famous for its 'clóchinas' (Valencian mussels) and other fresh seafood tapas. It's a no-frills, authentic local experience.

• This place is often crowded, be prepared to stand.
• Order a 'cazuela' of mussels.

Located in the historic Atarazanas (Royal Shipyards), this museum details Valencia's rich maritime history, naval traditions, and shipbuilding.

• See the impressive collection of historic boats and anchors.
• The building itself is a significant historical monument.

Enjoy fresh seafood with views of the marina. This restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience by the water.

Visit this beautiful palace, which now houses part of the Fine Arts Museum. Admire its architecture and historical significance.

A charming 19th-century neoclassical garden, perfect for a peaceful stroll. It features fountains, sculptures, and manicured hedges.

Learn the secrets of making authentic Valencian paella in a hands-on cooking class. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch.

• Book this experience in advance.
• Many classes include a visit to a local market to select ingredients.

Visit the main square of Valencia, home to the City Hall and the main post office. Admire the grand architecture and the central fountain.

Enjoy a relaxed evening with drinks and light tapas in the Ruzafa district, known for its trendy bars and vibrant nightlife.

Admire the stunning modernist architecture of Valencia's main train station. Its tiled facade and interior decoration are remarkable.

Revisit this beautiful modernist market, perhaps for a coffee or to browse the artisanal shops. It's a great spot to appreciate Valencian architecture.

Enjoy lunch at one of the gourmet food stalls within the Mercado de Colón, offering a variety of high-quality options in a beautiful setting.

Explore Valencia's main shopping street, featuring a mix of international brands, department stores, and local boutiques. A good place for souvenir hunting.

Enjoy another meal at this popular spot, perhaps trying different dishes than your previous visit, or explore the vibrant Ruzafa district for other dining options.

Admire the exterior of this striking modern concert hall, located within the Turia Gardens. Its architecture is a notable landmark.

Continue exploring different sections of the Turia Gardens, perhaps visiting the Gulliver Park (Parc Gulliver) with its giant slide.

Enjoy a delicious and reasonably priced set menu lunch in the trendy Ruzafa neighborhood. It's known for its modern Mediterranean cuisine.

• Excellent value for money, especially the lunch menu.
• Reservations are recommended.

A unique circular square in the city center, known for its craft shops and small artisan workshops. It's a charming place for a stroll and some local shopping.

Experience a traditional tapas bar with a long history, offering classic dishes and a lively atmosphere. It's a great spot for a pre-dinner drink or a full tapas meal.

Explore modern and contemporary art at Valencia's leading art institution. It features a diverse collection and rotating exhibitions.

• Check their website for current exhibitions.
• Often has free admission on Saturdays and Sundays after 3 PM.

Visit this bustling neighborhood market for a more local experience. Find fresh produce, meats, seafood, and artisanal products.

Enjoy lunch at this popular spot known for its creative fusion cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great way to sample diverse flavors.

• The tasting menu is a good option for trying multiple dishes.
• Reservations are recommended.

Visit the impressive bullring, one of the largest in Spain. You can tour the bullring and its museum, or simply admire its neoclassical architecture from the outside.

• Bullfights are controversial; consider the ethics if attending one.
• The museum offers insight into the history of bullfighting.

Enjoy a relaxed evening with tapas and drinks in a local bar, soaking in the authentic Valencian atmosphere.

Visit this less crowded, more natural beach south of the city, part of the Albufera Natural Park. It offers wide sandy stretches and pine forests.

• Great for a quieter beach experience.
• Check local transport options as it's further out.

Enjoy a delightful lunch with sea views. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional rice dishes.

• Try their paella or 'arroz a banda'.

Visit the visitor center to learn more about the biodiversity and conservation efforts in the Albufera Natural Park. You can also find information on local trails.

Find a relaxed beach bar along the coast to enjoy the sunset with a drink. Many options are available near El Saler or back towards the city.

Enjoy a final traditional Valencian dinner in the city center, perhaps trying a different style of paella or other local specialties.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from local shops or markets.

Enjoy a final leisurely brunch at a local cafe before heading to the airport.

Depart from Valencia.