Valencia 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Valencia

Morning:

  • 🏨 Check-in & Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Some recommendations include Hotel Colón or Hotel Malcom Hatcher, both centrally located and offering comfortable accommodations.
  • 🚀 Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences): Visit this iconic modern architectural complex which houses several cultural and educational buildings, including the Hemisfèric IMAX cinema, Oceanographic aquarium, and Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia.
  • 🚶‍♂️ Walk Around the City Centre: Stroll through the Old Town, admiring its picturesque streets and historic landmarks such as Plaza de la Reina, Valencia Cathedral, and Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange).

Afternoon:

  • 🌐 Central Market (Mercado Central): Explore the vibrant Central Market, a historic covered market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. Don’t miss trying some traditional Spanish dishes such as Paella Valenciana or Fartons.
  • 🏛 Institut Valencià d’Art Modern (IVAM): Delve into modern and contemporary Valencian art at this museum located in the heart of the city.

Evening:

  • 🍴 Dinner: Dine at Botánico Restaurant, a popular eatery offering Mediterranean cuisine with a creative twist, or A Casa Mío, known for its delicious Valencian rice dishes and warm atmosphere.
  • 🎉 Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Valencia by visiting bars and clubs in the Ruzafa neighborhood or along Carrer Caballería.

Day 2: Beach & Modern Valencia

Morning:

  • 🏖️ Beach Time: Head to Playa de la Malvarrosa, one of Valencia’s most popular beaches, for a relaxing morning by the sea. Rent sun loungers and umbrellas if you prefer a more comfortable experience.
  • 🌳 Jardín del Turia: After the beach, take a leisurely stroll along the Jardín del Turia, a beautiful park built on the former riverbed of the Turia River.

Afternoon:

  • ⚽️ City of Arts and Sciences (revisit): Spend your afternoon exploring the interactive science museum, Umbracle gardens or rent a kayak to paddle around the Oceanogràfic lagoon.
  • 🏛 Valencia Institute of Modern Art (IVAM - revisit): If you haven’t already, check out the temporary exhibitions at IVAM in the morning.

Evening:

  • 🍴 Dinner: Savor your final Valencian meal at Cervezería Las Flores, a cozy and charming eatery specializing in craft beers and local dishes.
  • 🎭 Nightlife (alternative): For an authentic Spanish experience, attend a flamenco show at Casa de la Flamenca or La Taberna de la Oveja Negra.

Transporation:

  • Public Transportation: Valencia’s public transportation system includes buses and trams managed by EMT Valencia and metro lines operated by Metrovalencia. You can use the Valencia Travel Card (TURÍBUS) for unlimited travel on all three modes of transport within a 24-, 48- or 72-hour period.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many people in tourist areas also speak English. It’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases!
  • Currency: Euro (€) is used throughout Spain, and you can find ATMs in abundance in the city center.
  • Weather: Valencia has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly!

Tips:

  • Off-peak hours: Avoid crowds and high prices by visiting popular attractions during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon).
  • Siesta: Many shops and restaurants close during the afternoon for siesta, so plan your day accordingly.
  • Local Markets: Don’t miss the local markets like Mercado Colón or Mercado Redondela to sample authentic Valencian cuisine and shop for souvenirs.