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5-Day Spring Adventure in Valencia for General Travelers

⚖️Balanced Mix
5 daysspring

Explore vibrant culture, stunning architecture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine in a perfectly paced 5-day spring trip to Valencia.

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Our #1 travel tip

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.

Local guide, 2-3 hours

Major sights, hidden gems, local stories

100% tip-based

Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best

You tip what feels right

At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right

I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Valencia, Spain, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Adrijana, founder of City Buddy
Browse FREE walking tours
Day 1Historic City Center Orientation
Morning
Free Walking Tour

~2.5 hours

Start the free walking tour from Plaza de la Virgen. This area is within the Historic City Center, giving a great introduction to Valencia's old town charm. Look for guides holding signs near the square.

Exploring the historic streets offers a rich glimpse into vibrant culture and stunning architecture. You'll typically encounter lively plazas, ornate buildings, and local stories told by passionate guides. Most walking tours include stops at iconic landmarks and opportunities to savor regional flavors in charming neighborhoods.

Book FREE walking tour
Afternoon

Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral

Visit the Valencia Cathedral located in Plaza de la Reina. Check the opening hours in advance and don't miss climbing the Miguelete Tower for panoramic city views.

4.6(33k reviews)~1.5 hours
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Afternoon

La Lonja de la Seda

La Lonja de la Seda

Walk from the cathedral to La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its gothic architecture is stunning and it is located just a few minutes away on Carrer de la Llotja.

4.6(29k reviews)~1 hours
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Late Afternoon

Torres de Serranos

Torres de Serranos

Head to the Torres de Serranos, an ancient city gate that offers great photo opportunities and views of the Turia Gardens nearby. It's an easy walk from La Lonja.

4.6(49k reviews)~1 hours
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Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Breakfast
Find a local café near Plaza del Ayuntamiento and try Buñuelos de calabaza, a delicious pumpkin fritter, with a rich coffee to start your day.
~€4
Paella Valenciana
Lunch~€12

Look for a small traditional eatery near the Cathedral and order Paella Valenciana. This iconic rice dish is a must-try for visitors to Valencia.

Paella Valenciana
Dinner
Grab dinner at a casual restaurant in the El Carmen neighborhood. Try a fresh salad or grilled vegetables with some local bread for a lighter option.
~€10
Walk as much as possible today to fully experience the Historic City Center. Use taxis for longer distances or late returns at about €1.2 per km via apps like Cabify or Free Now.
Hotel in Ciutat Vella (Historic City Center neighborhood)
€40-60/night

Staying here puts you right in the heart of Valencia's historic and cultural sights, perfect for day 1's itinerary.

metro15 minutes

Take the Metro from Xàtiva station (near Ciutat Vella) to Colón station for easy access to the Art, Culture and Markets area. Buy tickets at the station or use contactless payment.

Day 2Art, Culture and Markets
Morning
Valencia Museum of Fine Arts

~2 hours

Explore impressive collections from medieval to modern art. Located on Calle San Pío V, this museum is a must for art lovers.

Late Morning

Mercado Central

Mercado Central

Walk through the vibrant market on Plaza Ciudad de Brujas and enjoy fresh produce, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere.

4.7(94k reviews)~1.5 hours
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Afternoon

Ruzafa Neighborhood

Ruzafa Neighborhood

Discover this trendy district east of the city center filled with colorful street art, boutique shops, and trendy cafés.

4.5(10k reviews)~3 hours
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Evening
Traditional Tapas Bar

~2 hours

Find a cozy tapas bar in the city center to sample a variety of small plates in a lively setting.

Enjoy an authentic culinary experience by sampling a variety of small, flavorful dishes alongside local wines or beers. You'll typically discover a lively atmosphere where locals gather to socialize and savor regional ingredients prepared in traditional ways. The city's vibrant food culture and emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce make indulging in tapas a delightful and immersive activity.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Buñuelos de calabaza
BreakfastAround €4-6

Find a local bakery near Mercado Central and try Buñuelos de calabaza, pumpkin fritters usually dusted with sugar, along with a strong coffee.

Buñuelos de calabaza
Paella Valenciana
LunchAbout €12-15

Look for a casual eatery in Ruzafa offering homemade Paella Valenciana made with traditional ingredients.

Paella Valenciana
Agua de Valencia
DinnerAround €15-20

Seek out a tapas bar near the city center and sample various small dishes with a cold beer or Agua de Valencia cocktail.

Agua de Valencia
Use the Metro and bus lines to easily move between your stops. For quick trips, taxis via Cabify, Free Now, or Bolt cost about €1.2 per km.
Hotel in Historic City Center (heart of Valencia with easy access to main attractions)
$40-60/night

Staying here keeps you close to museums, markets, and vibrant nightlife for your art and culture day.

taxi20 minutes

Traveling to the Nature and Relaxation area, a taxi is the fastest way to get there after your city day. Book via Cabify or Free Now for convenience.

Day 3Nature and Relaxation
Morning

Turia Gardens

Turia Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll in Turia Gardens, the city's famous green corridor converted from a riverbed. Start near the City of Arts and Sciences for scenic pathways and fountains.

4.6(44k reviews)~2 hours
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Late Morning
Labyrinth Garden of Horta

~1.5 hours

Explore this historic neoclassical garden with its maze, sculptures, and serene ponds. It is located in the Horta neighborhood, easily accessible by bus from the city center.

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Afternoon
Explore a neighborhood garden

~2 hours

Choose a local neighborhood garden like the Botanical Garden of Valencia near the Turia Gardens. Walk along road Carrer Quart or nearby streets to find charming and quiet green spaces.

Evening
Sunset Photography at Albufera

~2 hours

Head to the Albufera Natural Park for stunning sunset views over the freshwater lagoon. Best accessed by bus or taxi from the city, plan to arrive before sunset for prime photo opportunities.

Capture breathtaking hues and tranquil reflections as the sun dips below the horizon. Travelers typically enjoy a serene atmosphere, perfect for experimenting with lighting and composition in natural surroundings. The region's expansive wetlands and vivid sunsets offer unique photography opportunities that highlight the area's natural beauty and peaceful ambiance.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Horchata de chufa
Breakfast€3-5

Find a café near Turia Gardens and try Horchata de chufa, a refreshing local tiger nut milk drink, paired with fresh pastries.

Horchata de chufa
Paella Valenciana
Lunch€12-18

Look for a traditional Valencian restaurant near the Labyrinth Garden and order Paella Valenciana, a classic rice dish with chicken, rabbit, and local vegetables.

Paella Valenciana
Fideuà
Dinner€15-22

Find a cozy spot near the Albufera lagoon and try fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish or fideuà, a local noodle paella alternative.

Fideuà
The best way to get around today is using public transport like metro, tram, and buses. For flexible travel to Albufera and late evenings, use taxi apps like Cabify or Free Now. Taxi costs about €1.2 per km.
Hotel in Ciutat Vella (historic city center near major attractions)
€40-60/night

This area offers easy access to gardens, the city center, and transport links for day trips like Albufera.

bus45 minutes

Take a direct bus from Ciutat Vella to the beach areas for a smooth transition to wildlife and beach fun day. Book tickets via local bus services or apps.

Day 4Wildlife and Beach Fun
Morning

Bioparc Valencia

Bioparc Valencia

Bioparc Valencia is a well-designed zoo where animals live in habitats close to their natural environments. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy animal feedings and talks.

4.6(57k reviews)~3 hours
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Afternoon

Malvarrosa Beach

Malvarrosa Beach

Malvarrosa Beach is a popular sandy beach with a lively promenade. Head to the beachfront and enjoy the sun and sea. Look for nearby facilities like showers and sunbed rentals.

4.5(8k reviews)~3 hours
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Late Afternoon
Find a local beach café

~1.5 hours

Stroll along Avenue de l'Almirante Cadarso near Malvarrosa Beach to find charming beach cafés. Try to sit outside to soak up the beach ambiance and watch the sunset.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Coca de llanda
Breakfast€3-5

Find a local bakery near your accommodation and try Coca de llanda, a traditional Valencian sponge cake, with a strong coffee or espresso.

Coca de llanda
Paella Valenciana
Lunch€15-25

Look for a beachside restaurant near Malvarrosa and order Paella Valenciana, Spain's famous rice dish with a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetables.

Paella Valenciana
Buñuelos de calabaza
Dinner€7-12

Find a casual café in the nearby Cabanyal neighborhood and try Buñuelos de calabaza, fried pumpkin dough balls often served with coffee or mistela.

Buñuelos de calabaza
The easiest way to get around this area is by using the tram and bus network. For flexibility, taxis are affordable about €1.2 per km with apps like Cabify, Free Now, Bolt, and Uber.
Hotel in Ciutat Vella (historic city center)
€40-60/night

This central location offers easy access to both urban sights and the beach, perfect for your day visiting Bioparc and Malvarrosa.

Taxi20 minutes

From the hotel in Ciutat Vella to the culinary and scenic nature areas on Day 5. Book a taxi via Cabify or Free Now for reliability and convenience.

Day 5Culinary Experiences and Scenic Nature
Morning
Cooking Class Paella Workshop

~3 hours

Join a hands-on paella cooking class in the Ruzafa neighborhood, known for its lively market atmosphere. Book in advance to secure your spot and bring comfortable clothes for cooking.

Valencia offers a vibrant culinary environment where you'll typically engage in hands-on preparation of classic dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Local guides often share insights into traditional techniques and the cultural significance behind the flavors. Most classes include tasting the dishes you prepare, creating a shared experience that is both educational and delicious.

Afternoon
Boat Ride in Albufera

~2.5 hours

Head to the Albufera Natural Park just south of Valencia city. Take a relaxing electric boat ride through the freshwater lagoon while spotting local birdlife. Ask for Albufera boat tours at El Palmar village pier.

You'll typically experience serene views of the vast freshwater lagoon and surrounding natural park, observing local wildlife and traditional fishing practices. Local guides often share insights about the unique ecosystem and cultural heritage, enriching the peaceful journey. Most rides include a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature’s beauty in a distinctive coastal setting.

Late Afternoon
Visit a family-friendly local art studio

~2 hours

Explore a local art studio in the Ciutat Vella area, where you can see artworks and maybe participate in a small art activity. Check for studios near Plaza de la Virgen for easy access.

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Evening
Try a rooftop bar with city views

~2 hours

Choose a rooftop bar in the city center around the historic quarter. Enjoy sunset views and a refreshing drink while soaking in city vibes. Look near Plaza del Ayuntamiento for good options.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Buñuelos de calabaza
Breakfast€4-6

Find a café in Ruzafa and order Buñuelos de calabaza, a delightful pumpkin fritter, with fresh coffee. This sets a sweet and traditional start to your day.

Buñuelos de calabaza
Fideuà
Lunch€12-15

Look for a rustic restaurant near Albufera and try Fideuà, a local noodle seafood dish similar to paella but with pasta. It’s a flavorful unique experience of the region.

Fideuà
Agua de Valencia
Dinner€12-18

Seek out a city center rooftop bar that offers Agua de Valencia, a famous Valencian cocktail with cava and orange juice. Pair it with some light tapas or a fresh salad to keep it light and chic.

Agua de Valencia
The best way to get around Valencia today is by using the metro and tram system, which is extensive and affordable. For short trips, taxis are available and apps like Cabify, Free Now, Bolt, and Uber operate here. Taxis cost around €1.2 per km.
Hotel in Ciutat Vella (historic old town)
€40-60/night

This area places you in the heart of Valencia, close to markets, historic sites, restaurants, and nightlife — perfect for your culinary and scenic last day.

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Budget Breakdown

Accommodation / night$42
Food / day$13
Transport / day$7
Activities / day$15
Daily total$77
Trip total$385

Accommodation estimated at $42 per night, food around $13 per day including street food and meals, transportation approximately $7 per day using public transport and occasional taxi, activities and entrance fees budgeted at $15 daily.

Good to Know

Tap Water: Safe to drink
Power Plugs: Type C and Type F plugs are used
Public Transport: Metro, Tram, Bus, Cercanias trains available and affordable
Taxi Apps: Cabify, Free Now, Bolt, Uber are the best taxi apps
Languages: Spanish, Valencian, English spoken; English proficiency average
Safety: Very safe with excellent violent crime safety and good traffic safety
Food: Street food about $4, restaurant meals around $12; excellent food scene
Best Visit Months: March, April, May or September, October for best weather
Internet: Internet speed around 50 Mbps, suitable for digital work
LGBTQ+ Friendly: Excellent LGBTQ+ friendliness with welcoming atmosphere

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