Begin your trip by strolling through Valencia's stunning old town. Follow the winding streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture of buildings like the historic Mercat Central. After taking in the sights and sounds, head towards the City of Arts and Sciences, one of Valencia's top attractions. Here, explore the unique cultural center, which includes an aquarium, opera house, and IMAX theater. A great way to end the day is by visiting the El Carmen neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and unique bars and restaurants.
Valencia is famous for its beautiful beaches, and no trip here would be complete without spending some time soaking up the sun. Head to the Malvarrosa Beach and enjoy a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean sea or indulge in some beachside cocktails. Make sure you grab a bite of the authentic Valencian paella, made with fresh seafood and cooked in a giant paella pan.
Get lost among the art-filled walls of the IVAM (Valencia Institute of Modern Art) or witness the Gothic architecture and religious artifacts at Valencia Cathedral. Then head over to Albufera Natural Park, and go on a boat tour of the wetlands or even a bike tour around the paddy fields to spot some unique bird species native to the area.
End your trip with a visit to the City of Arts and Sciences again to see the latest scientific exhibits at the Principe Felipe Science Museum. Afterward, explore Valencia's street art scene with a walking tour, which will take you through some of the city's most colorful and imaginative neighborhoods. End the day by visiting Ruzafa, a colorful neighborhood filled with trendy bars, vintage shops, and restaurants.
Valencia has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and a metro. You can buy a Valencia Tourist Card, which gives you free access to public transportation and discounts on popular attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available; however, they are more expensive options. Renting a car can be an excellent way to explore Valencia's surroundings, but it's not ideal for navigating within the city. A daily travel budget can be roughly €10-15 if only using public transportation. Renting a car would roughly cost €20-30 per day.
If you have more time, consider visiting some of the nearby towns like Javea, Altea, or Denia. These towns offer a different experience and provide an escape from the crowds. If you have less time, consider skipping the trip to Albufera Natural Park and spending the day exploring the unique street art scene in Valencia.
Valencia Airport (VLC) is the main airport and is located just nine kilometers from the city center. Taxis, trains, and buses are available to transport travelers to and from the airport. The airport is well connected via routes to major cities in Europe as well as national destinations.