Itineraries for Your Trip to Valencia
2 Days in Valencia for First Timers
Having spent my most recent summer with close family in Valencia, I feel freshly attuned to the Mediterranean way of life there. Many tourists make the mistake of rising early, eager to explore, only to wilt under the city’s midday heat. For a true Valencian experience, embrace late nights and leisurely mornings, taking time to soak in the city’s laid-back charm. For first-timers, the city offers a compelling blend of history, modernity, and natural beauty, with its streets and landscapes shaped by more than 2,000 years of history.
Here’s how to make the most of your two days in Valencia when it's your first time.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a night of tapas in Valencia’s Old Town.
Most businesses and services close for siesta between 2pm and 5pm; plan accordingly and embrace the nap.
Start your day in Valencia by exploring the city’s highlights while it’s still cool. Many of the best-known landmarks, including Valencia Cathedral and the Central Market, surround Ciutat Vella, the city’s old town. Explore them on foot, or take advantage of Valencia’s bike-friendly routes to cut a course through the city gates, past the City of the Arts & Sciences, and onward to the Valencia Marina for a scenic beachside lunch.
Escape the afternoon heat with a visit to one of Valencia’s indoor attractions. From the Institute of Modern Art to the Valencia Oceanografic aquarium, there are options for every type of first-time visitor. However, the lesser-known Church of Sant Nicolau de Bari and Sant Pere Màrtir should be on the itinerary if you want to see Valencia’s answer to the Sistine Chapel.
When in Valencia, an evening of tapas and wine is essential. The city is full of inviting spots to savor local flavors, but for the full experience, look around Old Town neighborhoods like Barrio del Carmen. Here, traditional tapas bars nestle among historic streets and vibrant nightlife.
Keep the culinary immersion up with a morning spent making paella, learning the traditional—and truly original—Valencian method in a local cooking class. The authentic recipe uses ingredients such as rabbit, chicken, sausage, and even snails. However, many classes offer alternatives to accommodate dietary requirements, ensuring everyone can get a taste of this iconic dish.
After enjoying a hearty paella, unwind at Albufera Natural Park. Enjoy a leisurely walk across the protected dunes that separate the freshwater lake from the sea, or relax aboard a traditional fishing boat as it glides through the reedlands and onto the open lagoon. Arrive just before sunset for one of Valencia’s most picturesque views.
On your final night, delve into Valencia’s after-dark action. Younger travelers seeking a late-night party scene will find plenty of options around El Carmen and Ruzafa, where pub crawls are a popular way to meet fellow revelers. For a more local vibe, explore the Benimaclet or Cabanyal neighborhoods or experience the chic yet lively atmosphere of the Canovas (Gran Via) area.
