Discover Valencia: A Mediterranean Gem
- This Cafe Life
- Jul 16
- 8 min read
Updated: Sep 19
At This Café Life, transparency matters. We want you to know that some of the links on our website are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and book travel, buy a product, or sign up for a service, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
From Moorish walls to futuristic architecture, sleepy beach cafés to bustling food markets, Valencia is a city of contrasts and charm. If you’re planning a 3- or 4-day trip, here’s how to experience the best of this Mediterranean gem.
Why Visit Valencia?
There are countless reasons to visit Valencia! Here are just a few:
Rich History & Culture
Valencia boasts a fascinating history dating back to Roman times. This is evident in its stunning architecture, including the iconic Valencia Cathedral and the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the winding streets of the historic old town to discover centuries of culture and tradition.
Incredible Cuisine
Renowned as the birthplace of paella, one of Spain's most famous dishes, Valencia offers a culinary adventure. Indulge in authentic paella made with fresh local ingredients. Sample other delicious Valencian specialties like horchata, fideuà, and orxata.
Beautiful Beaches
With its prime location on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia offers stunning beaches. You can soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy water sports like windsurfing and sailing. Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de la Patacona are two popular options close to the city center.
City of Arts and Sciences
This futuristic complex, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, is a must-visit. Its striking architecture houses an array of cultural attractions. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Science Museum, marvel at marine life in the Oceanogràfic aquarium, and catch a show at the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía.
Festivals & Events
Valencia hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Fallas festival in March. Here, giant papier-mâché figures are paraded through the streets before being set on fire in spectacular displays of fireworks and bonfires. Aside from organized events, there's something going on everywhere, every day.
Green Spaces
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by relaxing in Valencia's beautiful parks and gardens. The Turia Gardens, created in the former riverbed of the Turia River, offer miles of green space perfect for walking, cycling, or picnicking.
Shopping & Markets
Valencia is famous for its handcrafted leather products, ceramics, and textiles. The city boasts upscale clothing boutiques and renowned designer brands. Valencia’s mercados (markets) are integral to the city’s character. They are lively centers where locals shop, chefs gather fresh ingredients, and visitors immerse themselves in daily life.
Whether you're seeking gourmet treasures, artisan gifts, or simply a taste of jamón and a cold caña, the markets offer cultural experiences in themselves.
Calle Colón & Poeta Querol (Eixample)
Valencia’s “Golden Mile” is perfect for big-name brands like Zara, Benneton, and Mango. It’s great for both high-street and designer finds.
Ruzafa (in Eixample/Russafa)
This hip, low-key, multicultural district is full of diverse small boutiques, artist studios, vintage stores, and trendy shops. It’s the perfect place to find unique fashion items and accessories from independent Spanish designers and up-and-coming brands. Ruzafa has the biggest concentration of second-hand clothing shops in Valencia.
Visit Ruzafa’s curiosity and antique stores, such as Pop 65 Vintage, selling all kinds of original art prints, earrings, notebooks, and stationery by local artists.
Calle de las Cestas
Ideal for handmade wicker, leather goods, and artisanal pieces, this area offers a charming shopping detour.
Mercado Central (Central Market) is one of Europe’s largest and oldest fresh food markets. It is an architectural gem in the heart of the city. The iron, glass, and ceramic Art Nouveau structure, built in 1928, houses more than 300 stalls under its colorful domed roof.
What to try or buy:
Iberian jamón and local cheeses
Valencia oranges, olives, saffron, and tiger nuts (for horchata)
Fresh seafood and local clams
Spices, tinned seafood, and olive oils (great for gifts)
Don’t miss: Grab a stool at Central Bar by Ricard Camarena. This sleek tapas bar, run by a Michelin-starred chef, serves croquetas, grilled sandwiches, and daily specials using ingredients straight from the surrounding stalls.
Mercado de Colón (Columbus Market) is a stunning modernist building. It was once a local produce market but has been beautifully repurposed into a gourmet food and shopping hall. With its stained-glass windows and Gaudí-esque flourishes, it's a feast for the eyes and palate.
What to do here:
Sip an espresso or horchata at Daniel’s, a beloved horchatería
Sample local wine and pintxos at upscale bars
Browse gourmet shops and designer pop-ups
Enjoy relaxed people-watching under the vaulted arches
Mercado de Ruzafa is a more local, gritty market in the heart of Valencia’s hipster neighborhood. It’s less touristy than Central or Colón but full of charm. It’s great for produce, flowers, and small eateries.
El Cabanyal Market is a traditional market close to the seaside. Stop here for picnic provisions before heading to Malvarrosa Beach or if you're biking along the coast.
Itinerary Overview
Map of Walking Tours
Day 1: Historic Center & City Intro
Hotel check-in (Hotel Palacio Santa Clara)
Ceramics Museum
Valencia Cathedral
La Lonja de la Seda
Mercado Central
Dinner at Bacaro
Start your journey with an early arrival and check into Hotel Palacio Santa Clara in the Sant Francesc district of the old town. This Marriott Autograph Collection hotel is small and sublime, with a central location.
What we love about the Hotel:
Rooftop pool & bar with great views of the city
Stunning art deco décor
Pleasant, knowledgeable staff
Visit the National Museum of Ceramics and Sumptuary Arts "González Martí". It’s a 20-minute walk from the hotel. The gorgeous baroque interiors hold an impressive selection of Spanish ceramics. The inexpensive entrance fee of €3 is worth an hour or two of your time.
Next, explore the Valencia Cathedral. In the center of the old town, the Cathedral stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and historical importance. Built on the ruins of a Roman temple, its grand facade and intricate interior are captivating. An audio guide is included with the €10 ticket price.
Visit La Lonja de la Seda, the Silk Exchange. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a short distance from the cathedral and square. It features an impressive collection of historical buildings that are well detailed and informative.
On Sundays, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, there is a flea market in front of the Lonja with loads of antique collector’s items, including stamps, coins, ceramics, books, and art.
Next, head to Mercat Central de València. This market is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and local delicacies.
Finally, stop by Bacaro for tapas and wine.
Day 2: Art, Food, & Fashion
Sant Francesc stroll
Coworkshop Spain (Ruzafa)
Lunch at Canalla Bistro
Shopping La Gran Via
Dinner at Nostra Terreta
On your second day, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the Sant Francesc district. Visit Mercado de Colón, a stunning modernist market. Explore the Basilica Sant Vicent Ferrer, a stunning Gothic Revival church located next to Colón. Free audio tours are available, making it a perfect respite amid the bustling city. Head to Ruzafa Barrio for a unique shopping experience. Visit Coworkshop, a multicultural space hosting exhibitions and workshops. Enjoy lunch at Canalla Bistro, known for its exceptional tapas and shared plates. In the affluent district of La Gran Via, you’ll find high-end restaurants and sophisticated fashion boutiques. End your day with dinner at Restaurante Nostra Terreta, where you can enjoy laid-back outdoor dining with traditional cuisine.
Day 3: City of Arts & Sciences + Beach
Scooter rental & Turia Park
L’Hemisferic + L’Oceanogràfic
Ploblats Maritims
Lunch at La Pepica (on the beach)
Shopping near hotel
Dinner at La Pappardella
Day three is all about exploration! Rent a scooter from a local shop. Valencia is very cycle-friendly, with bike lanes throughout the city. Start your adventure at the City of Arts & Sciences, one of the 12 Treasures of Spain. This complex is located in the former riverbed of the river Turia, which was drained after a flood in 1957. The riverbed is now a picturesque sunken park. Highlights include L’Hemisferic, an IMAX cinema, planetarium, and laserium. It resembles a giant eye and is known as the ‘eye of knowledge’. Visit the Museu de les Ciencies Principe Felipe, an interactive museum resembling the skeleton of a whale. Don’t miss L’Umbracle. This open structure envelops a landscaped walk with plant species indigenous to Valencia. It houses the Walk of the Sculptures, an outdoor art gallery. After exploring, head to L’Oceanografic, an open-air oceanographic park with the largest aquarium in Europe, built in the shape of a water lily. After spending hours at L’Umbracle and L’Oceanografic, continue south along the riverbed. Take a detour through the colorful neighborhood of Ploblats Maritims, then onto the beaches: Playa de las Arenas and Platja de la Malva-rosa.
Enjoy lunch at La Pepica on the beach. This long-standing hotel serves Dover Sole, presented whole and carved tableside. It’s an amazing experience. Afterward, head back to the hotel through the park. Wash up and go shopping around the area. You’ll find clothing stores with international recognition like Zara, Benneton, and local boutiques. End your day with dinner at La Pappardella, close to the hotel, where you can enjoy delicious gluten-free pasta.
Day 4: Road Trip to Valencia’s Countryside
Drive north: Playa Puebla de Farnals
Puçol, Marjal dels Moros
Sierra Calderona Natural Park
Monasteries & Castle
Dinner at Marinetta Mia
On your final day, embark on a road trip! Grab a rental car and head north. Your first stop is Playa Puebla de Farnals, a sleepy seaside town with narrow streets and Mediterranean architecture. Continue through El Puig de Santa Maria and on to Puçol. This area is rich with ruins and farmlands lush with olive and orange trees. Just outside the town entrance is Marjal dels Moros, a wetland bird protection area. Another great excursion is Moli de Vent, one of the few windmills in the Region of Valencia. This lovely place offers scenic views. Your final destination is Gilet, where you can explore the Sierra Calderona Natural Park. Visit Cartuja de Porta Coeli, a 13th-century monastery in Serra. This imposing building features a mix of styles, from Gothic to Neoclassical, complete with a 15th-century aqueduct.
Also, check out Cartuja de Valldecrist, a monastic compound, and the Monastery of Santo Espiritu del Monte, which has an inn, Franciscan library, and church. Don’t miss Castell de Serra, towering over the Sierra Calderona Natural Park with views of the Turia Valley to the coast. End your long day with an incredible dinner at Marinetta Mia. Enjoy great food, friendly staff, and delicious limoncello! Valencia is easy to fall in love with—whether you're sipping horchata in a sunny plaza, admiring Gaudí-style tilework, or hiking through a quiet olive grove. This city invites you to slow down, savor, and stay a little longer.
Our handpicked hotels, boutiques, and charming neighborhood finds - Where to Stay Guide.
Running This Café Life involves time, hosting, and resources. Affiliate partnerships allow us to keep sharing in-depth travel guides, recipes, photography, and cultural stories with you for free.
Comments