What to do in Valencia in 3 days

Valencia

Are you planning your next trip to Valencia? Three days is enough time to explore the most iconic attractions in the capital of the Valencian Community. Valencia offers a wealth of sites to discover, from the stunning Albufera Natural Park to historic landmarks like the Serranos Towers and the Quart Towers.

To make your visit even more convenient, we recommend hiring a car through DoYouSpain, so you can easily access all these incredible places. Here’s our guide to what to see in Valencia in three days:

Places to see in Valencia

Valencia is almost always blessed with good weather. Valencians take pride in living in one of Spain’s sunniest cities, making it a fantastic year-round destination. So, no matter when you visit, you can look forward to enjoying plenty of sunshine. Now that you’re reassured about the glorious Valencian weather, take note of this three-day itinerary to ensure you don’t miss any highlights:

Day 1: City of Arts and Sciences

Start your first day in Valencia with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the City of Arts and Sciences. You can reach this futuristic complex with a leisurely walk through the Turia Garden, a beautifully landscaped park that was once a riverbed.

The City of Arts and Sciences is home to several must-visit attractions, such as L’Hemisferic, the Science Museum, the Umbracle, Palau de les Arts, and the Oceanografic.

Top tip: The best time to visit is at sunset, when the buildings are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.

Day 2: Valencia City Centre

Begin your second day in Valencia with a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Dedicate the day to exploring the historic city centre, starting with the Plaza de la Reina, where you’ll find the Valencia Cathedral. Climb the iconic Miguelete Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Next, head to the Plaza de la Virgen, where you can visit the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados and the Palacio de la Generalitat. Wander through the narrow streets of Barrio del Carmen, a charming district filled with history, and make your way to the Serranos Towers for another vantage point over Valencia. Don’t miss the Central Market of Valencia, one of the finest examples of Valencian modernist architecture and an excellent spot to experience the local culinary culture.

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk along Calle Colon, known for its shops and boutiques. Make sure to visit Plaza de Toros, the Estacion del Norte (North Station), and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the city’s main square.

Day 3: Beaches and Albufera Natural Park

After exploring much of the city on day two, day three offers a more relaxed pace. Start your morning with breakfast by the sea at Malvarrosa Beach or Patacona Beach, followed by a gentle stroll along the shoreline.

For lunch, take a trip to the Albufera Natural Park, where you can enjoy an authentic Valencian paella. To end your trip on a high note, take a boat ride at sunset in the Albufera. This serene experience is the perfect way to admire the natural beauty of Valencia as the day comes to a close.

Tourism with children in Valencia

Valencia is a fantastic destination for families with children, offering plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained. One of the most popular attractions is Gulliver Park, a unique children’s playground inspired by the character Gulliver from Gulliver’s Travels. Here, children can climb and explore a giant figure of Gulliver lying on the ground. Located in the Turia River Gardens, this park is free to enter and a delight for kids.

Another must-visit spot is the Science Museum in the City of Arts and Sciences, which features interactive exhibits where children can learn and play at the same time. Right next door, L’Hemisferic offers an impressive cinema experience with 3D films about science and nature, projected on a massive 900 m² concave screen—an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

And finally, we recommend visiting the Lonja de la Seda with children, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where they can learn about the history and architecture of Valencia. It’s an enriching and enjoyable activity, making it a perfect addition to your sightseeing itinerary in Valencia with children.

What to see in Valencia’s surroundings

If you’re fortunate enough to extend your trip by an extra day, why not explore some of the charming villages near Valencia? Hiring a car will allow you to travel around the province with ease and flexibility.

Sagunto

Just 15 miles from Valencia, Sagunto is a small town steeped in history, renowned for its castle and well-preserved Roman theatre.

Cullera

Approximately 25 miles from Valencia, Cullera offers beautiful beaches and a relaxing coastal atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for a day.

Requena and Utiel

If you’re willing to venture further afield, head to Requena and Utiel, two towns celebrated for their wineries and wine production. Take the opportunity to discover and savour the region’s exceptional wines—a treat for any wine enthusiast.

While any village in the region is worth a visit, make sure to include at least one of these to your itinerary if you are planning a road trip in Valencia.

Find the best deals on car hire to visit Valencia with DoYouSpain

The best way to explore Valencia and its surroundings is by car. Book your car hire now and travel around Valencia in total comfort and freedom.

With DoYouSpain, you’ll always get the best prices, as we compare offers from top car hire companies to bring you unbeatable deals. Whether you pick up your car at the airport, Joaquin Sorolla train station, or in town, you’ll enjoy reliable service and excellent value.