1 Day in Valencia: A Realistic Itinerary (From a Local + Map)
Do you want to visit Valencia, but only have one day? Valencia is Spain’s third largest city, so you might think it is impossible to see the city in one day. However, I think you can see many things in one day in Valencia.
Of course, if you have one day in Valencia your time is really limited. But if you are great with planning and know how to move fast in the city you can see many great things.
In this one-day itinerary, I have included the most famous attractions in Valencia that you cannot miss when you visit this city. By following you will see many famous attractions in Valencia. No, you cannot see the whole city in one day but it is still worth it to visit Valencia for 1 day.
About this 1 day in Valencia itinerary
This Itinerary is made practical and realistic, it is impossible to see the whole city in one day. I have visited Valencia myself so I know this. In this Itinerary we start in the morning and end in the evening, so you have to be in Valencia in morning to follow this itinerary.
I have made this Itinerary for foodies and architectural lovers. You have to walk quite a bit on this itinerary, but you can also use public transport in Valencia. In this way, you won’t be too exhausted from the walking.
Morning in Valencia
Start your day at the Plaza de la Virgen & Valencia Cathedral. Plaza de la Virgen is a really nice square right in the heart of Valencia. There is a beautiful fountain in the middle, and the square is surrounded by Valencia’s most important attractions. For example the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados and the Almoina Archaeological Museum. If you are interested in Roman ruins you can take a look here.
Next go to the Valencia Cathedral to admire its mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. You cannot miss the Chapel of the Holy Grail, which claims to hold the cup used by Christ at the Last Supper.
Another great thing to do here is to climb the Micalet Tower. Once you are at the top of this 207 steps climb you will find yourself some of the best views over the city.
After these exciting attractions, you should go to La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange). This is a UNESCO World Heritage site built in Valencian Gothic architecture style. The interior looks really great, especially in the Contract Hal. Another thing I recommend you to do here is to walk through the Patio de los Naranjos.
By this time you might be in for some food before your lunch. If so you should head to the Mercado Central. Here you can find an amazing selection of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and local specialties. The building itself is also really beautiful so even if you’re not hungry it is still worth a visit.
Your next stop is at the Torres de Serranos which is one of the original medieval gates to the city. You can climb to the top of this tower to get beautiful views over the Turia Gardens.
Lunchtime in Valencia
At this time you might be hungry, if you go from the Torres de Serranos to the City of Arts and Sciences you need to walk through the Turia Gardens. This is a really big park in the city and is very nice to walk through or go by bike. Once you are at the City of Arts and Sciences it is time for Lunch.
There are plenty of options to choose from near the City of Arts and Sciences for lunch. You can even already go inside and have lunch in the City of Arts and Sciences itself. We recommend you to go to a local restaurant and try the paella, this is what Valencia is famous for.
After your lunch it is finally time to visit the most famous attraction of Valencia: the City of Arts and Sciences. The building is really impressive to see and even a bit futuristic to see. What I recommend you to do at this site is to visit the L’Hemisfèric. Visit the eye-shaped building which has a planetarium, and theater inside.
Another thing not to miss in the City of Arts and Sciences is the Museu de les Ciències PrÃncipe Felipe. This is an interactive science museum which is especially fun for families with kids.
If you like marine life you cannot miss the L’Oceanogrà fic, and yes this is still at the City of Arts and Sciences. This aquarium is the largest in Europe! It’s home to thousands of species, including dolphins and sharks.
Afternoon in Valencia
After exploring the City of Arts and Sciences it is time to go to the most famous beach of Valencia. I recommend you to take a taxi or go by bus, on line 95. Playa de la Malvarrosa is the most famous beach in Valencia. You can take a walk on the promenade and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
If you want to relax you can rent a beach lounger or simply sit in the sand and enjoy the waves. On the promenade, there are many restaurants and bars where you can have a drink to sit and relax. Stay at the beach in the afternoon and get a bit of rest from the busy morning you had.
Evening in Valencia
For dinner we recommend you to go back to the city center, this is around 20 minutes with a taxi or bus. Go to the El Carmen neighborhood this particular district in Valencia has got a lively atmosphere in the evening. There are many different tapas bars in this neighborhood and the choice is yours where to have dinner.
For the tapas, we recommend you to at least try: Patatas bravas, calamari, chorizo, or pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus). And for a drink, you should try a local wine or Tinto de Verano.
To end your day we recommend you to go to Plaza del Ayuntamiento, which is Valencia’s grand square. At night the Grand City Hall and surrounding buildings are beautifully lit which creates a lovely evening vibe. Grab a seat at one of the nearby cafes for a drink. This is a great place to people watch.
FAQ related to spending one day in Valencia
Can Valencia be done in a day?
Valencia cannot be done in one day, since it is the third largest city in Spain. However, in one day in Valencia, it is still possible to see many great things that the city has to offer.
Is Valencia a walkable city?
Valencia may be the third largest city in Spain, but it is still very walkable. There are many footpaths and there is a really nice promenade where you can walk.
Final thoughts on seeing Valencia in one day
I would normally recommend people to at least stay 3 days in Valencia. 1 day in Valencia is a really short time, but 1 day is still better than 0. Even in one day, there are many things you can see in the city. The attractions I chose in this itinerary are the most popular and famous ones. But you can switch them of course based on your personal interest.
