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Plan Valencia

Spain · Europe

3 days in Valencia

Valencia is a charming old city and the capital of the Valencian Community. As Spain’s third-largest city, it stands as a significant cultural hub along the Spanish Mediterranean coast, blending historic charm with modern innovation.

Plan this trip, free

Valencia is a charming old city and the capital of the Valencian Community.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Historic Heart & Old Town Charm

9 stops 3.2 km

MorningImmerse yourself in the historic heart: market, silk exchange, and cathedral climb.

AfternoonExplore El Carmen's art and history, visit the opulent palace, and enjoy a horchata break.

EveningEnjoy the lively Plaza de la Reina before a traditional tapas dinner in El Carmen.

Day 1 is mostly walkable within the old town.

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  • All 3 days, 22 stops
  • Route map and walking times
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Must-see in Valencia

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Valencia

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Tax-free

VAT refund with no minimum

Non-EU residents can reclaim VAT on any purchase amount in Spain; ask for the tax-free form and validate it at the airport before leaving the EU.

How it works, officially

Cheaper here than at home

  • Zara, Mango, olive oil

    Inditex prices are lowest in Spain (Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bershka); good olive oil and saffron cost a fraction of home.

Where locals shop

  • Mercadonasupermarket

    Valencia-founded chain that locals swear by for affordable, high-quality staples.

  • Mercat de Russafamarket

    A colorful neighborhood market favored by locals for daily food shopping.

  • Mercat Central de Valènciamarket

    Vast historic hall packed with fresh local produce, seafood, and cured meats.

  • Central Market (Mercado Central)food market

    One of Europe's oldest and most beautiful operating food markets, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building. It's a vibrant sensory experience, offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local delicacies.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Valencia
  • Visa: As part of the Schengen Area, most non-EU travelers can enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism purposes.
  • Safety: Mostly safe · 7/10
  • A day: about $150 mid-range
  • Best months: Apr – Jun
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money€ EUR · about US$150 a day
  • LanguageSpanish
  • Local timeEurope/Madrid
  • Best monthsApr · May · Jun · Sep · Oct
  • SafetySafe · 7/10
  • CrowdsModerate crowds

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: US State Department ↗ · UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

As part of the Schengen Area, most non-EU travelers can enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism purposes.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Valencia boasts an efficient public transport system including metro, bus, and tram, making it easy to navigate. The city center is very walkable, and cycling is popular with numerous bike lanes and rental options.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$85
  • Mid-range: about US$150
  • Comfort: about US$250

Good to know

Try Horchata with Fartons, a traditional Valencian drink and pastry.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Book tickets for the City of Arts and Sciences attractions online in advance to save time.
  • Explore the historic El Carmen neighborhood on foot to discover its narrow streets and street art.
  • Utilize the València Tourist Card for discounts on transport and attractions.
  • Visit the Central Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a vibrant atmosphere.

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Cover: Northleg Official on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors