1 Day in Valencia: The Perfect 24-Hour Valencia Itinerary
Valencia is a beautiful city, definitely one of our favourites so far. It has everything from the historical old town, to the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences, to beautiful sandy beaches.
But if you only have 1 day in Valencia, where should you visit?
We’ve visited several times, both for the day and for a long weekend, so we’ve put together a compact 1-day itinerary for Valencia that features the most important things you should see and do in 24 hours.
This itinerary is designed to be enjoyable for both families and solo travelers.
1-Day Itinerary for Valencia
Morning: Old Town Exploration
Start at Plaza de la Virgen
Time: 9:00 AM
Begin your day at this beautiful square, surrounded by historic buildings and the famous Turia fountain, it’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere before it gets too busy.
Take in the stunning architecture, pose for a photo by the fountain, and grab a pastry and coffee for breakfast at a nearby café.
Visit Valencia Cathedral
Time: 9:30 AM
Walk to the Cathedral (about a 5-minute stroll). Explore the beautiful interior and climb the stairs to Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city.
The climb is worth it – especially early in the day before it gets too hot.
Stroll through the Central Market (Mercado Central)
Time: 10:30 AM
Walk to the Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful food markets. Even if you’re not hungry, it’s worth visiting for the stained glass, tiled domes, and bustling local atmosphere.
Sample some fresh produce, local cheeses, or cured meats, and buy some souvenirs to take home.
Optional Stop: La Lonja de la Seda
Time: 11:15 AM
Right next to the market, this UNESCO listed Gothic building is often missed but definitely worth spending 20-30 minutes. The twisting stone columns inside are stuning.
Lunch
Tapas at the market
Time: 12:00 PM
Grab a light lunch (because you have lots more walking to do!) at one of the market stalls or head to a nearby restaurant for some delicious tapas.
Early Afternoon: Turia Gardens Walk
Walk through Turia Gardens
Time: 1:00 PM
Instead of going straight to the City of Arts and Sciences, walk through the gardens. This former riverbed-turned-park stretches for 9km and is one of the most unique parts of Valencia.
You’ll pass: bridges, fountains, playgrounds, orange trees, locals cycling and running.
Afternoon: City of Arts and Sciences
Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
Time: 2:00 PM
This futuristic complex feels like stepping into another world.
Choose one of:
- Oceanogràfic (Europe’s largest aquarium – great for families)
- Science Museum (interactive and hands-on)
Or simply walk around the outside for photos – it’s free to explore the exterior spaces.
Late Afternoon: Beach Time (Optional but Worth It)
Head to Playa de la Malvarossa
Time: 5:00 PM
If the weather’s good, this is the perfect way to slow the day down. Jump in a taxi as by now your legs are probably a bit tired from all the walking!
You can:
- Walk along the promenade
- Let the kids run on the sand
- Stop for a drink with sea views
- Watch the sunset
This naturally fills that 5–7pm window before Spanish dinner time.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Dinner in Ruzafa or the Old Town
Time: 8:30-9:30 PM
Jump back in a taxi to get back up to the Old Town. Explore the Ruzafa neighborhood or return to the Old Town for dinner.
Ruzafa has lots of trendy restaurants and bars. Try La Pepica for traditional paella or Casa Montaña for a variety of tapas.
Evening Stroll
Time: 10:00 PM
Valencia is very safe and lively in the evenings. Wander the lit-up streets, grab ice cream, or sit in a square with a drink.
If you can’t walk far or have small children with you, a great option to see the sights of Valencia without walking all day is to jump on the Hop On Hop Off Bus which stops at all the main attractions.
Best Time to Visit Valencia
Valencia has over 300 days of sunshine a year, but some months are better than others.
Best overall months:
- April – June
- September – October
You’ll get warm weather without peak summer heat.
Summer (July–August):
Very hot (often 30-35°C+), but great for beach lovers.
March:
If you want something unforgettable, visit during Las Fallas – an explosive, colourful festival with huge sculptures and nightly fireworks. It’s busy but unlike anything you’ll have seen before! However, if you don’t like crowds it’s best to avoid Valencia in March.
This 1-day itinerary will give you a taste of Valencia’s amazing history, stunning architecture, and interesting culture – all in one day. Enjoy your visit!
