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Looking for the ultimate 1-day Valencia itinerary?
Valencia is the vibrant capital of both the Valencia province and the wider Valencia region, located on Spain’s sunny eastern coast. It is the third largest Spanish city after Madrid and Barcelona. I was excited that this was a port stop whilst sailing a 14-night Transatlantic Cruise from Barcelona to Florida. This historic city boasts a rich past, having been ruled by Romans, and is famed for its surrounding fertile orchard plain producing delicious oranges, rice, and more.
One day in Valencia is not enough but I will share everything that we saw and did including what other gems and sites you can do if in the area!
After getting a shuttle from the cruise terminal we started at…
Park Jardín Del Turia
The coach dropped us off and we had to walk across a park called the Jardín Del Turia. This was very natural and full of greenery. We crossed the bridge towards the city centre over the River Turia.
It’s best to take in the beauty of the garden as you walk through to towards the city.
The Torres de Serranos
We walked through a magnificent castle-like structure which was built in the 14th century. It is known to be the official gateway to the city and originally was Valencia’s defence system. By the 1500s it was a prison for the wealthier people.
Valencia Cathedral
On one side of the square is the stunning Valencia Cathedral glistening in the sun’s rays. A lot of people congregated here to take pictures. In the middle is a water fountain depicting Neptune.
Wandering the Streets
Walking down the narrow paved streets of Valencia is a beautiful experience. The centre has lots to offer with plenty of bars, tapas, and street food options. As it was a hot day gelato from the vendors was nothing but welcoming to the palette. There are so many local delights and gift shops that line the streets.
La Finca més Estreta d'Europa
The building hosts La Estrecha bar which is the narrowest house in Europe and the second narrowest in the world. It is only 107cm wide and 6 stories high! Amazing! I’m not sure how people live there, but surely no super king-size bed will reside there!
La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia
This medieval world heritage building was very impressive from the outside. With a small fee, you can admire it from the inside also.
Mercat Central de València
This central market in Valencia is worth visiting, especially if you are a foodie to see the various market stalls they have on a typical busy day. After all paella was born here! However, when I visited it was shut as it was a public holiday. It is a nice place to visit to grab some snacks and taste some of the localities. It is also possible to buy veggies, fresh produce, meats, cheeses, oils and even some jewellery.
From here a taxi was taken leaving the old town to the modern part of the city, ‘The city of arts and sciences’. This would have taken 46mins on foot but to make the most of the time in Valencia.
Museu de les Ciències
This science museum is very impressive from the architecture outside. You can pay to see the futuristic and innovative exhibitions inside the interactive museum also. It is a very iconic building and a must-visit when in Valencia. They have bike rentals on the grounds as well as water activities like boats, paddleboarding etc.
There was a street food cart selling drinks so we tried a refreshing authentic Venetian drink Horchata – “Tigernut Milk”. It was so nice and milky.
Hemisfèric
We then went closer to the Hemisferic building which is worth photographing up close. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava who aimed to represent the great human eye. The building itself has an IMAX cinema which costs 8 euros pp and is great if you want to watch most shows in Spanish.
Valencia Sign
The sight of the Valencia sign was amazing to see. It was a hot tourist spot for selfies and we didn’t have to wait long for a memorable shot. If you visit very early or later in the day you can have this all to yourself. The words even light up at night.
Centre commercial el sale
This shopping centre is just across the road from the science museum and has everything you can want from a shopping centre. Many high street shops and food options in the food court. Starbucks was an ideal stop to use the wifi and download movies for the next leg of the sailing journey. I left hubby there whilst I went to a spot of shopping!
In general this shopping centre had lots of entertainment options and was an all round place to relax your feet and rejuvenate from being on your feet all day.
Back to the Ship
Afterwards, we made our way in a taxi back to the coach drop off/pick up stop near Park Jardín Del Turia. As we had a return ticket for the coach it was more straight forward for us this way.
Just decide before you go how to transport around the city because taxis can be convenient and fast but more costly.
Places Worth Visiting in Valencia
These towers were part of the medieval city wall and are a perfect example of Gothic architecture.
An impressive church that is dedicated to the patron Saint of Valencia. Inside there are stunning ceiling paintings and carved marble structures.
Home to what some believe to be the Holy Grail, this impressive cathedral boasts a mix of architectural styles, reflecting Valencia’s rich history. Be sure to climb the Miguelete bell tower for panoramic city views.
Exhibits of art, cultural and architectural pieces.
L’Oceanogràfic is the largest aquarium in Europe, housing over 45,000 specimens from 500 different species.
Shopping centre with many high street shops and food court options.
A feast for the senses, this bustling market is a must-visit to experience the sights, smells, and tastes of Valencia. Get lost amidst stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local meats, cheeses, and of course freshly squeezed orange juice!
This futuristic complex is an architectural marvel, housing interactive scientific exhibits, an IMAX cinema, an opera house, and the renowned Oceanographic aquarium – the largest aquarium in Europe.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning Gothic structure was once a major trading centre for silk during Valencia’s golden age. Marvel at its intricate gargoyles and grand ceremonial hall. (Tip: Free entrance on Sundays).
Escape the city and explore this beautiful natural park, located just south of Valencia. Take a boat trip through the Albufera lagoon, spot diverse birdlife, and enjoy a traditional paella lunch at a lakeside restaurant.
Catch an evening showcase of this traditional Spanish dancing.
Do you have any favourite things to see and do in Valencia? I’d love to hear about them.
THIS POST IS ALL ABOUT THE BEST WAY TO SEE VALENCIA IN A 1 DAY ITINERARY.
