What to See in Valencia in 1 Day — Itinerary, Highlights & Free Tours
Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, captivates visitors with its extraordinary blend of cutting-edge architecture and medieval charm. Home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences designed by Santiago Calatrava, the birthplace of paella, and the legendary Holy Grail housed in its Gothic cathedral, this Mediterranean port city offers travelers centuries of history alongside forward-thinking innovation. Whether you have a single day or a weekend, this guide by Freetour.com will help you uncover Valencia's must-see landmarks, flavors, and viewpoints—with expert local insight and practical tips for each stop.
Must-see sights: City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia Cathedral & Holy Grail, La Lonja de la Seda, Torres de Serranos, Mercado Central
Typical daily budget: €45–70 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: March–May or September–October
Famous for: City of Arts and Sciences, birthplace of paella, Holy Grail, Las Fallas festival, and beaches
Top tours: History Free Tour of Valencia, Valencia Mysteries and Tapas Tasting, Valencia Free Bike Tour
Begin your day at Valencia Cathedral, a magnificent structure blending Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements from its construction between the 13th and 15th centuries. Built atop remains of a Visigothic cathedral, Roman temple, and mosque, the layers reveal Valencia's rich history.
The cathedral's greatest treasure resides in the Chapel of the Holy Chalice: a 1st-century agate chalice believed by many to be the true Holy Grail used by Jesus during the Last Supper. This artifact has been venerated by numerous popes and continues attracting pilgrims worldwide. Climb the Miguelete tower—207 spiral steps lead to superb bird's-eye views of the city's terracotta rooftops, Mediterranean coastline, and surrounding mountains.
Practical Info: Open March 1-Nov 30: Mon-Fri 10:00am-6:45pm, Sat-Sun 10:00am-2:30pm & 3:30pm-6:45pm; Dec 1-Feb 28: Mon-Fri 10:00am-6:45pm, Sat 10:00am-2:30pm & 3:30pm-6:45pm, Sun 10:00am-1:30pm & 5:30pm-6:45pm; Entry €9 (€6 reduced, €4 groups), includes Miguelete tower; Allow 1.5 hours.
Walk to La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of Valencian Gothic civil architecture. Built between 1482 and 1548, this stunning merchant exchange symbolizes Valencia's Golden Age as Europe's silk capital. The Sala de Contratación (Trading Hall) impresses with soaring spiral columns creating a forest-like effect. The Patio de los Naranjos offers a peaceful respite, surrounded by fragrant orange trees.
Then explore Mercado Central de Valencia, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful fresh markets, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building from 1928. The market buzzes with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialties beneath a spectacular glass and iron dome. Browse colorful stalls and experience authentic Valencian culture.
Visit Torres de Serranos, one of two remaining gates from Valencia's 14th-century city walls. These imposing Gothic towers once defended the northern entrance and later served as a prison. Climb to the top for panoramic views across the historic center and Turia Gardens.
Practical Info: La Lonja - Tue-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm, Sun 10:00am-2:00pm, closed Mon; Entry €2 (FREE Sundays); Mercado Central - Mon-Sat 7:30am-3:00pm, free entry; Torres de Serranos - €2 (FREE Sundays); Allow 2 hours combined.
End your afternoon at the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias), Valencia's most iconic modern attraction. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and inaugurated between 1998 and 2005, this futuristic complex comprises five main structures dedicated to science and culture. The Hemisfèric hosts IMAX films and planetarium shows. The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum offers hands-on interactive exhibits. The Oceanogràfic is Europe's largest aquarium, housing over 500 marine species. Even walking around the striking white architecture reflected in the surrounding pools creates an unforgettable experience.
Practical Info: Open daily; Hours vary by season; Science Museum €8-9; Oceanogràfic €41.80 (€38.30 online, €31 children/seniors); Combined tickets available; Book online for discounts; Allow 2-4 hours.
Turia Gardens — Spain's largest urban park stretches 9km through Valencia's heart, created in the former riverbed after the 1957 flood. Perfect for cycling or strolling.
Plaza de la Virgen — Valencia's most beautiful square, surrounded by the Cathedral, Basilica de la Virgen, and Palau de la Generalitat. The central Turia Fountain symbolizes the river.
La Almoina Archaeological Museum — Underground museum showcasing Roman Valentia's foundations and 2,000-year history.
Valencia is the undisputed birthplace of paella. Paella Valenciana, the authentic recipe, contains Valencian rice, olive oil, chicken, rabbit, flat green beans, lima beans, tomato, saffron, rosemary, and often snails—never seafood. The dish originated as a meal for workers in rice paddies around L'Albufera. Authentic preparation requires achieving the prized socarrat—crispy, caramelized rice at the bottom. The best paellas are served in restaurants around L'Albufera, particularly in El Palmar village.
Valencia offers over 40 rice dish varieties, including arroz a banda (rice in fish stock), arroz negro (black rice with squid ink), and fideuà (seafood noodles). Horchata de chufa, made from tiger nuts, provides perfect refreshment—enjoy with fartons (sweet pastries). Agua de Valencia cocktail mixes cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin.
Paella €12-18 per person; full meals €20-30. Mercado Central offers affordable tapas.
Beaches: Playa de la Malvarrosa stretches 1.2km with golden sand, calm waters, and seafood restaurants. Albufera Natural Park, located south of Valencia, boasts stunning wetlands, sunset boat rides, and some of the best paella restaurants.
History Free Tour of Valencia — Starting at Plaza de la Crida by Torres de Serranos, explore the history of the River Turia, the 1957 floods, Roman Valentia, the Cathedral and the Holy Grail, the Muslim Balansiya period, La Lonja, the Central Market, and Valencian cuisine. Includes optional horchata tasting. Covers Roman, Medieval, and Muslim periods plus Fallas traditions. Book at
Valencia Mysteries and Tapas Tasting — Duration: 2h 15min | Starting at Plaza de la Virgen, discover 10 landmarks including Cathedral (Holy Grail mystery), La Lonja, Torres de Serranos, with legends and hidden stories. Includes tapas pause at Plaza Redonda. Suitable for reduced mobility, families, and pet-friendly. Book at
Valencia Free Bike Tour — Explore Valencia by bike through Turia Gardens and city highlights. Book at
Explore many more tours in Valencia on Freetour.com.
Day Trips: Albufera Natural Park (12 km, 30 min) — Wetlands, rice paddies, sunset boat rides, best paella restaurants. Xàtiva (60 km, 1h) — Historic hilltop town with castle and Borgia heritage. Peñíscola (120 km, 1.5h) — Medieval coastal fortress town.
Valencia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Spring (March-May) offers ideal temperatures of 17-25°C (63-77°F) with blooming gardens—one of the best periods for visiting. March hosts the Las Fallas festival. Summer (June-August) brings hot temperatures of 28-35°C (82-95°F), perfect for beaches but challenging for walking tours. Peak season with the highest crowds. Autumn (September-October) features warm temperatures of 20-26°C (68-79°F), with fewer crowds and excellent sea conditions. Winter (November-February) brings mild temperatures of 10-17°C (50-63°F) with occasional rain—perfect for budget travelers.
The Romans founded Valentia in 138 BC as a colony for retired soldiers. The city flourished with forums, temples, baths, and irrigation systems that are still partially functional today. The Moors arrived in 711 AD, transforming Valencia into Balansiya, an agricultural and industrial center. Under Islamic rule for over 500 years, ceramics, glasswork, paper, silk, and leather industries thrived. The Moors perfected the irrigation canal network, making Valencia's agricultural lands extraordinarily productive.
The legendary warrior El Cid briefly conquered Valencia in 1094 before it returned to Moorish control in 1101. King James I of Aragon finally reconquered Valencia in 1238. The city entered its Golden Age during the 15th-16th centuries, when it was Europe's silk capital, as reflected in the magnificence of La Lonja. The devastating 1957 Turia River flood killed 81 people, prompting the river's diversion and transformation into Turia Gardens—Europe's longest urban park.
What can you see in Valencia in one day?
Visit Valencia Cathedral and Holy Grail, explore La Lonja, browse Mercado Central, climb Torres de Serranos, and visit the City of Arts and Sciences.
When is the best time to visit Valencia?
March to May and September to October offer ideal temperatures of 17-26°C (63-79°F) with less rain and fewer crowds.
What should you eat in Valencia?
Try authentic paella Valenciana, arroz a banda, fideuà, horchata de chufa with fartons, and agua de Valencia.
Where is the Holy Grail?
The Holy Grail is housed in Valencia Cathedral's Chapel of the Holy Chalice, believed to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper.
Is Valencia the birthplace of paella?
Yes—paella originated in Valencia's rice paddies around L'Albufera, with authentic paella Valenciana containing chicken, rabbit, and beans—never seafood.
Which free tours are available in Valencia?
Freetour.com offers a History Tour covering Roman through modern periods, Mysteries & Tapas Tasting Tour, and Free Bike Tour.
Quick Takeaway
Must-see sights: City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia Cathedral & Holy Grail, La Lonja de la Seda, Torres de Serranos, Mercado Central
Typical daily budget: €45–70 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: March–May or September–October
Famous for: City of Arts and Sciences, birthplace of paella, Holy Grail, Las Fallas festival, and beaches
Top tours: History Free Tour of Valencia, Valencia Mysteries and Tapas Tasting, Valencia Free Bike Tour
1-Day Itinerary in Valencia
Valencia Cathedral & Holy Grail
Begin your day at Valencia Cathedral, a magnificent structure blending Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements from its construction between the 13th and 15th centuries. Built atop remains of a Visigothic cathedral, Roman temple, and mosque, the layers reveal Valencia's rich history.
The cathedral's greatest treasure resides in the Chapel of the Holy Chalice: a 1st-century agate chalice believed by many to be the true Holy Grail used by Jesus during the Last Supper. This artifact has been venerated by numerous popes and continues attracting pilgrims worldwide. Climb the Miguelete tower—207 spiral steps lead to superb bird's-eye views of the city's terracotta rooftops, Mediterranean coastline, and surrounding mountains.
Practical Info: Open March 1-Nov 30: Mon-Fri 10:00am-6:45pm, Sat-Sun 10:00am-2:30pm & 3:30pm-6:45pm; Dec 1-Feb 28: Mon-Fri 10:00am-6:45pm, Sat 10:00am-2:30pm & 3:30pm-6:45pm, Sun 10:00am-1:30pm & 5:30pm-6:45pm; Entry €9 (€6 reduced, €4 groups), includes Miguelete tower; Allow 1.5 hours.
La Lonja de la Seda & Mercado Central
Walk to La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of Valencian Gothic civil architecture. Built between 1482 and 1548, this stunning merchant exchange symbolizes Valencia's Golden Age as Europe's silk capital. The Sala de Contratación (Trading Hall) impresses with soaring spiral columns creating a forest-like effect. The Patio de los Naranjos offers a peaceful respite, surrounded by fragrant orange trees.
Then explore Mercado Central de Valencia, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful fresh markets, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building from 1928. The market buzzes with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, and local specialties beneath a spectacular glass and iron dome. Browse colorful stalls and experience authentic Valencian culture.
Visit Torres de Serranos, one of two remaining gates from Valencia's 14th-century city walls. These imposing Gothic towers once defended the northern entrance and later served as a prison. Climb to the top for panoramic views across the historic center and Turia Gardens.
Practical Info: La Lonja - Tue-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm, Sun 10:00am-2:00pm, closed Mon; Entry €2 (FREE Sundays); Mercado Central - Mon-Sat 7:30am-3:00pm, free entry; Torres de Serranos - €2 (FREE Sundays); Allow 2 hours combined.
City of Arts and Sciences
End your afternoon at the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias), Valencia's most iconic modern attraction. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and inaugurated between 1998 and 2005, this futuristic complex comprises five main structures dedicated to science and culture. The Hemisfèric hosts IMAX films and planetarium shows. The Príncipe Felipe Science Museum offers hands-on interactive exhibits. The Oceanogràfic is Europe's largest aquarium, housing over 500 marine species. Even walking around the striking white architecture reflected in the surrounding pools creates an unforgettable experience.
Practical Info: Open daily; Hours vary by season; Science Museum €8-9; Oceanogràfic €41.80 (€38.30 online, €31 children/seniors); Combined tickets available; Book online for discounts; Allow 2-4 hours.
Major Landmarks & Food
Turia Gardens — Spain's largest urban park stretches 9km through Valencia's heart, created in the former riverbed after the 1957 flood. Perfect for cycling or strolling.
Plaza de la Virgen — Valencia's most beautiful square, surrounded by the Cathedral, Basilica de la Virgen, and Palau de la Generalitat. The central Turia Fountain symbolizes the river.
La Almoina Archaeological Museum — Underground museum showcasing Roman Valentia's foundations and 2,000-year history.
Paella & Local Cuisine
Valencia is the undisputed birthplace of paella. Paella Valenciana, the authentic recipe, contains Valencian rice, olive oil, chicken, rabbit, flat green beans, lima beans, tomato, saffron, rosemary, and often snails—never seafood. The dish originated as a meal for workers in rice paddies around L'Albufera. Authentic preparation requires achieving the prized socarrat—crispy, caramelized rice at the bottom. The best paellas are served in restaurants around L'Albufera, particularly in El Palmar village.
Valencia offers over 40 rice dish varieties, including arroz a banda (rice in fish stock), arroz negro (black rice with squid ink), and fideuà (seafood noodles). Horchata de chufa, made from tiger nuts, provides perfect refreshment—enjoy with fartons (sweet pastries). Agua de Valencia cocktail mixes cava, orange juice, vodka, and gin.
Paella €12-18 per person; full meals €20-30. Mercado Central offers affordable tapas.
Beaches: Playa de la Malvarrosa stretches 1.2km with golden sand, calm waters, and seafood restaurants. Albufera Natural Park, located south of Valencia, boasts stunning wetlands, sunset boat rides, and some of the best paella restaurants.
Free Walking Tours & Day Trips
History Free Tour of Valencia — Starting at Plaza de la Crida by Torres de Serranos, explore the history of the River Turia, the 1957 floods, Roman Valentia, the Cathedral and the Holy Grail, the Muslim Balansiya period, La Lonja, the Central Market, and Valencian cuisine. Includes optional horchata tasting. Covers Roman, Medieval, and Muslim periods plus Fallas traditions. Book at
Valencia Mysteries and Tapas Tasting — Duration: 2h 15min | Starting at Plaza de la Virgen, discover 10 landmarks including Cathedral (Holy Grail mystery), La Lonja, Torres de Serranos, with legends and hidden stories. Includes tapas pause at Plaza Redonda. Suitable for reduced mobility, families, and pet-friendly. Book at
Valencia Free Bike Tour — Explore Valencia by bike through Turia Gardens and city highlights. Book at
Explore many more tours in Valencia on Freetour.com.
Day Trips: Albufera Natural Park (12 km, 30 min) — Wetlands, rice paddies, sunset boat rides, best paella restaurants. Xàtiva (60 km, 1h) — Historic hilltop town with castle and Borgia heritage. Peñíscola (120 km, 1.5h) — Medieval coastal fortress town.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Getting Around: Compact old town is walkable; Metro, tram, bus network; Valencia Tourist Card offers unlimited transport plus discounts; Bike rentals are popular
- Airport: Valencia Airport 8km from center; Metro lines 3 & 5 (€3.90); Buses (€1.50); Taxis €20-25
- Language: Spanish and Valencian spoken; English is common at tourist sites
- Meal Times: Lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm; Paella restaurants typically 1-4pm
- Las Fallas: Mid-March festival—book accommodation months ahead
- Beaches: Very crowded July-August; arrive early
- Safety: Very safe city; watch belongings in crowded areas
- Tipping: Not mandatory; 5-10% for good service; free tours €10-15 per person
- Museums: Many offer free entry on Sundays and holidays
Weather in Valencia
Valencia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Spring (March-May) offers ideal temperatures of 17-25°C (63-77°F) with blooming gardens—one of the best periods for visiting. March hosts the Las Fallas festival. Summer (June-August) brings hot temperatures of 28-35°C (82-95°F), perfect for beaches but challenging for walking tours. Peak season with the highest crowds. Autumn (September-October) features warm temperatures of 20-26°C (68-79°F), with fewer crowds and excellent sea conditions. Winter (November-February) brings mild temperatures of 10-17°C (50-63°F) with occasional rain—perfect for budget travelers.
Short History of Valencia
The Romans founded Valentia in 138 BC as a colony for retired soldiers. The city flourished with forums, temples, baths, and irrigation systems that are still partially functional today. The Moors arrived in 711 AD, transforming Valencia into Balansiya, an agricultural and industrial center. Under Islamic rule for over 500 years, ceramics, glasswork, paper, silk, and leather industries thrived. The Moors perfected the irrigation canal network, making Valencia's agricultural lands extraordinarily productive.
The legendary warrior El Cid briefly conquered Valencia in 1094 before it returned to Moorish control in 1101. King James I of Aragon finally reconquered Valencia in 1238. The city entered its Golden Age during the 15th-16th centuries, when it was Europe's silk capital, as reflected in the magnificence of La Lonja. The devastating 1957 Turia River flood killed 81 people, prompting the river's diversion and transformation into Turia Gardens—Europe's longest urban park.
FAQ about Valencia
What can you see in Valencia in one day?
Visit Valencia Cathedral and Holy Grail, explore La Lonja, browse Mercado Central, climb Torres de Serranos, and visit the City of Arts and Sciences.
When is the best time to visit Valencia?
March to May and September to October offer ideal temperatures of 17-26°C (63-79°F) with less rain and fewer crowds.
What should you eat in Valencia?
Try authentic paella Valenciana, arroz a banda, fideuà, horchata de chufa with fartons, and agua de Valencia.
Where is the Holy Grail?
The Holy Grail is housed in Valencia Cathedral's Chapel of the Holy Chalice, believed to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper.
Is Valencia the birthplace of paella?
Yes—paella originated in Valencia's rice paddies around L'Albufera, with authentic paella Valenciana containing chicken, rabbit, and beans—never seafood.
Which free tours are available in Valencia?
Freetour.com offers a History Tour covering Roman through modern periods, Mysteries & Tapas Tasting Tour, and Free Bike Tour.
10
June,
2020
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