Get 5% of discount using the code
MYESIMNOW5
close-icon-modal
Buy eSIM
Trustpilot

How many days in Valencia? The perfect itinerary for every type of traveler

How many days in Valencia is enough? This travel guide helps you plan your visit with tailored itineraries, festival highlights, local food, and smart tips.

Published: February 10, 2026

How many days in Valencia is enough? This guide helps you decide based on your travel style, whether you’re planning a short city break or a full Spain itinerary. 

We’ll break down exactly how many days to spend in Valencia for different travel styles, from quick weekend visits to slower, culture-rich stays.

You’ll also find out what to see, where to go, and how to stay connected with an eSIM for Valencia to make the most of your trip.

How many days in Valencia? Itineraries for different trip lengths

Most travelers spend 2 to 5 days in Valencia, but in the end, it depends on your pace, interests, and whether it’s your main destination or part of a larger trip to Spain.

Here’s how each trip length shapes your experience:

  • 2 days in Valencia: Great for a short escape.
  • 3 days in Valencia: Ideal for first-time visitors to fully explore the city.
  • 4–5 days in Valencia: Best for a slower pace and day trips from Valencia.

2 days in Valencia: Highlights itinerary for a quick trip

If you’re visiting Valencia for a short break or as part of a wider Spain itinerary, two days are just enough to catch the essentials. You can focus on the historic center, standout modern landmarks, and the local food scene.

Here are some things to do in Valencia in 2 days:

  • Explore the Old Town: Wander through Plaza de la Virgen, the Cathedral, and the narrow streets of El Carmen.
  • Visit the City of Arts and Sciences: Snap photos of the architecture or choose one museum, like the Oceanogràfic or the Science Museum.
  • Eat real paella: Reserve a traditional paella Valenciana lunch, ideally in a local-favorite spot near the beach or a hidden neighborhood kitchen.
Plaza de la Virgen
Historic and lively, Plaza de la Virgen is the heart of Valencia. (Source: Shutterstock)

3 days in Valencia: Ideal itinerary for first-time visitors

If it’s your first time in Valencia and you have enough time to explore at a comfortable pace, three days is the perfect balance. 

Here is what to do in Valencia in 3 days:

  • Old Town highlights: Spend a morning walking through Plaza de la Reina, the Cathedral, and the Central Market. Get lost in the winding streets of El Carmen.
  • Family-friendly visits: One of the best things to do in Valencia with kids is to visit the Science Museum or head to Bioparc Valencia to see animals up close in open, barrier-free spaces.
  • Beach time: Consider Malvarrosa or Cabanyal beaches for a relaxing walk or even a seaside lunch.
  • Local flavors: Try horchata with fartons, snack on tapas, and browse the markets and family-run shops dotted across the city.
Valencia’s Science Museum
Valencia’s Science Museum is famous for its stunning futuristic architecture and reflective waters. (Source: Shutterstock)

5 days in Valencia: Relaxed itinerary with day trips

If you have five days in Valencia, you can slow down, dive deeper into the city’s culture, and explore beyond its limits. 

This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to balance urban discovery with quieter, scenic escapes. 

Here are the top things to do in Valencia in 5 days:

  • Take your time in the Old Town: Visit hidden gems in Valencia like the Church of San Nicolás, stroll through local markets, and enjoy mornings without rushing.
  • Explore Valencia’s museums: Learn about artists like Sorolla at the Museum of Fine Arts, or admire ceramics and rococo interiors at the Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace.
  • Take a day trip to Albufera: Explore the rice fields, take a boat ride on the lagoon, and try paella in a village where it’s still made the traditional way.
  • Soak up the coast: Enjoy slow afternoons at Malvarrosa Beach, or take your book and settle into a café near the sea.
  • Take a short train to nearby towns: Choose Sagunto for Roman ruins and a hilltop fortress, or Xàtiva for medieval charm and panoramic castle views.

In five days, you’ll move beyond sightseeing and start to experience the rhythm of people living in Valencia.

 Albufera Lake
Experience a sunny day trip to Albufera Lake with a traditional boat tour in Valencia. (Source: Shutterstock)

Best time to visit Valencia

The best time to visit Valencia is March to May or September to early November, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the city feels alive without the peak summer crowds. 

In March, you can join the Las Fallas Festival, Valencia’s biggest celebration, packed with fireworks, giant sculptures on fire, and nonstop street parties. Just be sure to book early, as this is Valencia’s busiest season. 

Summer (June–August) brings heat and beach energy, but also higher prices and more tourists. Winter is quieter and mild, perfect if you prefer a calmer, budget-friendly stay.

Las Fallas Festival
Valencia comes alive during Las Fallas Festival, its largest festival featuring giant art installations. (Source: Shutterstock)

Is Valencia walkable for tourists?

Yes, Valencia is one of the most walkable cities in Spain. A perfect example would be walking through Turia Gardens, the city’s 9-kilometre green ribbon, which is one of the best free things to do in Valencia. 

The city is flat, compact, and easy to get around, whether on foot, by bike, or using its reliable public transport.  Compared to Barcelona or Madrid, Valencia feels calmer and more accessible, especially for first-time visitors.

Turia Gardens
Turia Gardens: the green heart of Valencia and a top free spot. (Source: Shutterstock)

Is Valencia worth visiting?

Yes, Valencia is worth visiting if you want a balanced Spain experience that combines beaches, historic streets, and local food. It’s also a top choice for digital nomads in Spain, thanks to its coworking spaces and laid-back lifestyle.

Valencia works best if you can spend at least 2 to 3 days. If your trip is very short or you’re not interested in a city‑and‑beach mix, it may be better saved for another visit.

beach view in Valencia
In Valencia, beaches and vibrant city life come together. (Source: Shutterstock)

Travel tips for visiting Valencia

Valencia is easy to enjoy, but a little planning goes a long way, especially during busy seasons. 

Here are simple tips to have the best time in Valencia:

  • Spend 2–3 days for a relaxed experience, or combine Valencia with Madrid or Barcelona.
  • Walk or bike around the city; it’s flat, compact, and well-connected.
  • Use a Valencia Tourist Card for unlimited transport and museum discounts (24, 48, or 72 hours).
  • Book early, especially during the Las Fallas festival, as hotels and trains fill quickly.
  • Reserve tables at popular restaurants if visiting in high season.
  • Plan your days by checking opening hours and clustering nearby sights.
  • Stay connected with an eSIM for Spain with no roaming fees or local SIM hassle.

Stay connected hassle-free in Valencia

With a Holafly travel eSIM, you get unlimited data at a transparent price, so you can focus on enjoying your time instead of managing connectivity.

Holafly offers daily and monthly eSIM plans to match any trip length, and coverage extends to 200+ destinations across Europe, the US, and beyond. There are no roaming charges, and you’ll have access to 24/7 multilingual support wherever you are.

One eSIM for Valencia, Spain, and wherever you go next.

Plans that may interest you

Violet Lee

Violet Lee

SEO Content Specialist

Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.

Read full bio