One day in Valencia, Spain: a detailed guide

Before my trip to Spain, I thoroughly read through many posts and travel guides to decide if it was worth going to Valencia for just one day from Madrid. Our time in Spain was limited, but my friends and I really wanted to see Valencia, even if just briefly. Despite advice to stay there for at least one night, we decided to go for just one day: we arrived in Valencia early in the morning and came back to Madrid late at night. In my experience, going to Valencia for one day from Madrid is definitely worth it, especially if you have a plan. One day is enough to enjoy the city's atmosphere, see the main sights, and enjoy the sea. Valencia is a truly interesting city, and such a trip is a great option for a change of scenery and a break from a big city like Madrid.

Disclaimer: The content of this post does not contain affiliate links. Any links and references are included only at my discretion to share locations we have visited and do not constitute any form of commercial or sponsored activity.

There are several ways to travel from Madrid to Valencia. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Train is the fastest and most convenient way. 
  
  The AVE (Alta Velocidad Espanola) high-speed train departs from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha station and arrives at Valencia-Joaquin Sorolla station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Prices vary depending on the class and time of purchase but usually start from 40-60 euros. Tickets can be purchased on the Renfe website or through aggregators like OMIO or TrainLine.
  
  Ouigo Train: This is a budget-friendly high-speed train option offered by the French railway company SNCF. Ouigo provides affordable tickets on routes between various Spanish cities, including Madrid to Valencia. Ouigo tickets are usually cheaper than AVE, with prices starting from 9 euros if booked in advance. The trip between Madrid and Valencia on Ouigo takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on the official Ouigo Spain website or through their mobile app. Ouigo trains depart from Madrid-Chamartín station and arrive at Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla station. Ouigo offers budget travel options, making them accessible to more people. Despite the low cost, Ouigo trains are still high-speed, ensuring quick travel between cities.
   
• Bus is another budget option, but it takes more time. The main bus companies are ALSA and Avanza. The journey takes about 4-5 hours. Prices vary but usually start from 15-30 euros. Tickets can be purchased on the ALSA and Avanza websites or at the bus station ticket offices.
   
• Plane: Flying is the fastest way, but considering the time for check-in and security, the overall duration can be comparable to the train. The main airlines operating between Valencia and Madrid are Iberia and Vueling. A direct flight takes about 1 hour. Prices vary depending on the season and booking time, but usually start from 30-80 euros. Tickets can be purchased on the airlines' websites or through aggregators like Skyscanner.
   
• Car: You can also drive to Valencia. You can rent a car through international services like Rentalcars or Avis. The main route is via the A-3 highway. The distance between Madrid and Valencia is about 350 km. The travel time is approximately 3.5-4 hours, depending on road conditions.

Among all these options, I chose the fast and cheap Ouigo train. We bought the tickets a week before the trip, so I got tickets for 15 euros per person one way. The Ouigo train was super comfortable: no delays, excellent service, and comfortable seats. Highly recommended! If you plan your trip in advance, unlike us who did it last minute, the options will be broader and the prices lower. For example, AVE prices increase as the departure date approaches, so the earlier you buy the ticket, the cheaper it will be. The same goes for flights!

When I started planning our day in Valencia, I was worried we wouldn’t have enough time to see everything. After all, Valencia is the third largest city in Spain by population, only behind Madrid and Barcelona. About 800,000 people live in Valencia, and if you include the surrounding suburban areas, the population can reach around 1.5 million.

So, I divided the city into four tourist zones where the main attractions I wanted to see are concentrated. The first part of the day should be spent in the city centre. Here are some of Valencia’s most famous sights: Plaza del Ayuntamiento with the City Hall, Plaza de la Reina with the main Cathedral of Valencia, and Plaza de la Virgen (Plaza de la Mare de Deu). The second part of the day can be dedicated to the El Carme district, known for its narrow streets, street art, the cat house, a park in the former riverbed Turia Gardens, and historic buildings like Torres de Serranos. You can have a lovely lunch around Malvarossa Beach, and then head to the beach itself or take a walk along the promenade, depending on the weather. After that, you can visit the City of Arts and Sciences, one of the most modern and impressive complexes in Valencia.

Getting from Valencia Joaquin Sorolla station to the city centre is very easy, it's just a 20-minute walk to City Hall Square (Placa de l'Ajuntament). Don’t miss Valencia Bullring (Placa de Bous de Valencia) – one of the most famous bullfighting arenas in Spain, located near the Estacio del Nord exit. At City Hall Square stands Valencia City Hall, one of Valencia's most iconic buildings. You can enter the city hall through security, which gives you access to several halls and a balcony with a stunning view of the square for free. If you wish to delve deeper into the city's history, you can visit additional rooms of the museum located within the city hall. These rooms feature exhibits detailing Valencia's past and significant events. Entry to the city hall and the balcony is usually free, but there may be a small fee for visiting the museum’s additional rooms. Ticket prices are around 2-5 euros, depending on the season and type of tour. 

Horchata is a traditional Spanish drink made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar. It's a refreshing and slightly sweet beverage, often enjoyed chilled, especially during the hot summer months. The drink has a creamy texture and a nutty flavour, and it is sometimes flavoured with a hint of cinnamon or lemon. In Valencia, horchata is particularly popular, as the region is known for growing tiger nuts, called "chufas" in Spanish. One of the best places to try horchata in Valencia is at a traditional horchatería. These are specialised cafes that serve freshly made horchata, often accompanied by a sweet pastry called "farton", which is perfect for dipping into the drink.

Horchateria Santa Catalina (Orxateria Santa Catalina), located in the heart of Valencia near the city's main cathedral, is one of the most iconic places to enjoy horchata. Established in 1837, this historic cafe is famous not only for its delicious horchata but also for its charming and atmospheric interior. The decor is a blend of traditional and modern elements, featuring beautiful ceramic tiles, vintage wooden furnishings, and intricate mosaics that create a unique and inviting ambiance. The cafe's rich history and stylish design make it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience an authentic taste of Valencia. 

Don't forget to visit Round Square in Valencia, also known as "Placa Redona". Its construction started in 1839, designed by the architect Salvador Monleon. The square got its name from its unusual round shape, which sets it apart from other squares in Valencia. It is surrounded by buildings with shops, cafes, and restaurants. In the centre of the square, there's a fountain, which is both a decorative feature and a meeting spot for locals and tourists. Around the fountain, you often find craft markets selling traditional Valencian goods like ceramics, lace, and souvenirs.

Plaza de la Reina in Valencia is a must-visit because it offers picturesque, postcard-worthy views of the surrounding architecture. It serves as one of the central hubs of the city, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Valencia.

Among the key highlights of Plaza de la Reina is the Valencia Cathedral. This majestic cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century, stands out with its diverse architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. It’s a true architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the city’s historical depth. If you happen to see a long queue for entry, don’t be alarmed. The cathedral typically starts admitting visitors at 11:00 AM, and while the line can be substantial before then, it usually moves relatively quickly. Make sure to join the correct queue: the right-hand line is for the tower El Micalet, while the left-hand line is for the cathedral. The entrance fee is €9, which might seem high, but considering the interior’s beauty and historical significance, it’s well worth it. The interior of the cathedral is akin to a museum, showcasing intricate decorations, historical relics, and artworks that reflect various periods and artistic contributions. The grandeur of the cathedral is attributed to the efforts of numerous artists and craftsmen over the centuries, each adding their touch to its opulent design.

If you prefer to enjoy a breathtaking perspective of Valencia, consider visiting the El Micalet bell tower instead. The entry fee is €2.50, and access is only via a climb up the stairs—there is no elevator. Tickets can be purchased on-site with cash. The queue for the tower moves quickly, and you will typically be admitted within 10 minutes. Climbing to the top of El Micalet is highly recommended for the stunning panoramic views of the entire city center, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias area, and even the distant sea. The view provides a unique and memorable experience, showcasing the city’s beauty from a different angle.

Plaza de la Mare de Deu, also known as Plaza de la Virgen, is another famous and historically significant square in Valencia. It is renowned for its concentration of notable architectural landmarks. The square is surrounded by several important buildings, each representing different architectural styles and historical periods. Among them are the Valencia Cathedral; the Basilica of the Virgin of the Helpless (Basilica de la Mare de Deu), a beautiful Baroque church dedicated to Valencia’s patron saint; and the Palace of the Generalitat (Palau de la Generalitat), a Gothic building that serves as the seat of the Valencian government. Another prominent feature of the square is the Fountain of the Turia, a large and symbolic fountain representing the Turia River. Plaza de la Mare de Deu has been a central part of Valencia’s history for centuries, making it a must-visit destination for its rich blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture.

After visiting Plaza de la Mare de Deu in Valencia, you can continue exploring the El Carmen district, which enchants with its unique character and atmosphere. This area blends medieval buildings with modern touches like colorful graffiti and sculptures, giving the streets a distinctive vibe. The narrow streets and old houses with quirky facades create a picturesque old-town atmosphere.

Start at Church of Sant Nicolau de Bari (Iglesia de San Nicolas de Bari). It is renowned for its stunning ceiling frescoes created by artist Antonio Palomino, which are often compared to the Sistine Chapel. This magnificent Baroque interior is sometimes referred to as the "Valencian Sistine Chapel". Note that entry to the church costs €10, but it is worth it. ​​​​​​​Continue your route to ​​​​​​​Valldigna Portal (Portal de Valldigna), one of the preserved city gates reflecting Valencia's medieval history. Next, House of the Cats (La Casa de los Gatos, or La Gatera). This miniature building serves as a home for cats, and its facade was created by sculptor Alfonso Yuste Navarro in 2003. Although the cats it was originally intended for have been moved to a safer location, this charming and popular spot still delights residents and visitors. The building has become a symbol of the area, where cats have lived since 1094. Finish at Torres de Serranos, one of the two remaining towers of Valencia’s medieval city gates, or Turia Gardens.

Turia Gardens, or Jardin del Turia in Spanish, is a large and beautiful park in Valencia. They are situated in the former riverbed of the Turia River. After a major flood in 1957, the river was diverted to prevent future flooding. The area that was once the riverbed was transformed into a green space, creating what is now one of the largest urban parks in Spain. The park is famous for its expansive and well-maintained green spaces, which provide a scenic and tranquil escape from the bustling city. It stretches for about 9 kilometers across Valencia, running from the city’s western edge to its eastern side.

Another interesting place near Turia Gardens is the Serranos Gate (Torres de Serranos). The Serranos Gate is one of the original twelve gates that once formed part of Valencia’s medieval city walls. Built in the late 14th century, it is one of the best-preserved examples of Valencia’s medieval fortifications. The gate is an impressive example of Gothic architecture. It features two large towers with crenellated battlements, arched openings, and intricate stonework. Visiting the Serranos Gate offers insight into Valencia’s medieval history and urban development. Climbing to the top of the Serranos Gate towers rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of Valencia. The Serranos Gate is a popular attraction for tourists and is often less crowded compared to other major attractions, providing a more relaxed experience.

To get to Malvarrosa Beach from Serranos Gate, we first walked to the nearest tram stop, Pont de Fusta, which is about a 10 minute walk from the gate. Once at Pont de Fusta, we boarded the Line 4 tram heading towards Dr. Lluch. We stayed on Line 4 throughout the journey, as it goes directly to Platja de les Arenes without needing any transfers. The ride took approximately 30 minutes, and we enjoyed a direct route to the beach. For the tram ticket, we bought it from a vending machine at the Pont de Fusta stop. The ticket costs €1.50. We made sure to validate the ticket and kept an eye on the stops to get off at Platja de les Arenes.

We had lunch near Malvarossa Beach at a place called Bar Restaurante miSitio. We chose the set menu, and it was the best meal we had in Spain during our trip. At this bar, you can pick a starter, a main course, and a dessert from several options. I went for the gazpacho, Valencian seafood paella, and cheesecake. Everything was incredibly tasty and the service was excellent. I still fondly remember the place and the wonderful Valencian food. The lunch cost 15 euros per person, plus drinks.

After that, we headed to Valencia’s most famous attraction — City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias). You can get to this unique complex either by taking bus 99 or walking 2.5 km from the beach. We opted for the walk. So, what is  City of Arts and Sciences? This architectural complex is a modern cultural and entertainment centre designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. It features several stunning buildings and attractions:

• Hemisferico — a giant eye-shaped building that serves as a planetarium and IMAX cinema.
• Museo de las Ciencias Principe Felipe — a science museum with interactive exhibits showcasing scientific and technological advancements.
• Oceanografic — the largest aquarium in Europe, which presents an underwater world with various marine life.
• Puente de l'Assut de l'Or — an impressive bridge with a unique design that’s worth seeing.
• Agora — a multifunctional building used for various events and exhibitions.
• L'Umbracle — a spacious park and covered gallery that serves as a green area and relaxation spot. It features various plant species and beautiful sculptures. Entry to L'Umbracle is free.

As our time was limited, we only managed to stroll around the complex and visit L'Umbracle, without exploring the other attractions. 

Then we took tram 10 back to the city centre and headed to our final Valencian dinner at Es.paella, where I enjoyed the best sangria of the trip and tried paella with cuttlefish ink. The paella with cuttlefish ink cost €12.90, and the sangria was €3.20.

So that’s how our day in Valencia went. I really enjoyed this day there! Valencia is a beautiful and fascinating city with its own unique vibe. We managed to see the main sights, visit the viewpoint, enjoy the sea, and indulge in delicious Valencian cuisine. For a first-time visit to the city, this was more than enough, so don’t worry if you only have one day to explore Valencia. The prices in Valencia are reasonable, with lunch and dinner generally costing between €15 and €20 per person. However, I was surprised by the entrance fees to some churches, which are a bit expensive. On the bright side, many attractions don’t require a ticket — for example, entry to the Town Hall and L' Umbracle is free, and climbing El Micalet costs just €2.50. Overall, Valencia is quite walkable, but getting to the beach will require a bit of travel. I hope my guide and itinerary help you plan your perfect day in Valencia. Below, you'll find a map with all the attractions mentioned in the post. 

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