Valencia
Last month I booked a ticket to Valencia the day before departure. So, no research and trust from recommendations that this city is amazing.
It was a speedy visit of 2 nights, so we had to make the most of it. This city has quickly become one of my favorite Spanish cities. There is just so much to do, to see, and to eat. Therefore, I would recommend staying a little bit longer, 4 to 5 nights would be perfect.
Drink orange juice (orange city), order a horchata with a Farton, and eat Paรซlla. Itโs a relatively cheap city to be.
Here are some tips and my highlights of our weekend in Valencia! For a more detailed experience of our trip, you can watch the vlog below.
1. Rent a bike
The best way to explore Valencia must be by bike. Everything in cycling distance. There are a lot of cycle paths, but not always clear.
2. Turia Park
Take a stroll or bike in the enormous Turia Park (it used to be a river). You can compare this park as the โCentral Parkโ of NYC! Itโs so beautiful and there are so many different things to see and to do.
3. Science Park
The icon of Valencia is the Science Park โCiudad de las Artes y las Cienciasโ. It took over two decennia to build this enormous futuristic park. And how amazing is the Palm tree garden?
4. Mercado Centrale
Mercado Centrale is one of the biggest indoor markets in Europe. You will find lots of local food here like, Jamon (ham), seafood, olives, and fruit.
5. Old town
My favorite part of Valencia was the old town. Very authentic and just so beautiful. Every street is Pinterest/Instagram-worthy! You will find lots of restaurants with terraces and little boutiques. Also, you will find a lot of wall art everywhere. Take your time to explore the streets here.
6. Plaza de la Virgen
In the old town, you find the famous square called Plaza de la Virgen with a fountain and a view of the cathedral.
We were here on a Sunday, where we could enjoy a show with traditional Spanish dance.
7. Funfair
There is a big funfair in Valencia at the harbour. We were too early, so most of the attractions were still closed. We did go into Mr. Bean.
I had so much fun in there as it was an extensive parcour! (check it out in the vlog below)
8. Rooftop bar
Me, the sunset chaser, always looking for rooftop bars to watch epic sunsets in the cities. I found one at Ateneo sky bar.ย For a 3โฌ entrance fee,ย you can enjoy a 360 degrees view of Valencia on the 8th floor.
address:ย Carrer de Moratรญn, 12
9. BASTARD coffee & kitchen
Hotspot of the town? This place is uber-hip and the pancakes & waffles are DELICIOUS!!
address: C/Leandro de Saralegui 1
website:ย www.bastardcoffeekitchen.com
10. Horchateria
Try out the local traditional drink called โHorchataโ. This Valencian drink tastes like a milkshake. Furthermore, you should also order a โFartonโ, a thin pastry with thin layer of sugar.ย Horchata and Farton are traditionally served together.
Recommended Horchateria: Horchateria Santa Catalina
Placa de Santa Caterina 6
website:ย www.horchateriasantacatalina.com
11. Paรซlla
Personally, I always crave paรซlla when Iโm in Spain. Itโs always a challenge to find a good one though. We asked a local waitress for recommendations and she told us to go to Almudin.
Well, when we entered the restaurant later we saw her eating there as well, so it must be good right?!
It was mouth watering good and I love the authentic decoration of the restaurant as well.
address: Placa de Sant Lluis Bertran 1
12. Brunch corner
We had brunch at Brunch corner which is located at the famous Plaza de la Virgin. We sat outside, but the inside looks really cute as well!
address: Carrer del Comte dโAlmodรณvar 1
website:ย brunchcornerlavirgen.business.site