What to Do in Valencia in One Day: Express Route

What to do in Valencia in one day almost always comes down to the same shape: morning in the old town, early afternoon at the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències, and sunset by the Turia or on the Cabanyal beach. It all fits into about 10-11 hours if you don't get stuck in the queues.

Morning: the old town on foot

Start early at Plaza de la Reina, with the Cathedral in front of you. Climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete bell tower. They're narrow and spiral, but at the top you get the full 360 degree view and understand at a glance how the centre is laid out. Tickets are bought at the foot of the tower, so check current hours and prices on the Cathedral Museum site.

From there it's a five minute walk to Plaza de la Virgen, the most photographed square in the city and the one that looks best first thing, before the tour groups arrive. Drop down to the Mercado Central for fruit or a horchata, then cross the road to the Lonja de la Seda, a Gothic building and UNESCO World Heritage site. Because the old town is so compact, this stretch takes a good three hours.

• Don't miss: the Miguelete, Plaza de la Virgen, the Lonja.
• If you're short on time: skip the tower climb and keep the Lonja and the market.

Midday: eat nearby and well

You don't need to go far for lunch. Around the market and Plaza Redonda there are honest options. If you want a proper paella, book ahead and eat it at midday rather than at night. There are specific picks in our guide on where to eat the best paella.

Afternoon: Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències

In the afternoon, switch scenery. From the centre you reach the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències by tram (line 10, Ciutat Arts i Ciències-Justícia stop) or on foot along the old Turia riverbed, now a park. Walking takes about 35-40 minutes, gently downhill, and the route is worth it. If you just want Calatrava's architecture from outside and the pools, ninety minutes is plenty. If you go into the Oceanogràfic, set aside a whole half day and buy the ticket online.

Sunset: Turia or beach

To end the day you have two options, depending on how your legs feel. One: stroll back through the Turia Gardens and settle on a terrace in the centre. The other: head to the sea. The Malva-rosa and Cabanyal beaches are a tram or bus ride from the centre, and the seafront promenade late in the day, with a rice dish facing the water, is one of the memories that sticks the longest.

How to plan the day without stress

• Transport: the centre is walkable. For the Ciutat or the beach, use EMT buses and Metrovalencia. Details in how to get around Valencia.
• If you have time to spare or you're coming back: see the weekend version or the three day plan.
• Exact dates and events: check the live agenda before you come. Some days have concerts, markets or fiestas that change the plan.

Frequently asked questions

Is one day enough to see Valencia?

For the essentials, yes: old town, Ciutat de les Arts and some time at the beach or in the park. If you want museums at a relaxed pace or nearby towns, you'll need an extra day.

Should I start with the centre or the Ciutat de les Arts?

Start with the centre first thing, when there are fewer people and the market is already open. Leave the Ciutat de les Arts for the afternoon, when the light is better for photos.

Can I walk from the centre to the beach?

You can, but it's a long way, over an hour. The tram or bus is more comfortable. Save your legs for the old town.

What do I skip if I'm really pushed for time?

The Miguelete climb and the inside of the Oceanogràfic. With the Lonja, Plaza de la Virgen and the Ciutat's architecture from outside, you still get a real feel for the city.