Travel around Valencia with Bobby
Valencia has always been a city I’ve wanted to visit, and when I finally had the chance, it did not disappoint. The combination of its modern architecture, like the City of Arts and Sciences, with its deep historical roots was irresistible to me as a travel guide. Plus, I couldn’t resist the idea of enjoying authentic paella in the very city where it was born. The beaches and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere made it the perfect destination for both exploration and relaxation. Valencia’s vibrant energy and cultural mix drew me in, and I knew it would offer something special to share with fellow travelers.
Day 1A Walk Through History in the Old Town
The first thing I wanted to do was dive straight into Valencia’s history. After a light breakfast at my charming hotel, Caro Hotel (a perfect boutique stay in the old town), I wandered over to Valencia Cathedral, an impressive blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture. The cathedral’s most famous claim to fame? It supposedly houses the Holy Grail, a must-see for any history buff. Climbing the Miguelete Tower offered breathtaking views of the city below – a great way to get my bearings.
Next, I strolled through Plaza de la Virgen, where the locals were enjoying the sunny weather, kids playing by the fountain. A short walk took me to La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once thrived as the heart of Valencia’s silk trade. The intricate stonework here is simply awe-inspiring.
For lunch, I couldn’t resist trying the traditional paella Valenciana at Navarro Restaurant. Nothing beats the taste of authentic paella in its birthplace – the combination of rabbit, chicken, and perfectly cooked rice was divine.
Take your time in the old town. It’s a beautiful maze of streets, and you don’t want to rush through. Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking, and the cobbled streets can be tricky!
Day 2Exploring the Modern Marvels of the City of Arts and Sciences
Today was all about Valencia’s modern side, and I couldn’t wait to visit the famous Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. I took a quick tram ride from my hotel to this architectural masterpiece. It felt like stepping into the future with its sleek white structures and futuristic vibe.
First up was the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium. Walking through tunnels surrounded by sharks and rays was an unforgettable experience. The dolphin show was a crowd-pleaser too, especially for families.
After the aquarium, I headed to the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, which was interactive and fun, even for adults. I spent hours getting hands-on with exhibits about space, physics, and biology. It’s a perfect spot if you’re curious about the world and enjoy learning as much as I do.
Lunch was at the modern and chic Contrapunto Les Arts restaurant, located within the complex. The contemporary cuisine, with local flavors, was a refreshing break from traditional dishes.
At Contrapunto Les Arts, I indulged in modern Mediterranean cuisine. The freshness of the ingredients and the creativity in the dishes were a great way to break from traditional fare. The combination of flavor and presentation made it a standout meal.
Food
Caro Hotel continued to impress with its central location and luxurious amenities. After a day of exploring, coming back to such comfort made the stay all the more enjoyable. The service was also top-notch, which added to the overall experience.
Accomodation
The City of Arts and Sciences is a must-see for anyone visiting Valencia. The architecture is stunning, and the Oceanogràfic was an unforgettable experience, especially for those interested in marine life. It was easy to spend a full day here, exploring the futuristic buildings and interactive exhibits.
Activity
The City of Arts and Sciences is massive, so be prepared to spend an entire day here. Also, grab your tickets online in advance to skip the lines – it’s well worth it.
Day 3A Day by the Beach and Marina
Valencia’s beaches are too tempting to ignore, so I hopped on a bus to Malvarrosa Beach. With soft sands and the gentle Mediterranean waves, this beach is ideal for a relaxing day. After spending some time soaking in the sun, I took a stroll along the promenade, where you can find plenty of cafes and restaurants.
For lunch, I stopped by La Pepica, a beachfront restaurant that’s been serving delicious seafood for over a century. Their fideuà, a seafood dish similar to paella but made with noodles, was simply incredible.
In the afternoon, I ventured to Marina Beach Club, which is a trendy spot offering drinks, lounging by the pool, and a great view of the marina. As the sun set, the place came alive with music, turning it into a fun spot to enjoy Valencia’s vibrant nightlife.
La Pepica on the beachfront provided a fantastic meal with their fideuà. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the relaxed atmosphere with a view of the sea made it even more enjoyable. It’s a great place to have a long, leisurely lunch by the water.
Food
My stay at Caro Hotel was as excellent as ever, offering a serene and luxurious retreat after a day at the beach. The rooms were consistently clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and accommodating.
Accomodation
Spending the day at Malvarrosa Beach was the perfect balance of relaxation and fun. The sandy shores and warm Mediterranean waters are ideal for both families and solo travelers. The evening at Marina Beach Club brought a nice touch of Valencia’s nightlife vibe, which I truly enjoyed.
Activity
Valencia’s beaches are perfect for a chill day, but don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby marina. It’s a great spot to grab a drink, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the sunset.
Day 4A Visit to Albufera and the Surrounding Nature
For my final day, I decided to venture a little outside the city to Albufera Natural Park. I rented a bike and cycled around the serene rice paddies that surround the area. The landscape is simply stunning, and it’s the birthplace of paella – so how could I resist another serving? This time, I dined at Restaurante Mateu, a local favorite, where the paella tasted even more special as I gazed over the tranquil lagoon.
Afterward, I took a boat ride on the Albufera lagoon, a peaceful way to end the trip. The sunset here is spectacular, with the sky glowing in shades of orange and pink over the water.
The paella at Restaurante Mateu was hands down one of the best I’ve ever had. Located near the Albufera lagoon, the flavors felt authentic, and the peaceful setting added to the overall experience. If you want to try paella in its birthplace, this is the spot.
Food
Although I didn’t switch accommodations, Caro Hotel remained an excellent base for this last leg of the trip. Its central location made it easy to get around, and coming back to such a luxurious room was the perfect way to end each day.
Accomodation
Albufera Natural Park was a refreshing break from the city. Cycling around the rice paddies and taking a boat ride on the lagoon provided a tranquil, nature-filled experience. It’s an excellent day trip if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Valencia for a few hours.
Activity
Don’t miss Albufera if you’re a nature lover. It’s an easy day trip from the city, and the landscape, combined with authentic food, makes it one of the highlights of Valencia.
Summary of My Trip
Valencia offered the perfect four-day getaway, blending its historical richness with modern marvels and beautiful natural landscapes. Each day brought a new experience, from wandering the cobbled streets of the old town and savoring authentic paella, to exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and relaxing on Malvarrosa Beach. The journey was rounded out with a serene escape to Albufera Natural Park, where I enjoyed peaceful boat rides and stunning sunsets. With fantastic food, luxurious accommodations, and diverse activities, Valencia proved to be a well-rounded destination that catered to both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or foodie, this city truly has something for everyone.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Valencia was an absolute delight to explore, and it truly exceeded my expectations. The city’s mix of old and new kept me engaged every single day, from the stunning architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences to the historical charm of the old town. I couldn’t get enough of the food—paella Valenciana lived up to the hype, and I discovered some of the best seafood I’ve ever had. The beaches, especially Malvarrosa Beach, were a great escape from the urban vibe, providing a relaxed atmosphere to unwind. The combination of culture, food, and activities really made Valencia stand out. Overall, it’s a city I’d recommend to anyone looking for both adventure and relaxation, with a little something for every type of traveler.
The paella at Navarro Restaurant was simply perfect, cooked to perfection with that authentic Valencian flavor. It was my first taste of traditional paella Valenciana, and the blend of flavors – especially the saffron and meat – was just unforgettable. Definitely a must-try for anyone visiting Valencia.
Food
Caro Hotel offered the perfect blend of comfort and historical charm. Its location in the old town made it an ideal starting point for exploring Valencia. The rooms were spacious and modern, while still maintaining a unique connection to the city’s history, making it a great stay overall.
Accomodation
Exploring the old town, including Valencia Cathedral and La Lonja de la Seda, was an immersive experience. The historic architecture mixed with lively plazas gave me a true sense of the city's heritage. Climbing Miguelete Tower was a highlight, offering panoramic views of the city.
Activity