BUDGET TRAVEL STYLE: 3 DAYS IN VALENCIA(SPAIN)

Valencia awaits, promising a tapestry of experiences that seamlessly blend history, culture, and culinary delights. .Don´t forget to Save your QR CODE and Bring with you in your trip!

Day 1: Old Town Wonders

Morning Exploration: Ciutat Vella

9:00AM – 10:00 AM: Kickstart your day with a classic Spanish breakfast

  • Overview: Horchatería Santa Catalina is a charming establishment nestled in the heart of Valencia, known for preserving and presenting one of Spain’s most cherished culinary traditions – horchata. This family-run horchatería exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, inviting both locals and visitors to experience the authentic flavors of Valencia.
  • Address: Plaça Santa Caterina, 6, 46001 Valencia.
  • Suggested dishes:
    • Horchata: The star of the show, horchata is a refreshing beverage made from tiger nuts, water, and sugar. It’s a sweet and nutty drink that’s especially popular during the warmer months.
    • Fartons: Accompany your horchata with fartons, a traditional Valencian pastry. These light, elongated pastries are often dipped into horchata for a delightful combination.
  • Average price per person: Around 5 to 10 euros per person, depending on your selection.
  • How to get there:
    • Metro: Depending on your starting point, you can use Valencia’s metro system. The nearest metro station to Plaça Santa Caterina is generally either “Xàtiva” or “Colón,” both well-connected hubs.
    • Walking: If you’re in the central part of Valencia, walking might be the most enjoyable way to reach Horchatería Santa Catalina. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, and a stroll through historic streets can add to your Valencia experience.
  • Special Tip: If the weather permits, consider sitting in the outdoor seating area at Plaça Santa Caterina, providing a charming setting for enjoying your horchata and fartons.

10:00 AM: Ciutat Vella

  • La Lonja (The Silk Exchange) – Unesco World Heritage: Start your exploration at La Lonja, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Gothic architecture. Address: Carrer de la Llotja, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain.
  • The Water Court (Tribunal de las Aguas): Walk towards The Water Court, a historic institution that convenes in Plaça de la Seu to settle water-related disputes. Address: Plaça de la Seu, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain.
  • Round Square (Plaza Redonda): Head to Round Square, a unique circular plaza surrounded by charming shops and stalls. Address: Plaça Redona, s/n, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain.
  • Valencia Cathedral, Miguelete, and Holy Grail:Continue your journey to Valencia Cathedral, home to the Miguelete Tower and the Holy Grail. Address: Plaça de l’Almoina, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain.

12:00 PM – Mercado Central

  • Make your way to Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest fresh food markets. Wander through the vibrant stalls filled with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience local life and perhaps grab a snack or some fresh fruits for later.

Afternoon Exploration: Turia Gardens & City of Arts Quick Overview

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Hungry? Lunch Time! Budget Tapas Indulge in budget-friendly tapas at tavern “Casa Montaña,” a historic spot – founded in 1836 – with a vast selection of tapas.

  • Overview: It exudes a traditional and welcoming ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is renowned for its extensive selection of wines, tapas, and authentic Spanish cuisine.
  • Address: Casa Montaña, Carrer Josep Benlliure, 69, 46011 Valencia.
  • Suggested dishes:
    • Habas baby salteadas con jamón ibérico 100% raza ibérica: The dish is presented in a cazuelita, adding a rustic touch to the flavorful combination of fresh vegetables and high-quality ham.
    • Txistorra de Irura: a traditional Basque sausage. Served as a single unit, this sausage is known for its robust taste and is often made with a blend of pork, paprika, and other spices, creating a savory and aromatic treat.
    • Pan artesano del Horno San Bartolomé: The crusty exterior and soft interior make it a perfect complement to various dishes. Sourced from a local bakery, this bread is likely to be freshly baked, offering a delightful accompaniment to your tapas.
    • Tocinito de cielo con mermelada de tomateA sweet indulgence, the Tocinito de cielo is a dessert characterized by its heavenly texture and flavor. Accompanied by a mermelada de tomate (tomato jam) made from certified tomatoes, this dish offers a delightful combination of richness and fruity sweetness.
  • Average price per person: Around 20 euros – depending on your choice of tapas, drinks and dishes.
  • How to get there: Board the metro train going in the direction of Línea 5. Exit the metro station at Marítim-Serrería.
  • Special Tip: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, to secure a table in this popular establishment.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Turia Gardens Stroll

  • Starting Point: Begin your stroll at the entrance of the Turia Gardens. You can enter from various points depending on your location.
  • Torres & Puentes de Serranos: Walk towards the historic Puentes de Serranos (Serranos Bridge) and a pair of imposing 14th-century towers that were once part of the city’s defensive walls. Enjoy the views of this iconic bridge.
  • Jardines del Turia: Enter the Turia Gardens and explore the lush greenery. You’ll find walking paths, bike trails, and beautiful gardens.
  • Palau de la Música: Continue south towards the Palau de la Música. Admire the architecture and perhaps take a moment to relax.

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: City of Arts and Sciences Visit

  • Departure from Turia Gardens: Head towards the southern end of the Turia Gardens to reach the City of Arts and Sciences.
  • City of Arts and Sciences: Explore the impressive architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences. Highlights include the Hemisféric, Umbracle, Science Museum, and the iconic Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia.
  • L’Umbracle: Walk through the beautiful garden structure known as L’Umbracle. Enjoy the sculptures and greenery.
  • Photography Points: Take advantage of various points for stunning photographs of the futuristic buildings and surroundings.

Dinner Time: Authentic Paella Experience

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Savor an authentic paella experience at “La Riua.” Choose from various paella options at affordable prices.

  • Overview: a popular restaurant in Valencia known for its traditional Spanish cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a diverse menu with a focus on regional flavors and high-quality ingredients.
  • Address: La Riua, Carrer de la Reina, 19, 46011 Valencia.
  • Suggested dishes:
    • Paella Valenciana: A must-try, as Valencia is the birthplace of paella.
    • Pulpo a la Gallega: Galician-style octopus, usually seasoned with paprika and served with potatoes.
    • Patatas Bravas: Crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
  • Average price per person: typically ranges from €20 to €30, depending on your choice of dishes and drinks.
  • How to get there: The restaurant is centrally located, and you can reach it easily by taking Line 3 (Red Line) of the Valencia Metro. The nearest metro station is Xàtiva.
  • Special Tip: Don’t forget to explore traditional Spanish desserts offered on the menu, they´re superb.

Day 2: Arts and Culture

Morning Exploration: Diving into City of Arts and Sciences

9:00 AM – Start at L’Umbracle:

  • Begin your exploration at L’Umbracle, a beautiful garden area with a landscaped walkway and contemporary art installations. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the views of the surrounding architecture.

9:30 AM – Visit the Hemisfèric:

  • Head towards the Hemisfèric, the iconic eye-shaped building. Explore the exterior of the Hemisfèric, known for its stunning architecture.

10:00 AM – Discover the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum:

  • Walk towards the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, one of the main attractions in the complex. Spend time exploring the interactive exhibits and engaging displays inside the museum.

11:00 AM – Walk by the Ágora:

  • Take a stroll by the Ágora, a versatile space often used for events and exhibitions. Admire the modern design and architecture of this multifunctional venue.

12:00 AM – Conclude at the City of Arts and Sciences:

  • Conclude your visit to the City of Arts and Sciences, taking in any additional sights or areas you haven’t explored. Capture some instagrammablel photos of the futuristic structures before moving on to your next destination. The kayak

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch Time: Central Market Eateries Head to Mercado Central for lunch. Try affordable dishes at the market’s eateries.

For lunch at the Central Market (Mercado Central) in Valencia, you have a variety of options to choose from the market’s eateries. Here are some suggestions:

  • Central Bar (Bar Central):
    • Cuisine: Spanish, Mediterranean
    • Overview: Central Bar is a popular spot within Mercado Central, known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients. They offer a variety of tapas, bocadillos (sandwiches), and traditional Spanish dishes.
    • Suggested Dishes: Try their Jamón ibérico (Iberian ham) tapas, a classic Spanish delicacy.
  • D’ Antaño:
    • Cuisine: Spanish, Seafood
    • Overview: D’ Antaño is a seafood-focused eatery in the market, offering a selection of fresh seafood dishes and paella.
    • Suggested Dishes: If you enjoy seafood, try their paella with fresh catches of the day.
  • Kiosko Universal:
    • Cuisine: Spanish, Mediterranean
    • Overview: Kiosko Universal is a casual eatery offering a variety of traditional Spanish dishes, including fresh seafood and grilled meats.
    • Suggested Dishes: Consider trying their grilled octopus or any of their seafood specialties.
  • Bar Central (not to be confused with Central Bar):
    • Cuisine: Spanish, Tapas
    • Overview: Bar Central is another great option, offering a diverse menu of Spanish tapas and local specialties.
    • Suggested Dishes: Enjoy a mix of tapas, such as patatas bravas, chorizo, and Spanish omelette.
  • El Puesto de Carlos (Carlos’ Stand):
    • Cuisine: Spanish, Paella
    • Overview: This stand is known for its delicious paella, cooked to perfection with fresh ingredients.
    • Suggested Dishes: Try their classic Valencian paella or a seafood paella.

Afternoon Exploration: Marina, Veles e Vents, Beach

2:30 PM: Marina

  • Begin your exploration at the Marina area, known for its modern architecture, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Marina waterfront and enjoy the view of boats and yachts.
  • Explore the shops and cafes in the area.

Veles e Vents

  • Head towards the iconic Veles e Vents building, a modern architectural masterpiece.
  • Admire the design of this landmark, which served as the main venue for the America’s Cup in 2007.
  • Capture photos of the surrounding views from different angles.

Beach

  • Continue your journey to the nearby beach area (Playa de la Malvarrosa or Playa de las Arenas).
  • Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, or enjoy a beachfront walk.
  • If interested, explore beachside cafes and bars for a refreshing drink or snack.

Dinner Time: A traditional “Arroceria”

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Traditional Valencian Cuisine

  • Overview: La Pepica is a historic beachfront restaurant known for its traditional Valencian cuisine and paellas. With a relaxed atmosphere and a location right on the beach, it offers a pleasant dining experience at reasonable prices.
  • Address: Paseo Neptuno, 6, 46011 Valencia.
  • Average Price per Person: typically in the range of 15 to 25 euros.
  • Suggested Dishes:
    • Valencian Paella: one-of-a-kind.
    • Seafood Paella: La Pepica’s Seafood Paella is a seafood lover’s delight. This variation of paella is brimming with a diverse selection of fresh seafood, including prawns, mussels, clams, and squid. The seafood is expertly cooked with the rice, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish.
    • Fideuà : Fideuà is a unique twist on the traditional paella, where pasta is used instead of rice. La Pepica’s Fideuà typically features short noodles cooked to perfection along with an array of seafood. The pasta absorbs the savory flavors, creating a delightful and hearty alternative to the classic paella.
  • How to Get There: La Pepica is located along Paseo Neptuno, just a short walk from the Marina area.

Day 3: Beach Day and Farewell

Morning Exploration: Malvarrosa Beach

9:00 AM – 12:00 AM: Spend a relaxing morning at Malvarrosa Beach.

  • Take a dip, stroll along the promenade, and enjoy the sea breeze.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch Time: Yummy budget feastLa Marcelina

  • Overview: a charming eatery known for its casual atmosphere and wallet-friendly menu. Situated near the beach, it offers a relaxed setting where you can enjoy a variety of Spanish and Mediterranean dishes without breaking the bank.
  • Address: Passeig de Neptú, 8, 46011 València.
  • Average price per person: La Marcelina is known for its budget-friendly options, with an average price per person ranging from 20-30 euros.
  • Suggested dishes:
    • Bocadillos (Spanish Sandwiches): La Marcelina is renowned for its delicious bocadillos, featuring a variety of fillings such as Iberian ham, chorizo, and Manchego cheese.
    • Tapas Selection: Explore their tapas selection, which includes a range of small plates featuring local flavors. From patatas bravas to gambas al ajillo, there’s something for everyone.
    • Seafood Paella: If you’re in the mood for paella, La Marcelina offers an affordable and tasty seafood paella, allowing you to savor the essence of Valencia.
  • Tip: The outdoor seating area provides a pleasant setting, especially on sunny days.

Afternoon Relaxation: Chill at El Cabanyal

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Explore the colorful El Cabanyal district. Admire the unique architecture and relax at local cafes.

Suggested Path:

  • Starting Point: La Marcelina
    • Start your journey from La Marcelina, the restaurant where you had lunch.
    • Head southwest on Carrer de l’Almirall Cadarso toward Carrer del Rosari.
    • Continue straight to explore the vibrant streets of El Cabanyal.
  • Wander Through Carrer de la Reina
    • Explore Carrer de la Reina, known for its colorful houses and lively atmosphere.
    • Take your time to appreciate the unique architecture and street art.
  • Visit Mercat del Cabanyal
    • If you’re interested in local markets, make a stop at Mercat del Cabanyal.
    • The market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and other local goods.
  • Relax at a Local Cafe
    • Take a break at one of the charming cafes in the area.
    • Enjoy a coffee or a refreshing drink while soaking in the local ambiance.
  • Stroll Along Playa de la Malvarrosa
    • Head toward Playa de la Malvarrosa to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach.
    • You can choose to relax on the sand or walk along the promenade.
  • End of Exploration
    • Depending on your preferences, you can either conclude your exploration at the beach or continue to explore more of El Cabanyal.

Dinner Time: Farewell in El Carmen

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at Tasca Angel.

  • Overview: Since 1946 Tasca Angel is a charming local spot known for its affordable and delicious Spanish cuisine. It has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual dinner.
  • Address: Carrer de la Reina, 124, 46011 Valencia.
  • Suggested dishes: Enjoy traditional Spanish dishes such as paella, grilled seafood, and a variety of tapas. The menu offers a mix of flavors from the region.
  • Average price per person: Prices are budget-friendly, with main dishes ranging from €8 to €15.
  • Tips: Spanish dining often involves sharing plates. Consider ordering a variety of dishes to share with your companions, allowing you to experience a range of flavors. Don’t hesitate to ask the friendly staff for their recommendations. They might suggest seasonal specialties or hidden gems on the menu.