How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Valencia to Soak in the Magic of Festivities
- Amy
- Jan 12
- 14 min read
Updated: Feb 6
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One thing I have learnt from my travel to Spain over the years. Christmas cranks up the magic in these Spanish cities! Moreover, with the mild Mediterranean weather, we couldn’t ask for a better getaway than Spain in winter.
Since we were touring Andalusia, we decided to fly in and out of Valencia, as it gave us the perfect chance to explore a new city. Valencia is a city in the Valencian Community, an autonomous region on the eastern coast of Spain, along the Mediterranean Sea. The Valencian Community is known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and a rich cultural heritage that is characteristic of its Roman, Moorish, and modern influences.
Where to stay in Valencia?
In the autumn and winter months, when the idea is more to explore the town and cultural heritage, witnessing Christmas and New Years in its festive fervour, you may choose between staying in the city center or near the Turia park which is also a great place to stay but a 10 minutes walk to the city center.
If you’re travelling in spring or summer ( I would avoid summer as temperatures can soar upto 40 degrees), you’d rather hit the beach and in that case, staying closer to the beach in the neighborhoods of El Cabanyal-Canyamelar, which is a charming and traditional neighborhood, located just a short walk from Malvarrosa Beach, Valencia’s most famous urban beach. You could also opt for a more residential neighborhood like Alboraya, which is an area close to Patacona Beach.
However, since this blog post focuses on primarily the festive atmosphere in the heart of Valencia and in winter, I have provided options
specifically at the city centre.
You have the Hotel One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria which is situated in Valencia’s historic Ciutat Vella district, Hotel Mediterráneo Valencia and the Catalonia Excelsior while near Turia park there are hotels such as NH Valencia City Center, HOTEL TÚRIA VALENCIA, PIO XII Apartments Valencia and Mythic Valencia.
How to get around Valencia?
In Valencia, FREENOW is the go-to cab service and works just as smoothly as Uber. In fact, Uber isn’t very popular there, so FREENOW is often the more reliable choice for getting around. If you stay in the heart of the city, say around Plaça de l'Ajuntament, which is surrounded by impressive architecture, including the Valencia City Hall, the stunning fountain and the beautiful post office building, or the El Carmen and Ruzafa neighbourhoods, which is basically staying in the history and culture of Valencia, then you wouldn't need to hire a rental. You can pretty much get to any of the tourist hotspots like the Mercado Central and the Valencian Cathedral on foot. To get to further away places like the City of Arts & Sciences, FREENOW just works perfectly.
You can also opt to rent a car and drive yourself, which can be easily arranged by BOOKING HERE.
Money Exchange
There are several money exchanges in the city. The Global Exchnage | Casa de cambio en Valencia is a popular one. It has good service and offers excellent exchange rates. You can find couple of them on Ciutat Vella. The other trustworthy one is Quickgold Valencia situated on Camins al Grau, Patraix and on Plaza España.
3 Perfect Days in Valencia
We picked Valencia for our New Year’s plans mainly because we wanted something a bit different this time. Since we’d already explored Barcelona and Madrid, we thought it would be nice to spend New Year’s with family in Valencia. Plus, the flights were pretty affordable around the holidays, and after doing some research, we realized there’s so much to see and do in the city. So, we decided to land in Valencia, spend a day exploring, then head to Andalusia, and finish up our trip back in Valencia for the last couple of days to ring in the New Year with our family!
Three days is the perfect amount of time to really soak in the city’s culture and history, while also enjoying the laid-back, vibrant vibe that Valencia has to offer. It’s just enough to experience the best of both worlds!
Day 1: A First Day in Valencia and Exploring El Carmen
We landed in Valencia in the afternoon. Our airport was Valencia-Canet Airport (Aeropuerto de Valencia-Castellón or Castellón Airport) which was located around 75 km (47 miles) north of Valencia, near the city of Castellón de la Plana. We only booked this aiport because the flight to Castellon was cheaper than landing at Valencia. However, due to bad weather, we were redirected to Valencia Manises Airport, which is about 8 km (5 miles) west of the city center, in the area of Manises. No doubt it saved us time and we were in our hotel in 20 minutes instead of the originally planned 1.5 hours from Castellon. However since our taxi rental was booked from the original airport, we still had to shell out a good €150.
From the airport, you may conveniently book a taxi to the destination of your choice using EASY AIRPORT TAXIS BOOKINGS.
We checked into our hotel and decided to first check out El Carmen.
Christmas Celebrations in El Carmen and Plaça Redona
Valencia might be known for its big Three Kings celebration, but the city really shines at Christmas. The streets and landmarks are beautifully decorated, with twinkling lights everywhere, and there’s a festive vibe all around, especially with the lively Christmas markets.
That evening, we strolled through the El Carmen neighborhood, which looked like something out of a fairy tale. The narrow cobblestone streets were filled with vibrant street art, cozy cafes, and festive lights that made everything feel even more magical. We checked out local shops and boutiques before heading to Plaça Redona, or the Round Square, built in 1840 and surrounded by traditional Valencian buildings. Even the restaurants were decked out for the season! We chose to eat at Tasca Hogan “La Coveta,” a cozy spot full of local charm. It was here that I had my first taste of real paella, and it was unforgettable!
A real highlight is the Christmas Market at the City of Arts and Sciences, running from November 24, 2024, to January 7, 2025. With handmade crafts, tasty food from local vendors, and live demonstrations of traditional skills like glassmaking and carpentry, it is the perfect way to enjoy Valencia’s festive atmosphere.
For more information, head to the below informative links provided:
Day 2
We joined a guided tour via Get Your Guide, and our guide was amazing—she really brought the history to life for us.
Plaza de la Virgen & Surroundings
We started our day at Plaza de la Virgen, and wow, what a spot! It’s right in the heart of the city, surrounded by beautiful historical buildings like the Valencia Cathedral and the Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken. That very evening, we returned to this sqaure and strolled around, soaking in the atmosphere.
Valencia Cathedral & the Holy Grail
A must-see when in Valencia is the Valencia Cathedral. Valencia Cathedral has three entrances, each showcasing a different architectural style, one Gothic (the Puerta de los Apóstoles), a Romanesque entrance (the Puerta del Sol), and a Baroque portal (the Puerta de los Hierros), and our guide explained everything in such detail. The Holy Grail in the Valencia Cathedral is believed by many to be the actual cup used by Jesus during the Last Supper, making it one of the most revered Christian relics.
As for visiting, the cathedral is typically open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, with some variations for mass times and special occasions.The ticket prices were reasonable, too—€9 for adults, and €20 for a family ticket, which covered two adults and up to three kids. It felt like such a great deal for everything we saw!
Plaza de la Reina & Plaza del Almudín
We also spent some time at Plaza de la Reina, which is just next to the cathedral. It’s always buzzing with activity, and we grabbed some coffee at a café while watching street performances. While there weren’t any major concerts happening at the time, we learned that the plaza often hosts local events, especially during big festivals like Las Fallas. If you're into live music, be sure to check out nearby spots like Plaza de la Virgen or Palau de la Música, where you can catch some fantastic outdoor performances.
Next, we wandered over to Plaza del Almudín, which was just around the corner of the cathedral, lso called the “Square of the Handout.” It was great to learn that this area used to be where grain was distributed to the poor. The Almudín building was once a granary, but now it’s a cultural space with art exhibitions.
The Virgin of the Little Hunchback
The Virgin of the Little Hunchback Church (Iglesia de la Virgen del Rocío) is located on Plaza de la Virgen, one of the most iconic squares in Valencia, surrounded by beautiful historical buildings like the Valencia Cathedral (back of the cathedral) and the Basilica of the Virgin. The square is really special in March because of the flower tradition for the Virgin of the Little Hunchback. During this time, the square is filled with colorful flowers, making it look beautiful and lively. It's a big event for the local community, with kids and families adding their flowers to the statue. If you’re in town in March, be sure to visit—it’s a tradition that only happens for a few days each year, and it's something you don’t want to miss!
Explore the Underground City (La Almoina Archaeological Centre)
Just next to the Basilica of the Virgin is another highlight known as the La Almoina Archaeological Centre, where one can explore the ancient underground ruins. It’s just 5 meters below the surface, right near Plaza de la Virgen, and one can walk through layers of history, from Roman baths to Moorish ruins. I didnt check it out, but apparently it is amazing, especially the interactive exhibits and the chance to see real artifacts up close. If you have the time, do check it out.
The center is typically open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Sundays and public holidays, it's open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The center is usually closed on Mondays, except for special occasions.
Pro tip: While you're in Valencia, don’t miss the chance to explore the fascinating history of the Borja (Borgia) family! Known for producing not just one, but several popes, including Pope Alexander VI, their legacy is rich with intrigue. You can visit Xàtiva Castle, where Alexander VI was born, and the beautiful Palacio de los Borja in Gandía. And here’s a fun rumor to keep in mind: The Borjas were often linked to scandalous stories, with whispers of poisonings, power struggles, and dark family secrets! It’s all part of the mystery that makes their history so captivating. |
Historic City Gates
While we were walking through the old town, we stopped by Puerta del Norte, which is part of Valencia’s historic defenses. We learned that these gates once housed prisons, which was pretty interesting. Our kids were curious about how these old gates played a role in the city’s past, and our guide did a great job explaining the history behind them.
Las Fallas Festival If you’re planning a trip in the sunny months, make sure to come in mid-March to catch this incredible festival! Las Fallas is a vibrant celebration of art, satire, and community, where massive sculptures, known as fallas, are created and displayed all over the city. These fallas often cost hundreds of thousands of euros to make, and the creativity and detail are truly amazing. The festival’s grand finale is on March 19, during the Nit de la Cremà (Night of the Burning), when the fallas are set on fire in a dramatic celebration that symbolizes burning away the old and making way for the new. If you visit during this time, you can also check out the Las Fallas Museum, which showcases fallas from past years—some of them are over 100 years old! Las Fallas is a unique mix of art, humor, and tradition, and it’s definitely something you won’t want to miss if you’re in Valencia in mid-March! |
Calle de la Concordia
Calle de la Concordia in el Carmen was our next stop. This is a lively, charming spot that’s perfect for escaping the summer heat. With its shaded streets, nearby parks, and cool Mediterranean breeze, it feels much fresher than other parts of the city. As you wander through the area, you’ll also find some amazing street art, including the standout mural of a flamenco dancer in a paella pan—a playful blend of Valencia’s traditions with a colorful, fun twist.
Tasca Angel If you’re in the mood for some authentic Spanish tapas, Tasca Angel is a must-visit! This traditional bar looked like it had a cozy, rustic atmosphere that will make you feel like a local. I know the tapas is delicious because of the long queue of customers waiting for a corner in the bar. I surely know it’s the kind of place where you can really soak in the Spanish culture while enjoying great food. It is located specifically at Carrer de la Tapineria, 15, in the El Carmen neighbourhood. The best time to visit is typically during lunch or early evening (from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM for lunch, and 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM for dinner). |
Mercado Central
If you’re into food and local culture, the Central Market (Mercado Central) is an absolute must-see. It’s one of the oldest and largest markets in Europe, packed with fresh produce, local specialties, and a vibrant atmosphere. You can grab a quick snack here or shopping for ingredients to take home. It’s a great spot to experience the flavors of Valencian tapas or paella and get a feel for the local life.
The usual opening hours are:
Monday to Saturday: 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Closed on Sundays.
La Lonja de la Seda
La Lonja de la Seda in Valencia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built in the 15th century to house the city's booming silk trade, which made Valencia one of Europe’s leading silk centers. The building’s stone carvings, featuring devilish and animal figures, are thought to represent the moral dangers of greed and corruption that accompanied the wealth from the silk industry. These "cheeky" carvings served as a reminder to traders of the potential pitfalls of getting too caught up in the pursuit of riches.
The usual visiting times are:
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Closed on Mondays (except on special occasions).
La Lonja de la Seda offers guided tours to provide deeper insight into its history, architecture, and significance.
Stroll through Turia Gardens
Enjoy a walk or bike ride through this expansive park. Originally, the Turia River used to flow through the heart of Valencia, but after a major flood in 1957, the riverbed was diverted and transformed into what is now the Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia), a beautiful park that stretches for miles. The Turia Gardens is such a peaceful break from the busy square. You can see the Turia Gardens from the Assut de l'Or Bridge, a sleek, modern structure with a distinctive, sail-like design, that connects one side of the city to the other.
Day 3
Discover the City of Arts and Sciences
We kicked off our New Year’s Eve by exploring the amazing City of Arts and Sciences, which is home to some incredible attractions like the Oceanogràfic aquarium, the Science Museum, and the Hemisférico IMAX cinema. Out of the three, we chose to visit Oceanogràfic because we knew we’d get to see amazing creatures like Beluga whales and sharks, and it fit perfectly into our schedule. Opened in 2003, it’s the largest aquarium in Europe, covering over 110,000 square meters and home to more than 45,000 animals from around the world. Oceanogràfic’s goal is to educate visitors about marine life and conservation, while offering a glimpse into different aquatic ecosystems, from the Mediterranean to the Arctic.
One of our favorite parts was seeing the Beluga whales—they’re truly breathtaking! There are also sharks and some really fascinating jellyfish. You can walk through the mesmerising underwater tunnel, where you’ll be surrounded by various marine life, from graceful rays to majestic sea lions. Plus, if you're there at the right time, you can catch the dolphin shows at 11:30 AM and 3 PM. I’m personally not a fan of these shows for ethical reasons, but I do appreciate the effort they’ve made to frame them as educational experiences. It’s clear they’re working hard to raise awareness about ocean conservation, the importance of protecting sea animals, and the impact humans have on nature. However, I still have my reservations. All in all, it’s a great place to learn and have fun!
If you want to skip the long lines, it’s a good idea to book tickets online in advance. On December 31st, everything closed at 4 PM, so we had a nice chunk of time to explore. If we'd come on another day when it was open until 6 PM, it would’ve been perfect!
The City of Arts and Sciences is a stunning cultural and architectural hub in Valencia, Spain. It's the city's top modern attraction and is even considered one of the 12 Treasures of Spain. |
Where and What to Eat?
I’ve dedicated an entire blog post to this topic because a single section wouldn’t do justice to the incredible food we enjoyed in Valencia! As the birthplace of paella, this city has so much more to offer beyond its iconic dish. Check out my blog post for all the delicious details!‘Exploring Valencia’s Vibrant Food Scene’
Closing Thoughts
Now, since we know Valencia is all about stunning architecture (the City of Arts and Sciences is a must-see!), delicious food (you can't leave without trying paella), and festivals that bring the heat and excitement (Las Fallas is unforgettable), it's pretty clear this city has it all. It's the perfect mix of rich history, modern coolness, and that laid-back coastal vibe. Its perfect for a family-friendly getaway, a burst of festive energy, or if you just want to soak in the true Spanish spirit!
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