The best places to visit in Valencia on a weekend

Dreamy beaches, captivating history, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere—Valencia has something to suit every taste. Its fierce fallas have earned it a well-deserved reputation among both locals and tourists, but the truth is that sparks fly every day in the capital of the Valencian Community.

Valencia’s coast is bathed by the warm Mediterranean Sea, perfect for a refreshing dive after a long day exploring its many attractions. All of them are incredibly appealing, but sometimes there is not enough time to explore them, and one must prioritise. These are the best things to do in Valencia in two days.

What to see in Valencia on a weekend

City of Arts and Sciences

Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences sits in the heart of the city and is one of its main attractions. This complex is composed of diverse buildings. Each one of them focuses on one specific scientific or cultural topic, and they are true masterpieces inspired by the neo-futuristic artistic movement.

The Palau de les Arts is one of the most popular buildings in the complex and a must for every art lover. It hosts infinite performing arts events—opera, ballet, and theatre performances await you inside this impressive, innovative, and massive building.

The eye-shaped Hemisfèric focuses on films and can accommodate up to 300 people. It offers thematic screenings, so it is always a good idea to check the schedule in advance. If you are looking for the best things to do in Valencia with kids, the Oceanogràfic should be at the top of your bucket list. It is the largest aquarium in Europe.

The City of Arts and Sciences is a mandatory visit in Valencia, but be warned that it takes a long time to explore when you plan your trip.

Valencia Cathedral

A majestic, intricate Gothic tower rises above Valencia’s roofs, standing out in every picture of the city. Meet the Miguelete Tower (or Torre del Micalet, in Valencian), an incredible example of Spain’s Gothic architecture whose construction began in 1381.

The tower is attached to another architectural marvel, the Valencia Cathedral, a place surrounded by history and legends. Actually, it is said that the Holy Grail is kept in this cathedral. And many other treasures await within its walls—an art museum that takes every visitor through Valencia’s past eras and the many historical events that took place there.

The ‘Valencian Sistine Chapel’

Did you know that Valencia has its own Sistine Chapel? The San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir Church sits in the town centre, a historical area where Roman ruins have been found. Its rather sober façade can be misleading, and those who cross its door will find out why.

Baroque, romanesque, and gothic styles merge into an unforgettable work, an impressive and intricate building that resembles the famous Sistine Chapel. Its wonderful nave is a whole spectacle itself, covered in detailed Baroque frescoes that depict Saint Nicholas’ life. 

Lonja de la Seda

This building has earned a worldwide reputation, and a mere glimpse is enough to understand why. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the Lonja de la Seda was one of the many buildings in the complex where merchants would sell their goods, in this case, silk (seda, in Spanish).

Built in a late Gothic style, this building allows visitors to dive into Valencia’s history and its past communities, making it a must for history enthusiasts and for people who appreciate exquisite architecture.

Malvarrosa Beach

A trip to Valencia would not be complete without a trip to the beach. There are many reasons why Malvarrosa is one of Spain's most popular beaches. For instance, it is located near Valencia’s main tourist attractions, so it is the perfect ending for a long day and the ideal spot to relax after walking for hours nonstop.

This fine-sand beach is one of the best places to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. It includes a lovely promenade and an area adapted for people with reduced mobility. Many chiringuitos and Spanish restaurants are scattered throughout the beach, so you can taste the best tapas with a cold, refreshing drink.

Albufera Natural Park

This breathtaking natural treasure sits 15 kilometres from the city of Valencia, but the ride is worth it. The Albufera Natural Park is a great spot for a family day and should be included in every itinerary. This lagoon is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, insects, and fishes, which can be observed respectfully on a boat ride, as well as the paddy fields or arrozales, whose rice is used to cook the most delicious Valencian paellas.

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