Valencia Spain – 3 Day Itinerary for Families with toddlers
Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that is perfect for a family vacation. With its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and fascinating museums, Valencia is a city that has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide you with a 3-day family itinerary for Valencia that will help you make the most of your trip.
Day 1
Mercat Central
Start your morning at the Mercado Central, which is one of the largest and oldest indoor markets in Europe. The Mercado Central, or Central Market, is a must-visit destination in Valencia for any food lover. It is one of the largest and oldest indoor markets in Europe and is home to hundreds of vendors selling a wide variety of fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood. The market is a feast for the senses, with vibrant colours, intoxicating smells, and lively chatter. The Mercado Central is a true Valencian institution and a perfect place to experience the city’s culinary culture.
La Lonja
La Lonja de la Seda, or the Silk Exchange, is a magnificent Gothic-style building located in the historic center of Valencia, Spain. It was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the most important and well-preserved examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. The building served as the center of Valencia’s silk trade during the 16th century and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
The Valencia Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, is a magnificent Gothic-style church located in the heart of the city of Valencia, Spain. The cathedral was built in the 13th century on the site of a former mosque and was consecrated in 1238. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and its full name is the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia.
The cathedral’s exterior features intricate stonework, including a stunning rose window, while its interior is filled with priceless works of art, including frescoes, sculptures, and paintings. The cathedral also houses the Holy Chalice of Valencia, a cup made of agate and used by Jesus during the Last Supper, which is considered one of the most important relics of the Christian faith.
Visitors can climb the cathedral’s bell tower, known as El Miguelete, for panoramic views of the city, or explore the cathedral’s cloisters and chapels, each with its own unique style and history.
Parc Gulliver
Parque Gulliver, also known as Gulliver’s Park, is a unique and whimsical park located in the heart of Valencia, Spain. The park features a massive sculpture of the character Gulliver from Jonathan Swift’s novel “Gulliver’s Travels,” lying on the ground with ropes tying him down. The sculpture is over 70 feet long and features slides, stairs, and platforms that visitors can climb on and explore.
The park is designed to be an interactive playground for children and adults alike, with Gulliver’s body serving as a giant jungle gym. Parque Gulliver is a popular destination for families and tourists, and its unique design and playful atmosphere make it a must-visit attraction in Valencia. It offers a fun and memorable way to experience the city’s parks and outdoor spaces and is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Day 2
L’Oceanografic is a world-renowned aquarium located in the City of Arts and Sciences complex in Valencia, Spain. It is the largest aquarium in Europe, covering over 110,000 square meters and featuring more than 45,000 marine animals from over 500 different species.
The aquarium is divided into different zones that represent different marine ecosystems, such as the Arctic, Antarctic, Mediterranean, and Red Sea. Visitors can explore these zones through a series of interconnected tunnels and tanks, observing a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and more.
L’Oceanografic is also home to several educational and conservation programs that focus on the preservation of marine life and ecosystems. The aquarium is a popular destination for families and tourists, offering a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
In addition to the aquarium exhibits, L’Oceanografic also features a 4D cinema, a restaurant, and gift shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs and educational materials. With its impressive collection of marine life and focus on education and conservation, L’Oceanografic is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Valencia.
Museu de les Ciències (Valencia Science Museum)
The Museu de les Ciències, also known as the Science Museum, is a state-of-the-art museum located in the City of Arts and Sciences complex in Valencia, Spain. The museum is dedicated to promoting scientific education and exploration and features a wide range of exhibits, displays, and interactive installations that showcase the latest advances in science and technology.
The museum’s exhibits cover a variety of scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy. Visitors can explore the inner workings of the human body, learn about the evolution of life on Earth, and discover the secrets of the universe through engaging and interactive displays.
One of the highlights of the Museu de les Ciències is the Hemisfèric, a unique planetarium and IMAX theater that features a giant dome-shaped screen and state-of-the-art sound and projection systems. The Hemisfèric offers a range of educational and entertaining shows and films, including documentaries on space exploration and natural history.
In addition to the exhibits and shows, the museum also offers a variety of workshops, classes, and events for visitors of all ages. The Museu de les Ciències is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in science and technology and offers a fascinating and engaging way to explore the wonders of the natural world.
Day 3
Valencia has several beaches, but the most popular one is the Playa de la Malvarrosa. The beach has a long promenade with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to spend the afternoon. If you have younger children, consider visiting the nearby Patacona Beach, which is quieter and more family-friendly.
La Mas Bonitas
La Mas Bonita is a popular cafe and restaurant located in Valencia, Spain, known for its delicious and Instagram-worthy breakfast options. The cafe has a charming, beachy atmosphere, with a colorful decor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for people-watching and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
The breakfast menu at La Mas Bonita features a variety of fresh and healthy options, including smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and freshly squeezed juices. The cafe is also known for its artisanal pastries, which are made in-house and include croissants, muffins, and cakes.
Walking from Malvarosa Beach to Playa de las Arenas
Walking from Malvarosa Beach to Playa de las Arenas is a pleasant and scenic stroll along Valencia’s beautiful coastline. Both beaches are located in the same neighborhood, El Cabanyal-Canyamelar, and are separated by a small harbor known as Puerto de Valencia.
Starting at Malvarosa Beach, visitors can walk along the promenade that runs parallel to the beach, taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is wide and long, with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Along the way, visitors can stop at one of the many beachside cafes or restaurants for a refreshing drink or snack.
As you approach the harbor, you’ll see the iconic figure of the Veles e Vents building, which is now used as a cultural center and events space. Crossing over the harbor, visitors can continue their walk along Playa de las Arenas, which is another beautiful beach with a wide expanse of sand and plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.
The beach promenade at Playa de las Arenas is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
La Pepica
La Pepica is a historic and renowned restaurant located on the Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia, Spain, known for its delicious paella dishes. The restaurant has been serving paella since 1898 and has attracted a long list of famous clientele, including Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí.
The restaurant’s paella dishes are made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and cooked to perfection in a traditional wood-fired oven. The most popular paella dish at La Pepica is the “Paella Valenciana,” which includes chicken, rabbit, and fresh vegetables, all cooked in a saffron-infused rice.
In addition to the Paella Valenciana, La Pepica also serves a variety of other paella dishes, including seafood paella, mixed paella, and vegetarian paella. The restaurant also offers a selection of tapas and starters, including grilled calamari, seafood stew, and tomato salad.
The restaurant’s charming and traditional atmosphere, with its blue and white tiled walls and ocean views, makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Overall, La Pepica is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of paella in Valencia, Spain.
Torres de Serranos – https://tinyurl.com/mr5w6hbm
The Torres de Serranos is a historic landmark located in the heart of Valencia, Spain. It is one of the most well-preserved Gothic-style gates in Europe and was built in the 14th century as part of the city’s defensive walls.
The tower stands 30 meters tall and has two towers with a walkway and battlements in between. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Valencia’s old town and surrounding areas.
Plaza de la Virgen
Plaza de la Virgen is a historic square located in the heart of Valencia’s old town. The square is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Valencia Cathedral, the Basilica of the Virgin of the Helpless, and the Palau de la Generalitat.
The focal point of the square is a stunning fountain that dates back to the 17th century. The fountain features Neptune, surrounded by eight naked women, each representing a different river that flows through the Valencian region. The fountain is an impressive sight to behold and adds to the charm and beauty of the square.
The plaza is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to gather, relax, and take in the beauty of the surroundings. There are plenty of outdoor cafes and restaurants surrounding the square, making it a great spot for a coffee break or a leisurely lunch.
Valencia is a beautiful city with a rich history, delicious cuisine, and plenty of attractions and activities to keep the whole family entertained. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, this 3-day itinerary is a great starting point for exploring some of Valencia’s top sights and experiences. From the stunning beaches and parks to the historic landmarks and delicious restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Valencia. So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to discover all that this vibrant city has to offer!