12 day itinerary for Valencia

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Valencia! Start your trip by exploring the historic city center. Visit the stunning Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views. Enjoy a traditional paella lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of Barrio del Carmen and visit the Central Market for some local treats.

Day 2: Head to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, a must-see in Valencia. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Science Museum and admire the architecture of the Hemisfèric and Oceanogràfic. Relax in the [Turia Gardens](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Turia%20Gardens&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"), a beautiful park that used to be a riverbed.

Day 3: Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Albufera. Enjoy a boat ride on the Albufera Lake and savor a traditional Valencian paella at one of the local restaurants overlooking the water. Don't forget to try the local specialty, horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts.

Day 4: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Ruzafa, known for its street art, trendy boutiques, and hip cafes. Visit Mercado de Ruzafa for some delicious tapas and craft beer. In the evening, catch a live music performance at one of the local bars.

Day 5: Spend the day at the beach! Head to Playa de la Malvarrosa or Playa de la Patacona for some sun, sea, and sand. Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants and take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.

Day 6: Discover the historic Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about Valencia's silk trade history. Visit the beautiful Lonja de la Seda and explore the surrounding El Carmen neighborhood. Don't miss the opportunity to try some traditional churros with chocolate for a sweet treat.

Day 7: Visit the Mercado de Colón, a stunning modernist market with gourmet food stalls and artisan shops. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of the trendy cafes in the market. In the afternoon, explore the nearby shopping district for some retail therapy.

Day 8: Take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Valencian dishes like paella and gazpacho. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch and take home some new culinary skills. In the evening, sample some local wines at a wine tasting session.

Day 9: Explore the historic neighborhood of El Cabanyal, known for its colorful houses and lively atmosphere. Visit the Cabanyal Market for some fresh produce and seafood. Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants by the beach.

Day 10: Visit the Valencia Bioparc, a unique zoo where animals roam freely in recreated natural habitats. Spend the day observing exotic wildlife and learning about conservation efforts. In the evening, dine at a traditional Valencian restaurant for a taste of local cuisine.

Day 11: Take a bike tour of Valencia to explore the city's hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Cycle through the [Turia Gardens](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Turia%20Gardens&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"), past the City of Arts and Sciences, and along the beachfront promenade. Stop for a picnic lunch in one of the city's parks.

Day 12: On your last day in Valencia, relax and unwind at one of the city's thermal spas. Treat yourself to a massage or a soak in the hot springs for the ultimate pampering experience. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city skyline.

I hope this itinerary gives you a taste of the best that Valencia has to offer! Enjoy your 12 days of fun and adventure in this beautiful city.