Valencia

Valencia is such a vibrant city with a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and family-friendly itinerary for your two days in Valencia!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Valencia

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast. Head to a local café and try some churros con chocolate or a tostada con tomate (toasted bread with tomato). It’s a great way to fuel up for the day!

• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences: After breakfast, make your way to this iconic architectural complex. The kids will love the Oceanogràfic, which is the largest aquarium in Europe. You can spend a few hours exploring the marine life, and there are also interactive exhibits that are perfect for the little ones!

Lunch:

• Lunch at the City of Arts and Sciences: There are several family-friendly restaurants in the area. Grab a bite at one of the cafes or restaurants nearby. You can try some local paella, which is a must in Valencia!

Afternoon:

• Turia Gardens: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Turia Gardens. This beautiful park was once a riverbed and is now a green oasis in the city. There are playgrounds for the kids, and you can rent bikes or scooters to explore the area together.

• Bioparc Valencia: If your family loves animals, head to the Bioparc, which is a unique zoo that focuses on immersive experiences. The kids will be thrilled to see animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats!

Evening:

• Dinner in Ruzafa: Head to the trendy Ruzafa neighborhood for dinner. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Try some tapas to share, and don’t forget to sample some local horchata!

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Ruzafa. You might find some street performers or local markets to explore!

Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Breakfast at Mercado Central: Start your day at the Mercado Central, one of the largest markets in Europe. Grab some fresh fruit, pastries, or a traditional bocadillo (sandwich) for breakfast. The atmosphere is lively, and the kids will love seeing all the colorful stalls!

• Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete: After breakfast, visit the Valencia Cathedral. Climb the tower, El Miguelete, for stunning views of the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but the kids will enjoy the adventure!

Lunch:

• Lunch in the Old Town: Explore the charming streets of the Old Town and find a cozy restaurant for lunch. Try some fideuà, a noodle dish similar to paella, which is a local favorite!

Afternoon:

• Plaza de la Virgen: After lunch, head to the Plaza de la Virgen, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings. It’s a great spot to relax and let the kids run around. You can also grab some ice cream from a nearby gelato shop!

• Visit the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda): This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It’s fascinating to learn about Valencia’s history as a silk trading hub, and the kids will enjoy exploring the intricate details of the building.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Family-Friendly Restaurant: For your last dinner in Valencia, choose a restaurant that offers a mix of local and international dishes. You can find places with kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere.

• Night Walk along the Turia River: End your trip with a peaceful evening walk along the Turia River. The gardens are beautifully lit at night, and it’s a lovely way to reflect on your adventures in Valencia!

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• Keep an eye on the weather, as Valencia can be quite warm, especially in the summer months. Bring hats and sunscreen for the kids!
• Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations; they’re usually very friendly and helpful!

I hope you and your family have an amazing time in Valencia! Enjoy every moment! 🌞✨