Miniwanderlust Explorer in Valencia
Original itinerary for Valencia
Valencia was a stop that pleasantly surprised us from the Miniwanderlust Team: in this original itinerary for Valencia, we’ll guide you through a week of discoveries, adventures, and relaxing moments, always keeping an eye on sustainable tourism.
We often return to Valencia, and even though we usually stay in its surroundings, we love it deeply. Even though we’re not huge fans of big cities, Valencia turned out to be perfect for us and for Aldo and Giulia.
Valencia has everything a family on the road might need, without the typical chaos of larger cities.
Why Valencia is the perfect destination for a week with kids
Valencia is a surprisingly kid-friendly city. Its compact size and efficient public transport make it easy to explore by foot or bike, even with the little ones. This makes Valencia perfect for families like ours, who prefer an active, outdoor vacation.
What to do in Valencia with kids?
There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Valencia with kids.
Giulia, with her curiosity, loved the City of Arts and Sciences, while Aldo fell in love with the Turia Park, where he could roam freely on a rented bike.
The benefits of sustainable tourism in Valencia
Before diving into this original itinerary for Valencia, I want to make a quick note about sustainable tourism in big cities.
Many people and too many travelers believe that it’s impossible to travel to big cities while being environmentally conscious, and they use this as an excuse not to care about more sustainable travel.
Nothing could be further from the truth!
Keep reading to find out how to engage in sustainable tourism in Valencia.
Green experiences for sustainable tourism in Valencia
Combining convenience and sustainability isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible either! Here at Miniwanderlust Team, we follow a few small tips that won’t save the world, but they help us travel with a lighter heart, knowing we’re not contributing to the pollution of the places we visit:
- Always separate your trash, even if no one else does, even if it’s hard, even if we’re having a picnic in a remote area without bins.
- Don’t buy unnecessary souvenirs that will be lost or forgotten in a matter of weeks.
- Avoid eating at big chains, even if they’re cheaper. Always prefer small, family-owned businesses.
- Opt for public transport, and in Valencia, a nice bike ride too. In the historic center of Barrio del Carmen, you’ll find rentals on practically every corner!
- Don’t fall into the trap of Italian food abroad: it’s not good, it’s expensive, and often it’s of poor quality.
- Use reusable water bottles! This doesn’t mean you have to carry around backpacks full of water bottles all day: a family of four traveling under the Valencian sun drinks a lot! And bringing all the water needed for the whole day is practically impossible. We start with one liter bottle each, and then throughout the day, when we stop at bars for the inevitable and constant bathroom/ice cream/snack breaks, we always buy water and refill them.
Do we use plastic? YES! Because it’s unthinkable to leave in the morning with all the water we need for a day, and above all, because traveling with kids is already complicated enough, and taking a break, even just to sit for five minutes in a bar, can really improve the day.
Is it sustainable?
YES!
Because for our family and our pace, we see no alternative!
Day 1: Explore Valencia's historic center with kids
The first day of our original itinerary for Valencia begins with exploring the heart of the city’s historic center, an experience that offers the whole family a chance to immerse themselves in Valencia’s culture and history. The narrow streets, welcoming squares, and fascinating monuments are the perfect starting point for an unforgettable adventure.
It’s certainly not an off-the-beaten-path itinerary, but in my opinion, when visiting a historic city, you can’t be too picky, and some places just need to be seen!
However, you can include less famous spots, allowing you to get away from the crowds for a few hours (which is essential for us… especially for me).
Valencia’s historic center
Valencia is a city that tells centuries of history through its buildings and streets. Walking through the historic center with kids is an enriching experience, blending the excitement of discovery with the chance to educate little ones about cultural heritage.
Valencia Cathedral and Plaza de la Virgen
Valencia Cathedral, also known as “La Seu,” is a must-see. Did you know the Holy Grail is said to be in Valencia Cathedral? And that it houses one of the most important paintings of the early Spanish Renaissance? And that in its Cathedral Museum, you can find paintings by Maella or Goya? You can climb the Miguelete Tower or learn about the history of the Virgen del Buen Parto—there are many interesting facts you can’t miss.
With its mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles, the cathedral is a place where history unfolds before visitors’ eyes.
Don’t forget to climb the Miguelete Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
Kids will be fascinated by the legend of the Holy Grail (the chalice used by Jesus during the Last Supper and sought after for centuries by knights and Arthurian legends), which, according to some traditions, is located right here.
This claim is based on historical documents and testimonies suggesting that the Grail was brought to Valencia during the Crusades and later found refuge in this Spanish city.
The relic, known as the “Cáliz del Santo Cáliz,” is kept in a special chapel within the Cathedral. It is a chalice made of agate, with a base of gold and gems, decorated with elaborate details. Although there is no definitive proof of its authenticity, the chalice is a revered object and has drawn many pilgrims and curious visitors over the centuries.
The legend of the Holy Grail in Valencia is more than just a story; it is a symbol of hope and mystery that captivates visitors and stimulates their imagination. During your visit to Valencia Cathedral, don’t miss the chance to explore the Holy Grail chapel and hear the fascinating history behind this ancient artifact.
It’s a must-see for history and legend enthusiasts, offering a fascinating perspective on Valencia’s culture and traditions.
This legend enriches the experience of visiting the city, providing an additional layer to the discovery of its history and cultural heritage.
Don’t forget to share the story of the Holy Grail with your kids, making the visit to the Cathedral an educational and captivating experience for the whole family.
After the visit, relax in Plaza de la Virgen, one of Valencia’s most charming squares, where the little ones can run and play while you enjoy a moment of relaxation under the palm trees.
Finally, it’s time to explore the less touristy areas of Valencia’s historic center.
Info and prices for visiting Valencia Cathedral
If you’re planning your trip to Valencia, these details will be useful.
- Hours
SUMMER HOURS
Monday to Friday: from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday: from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday: from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Visits are not allowed on public holidays.
WINTER HOURS
Monday to Saturday: from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM Sundays and public holidays: from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Last entry is 45 minutes before closing.
In April, May, and September, closing time is 5:30 PM on weekends due to Mass at 6:00 PM from the main altar.
- Price
€9 general admission / €6 reduced fare (pensioners, disabled, and kids up to 12 years old).
Useful Information
Through the Visit Valencia platform, you can get a 20% discount with the Valencia Tourist Card for 24, 48, or 72 hours. (Miguelete not included).
Free entry only with the 7-day VTC (Miguelete not included).
The lesser-known historic center of Valencia
Central Market
One of the most authentic and free (never a bad thing) experiences that Valencia offers is a visit to the Central Market. This market, one of the largest in Europe, is a triumph of colors, scents, and flavors that will captivate not only adults but also the little ones.
Valencia’s Central Market, located in the historic district known as Ciutat Vella, was inaugurated in 1928 and is a marvelous example of modernist architecture. Many describe it as a cathedral of commerce in Art Nouveau style. Not surprisingly, you might notice some similarities with the Estación del Norte.
Walking through the stalls of the Central Market is like embarking on a journey through the traditional flavors of Valencia: fresh fruits, spices, local cured meats, and cheeses, all waiting to be discovered and tasted.
It’s the perfect spot for a tasty break and to introduce kids to Spanish gastronomic culture in a lively and stimulating environment.
The Central Market of Valencia is open Monday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM. So, if you’d like to eat here, you can plan a breakfast, brunch, aperitif, or even a full lunch, as long as it’s within the morning hours.
The benefit, however, is that you’ll be eating typical local dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. That said, if you want to visit the market to soak in its vibrant atmosphere, fueled by the lively vendors, I recommend going during the busy morning hours when everything is buzzing, and most importantly, you can still find stalls full of fresh products.
If you want your kids to admire this fantastic building, I suggest going before noon to avoid the lunchtime crowds, especially if you’re visiting on a Saturday.
Remember, to truly experience the authenticity of a market, you need to “suffer” a bit and visit during its busiest times (maybe not too busy), to fully appreciate its vibe.
What to do in Valencia at night with kids
In the evening, Valencia offers plenty of options for fun with kids. One of the best choices is an evening stroll through the Jardín del Turia, the park that runs through the city. At sunset, the park fills with families looking for some cool air and peace after a busy day.
Another option is to visit Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where outdoor events and performances often take place, sure to capture the attention of the little ones.
If you want to end the day in a special way, you can opt for dinner at a traditional restaurant that offers kids’ menus, perhaps trying a fartón with horchata, a sweet treat your kids will love.
Quick tip: only tourists eat paella at night!! The locals don’t even offer it on their dinner menus because it’s such a rich dish that it’s only suitable for lunch (which, by the way, is around 2:30 PM/3:00 PM).
Day 2: The City of Arts and Sciences
We loved this area of Valencia so much that squeezing it into just one day is nearly impossible. However, I understand that if you only have one week in Valencia, it’s hard to dedicate more time to it.
To help you decide which parts of the City of Arts and Sciences to prioritize during your visit, here’s a link to an article with all the info and prices, so you can choose the best ticket to purchase.
Explore the magic of Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences
Day 3: Time for Beaches and Lagoons
Is it worth spending a day at the beach in Valencia?
My answer is a firm no!
While it’s true that Valencia offers clean and well-maintained beaches, they are not particularly famous for their breathtaking beauty.
For this reason, we decided to limit our time at the beach, leaving room for cultural discoveries and urban adventures.
If you’re looking for postcard-perfect beaches, I recommend reading our article on the best wild beaches in Andalusia for an unforgettable family holiday.
But let’s stay in Valencia for now. It is, after all, a port city with a sea view that’s certainly not to be dismissed.
Morning at Malvarrosa
Although Valencia’s beaches are not the most famous, Malvarrosa is an excellent choice for families. This beach, located just a few minutes from the city center, offers wide sandy spaces and calm waters, ideal for a relaxing morning. The seafront promenade is perfect for a walk, a run, or even a nice yoga session.
It’s a great spot for the kids to play in the sand, take a refreshing swim, and enjoy a break after your initial city explorations.
Afternoon at the Albufera Natural Park
After a morning at the beach, it’s time to explore: let’s head to Albufera Natural Park for an afternoon surrounded by nature.
This protected area is a short distance from Valencia and offers a wide range of outdoor activities that will enrich your original Valencia itinerary with unique and memorable experiences.
You can reach Albufera by taking the EMT city bus lines 24 and 25. Line 24 goes to El Palmar, and line 25 to El Perellonet, departing from the center of Valencia. It takes less than an hour, and costs just €1.50 per trip.
Both lines are free with the Valencia Tourist Card. You can get off at the Embarcadero or El Palmar stops and enjoy a boat ride on the Albufera Lake in a traditional boat.
Another way to enjoy the Albufera Natural Park is by taking the Albufera Bus Turistic. On this bus, you can take a complete tour of the Natural Park, discovering the ecosystems of the rice fields. This visit also includes a boat ride.
Discovering traditional cuisine in El Palmar
After the park tour, we recommend visiting El Palmar, a small village in the heart of Albufera Natural Park, famous for its traditional cuisine. Here, you can savor paella, one of Spain’s most iconic dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients.
This is a delicious opportunity to support small local restaurants and immerse yourself in the culinary culture of the region; another way to promote sustainable tourism in Valencia. El Palmar offers an authentic, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for ending your day with a typical meal in a charming setting.
Day 4: Authentic adventures at the Bioparc
The fourth day of our original Valencia itinerary, designed for adventurous parents, is dedicated to two unique experiences that offer a mix of adventure and relaxation: a visit to the Bioparc and a stroll through the Botanical Garden.
These activities provide perfect opportunities to spend a day surrounded by nature and tranquility, suitable for the whole family.
Bioparc: an eco-adventure in the heart of Valencia
Located at the beginning of the Turia park – on the west side – the Bioparc is considered one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe.
This zoo offers an immersive journey into the animal world, showcasing natural habitats recreated with great attention to detail. The animals live in environments that replicate their natural habitats, offering visitors an authentic and engaging experience.
At the Bioparc, you’ll have the chance to observe various species from Africa, Asia, and Madagascar, in spaces designed to promote their social life and well-being. Kids will be thrilled to see giraffes, lions, elephants, and many other species in a setting that goes beyond the traditional zoo. Additionally, the Bioparc is committed to conservation projects and environmental awareness, making this visit not only fun but also educational.
A full day of exploration and discovery that will definitely leave a lasting impression on your little adventurers.
Bioparc ticket prices
The Bioparc ticket prices vary by age. Below are the updated rates:
- General Admission – €26.90
- Child (ages 4-12) – €21.00
- Seniors (65+) – €20.60
Children under 4 enter for free.
How to get to Bioparc Valencia
Bioparc Valencia is located at Avenida Pio Baroja 3, near the Parque de la Cabecera; slightly outside the historical center.
You can reach the park in various ways:
- Via the EMT urban bus lines 98 and 99 (with a stop in front of the entrance);
- With metro lines 3 and 5: the nearest station is Nou d’Octubre, a 10-minute walk away;
- By bike, following the bike paths along the Turia River park (read how to rent a bike in Valencia).
A walk among rare plants and flowers at the Botanical Garden
After a morning of adventures at the Bioparc, it’s time to relax at Valencia’s Botanical Garden, located in the city center. This peaceful garden offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city and is a corner of tranquility where you can stroll among exotic plants and flowers. The Botanical Garden is a marvel of biodiversity, with collections of plants from around the world and enchanting spots for a relaxing pause.
While walking along the shaded paths of the garden, you’ll discover rare plants, colorful flowers, and ancient trees, all while enjoying the serenity of the landscape. This green space is perfect for a quiet picnic, a break with the kids, or simply a moment of reflection in nature. The Botanical Garden of Valencia is one of the city’s hidden gems, offering a relaxing experience that perfectly balances the energy of the Bioparc with a pause in natural beauty.
Day 5: Back to the city for a walk through Valencia’s street art
I admit we have a soft spot for historic centers, and one of our favorite pastimes is taking walks without too many fixed destinations.
Valencia’s city center, being relatively small, offers a unique opportunity: exploring it without needing public transport.
Thanks to this feature, we’ve often wandered through the alleys of different Barrios, discovering real artistic itineraries of Street Art.
To read about all the secret spots and the best streets to see the most beautiful and characteristic works of Valencian Street Art, check out our article: The amazing murals of Valencia with kids.
Day 6: Art, games, and history back in the heart of Valencia
The sixth day of our original Valencia itinerary combines art, culture, and fun moments, offering a day full of stimulating and enjoyable experiences.
From discovering local traditions to playing in the city parks, Valencia has a lot to offer for the whole family.
The Fallero Museum to discover the Fallas
The Fallero Museum of Valencia is a must-see for anyone interested in local culture and traditions.
The Fallas, Valencia’s famous spring festival, are the focus of this unique cultural experience. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of Fallas, the huge papier-mâché figures created annually for the festival and then burned in a grand celebration. Each figure is a true work of art, often satirical and colorful, reflecting the creativity and humor of local artists.
Visiting the Fallero Museum is an opportunity to better understand the history and importance of this festive tradition and to see up close some of the most beautiful and quirky figures that have been part of the celebrations.
Kids will be especially fascinated by this world of vibrant colors and extravagant shapes, and the experience will surely be a cultural highlight of your visit.
Jardín del Turia
I must admit, it’s hard to “confine” Turia Park to just one afternoon, considering we’ve visited it at least 20 times during our trips to Valencia, but I realize that for those on a week-long or shorter vacation, it would be difficult to spend more time there.
Aldo and Giulia love this park, and it has become one of their favorite places in all of Spain.
But let’s continue the article to discover the best attractions in the 9 km of park.
After immersing yourself in culture, it’s time to relax and have fun in Valencia’s parks. The Jardín del Turia is one of the most beloved spots for families and represents the green lung of the city. This vast park, stretching along the Turia Riverbed, offers a variety of spaces and activities for all tastes. With its wide lawns, well-equipped playgrounds, and paths for biking and walking, the park is the perfect place for kids to run around and for families to enjoy a break outdoors. You can rent bikes and explore the park’s trails, or simply relax on the lawns while your little ones explore the playgrounds.
Jardín del Turia is where nature and fun meet, offering a great opportunity to recharge and enjoy a day in the fresh air.
You can read more in our article: Nature and adventures in Valencia’s Turia Park with kids.
Day 7: Sustainable shopping and authentic souvenirs
For the last day of our original Valencia itinerary, we focus on a sustainable shopping experience and discovering authentic souvenirs that can meaningfully and responsibly remind you of your visit to the city.
Markets and shops to find the best souvenirs
Valencia is the perfect place to find unique and authentic souvenirs. Local markets and artisan shops offer a wide range of products that reflect the local culture and traditions. Valencian ceramics, for example, are famous for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns and make a great choice to take home a piece of local art. Additionally, you can find clothing and accessories made by local artisans, as well as typical products like spices, sweets, and oils that will let you bring a bit of Valencia into your kitchen. Exploring markets and shops is also an opportunity to support small businesses and local artisans, making purchases that are both unique and sustainable.
We are not big fans of souvenirs, but buying from small artisan shops remains a good way to promote sustainable tourism in Valencia.
Where to eat in Valencia
When it comes to dining with kids in Valencia, there are many options that combine traditional cuisine with a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
Local restaurants offer kids’ menus and traditional dishes like paella, which is always a popular choice. Opting for restaurants that serve food prepared with fresh, local ingredients is a winning choice, as it contributes to an authentic and sustainable culinary experience.
One last tip I would give to families on vacation in Valencia is to prefer buying fresh products from small shops to find better prices and quality products.
A family on vacation has many expenses, and saving on food (without compromising quality) can be a good way to save money.
If you’re interested in a vacation in Valencia, I also leave you the link to the article on what to see for free in Valencia which will surely help your family save a little.
FAQ about Valencia: Answering your questions
What is the best time to visit Valencia with kids?
The best time to visit Valencia with kids is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months offer pleasant temperatures and ideal weather for exploring the city without the excessive heat of summer. Spring is particularly lively due to the Fallas festival, which, although it can be crowded, is a unique experience not to be missed. Autumn is perfect for enjoying the city in peace, with fewer tourists and still mild temperatures. Summer can be very hot, so it’s important to plan outdoor activities during the cooler hours of the day.
Valencia has an amazing microclimate and with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, it remains a city that can be visited almost year-round.
What are the must-see attractions in Valencia for kids?
Valencia offers numerous attractions that kids will love. Some of the must-see attractions include:
- Bioparc: A zoo that offers an immersive experience with animals from various species.
- The Arts and Sciences Museum: An interactive and educational place with exhibits that stimulate curiosity.
- Turia Park: A vast green space with playgrounds and bike paths.
- The Fallero Museum: Where you can discover the traditions of the Fallas through artistic and colorful figures.
- Malvarrosa Beach: Ideal for a relaxing seaside break with kids.
How can I make my trip to Valencia more sustainable?
To make your trip to Valencia more sustainable, here are some useful tips:
- Eco-friendly Transportation: Prefer bicycles or public transportation over driving. Valencia is well-served by rental bicycles and efficient public transport.
- Waste Reduction: Bring reusable water bottles and reduce the use of single-use plastics.
- Sustainable Eating: Choose restaurants that use local and organic ingredients and support small businesses.
- Eco-friendly Souvenirs: Buy local and artisanal products, avoiding plastic gadgets and souvenirs.
Why visit Valencia with kids?
I get asked this question almost every trip and experience. Often, people wonder why we don’t prefer a day at the beach, since the kids might not remember it.
My answer to this question is often:
Why not?
I would ask myself why not do it, why deprive kids and even us adults of these unique moments.
Kids have the ability to remember if they are encouraged to do so.
I remember Giulia and Aldo inside the Science Museum of Valencia: will they remember everything?
Absolutely not, and I’ll tell you more: neither will I!
But we will remember that afternoon, all the experiments, and we will never forget how light we felt on the Moon.
As a response to this question, my, or rather our, MiniLonely series was born: travel journals for kids. These are real operational notebooks divided by destination, and of course, Valencia had to be included:
In these journals, you will find:
- Pages dedicated to games,
- Blank pages for drawing and sticking photos or tickets,
- Stickers to color and cut out,
- Dictionary,
- Itinerary,
- Curiosities and information to discover everything a child needs to know before a trip to Sri Lanka,
- And much more.
Final tips for a perfect week in Valencia
I want to emphasize that this article is an original itinerary for Valencia, but it should not be taken literally. I have listed the must-see places for a vacation in Valencia with kids, but this itinerary should of course be adapted to the needs of each family and especially the children.
One of the tips I always give to those who ask for help in organizing a trip is to observe your own kids and adapt the trip to their ways: Aldo and Giulia would skateboard through all the cities (but obviously, we don’t allow that), so to give them more motivation during walks, we include some free skate afternoons in equipped areas.
I definitely can’t include this in an itinerary on what to do for a week in Valencia because not all kids are into skateboarding, but every parent should come up with moments that kids enjoy, especially during visits to big cities that can be too tiring and boring for the little ones.
Digitally Yours
☀️ Sara ☀️
