Looking for a weekend in Valencia filled with local food, peaceful rice fields, and hidden rooftops?
Hop on a bike and explore the city differently — from the beach to the Albufera, with stops at the best places for a drink or an authentic paella.
Our favourite spots and insider tips are waiting for you.
Valencia is without a doubt one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe.
With its many kilometres of cycle paths and completely flat terrain, it’s the perfect setting for a relaxing and refreshing getaway. From the historic centre to the rice fields of the Albufera, passing by beaches and local markets, everything is easy to explore on two wheels.
Here, we’re sharing our favourite 3-day itinerary, with our top spots to eat, grab a drink, and enjoy the city like a local.
Between traditions, great food, and hidden gems, get ready to fall in love with Valencia.
Valencia Like You’ve Never Seen It: 3 Days by Bike Between Tapas, Sea, and Rice Fields
Day 1 – The historic Central and Local Flavours
Start your day at Plaza de la Virgen, the lively heart of the old town. Grab a seat on the terrace at Brunch Corner for breakfast facing the cathedral and basilica — tostadas con tomate, fresh juice, and a calm morning vibe.
Next, visit the Mercado Central, a beautiful building and a must-see for discovering local products (open only until 3 p.m., closed on Sundays). Just across the street, don’t miss the Lonja de la Seda, a former silk exchange and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Then head to the Ruzafa district for a more creative lunch, with modern tapas and fusion cuisine. On the way, stop for a refreshing horchata at Santa Catalina, the oldest horchatería in Valencia — the perfect place to try this traditional drink made from tiger nuts.
In the afternoon, visit the Museu Faller, or get lost in the quiet streets of the Botánico neighbourhood, home to a peaceful and often-overlooked botanical garden.
In the evening, make your way to Taberna La Samira, a warm and authentic bodega where market-fresh products are the stars of the menu. Two floors, walls lined with bottles, and typical dishes create an unforgettable atmosphere.
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Day 2 – Turya Park, City of Arts and Sciences, and the beach
Hop on your bike and ride through Turia Park, a former riverbed turned into a 9 km green corridor. It’s the city’s green lung, full of joggers, families, musicians, and even baseball players. Along the way, you’ll pass the spectacular City of Arts and Sciences and the Oceanogràfic, one of the largest aquariums in Europe.
Continue to the Cabanyal district, a former fishing village full of raw charm. Its local vibe, colourful little houses, and seafood bars have earned it the title of “most authentic neighbourhood in Europe.” Want to see it for yourself? Watch our video about Cabanyal.
Enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand at Patacona or Malvarrosa beach, depending on the atmosphere you’re after. From May to October, the chiringuitos (beach bars) are open: fresh juices, paella, tapas, and sunbeds make for a perfect break by the sea.
You can head back to the city through the port or follow the Turia again at your own pace. At the end of the day, it’s time for a rooftop drink: for a panoramic view of the city centre, go to Atenea Sky or the Blanq Hotel (with views of the Torres de Serranos). For a trendier vibe, the Estimar Hotel rooftop is a great new spot.
Also read:
https://www.buenapart.com/quartier-cabanyal-valence-espagne/
Day 3 – Slow life, traditions, and the Albufera Rice Fields
Start your morning in the city’s small streets with a coffee at Mestizo Café, a peaceful spot with real charm. Then head over to Ruzafa, Valencia’s trendy neighbourhood, often compared to Le Marais in Paris. Its indoor market, art galleries, and stylish cafés are definitely worth a visit.
In the afternoon, go explore the Albufera Natural Park, about 10 km south of the city. This protected area of over 20,000 hectares is a true natural gem. You’ll find:
– the largest freshwater lake in Spain
– endless rice fields (this is where paella rice is grown!)
– pine forests and coastal dunes
In the village of El Palmar, known for its traditional food, book a table at Rek, one of our favourite places to enjoy an authentic Valencian paella (with chicken, rabbit, and green beans), while overlooking the rice fields.
Before sunset, treat yourself to a boat ride on the lake. A local fisherman will guide you through the lagoon in the golden evening light. It’s one of the best places near Valencia to watch the sun go down.
Back in town, end your weekend on Plaza del Carmen, with dinner at La Pitusa, in front of a pretty fountain and a beautifully lit church. One last drink, one last walk… and memories to last a lifetime.
Also read:
https://www.buenapart.com/residence-secondaire-valence-espagne/
In Summary
Valencia is best explored slowly, by bike, along colourful streets, peaceful gardens, local traditions, and incredible flavours.
This weekend between sea, city, and nature is one of our favourites — and we hope it becomes one of yours too.
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