Would you like to discover the ruins of the Tarragona Amphitheatre, but spending a whole day in Tarragona is not in your plans? Or would you like to practice your Spanish with the parrots at the Jardín del Papagayo? With Daytrip, you don’t secure just a Barcelona to Valencia transfer. You also allow yourself the flexibility to discover any sightseeing stops along the way that you would miss when choosing another mode of transportation.

Each region of Spain is so different which also means so are the local traditions. Valencia is mainly known for its annual Las Fallas event. This fiesta takes place from March 15 to 19 on the streets of Valencia, where locals and visitors can experience light shows and fireworks. This festival has such deep roots in Valencian culture that it has even been recognized by UNESCO.

It is believed that the origins of this event date back to the medieval era when carpenters celebrated the first days of spring by burning all the materials they were no longer using. In today’s version, to celebrate this festival, people create big statues or dolls called ninots, made of wood, cardboard, and paper. On March 19, to end the event, these dolls are burnt, starting from the smallest to the biggest ones. Each one of them holds a special meaning, adding significance to this unique event.

Valencia is also the perfect destination for strolls, as it has some of the nicest honey-colored beaches in the region and big parks perfect for an afternoon picnic. This city is a great destination for solo travelers or couples of any age, as well as families with kids.

Know the difference between Valencian and Catalan

While Spanish is considered the lingua franca in the Valencian Community, nearly 30% of the locals are native Valenciano speakers. You will find it similar to Catalan, spoken in Barcelona, but never tell a Valencian that they speak Catalan. It is a very sensitive topic, so it is suggested not to compare the two.

Get the Tourist Card

Make the most out of Valencia by getting the Valencia Tourist Card. With this card, you will get free access and special discounts to several museums and other main landmarks, as well as free public transport rides. You can choose between 3 types of cards: 24, 47, or 72 hours. Make sure you go through your itinerary to see if getting this card would really pay off.

Barcelona to Valencia by bus

Taking a bus to travel between the two is a great option for those looking to save. One of the main bus companies that will take you to Valencia is Alsa. The ride takes around 4 hours, and the cheapest tickets start from around $16 (€15). The buses depart several times a day, so you can find the time that best suits your needs.

Barcelona to Valencia by train

If your case goes by the motto ‘Every second counts’, hopping on the high-speed train may be the ideal choice for you. These trains, operated by Renfe, travel at a speed of up to 193 mi/h (310 km/h), reaching Valencia in just 3 hours.

You can find the lowest ticket prices for around $41 (€38). For more comfort, you can choose higher class tickets offering such benefits as more luggage space and more comfortable seats.

Barcelona to Valencia by plane

As both cities have an airport, you can also opt for a domestic flight to travel from Barcelona to Valencia. The Spanish airline Iberia offers direct flights with just 1 hour journey time. By purchasing in advance, you can find flight tickets for as cheap as $67 (€62).

While traveling from Barcelona to Valencia by plane might seem the most convenient way, you also have to factor in the travel time from and to the airport. Don’t forget that you have to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours in advance, which means that you will have to travel for around 4 hours.

Barcelona to Valencia by private car service

If you are still fascinated by the parrots we mentioned earlier, opting for a private car service might be for you. Driving with Daytrip offers the most convenient and flexible way to travel between cities, allowing you to explore en route. What could be more tiring than just sitting inside a big vehicle and not being able to explore what you see outside the window? Daytrip is here to listen to your needs and make your just over 3.5 hours-long road trip unforgettable.

Did you become Gaudi’s super fan after visiting Barcelona? Then make sure you get the last taste of his marvels by visiting the museum Gaudi Centre Reus. After that, you can take a walk around the botanical and zoological Sama Park, where you can meet peacocks roaming around, deer, and other lovely creatures. Add a little spark of history to your trip by visiting the Peniscola Castle which was the set for the Spanish film El Cid back in the 1960s.

Explore the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

Designed in a futuristic style, The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most emblematic landmarks of Valencia. This complex is divided into five main areas, each one of them offering a unique perspective on the city’s science and culture:

• L’Hemisfèric: this unique building represents the human eye and houses a laserium, planetarium, and IMAX cinema.
• Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe: an interactive science and technology museum.
• L'Umbracle: a Mediterranean garden or an outdoor gallery with sculptures.
• L'Oceanogràfic: the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe, a great choice if you are traveling with kids.
• Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: an opera house and cultural center.

Each part of the complex offers a different experience, so make sure to check them all and visit at least one of them.

Take a slow walk around the Turia Garden

If you are looking for a place to spend a peaceful afternoon, Jardín del Turia might be what you are looking for. This lush garden is amongst the largest urban parks in Spain, cherished by local families, runners, and cyclists. Be prepared for long leisure walks in this park that used to be the riverbed of the river Turia.

Admire the Cathedral of Valencia

The stunning Valencia Cathedral is built in Gothic style. This architectural masterpiece has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It is believed that Valencia has the original Holy Chalice used by Jesus. Whether it’s true or not, you have to decide for yourself by visiting this beautiful cathedral that will impress even those who are not religious. Don't forget to climb the bell tower Miguelete for the most panoramic views of the city.

Take a ferry to nearby islands

Valencia is known for its ferry port, so if you want to extend your trip and go on a Mediterranean island adventure, you can access destinations such as Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca, which are just a short ferry ride away.