Wondering what to do in Valencia this weekend? Whether you’ve just landed for a city break, are studying abroad on Erasmus, or live here as an expat, Valencia comes alive from Friday afternoon through Sunday night with vibrant street terraces, Mediterranean beach culture, and world-class getaways.
Here is your essential local guide to the best things to do in Valencia this weekend — covering top city highlights, weekend social events, and guided day trips to Spain’s most stunning natural parks.
1. Escape the City on a Saturday or Sunday Day Trip by Coach
While Valencia itself is full of charm, some of the most spectacular natural wonders in Spain are located within 60 to 90 minutes of the city. If you don’t have a rental car, public transport to mountain gorges and thermal springs is almost non-existent on weekends.
ValenciaTribe runs organized group excursions departing directly from Mestalla Stadium every Saturday and Sunday in modern private touring coaches:
Top Weekend Excursions Leaving from Mestalla:
-
Montanejos Hot Springs:
Swim in the crystal-clear thermal pools of the Mijares River (naturally 25°C all year round) surrounded by towering limestone canyons. -
Chulilla Hanging Bridges Canyon Hike:
A scenic, beginner-friendly hike across suspension bridges suspended over the Turia River gorge, ending at the emerald Charco Azul lagoon. -
Guadalest Medieval Castle & Altea:
Discover the dramatic fortress overlooking a turquoise reservoir and wander the whitewashed cobblestone streets of Altea. -
Albufera Sunset Boat Tour with Paella:
Glide across the peaceful freshwater lagoon on a traditional wooden boat, followed by authentic firewood paella in El Palmar.
👉 Browse all departure dates and grab your seat on our Day Trips from Valencia calendar.
2. Soak in Valencia’s Weekend Social & Nightlife Scene
Valencia’s nightlife is legendary, especially for international travelers and students looking to meet new friends on Friday and Saturday nights:
Friday Night Pub Crawl
Every Friday evening, join dozens of international students, backpackers, and expats on the official Valencia Pub Crawl through the lively El Carmen and Ruzafa quarters. Includes bar stops, free welcome shots, drink discounts, and VIP club entry with local guides.
Catamaran Boat Party with DJ
During the warmer season, board a giant catamaran from the Marina of Valencia for our afternoon Catamaran Boat Party. Enjoy a live DJ set on open waters, take a refreshing swim stop in the Mediterranean sea, and soak up the golden-hour coastline.
3. Explore Valencia City Highlights This Weekend
A. Saturday Morning at the Central Market & El Carmen
Kick off Saturday by wandering through the bustling Mercado Central, Europe’s largest fresh produce market. Grab fresh fruit juice and local cheeses before strolling through the labyrinth of street art murals in historic El Carmen.
B. Sunday in the Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia)
On Sundays, the former riverbed park turns into the city’s social living room. Rent a Valenbisi city bike, picnic beneath palm trees, or head towards the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to admire Calatrava’s architecture. Looking for zero-cost activities? Check out our complete guide to Free Things to Do in Valencia.
C. Afternoon Paella & Sunset at Malvarrosa Beach
Walk or cycle down to Malvarrosa and Patacona beach. Sunday lunchtime is the traditional Valencian hour for eating authentic paella on beachside terraces followed by an afternoon stroll along the seaside promenade.
4. Important Weekend Tips for Visitors in Valencia
- Sunday Closures: Supermarkets and high-street clothing shops are typically closed on Sundays across Spain. However, restaurants, tapas bars, museums, and beach venues remain fully open.
- Free Sunday Museums: Most municipal historic monuments — including the UNESCO Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda) and the medieval Serranos and Quart Towers — offer free entry on Sundays until 2:00 PM.
- Solo Travelers Welcome: If you are traveling alone in Valencia, you won’t be alone for long. Over 70% of participants on ValenciaTribe excursions book solo to meet new travel buddies. Check our guide for Expats in Valencia on how to connect with the local international community.
Upcoming day trips from Valencia
Coach departure from Mestalla Stadium, bilingual guide. Plenty of people come on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions: Weekend in Valencia
What is the best day trip from Valencia for a weekend?
The two most popular weekend day trips are the Montanejos Hot Springs (relaxing natural thermal pools in a river canyon) and the Chulilla Suspension Bridges (an easy and dramatic gorge hike). Both are accessible by organized coach from Mestalla Stadium every weekend in season.
Are bars and clubs open late on weekends in Valencia?
Yes. Spanish nightlife runs late: tapas bars peak around 10:00 PM to midnight, pub crawls and music bars operate until 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM, and large nightclubs (discotecas) stay open until 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM.
Do I need to book weekend day trips in advance?
Yes. Coach seats are limited and weekend departures frequently sell out 24 to 48 hours in advance, especially during spring, summer, and autumn seasons. We recommend reserving online early in the week.