Situated on the shores of the azure Mediterranean Sea, Valencia is a tourist magnet all year round.
The Spanish city seduces with its endless beaches, divine local delicacies, Medieval Old Town, and ultra-modern exhibition halls.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Valencia during your visit, search no more. Whether you want to have a good time partying, sunbathe at the seaside, roam ancient streets, or laze around at Túria Park – we’ve got you covered.
On this list, you’ll find the 9 best areas to stay in Valencia.
From edgy designs to slick interiors, and from beachside resorts to city apartments, let’s explore!
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1. Ciutat Vella – the Perfect Base Camp for First-time Visitors
Right in the heart of Valencia, the Old Town (Ciutat Vella) is a great starting point if you’ve never visited the city before.
The area is home to some of the most popular sights that make Valencia worth visiting.
The ancient stone buildings and cobbled streets will give you a good idea about what the birthplace of paella used to look like centuries ago. You’ll be right around the corner from the mind-boggling Valencia Cathedral or the famous Plaza de la Reina.
The winding, narrow streets will keep you entertained with their vibrant shops, cozy restaurants, trendy bars, and exciting galleries.
The Old Town is well-connected with the rest of the city via public transport. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or a scooter and explore at your own pace.
Our recommendations: Just a short walk from the Cathedral, the Central Market, and several museums, Only YOU Hotel Valencia is a great choice for your first time in the city. The edgy interior design, the staff friendliness, and the perfect location rank it amongst the best places to stay in Valencia. Looking for a more luxurious experience? Then, book the 5* Caro Hotel. Housed in a 19th-century palace, the accommodation is right next to the ancient Plaza de la Virgen and the medieval La Lonja de la Seda. An outdoor pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and elegant, modern rooms will pamper you during your stay.
2. Ruzafa – the Hip District for Unusual Experiences
If you’re searching for an area with a dynamic nightlife, posh bars, top-rated restaurants, and alternative galleries, Ruzafa is your kind of place.
The vibrant Mercat de Ruzafa will draw you in for a shopping tour of local delicacies. Inside the covered market, you can buy fresh produce, picked the same morning from the local gardens.
One of the most controversial places in Valencia is also in this neighborhood. The bullring at Plaça de Toros hosts not only traditional Spanish bullfights but also concerts and other live events. Check its schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
In the narrow alleys of Ruzafa, you’ll find countless art galleries. Check out Sporting Club Russafa, Espai Russafa, or Galería Espacio, where local artists present their latest creations.
When you get tired of the city’s hustle and bustle, head to Túria Park. The gigantic recreational area spans the city. It occupies the former riverbed of TúriaRiver, which the authorities diverted in the 1960s as it was often flooding Valencia.
Our recommendations: City Garden Bed and Breakfast is a fabulous accommodation not far from Túria Gardens. The balcony access and the delicious continental breakfast make it a great choice for your visit to Valencia. Alternatively, stay at YOURS Boutique Hotel. The establishment is chic, intimate, and exclusive. You’ll have a chance to splash in the outdoor pool, sunbathe at the elegant terrace, and sleep in a bedroom with a posh design.
3. Extramurs – Modern Architecture and Energetic Vibes
In Valencian, Extramurs means “outside the walls”. The name refers to the location of this stylish residential area. It borders the Old Town and the ancient city walls.
The main attractions in the neighborhood are the twin Gothic watchtowers, the Torres de Quart. Built in the 15th century, they were part of the fortified gate in the medieval city walls. Nowadays, you can climb to the top and enjoy the sweeping views of the lush Túria Park.
Another interesting place to visit in Extramurs is the Botanical Garden. You can easily spend a few hours getting lost among the exotic specimens of citrus and palm trees.
After a long day of sightseeing, sample typical Spanish tapas in the renowned bars in the area. And if you still have energy, how about a fun night out in Extramurs’ hip pubs and rock venues?
Our recommendations: In the chic Parker The Urban Flats, you can benefit from a well-equipped kitchenette, elegant décor, and open-plan interior design. If you need help planning your entertainment, the staff will assist you with booking tickets for guided tours and live shows. Another great option is the spacious and bright EVI Apartments. They’ll welcome you with slick designs, modern amenities, and cute balconies.
4. El Cabanyal – the Perfect Area for Beach Lovers
Valencia is famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches. If you want to be close to them, you should look for accommodation in the streets of El Cabanyal.
The unique, cozy atmosphere of this neighborhood stems from its recent past as a separate fishermen’s town. You’ll have endless opportunities to taste the world-renowned seafood paella at one of the beach restaurants on the shorefront promenade.
If you book a room with a kitchenette, make sure to visit the Cabanyal Market. There, you’ll be able to get the freshest seafood and the tastiest local delicacies.
Museu de l’Arròs, which is one of the most unusual things to do in Valencia, will offer you an intriguing tour through the Valencian rice production history.
Our recommendations: Book the fabulous 5-star Las Arenas Balneario Resort for direct access to the famous Las Arenas beach. A gym, a spa, and a restaurant serving traditional, yet creative cuisine will spoil your discerning palate. If you don’t want to splurge on a five-star accommodation, a budget-friendlier option is an apartment at Macflats Valencia Puerto. The building is located near the gigantic Port of Valencia. The well-equipped apartments and the friendly hosts will make you feel at home.
5. Benimaclet – International Vibe and Young Crowds
Benimaclet became an official part of Valencia in 1972. Since then, it has retained much of its small-town atmosphere.
At the same time, the district is a magnet for young people. Several Valencian universities house their campuses in the area. With so many students, the nightlife is inevitably lively and the fresh energy will pump your party-craving veins.
One place that locals and foreigners visit is the Friday street market. With its open shops, sidewalk tables, and variety of merchandise, it resembles an exotic Oriental bazaar.
If you visit the market, stop at one of the local Horchaterias. Get a horchata (a traditional drink made from tiger nuts) and hunt for some bargains.
Our recommendations: The Hotel Olympia Universidades might be budget-friendly, but it offers bright rooms with a modern design, a rooftop terrace, and a top location. If you’re looking for more privacy, check out the cozy ANELSA Apartments. They’re funky, spacious, and bright. If you don’t want to prepare your meals in the well-equipped, modern kitchen, hip restaurants and trendy bars are right around the corner.
6. Mestalla – the Best Area for Football Fans
The famous football club Valencia CF has its home stadium Mestalla in the district of the same name. During football games, the area comes alive with thousands of fans pouring in from the entire region.
But Mestalla is more than its stadium. A large portion of the Túria Park also calls the district home. It offers great opportunities for picnics, workouts, or peaceful afternoons in the shades.
While exploring Túria, check out the medieval bridge Puente del Mar. It currently spans over a gorgeous manmade lake.
After a refreshing walk in the park, stop by the modernist building of the Valencian Palau de la Música to soak up some culture. The event hall hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and cinema projections.
Our recommendations: The luxury 5-star Westin Valencia is the epitome of a unique experience. Housed in one of the city’s most impressive modernist buildings, it’s a stone throw away from the Valencia Cathedral and Mestalla Stadium. The spa area will seduce you with its large indoor therapy pool, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, experience showers, and fitness center. The hotel’s restaurants offer a variety of Mediterranean dishes, which you can enjoy on the terrace. The airy garden with beautifully arranged plants is another reason to book this gem.
7. Quatre Carreres – the Best District for a Cultural Experience
Quatre Carreres is a large Valencian district, most famous as the home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de de las Artes y las Ciencas or CAC).
Designed by the renowned architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, the CAC project started in 1996. The most recent addition to the complex – the events hall L’Agora – opened its doors in 2009.
The City of Arts and Sciences consists of majestic, contemporary buildings that host cultural and sporting events. The complex is one of Spain’s 12 Treasures. A contest in 2007 selected Spain’s 12 most cherished and popular sights and included CAC.
The close vicinity to the opera house and performing arts center Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, the massive aquarium L’Oceanogràfic, as well as the bordering Túria Park, make the district perfect for your cultural exploration of Valencia.
Our recommendations: The chic 3* Hotel Malcom and Barret seduces with modern rooms, a cozy lobby bar, and a high-tech gym. You’ll have no shortage of great restaurants, posh bars, and lively nightclubs in the area. If you’d prefer the privacy of a city apartment, Valenciaflats Ciudad de las Ciencias is what you need. Just yards away from the City of Arts and Sciences, the accommodation offers large, bright rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, and comfy sitting areas.
8. Algirós – the Best Place to Feel the Energy of the City
Similar to Benimaclet, the lively student atmosphere defines Algirós. The difference is that this fashionable, hip district has always been a part of the city.
This means Algirós doesn’t have a small-town vibe. It features wide boulevards and long avenues, as well as modern constructions and big residential buildings.
The district is sandwiched between the seacoast and Túria Park and offers a chance to explore both.
The hip squares Xúquer and Cedro entice with countless bars and restaurants, serving both local and international cuisine. The popular tapas route includes several diners around the two squares, where you can sample small-plate delicacies, paired with locally produced wines.
Our recommendations: In line with the student spirit of Algirós, Residencia Universitaria Damia Bonnet has arranged a study area in its cozy studios. A common fitness center and a gaming room provide opportunities to socialize with other travelers.
9. Camins al Grau – the Best Area to Stay for Families with Kids
Despite bordering on the energetic Algirós, Camins al Grau offers a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere.
This developing district is perfect for families with children.
The lush Túria Gardens, which are in this neighborhood, host the peculiar Gulliver Park. The fun playground is built around a huge model of the beloved fictional character. It’s a favorite spot for Valencian children, and we’re sure your little ones will love playing there, too.
Meanwhile, the parents can have a delightful shopping experience in several department stores nearby.
When you get tired from the shopping spree, quench your hunger with the myriad of dining opportunities in the area. The selection ranges from mid-range to high-end locales, which serve a variety of both traditional Valencian and international dishes.
Our recommendations: The gorgeous 4-star Hotel Valencia Center will seduce you with its cozy rooms and rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Valencia. An outdoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a gym will replenish your energy and get you ready for adventures around the city.
Now You Know Where to Stay in Valencia
So there you have it – the 9 best areas to stay in Valencia.
The Mediterranean city has it all: ancient history, modern architecture, rich traditions, and marvelous beaches.
Whichever part of town you settle in for your stay, make sure to enjoy all sides of its diversity.
Now, it’s your turn:
Where would you stay in Valencia?
We’d love to hear it in the comments below.
