Where to stay in Valencia: best areas and neighborhoods

Valencia is a destination for everyone, thanks to the many attractions, the lively nightlife, the unique gastronomy and the sea! Its facets and differences are also reflected in its neighbourhoods, all different from each other, each suitable for certain needs. So here are our tips on the best neighbourhoods to stay in Valencia!

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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation

Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in Valencia

Foto di wheresleep.

Surely, among all districts, the best area to stay is the Ciutat Vella, the historic centre of Valencia. It has many types of accommodation, even at affordable prices, and is really suitable for everyone: if you are travelling with your family better opting for the small neighbourhood of La Xerea, while if you are looking for nightlife and fun, choose Barrio del Carmen.
Other recommended neighbourhoods for nightlife are Ruzafa, near the Ciutat Vella and where the main clubs of the city are concentrated; Benimaclet, the university district of Valencia, also a very affordable area; La Malvarrosa, the neighbourhood with city's most famous beach..

Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Valencia. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking

If you are in Valencia for business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on booking.com

Ciutat Vella, the Neighbourhood for first-timers

• Pros: true valencian vibes, very active area
• Cons: crowded during summer
• Main attractions: La Xerea, La Seu, El Mercat
• Average prices: From €70,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

The Ciutat Vella is definitely the best district to stay in Valencia, especially if this is your first time or if you have only a few days. Here you will find the main attractions, such as the Cathedral, the Mercado Central or the Valencian Institute of Modern Art.
Moreover, it is really suitable for everyone and within it you can distinguish some smaller neighbourhoods: Barrio del Carmen, La Xerea, La Seu, El Mercat, El Pilar and Sant Francesc. Among these, the best places to stay are definitely the first two: Barrio del Carmen is perfect if you are looking for nightlife and fun (in the northern part, see map here); La Xerea is an elegant and quiet area if you are travelling with your family (in the eastern part, see map here).
Finally, staying here will allow you to get around mainly on foot: you can reach the Turia Gardens, several museums and even the València Nord train station. To reach places like the beach you can rely on the metro and bus.

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €70,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Eixample, the Elegant Neighbourhood

Foto di Joanbanjo.

• Pros: Central location, elegant architecture, great dining and shopping options
• Cons: Can be pricey, busy streets
• Main attractions: Gran Vía, Mercado de Colón, Plaza del Ayuntamiento
• Average prices: From €80,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

Just south of the Ciutat Vella there is L'Eixample district, Valencia's most chic and elegant area. This is an exclusive district, with department stores, fashion boutiques, sophisticated cafes, brunch places and high-end restaurants. It is a place suitable for families and those seeking tranquillity, as well as an ideal area for those looking for luxury hotels and an exclusive experience. Especially recommended is the Gran Via, with lots of high-level clubs and restaurants. In addition, staying here with children means being within walking distance of the Parc Gulliver, but also not far from the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències!

Finally, by choosing this area you can easily get around on foot. The Ciutat Vella, with its main attractions, is just a few steps away, as well as the València Nord train station. The district is also served by the Colón metro station, where 5 lines run. Within the Eixample district is the Ruzafa district, recommended for young people thanks to its nightlife, which we will discuss in detail in the next paragraph.

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €80,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Ruzafa, the Trendy Neighbourhood

• Pros: Hipster vibe, vibrant nightlife, great restaurants and cafes
• Cons: Can get noisy, limited parking
• Main attractions: Ruzafa Market, Contemporary Art Galleries, Street Art Murals
• Average prices: From €70,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

Close to the Ciutat Vella there is one of the liveliest neighbourhoods in Valencia: Ruzafa, which is part of the Eixample district. Here you will find the characteristic Mercat de Ruzafa, the modern city park; Parc Central and many small art galleries.
It is a neighbourhood especially suitable for young people and those looking for fun. Thanks to a major redevelopment, today is one of the coolest areas of Valencia. Here there are some of the most famous clubs and bars in the city, as well as many clubs and pubs open until late. The liveliest streets (even at night) are Calle Cadiz, Calle Sueca and Calle Cuba.

Finally, staying here allows you to get around on foot. In a few minutes you will be in the Ciutat Vella, the Gardens of Turia, but also the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. To get to the beach you just need to take the bus or metro, in fact, the area is served by the Xàtiva station.

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €70,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Extramurs, the Best Neighbourhood to Stay on a Budget

• Pros: Rich history, quiet atmosphere, close to the city center
• Cons: Fewer nightlife options
• Main attractions: Torres de Quart, Botanical Garden, Valencia's Old Town
• Average prices: From €65,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Staying close to the Ciutat Vella, finally, we find Extramurs, a very central area but also the cheapest! The district is divided from the Ciutat Vella by the famous Torres de Quart and the street C/ de Guillem de Castro, which represents a border between the two districts. Here, moreover, is located the Botanical Garden of Valencia.
This is an ideal district for those who travel on a budget, without giving up on location and comfort. Here, in fact, the cost of accommodation is on average lower than the Ciutat Vella and is an excellent solution for those staying in the city for more than three days.
Finally, staying here allowd you to get around on foot: just cross the Torres de Quart to be in the historic centre. In addition, the district is crossed from north to south by the Gran Via de Ferran el Catòlic, where there are several metro stops.

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €65,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Recommended accommodation

Benimaclet, the Multicultural Neighbourhood

Foto di Joanbanjo.

• Pros: Bohemian vibe, affordable accommodation, local bars and eateries
• Cons: Further from the beach, less touristy attractions
• Main attractions: Traditional Valencian Houses, Benimaclet Square, Local Tapas Bars
• Average prices: From €65,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Now we move a bit from the Ciutat Vella, to discover the Benimaclet district, the multicultural and university area of Valencia. Until the '70s this place was a town in itself and then was incorporated into the city of Valencia.
It is an ideal district for young people and for those who want to save on accommodation. The area is, in fact, very lively, with many clubs and a bohemian, creative atmosphere. In addition, the district is often the site of numerous festivals. At the same time, the prices of accommodation are very competitive and it will not be difficult to find good deals, without giving up on quality and good location.
Finally, staying here requires the use of public transport, but in no time you can reach both the Ciutat Vella and the coastal area! The area is mainly served by the Benimaclet metro station, where 5 lines run!

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €65,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Recommended accommodation

El Cabanyal Neighbourhood (Poblats Marítims District), ideal for families

Foto di Joanbanjo.

• Pros: Coastal charm, close to the beach, seafood restaurants
• Cons: Can be crowded in summer, older infrastructure
• Main attractions: Playa de las Arenas, Mercado del Cabanyal, Colorful Fishermen Houses
• Average prices: From €60,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Finally, we move to the coast, an ideal area for those who want to spend a vacation by the sea. The first neighbourhood that we recommend is El Cabanyal, in the district Poblats Marítims, located between the port and the beach of La Malvarossa. It is a residential neighbourhood, full of restaurants and clubs, and includes the beaches of Platja del Cabanyal and Platja de las Arenas.
It is an ideal area for families. There is a shallow and calm sea, especially Platja del Cabanyal, umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and all the services that families need. There are also several playgrounds for children.
Staying here, finally, allows you to walk along the coast, but to reach the Ciutat Vella you must necessarily take the means of transport. The district is served by the València-Cabanyal train station, several tram lines and the Marítim-Serrería metro stop (lines 5 and 7).

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €60,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Recommended accommodation

La Malvarrosa Neighbourhood (Poblats Marítims District), the best for beach lovers

Foto di Manuel Martín Vicente from.

• Pros: Wide sandy beach, family-friendly restaurants, great promenade
• Cons: Further from city center, touristy in high season
• Main attractions: Malvarrosa Beach, Paseo Marítimo, Casa-Museo Blasco Ibáñez
• Average prices: From €80,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Finally, if you want to stay close to the beach, we recommend the district of La Malvarrosa, where you can enjoy Valencia's most famous beach. Also in the district of Poblats Marítims, you can find all kinds of comforts but, above all, fun: there are beach volley courts, you can go on jet skis and practice other water sports, while the promenade is full of clubs and restaurants.
It is a neighbourhood especially suitable for young people, given the many activities you can do, both day and night. The Polytechnic University of Valencia is also close to the neighbourhood and this guarantees a lively and sparkling atmosphere, as well as the presence of many clubs.
Finally, staying here allows you to get around on foot mainly within the neighbourhood. To reach other areas of the city you need to take transportation. The area is mainly served by bus, with lines 2, 19, 31, 32 and N1 and N9.

Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €80,00 for low-cost accommodation to €400,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Recommended accommodation

Places to stay near Valencia

Foto di wheresleep. Valencia is a pretty large city, with many different neighbourhoods all different from each other and suitable for all budgets. The best solution remains, therefore, to stay in the city, within walking distance of attractions and places of interest, with the possibility of enjoying a beach vacation too.

However, if you are more interested in beach and sea, then there are plenty of beach resorts on the coast and not far from Valencia that are worth considering! Here are the best ones:

• Canet d'En Berenguer (32 km / 35 min): quiet seaside resort, with large stretches of sand and a beautiful sea. Ideal for those looking for a bit of tranquillity. Connected to Valencia by direct bus lines 115C and 115E - compare accommodation
• Dénia (106 km / 1 h 15 min): beautiful seaside resort, with a large flow of tourists and therefore also very lively. From here, there are also the ferries to Palma de Mallorca. Connected to Valencia by direct train ALSA Vale-Javea line - compare accommodations
• Gandia (70 km / 1 h): a very typical seaside resort, where you can eat a spectacular paella. Great beaches, water parks and entertainment. From the port, ferries depart to Ibiza. Connected to Valencia by direct train line C1 - compare accommodations

If you are in Valencia for business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on Booking.com

Valencia accommodation price map

Booking.com

Guide to the areas of Valencia

Valencia is a large city, the third largest in Spain by number of inhabitants, after the capital Madrid and Barcelona. It covers about 134.56 square kilometres and has over 800,000 inhabitants.

The city is divided into 19 districts, each divided into 88 neighbourhoods, called Barrios in Spanish. From a tourist point of view, there are mainly two options: the historic centre or coastline. It depends on the type of vacation you want. Surely, if you opt for a more cultural trip, the best is the Ciutat Vella and surroundings, as it allows you to move on foot to reach the main attractions. If you're looking for "beach life", it's better to choose accommodation near the coast.

Not recommended areas: there are no dangerous areas to avoid. Just be careful in the most crowded and touristic areas, where you could be victim of pickpockets and thefts (especially in the evening). From a tourist point of view, it is better to stay away from the suburbs.

Cool Things to Do in Valencia

• Enjoy a Free Walking Tour: Explore the charming Old Town (Ciutat Vella) with an expert guide who will take you through Valencia’s cathedrals, hidden alleys, and historical sites. Check availability here.
• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences: One of Valencia’s most iconic landmarks, featuring the Hemisfèric, Science Museum, and Oceanogràfic (Europe’s largest aquarium). Book tickets in advance here.
• Take a Paella Cooking Class: Valencia is the birthplace of paella! Learn how to cook an authentic one with a local chef, then enjoy your delicious meal.
• Explore the San José Cavern: explore this amazing group of underground caves with a day trip by boat. More info here.
• Explore Albufera Natural Park: Take a boat ride on the Albufera Lagoon, visit traditional Valencian rice fields, and enjoy an authentic paella in the village of El Palmar. More info here.
• Go Wine Tasting in Utiel-Requena: Just an hour from Valencia, this region is famous for its Bobal wine, offering vineyard tours and tastings in stunning countryside settings.
• Sunset at El Saler Beach: Less crowded than Malvarrosa, this beach offers stunning sunsets and fine golden sand, perfect for a relaxing evening.

Travel Tips

• Public Transport: Valencia’s metro, bus, and tram systems are affordable and efficient. Consider getting a Valencia Tourist Card for unlimited public transport and discounts at major attractions.
• Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit Valencia are March-June and September-November, avoiding the intense summer heat. If visiting in March, don’t miss Las Fallas Festival!
• Local Markets: Skip supermarkets and explore Mercado Central or Mercado de Ruzafa for fresh produce, seafood, and traditional horchata.
• Tapas Timing: Unlike other Spanish cities, many restaurants in Valencia offer tapas only in the evening, so plan accordingly.
• Free Museum Days: Some museums like the Museo de Bellas Artes and IVAM offer free entry on Sundays, making it a great way to explore Valencia on a budget.