10 Best Places to Stay in Valencia, Spain (From a Local!)
Choosing where to stay in Valencia can really shape your experience in this vibrant Spanish city. Whether you prefer the old-world charm of Ciutat Vella or some beachfront living, the city really does have a spot that caters to every taste and budget.
As someone who lives here in Valencia, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the ins and outs of each neighborhood. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best places to stay in Valencia, offering you a local’s insight into what makes each area unique and worth considering.
Ready to find out where you should book your next stay for an unforgettable visit? Let’s get started on this sunny Mediterranean adventure.
Planning a trip to Valencia last minute?
If you’re booking your trip to Valencia last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!
⭐ Top tours in Valencia
- City Highlights Guided Bike Tour (great way to see the city)
- Palosanto Flamenco Show (incredible night out)
- Old Town Tour, Wine and Tapas in an 11th Century Monument (all the highlights at once)
- Catamaran Cruise at Sunset (experience the Mediterranean – with cava)
- Oceanogràfic – Valencia Aquarium (biggest one in Europe!)
🛏️ Top hotels in Valencia
- Only YOU Hotel Valencia (5-star luxury)
- Vincci Palace (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
- Hostal Antigua Morellana (great budget option in a superb location)
🚌 Want to see everything with minimal effort while you’re in Valencia? Check out the 24- or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket!
Where to stay in Valencia, Spain
1. El Carmen
Why is this a good area to stay in
El Carmen is the beating heart of Valencia’s historical center, with narrow, winding streets that tell a story of the city’s rich history.
As a visitor, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant atmosphere, picturesque squares, and a wide array of bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and feel the pulse of Valencia.
In fact, for first time visitors, I’d consider El Carmen as the best place to stay in Valencia. Here, you’re right next to all the highlights, there’s an array of amazing restaurants to choose from and the overall vibe shows you the best of what the city has to offer.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in El Carmen: Caro Hotel – A beautiful 5-star boutique hotel, housed in a 19th-century palace with a unique blend of contemporary design and original architectural elements. You’ll love their stylish rooms and rooftop terrace overlooking the city.
⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in El Carmen: Hotel Petit Palace Plaza de la Reina – A charming boutique hotel in a historic building, combining traditional architecture with modern amenities. Offers a comfortable and convenient stay for those seeking to explore the city.
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in El Carmen: Home Youth Hostel Valencia – A fun and friendly atmosphere for budget travelers. With its colorful dorms, free walking tours, and central location, it’s a great base to explore the city without breaking the bank
What are the downsides of staying here
Since El Carmen is a lively area, noise from the streets can sometimes be a problem for light sleepers. Additionally, the narrow streets can make parking and driving a challenge.
Where is it and how to get here
El Carmen is located in the heart of Valencia, within walking distance of many major attractions. You can easily reach the neighborhood by taking the metro to the Angel Guimerà, Turia, or Colon stations, or by taking one of the numerous bus lines that pass through the area.
2. Ciutat Vella
Why is this a good area to stay in
Ciutat Vella, or “Old City,” is where the ancient Roman and Moorish roots of Valencia come alive. Staying here allows you to explore iconic landmarks like the Valencia Cathedral, La Lonja de la Seda, and Mercado Central.
This district is also known for its charming plazas, such as Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen, where you can sit back and enjoy the city’s bustling atmosphere – before heading back to one of the Ciutat Vella’s best hotels, no matter your budget!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in the Ciutat Vella: Vincci Mercat – This contemporary 4-star hotel offers a luxurious experience just a stone’s throw away from the famous Mercado Central. Enjoy their rooftop terrace with a pool and stunning views of the city.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in the Ciutat Vella: SH Ingles Boutique Hotel – Set in an 18th-century palace and featuring elegant rooms with modern amenities, its central location and on-site restaurant make it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and convenience
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in the Ciutat Vella: Center Valencia Youth Hostel – A popular choice for budget travelers, thanks to its clean and modern dorms, friendly staff, and central location. It’s an ideal base for those looking to explore the city’s attractions on a shoestring budget.
What are the downsides of staying here
As with any historic city center, Ciutat Vella can be crowded, and the streets may be noisy, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, parking is limited and can be expensive in this area.
Where is it and how to get here
Ciutat Vella is situated in the heart of Valencia, surrounded by El Carmen, El Pilar, and La Seu neighborhoods. You can reach the area via the metro, with the Xàtiva and Colon stations being the closest, or by taking any of the numerous bus lines that serve the district.
3. Ruzafa
Why is this a good area to stay in
Ruzafa is basically Valencia’s version of Soho, as a cool and vibrant neighborhood with a unique charm. Home to a diverse mix of locals and expats, Ruzafa boasts a thriving arts scene, colorful street art, and a plethora of trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants.
The area is perfect for travelers seeking the trendiest part of town.
⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in Ruzafa: Hotel One Shot Colón 46 – A 4-star boutique hotel that offers stylish rooms, impeccable service, and a prime location in Ruzafa. Their rooftop terrace provides a fantastic spot to unwind and take in the city views
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in Ruzafa: Rooms Ciencias – A charming 3-star hotel located close to the City of Arts and Sciences. It features comfortable, modern rooms and a relaxing terrace, making it an excellent choice for visitors seeking a balance between style and affordability
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in Ruzafa: River Hostel – A budget-friendly option with a welcoming atmosphere. Offering a mix of dorms and private rooms, the hostel’s communal areas, including a spacious terrace, encourage socializing and meeting fellow travelers
What are the downsides of staying here
Ruzafa can be quite lively, particularly on weekends, so noise could be an issue for light sleepers. Moreover, as it is a popular area, accommodations may be booked up quickly during peak travel seasons.
Where is it and how to get here
Ruzafa is located just south of the city center, within walking distance of Ciutat Vella and the main train station, Estación del Norte. The nearest metro station is Joaquín Sorolla, and several bus lines also serve the neighborhood.
4. El Cabanyal
Why is this a good area to stay in
El Cabanyal is a fascinating seaside neighborhood with a rich maritime history and an authentic local vibe. With its colorful tiled facades, vibrant local markets, and proximity to the beach, this area offers a unique perspective on Valencia’s traditional way of life.
Staying in El Cabanyal lets you enjoy the best of both worlds: a relaxed beach atmosphere and easy access to the city center. And while you can certainly find luxury accommodation here, some of the best cheap hotels in Valencia are around here as well.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in El Cabanyal: Las Arenas Balneario Resort – An incredible 5-star resort with all the luxuries you’d expect. It’s beachfront location, multiple pools and stunning décor will have you living the high life
⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in El Cabanyal: Hotel Boutique Balandret – A charming 3-star hotel located right on Las Arenas Beach. With its elegant rooms, seafront terrace, and a restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine, this hotel provides a chic stay in a prime location
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in El Cabanyal: Barracart Apartments – Affordable, fully-equipped apartments with a cozy and modern design. Located in the heart of El Cabanyal, these apartments provide an excellent base for exploring the neighborhood and enjoying the nearby beach
What are the downsides of staying here
El Cabanyal is currently undergoing gentrification, so some parts of the neighborhood might seem less polished than others. Additionally, it’s a bit farther from the city center, which may not be ideal for those who want to be in the middle of the action.
Where is it and how to get here
El Cabanyal is located to the east of Valencia’s city center, along the coast. To reach the neighborhood, take the metro to the Marítim-Serrería or Cabanyal stations or use one of the many bus lines that connect the area to the rest of the city.
5. Quatre Carreres – City of Arts and Sciences
Why is this a good area to stay in
Quatre Carreres is an excellent choice for visitors who want to stay close to Valencia’s iconic City of Arts and Sciences, a stunning architectural complex designed by Santiago Calatrava. The neighborhood offers a modern and tranquil atmosphere, with plenty of green spaces, such as the Turia Gardens.
It’s an ideal location for families and travelers seeking a quieter stay while remaining well-connected to the city center.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in Quatre Carreres: Barceló Valencia – A stylish 4-star hotel situated right next to the City of Arts and Sciences. Its spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the architectural complex – including as you savor a cocktail on the rooftop terrace with a pool
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in Quatre Carreres: NH Valencia Las Artes – A comfortable 3-star hotel located within walking distance of the City of Arts and Sciences. It offers modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a daily breakfast buffet, ensuring a pleasant stay for all
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in Quatre Carreres: Urban Youth Hostel – A contemporary and affordable option with clean and spacious dorms, private rooms, and a relaxing common area, catering to the needs of budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience
What are the downsides of staying here
While Quatre Carreres boasts numerous modern amenities, it lacks the historic charm and lively atmosphere of the city center. The area is also more residential, so dining and nightlife options are somewhat limited compared to other neighborhoods.
Where is it and how to get here
Quatre Carreres is located southeast of Valencia’s city center. The neighborhood is well-served by public transport, with several bus lines and the metro stations Amistat-Casa de Salud and Ayora providing easy access to other parts of the city.
6. Eixample
Why is this a good area to stay in
Eixample is an upscale, elegant neighborhood that showcases the best of modernist architecture in Valencia.
Known for its wide, tree-lined avenues, high-end boutiques, and sophisticated dining scene, Eixample provides a luxurious and refined experience for visitors. The area is also home to the beautiful Estación del Norte and the lively Mercado de Colón, making it a great base for exploring the city.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in Eixample: Westin Valencia – A 5-star hotel that exudes luxury and sophistication. Housed in a beautifully restored modernist building, the hotel features spacious rooms, an exquisite spa, lush gardens, and a selection of refined dining options
⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in Eixample: Petit Palace Ruzafa – A stylish 3-star hotel located at the border of Eixample and Ruzafa. With its contemporary design, comfortable rooms, and excellent location, it offers a great stay for visitors who want the best of both neighborhoods
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in Eixample: Red Nest Hostel – A colorful and budget-friendly option in the heart of Eixample. Offering a mix of dorms and private rooms, this hostel provides a cheerful atmosphere and a convenient location for anyone wanting an affordable stay in a chic neighborhood
What are the downsides of staying here
Accommodations in Eixample can be more expensive compared to other neighborhoods in Valencia, as the area is known for its luxury offerings. Moreover, Eixample is a quieter district (although still just a few blocks from the livelier Ruzafa), so those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene may prefer other areas.
Where is it and how to get here
Eixample is located north of Ciutat Vella and just west of Ruzafa. The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of the city via several metro stations, including Xàtiva, Colón, and Alameda, as well as numerous bus lines.
7. El Pla del Real and La Zaidia
Why is this a good area to stay in
El Pla del Real and La Zaidia are two neighboring districts that offer a serene and relaxed atmosphere, making them perfect for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.
These areas are known for their green spaces, including the expansive Jardines de Viveros and Jardines del Real. They also host the Mestalla Stadium, home to Valencia’s football team, and are within walking distance of the Turia Gardens and the City of Arts and Sciences.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in El Pla del Real and La Zaidia: Sercotel Sorolla Palace – A modern 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms and a rooftop pool. Its elegant design and convenient location near the convention center make it a great choice for business and leisure travelers alike.
⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in El Pla del Real and La Zaidia: Hotel Malcom and Barret – A contemporary 3-star hotel featuring comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop terrace, providing a pleasant stay for guests who want to explore this quieter side of Valencia
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in El Pla del Real and La Zaidia: Rooms Deluxe Hostel – With a range of private rooms and shared dorms, this hostel offers a comfortable stay for budget travelers who want to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the neighborhood
What are the downsides of staying here
While these neighborhoods offer tranquility and a more local experience, they have fewer tourist attractions and a less dynamic nightlife scene compared to other parts of Valencia. Visitors seeking a more lively atmosphere may prefer other areas.
Where is it and how to get here
El Pla del Real and La Zaidia are located north of the city center, with El Pla del Real to the east and La Zaidia to the west. Both districts are well-connected to the rest of Valencia via bus lines and metro stations, such as Facultats and Benimaclet.
8. Benimaclet
Why is this a good area to stay in
Benimaclet is a charming, bohemian neighborhood with a village-like atmosphere, perfect for visitors who want to experience the authentic Valencian lifestyle. Known for its artistic vibe, Benimaclet offers a variety of cultural events, cozy cafes, and local shops.
The neighborhood is popular among students, ensuring a lively and welcoming environment. Additionally, Benimaclet is well-connected to the city center, beach, and university areas, making it a convenient base for exploring Valencia.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in Benimaclet: Sercotel Sorolla Palace – I just mentioned this one above but as Benimaclet doesn’t have many luxury accommodations, nearby neighborhoods like El Pla del Real offer options such as this 4-star hotel with elegant rooms and a rooftop pool
⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in Benimaclet: Hotel Olympia Universidades – A modern 3-star hotel located near the university campus, offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in Benimaclet: Up Hostel Valencia – A budget-friendly and contemporary hostel situated in the neighboring district of La Zaidia, close to Benimaclet. With its clean dorms, private rooms, and friendly atmosphere, it’s a great choice for travelers who want to explore the local side of Valencia without breaking the bank
What are the downsides of staying here
While Benimaclet has a local charm and a friendly atmosphere, it’s not as bustling as the city center and lacks the historic landmarks found in other neighborhoods. It may not be the best choice for those who prefer staying close to major tourist attractions.
Where is it and how to get here
Benimaclet is situated to the northeast of the city center. The neighborhood is easily accessible via the Benimaclet metro and tram station, which connects to both the city center and the beach, as well as several bus lines.
What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?
Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?
Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?
Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!
9. Campanar
Why is this a good area to stay in
Campanar is a traditional Valencian neighborhood that offers a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. Staying in Campanar allows you to experience the local life, with its picturesque streets, charming plazas, and authentic eateries.
The neighborhood is also home to the Parque de Cabecera, a large green space perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Its location just outside the city center ensures a quieter stay while still providing easy access to Valencia’s main attractions.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in Campanar: The Westin Valencia – While Campanar doesn’t have many luxury accommodations, nearby neighborhoods like Eixample offer options like this. Perfect if you want spacious rooms, an exquisite spa, lush gardens, and refined dining options
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in Campanar: Eurostars Gran Valencia – A comfortable 4-star hotel located near Campanar, its modern rooms, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant provide a pleasant stay for guests who want to explore this tranquil side of Valencia
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in Campanar: Valencia Lounge Hostel – An affordable and stylish option in the nearby Old Town, providing a convenient base for budget travelers who want to explore both the city center and Campanar
What are the downsides of staying here
Campanar is a more residential area, so it lacks the historic charm and bustling atmosphere of neighborhoods like Ciutat Vella or El Carmen. Visitors who prefer to be in the heart of the action or close to major tourist attractions may wish to stay in a different neighborhood.
Where is it and how to get here
Campanar is located to the northwest of Valencia’s city center. The neighborhood is accessible via the Campanar and Túria metro stations, as well as several bus lines that connect it to the rest of the city.
10. Beniferri
Why is this a good area to stay in
Beniferri is a primarily residential neighborhood located near the Palau de Congressos, making it an ideal choice for business travelers attending conferences or events at the convention center. The area is quiet and peaceful, with several parks and green spaces, such as Parc de Benicalap, providing a pleasant environment for unwinding after a busy day.
While Beniferri might not be as lively or tourist-oriented as other areas of Valencia, it is well-connected to the city center and other neighborhoods via public transport, ensuring easy access to Valencia’s attractions.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury hotel in Beniferri: Melia Valencia – A 4-star hotel right next to the Palau de Congressos offering spacious and modern rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center. Its convenient location and upscale amenities make it an excellent choice for business travelers attending events at the convention center
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range hotel in Beniferri: Eurostars Gran Valencia – A comfortable 4-star hotel located near Campanar, its modern rooms, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant provide a pleasant stay for guests who want a quiet base for their visit to Valencia
⭐⭐ Best budget hotel in Beniferri: Valencia Lounge Hostel – For budget-conscious travelers, it might be worth considering staying in a nearby neighborhood like Campanar, where options like this offer affordable and stylish accommodation with easy access to both Beniferri and the city center
What are the downsides of staying here
Since Beniferri is a more residential area, it lacks the bustling atmosphere, historic charm, and variety of dining and entertainment options found in other neighborhoods like El Carmen or Ruzafa. Visitors who prefer to be in the heart of the action or close to major tourist attractions may wish to stay in a different neighborhood.
Where is it and how to get here
Beniferri is located to the northwest of Valencia’s city center, near the Palau de Congressos. The neighborhood is easily accessible via the Beniferri metro station and several bus lines that connect it to the rest of the city.
What’s the best place to stay in Valencia for nightlife?
The best place to stay in Valencia for nightlife is the El Carmen neighborhood. Located in the historic Ciutat Vella district, El Carmen is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to different tastes and styles.
The narrow streets of El Carmen come alive at night, with venues such as Radio City, a popular club with live music and DJ sets, and Café Sant Jaume, a trendy cocktail bar with a cozy ambiance. El Carmen also boasts a diverse array of tapas bars, where you can savor traditional Spanish dishes before heading out to dance the night away.
As a bonus, staying in El Carmen also puts you close to many of Valencia’s historic landmarks and attractions, such as the Cathedral and the Central Market, making it an excellent base for exploring the city during the day.
What’s the best area to stay in Valencia near the beach?
The best area to stay in Valencia near the beach is El Cabanyal. This seaside neighborhood has a rich maritime history and an authentic local vibe, characterized by its colorful mosaic façades and narrow streets.
Staying in El Cabanyal allows you to enjoy a relaxed beach atmosphere while still having easy access to the city center via public transport, such as the metro and buses.
The neighborhood is located along the coast, close to popular beaches like Las Arenas Beach and Malvarrosa Beach, making it an ideal choice for visitors who want to soak up the sun and experience the city’s coastal charm. El Cabanyal is also home to the bustling Mercado del Cabanyal, where you can sample fresh local produce and seafood.
In addition, the neighborhood offers a range of dining options, from traditional seafood restaurants to modern fusion cuisine, as well as beach bars and chiringuitos, where you can unwind with a drink while watching the sunset.
What is the trendiest area in Valencia?
The trendiest area in Valencia is Ruzafa (or “Russafa” in Valencian). This vibrant and creative neighborhood is characterized by its eclectic mix of modern art galleries, independent boutiques, and innovative cafes and restaurants, where you can find everything from gourmet coffee to fusion cuisine.
Ruzafa has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, becoming a hub for artists, designers, and young professionals. The lively streets of Ruzafa are adorned with colorful street art, and the neighborhood hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Ruzafa Fashion Week and Russafart, an open-door art festival.
The area is also home to the bustling Mercado de Ruzafa, a local market where you can find fresh produce, artisanal products, and delicious street food.
Ruzafa’s nightlife is equally vibrant, with a diverse range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that cater to different tastes. From the cozy atmosphere of Ubik Café, a popular spot for art lovers and bookworms, to the lively dance floor of Xtralarge, Ruzafa offers a unique and dynamic experience that attracts both locals and visitors alike.
Staying in Ruzafa allows you to immerse yourself in Valencia’s contemporary urban culture while being just a short walk or metro ride away from the historic city center and other popular neighborhoods. With its stylish vibe, thriving arts scene, and diverse range of dining and entertainment options, Ruzafa is undoubtedly the trendiest area in Valencia.
Are there areas in Valencia to avoid?
While El Cabanyal is a great area to stay near the beach, some parts of the neighborhood, particularly those further away from the beachfront, can be less tourist-friendly and may feel a bit run-down. It’s always a good idea to research the specific area within El Cabanyal where you plan to stay and read reviews.
Similarly, some parts of the neighborhoods surrounding the city center, like La Zaidia or Campanar, might not be as lively and well-maintained as the more tourist-oriented areas. While these neighborhoods are not inherently dangerous, they might lack the charm and amenities you’d find in other parts of Valencia.
Valencia is generally a safe and welcoming city for tourists, and most neighborhoods are perfectly fine to visit and explore. However, like any urban area, there might be some places where you should exercise extra caution, especially during nighttime or when traveling alone.
It’s important to remember that safety can be subjective, and what feels safe for one person might not feel the same for another.
Always trust your instincts, be aware of your surroundings, and take common-sense precautions like keeping your belongings secure and not displaying valuables openly. With these measures in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy a fantastic visit to the beautiful city of Valencia.
