Where to stay in Valencia? It’s an important question when planning your trip. City center or beach? In the heart of the nightlife, or surrounded by peace and quiet? Luckily, Valencia is home to a variety of neighborhoods and vibes, from charming European cobblestone streets to trendy hipster hangouts, there's a place to stay in Valencia for everyone.
It's nearly impossible to get bored while exploring Valencia's diverse variety of neighborhoods. Even if one district isn't your cup of tea, there's bound to be one that is—and half the fun is figuring out which one! If you're not sure where to stay in Valencia, don't worry. Our barrio-by-barrio guide will walk you through the city's streets one neighborhood at a time, so you can decide where to stay in Valencia.
Where to Stay in Valencia - Top Picks by Area
Old Town (Ciutat Vella)
Want to be in the center of the action? Valencia's Old Town (Ciutat Vella) is the place to be. This is the historic center of the city, which retains its old-world charm despite being a modern tourist favorite. Many of Valencia's most famous sights, such as the cathedral and the Central Market, are in this area.
The Old Town is centrally located, with easy access to other neighborhoods. It's vibrant, exciting and easy to navigate. However, its popularity among tourists means that is can be quite crowded and noisy at times.
Where to Stay: One of the most popular parts of this neighborhood is known as El Carmen. Located on the northwestern edge of the Old Town, its charming narrow streets and colorful buildings couldn't be more picturesque. It's the perfect place to take a stroll during the day, but is also quite lively at night. It's home to lots of gorgeous boutique hotels as well as plenty of guest apartments if you prefer a bit more space than a hotel.
Recommended: You can't go wrong with the Melia Plaza Valencia or the One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria. For a great budget find, check out the centrally located Hostal Venecia.
Ruzafa
Once considered a rough neighborhood, Ruzafa has undergone a fantastic transformation in recent decades. It's now one of Valencia's most hip and modern neighborhoods. Hipster hotspots such as craft beer bars, trendy art galleries, vegetarian cafes and more line its colorful streets.
Where to stay: The Petit Palace Rufaza is a great choice for a comfortable hotel in this bohemian neighborhood. But to truly live like a local in Rufaza, rent out a tourist apartment for a few days. Shop at the local market and enjoy the sun on the balcony!
L'Eixample
This is where to stay in Valencia if you want to shop till you drop! L'Eixample features sprawling avenues lined with trendy boutiques and modernist buildings. The neighborhood is home to some of Valencia's most spectacular architecture, like the imposing Plaza de Toros and the main train station, Estació del Nord, decorated in an impressive Art Nouveau style.
Where to stay: This is a great part of town for a good night's sleep, there are plenty of quiet corners once night falls. Try Hospes Palau de la Mar for a top pick.
El Cabanyal
Wondering where to stay in Valencia for a more authentic, local experience? The humble fishermen's district of El Cabanyal is what you're looking for. Once a completely separate city, El Cabanyal was absorbed by Valencia's expanding urban area. Due to its unique history, it still has plenty of its own local flavor.
El Cabanyal is a residential neighborhood, so you won't find any tourist sights here. However, it's one of the best places to try authentic paella in Valencia. After you eat, take a stroll and admire the neighborhood's charming architecture.
Where to stay: You might try searching for Poblats Maritims in addition to El Cabanyal for the best choices. Try La Arenas resort for something special, or Sunrise Apartments where you'll literally step out onto the sand.
Benimaclet
Local yet lively, Benimaclet offers the best of both worlds. This multicultural neighborhood is a great way to experience the world without leaving Valencia. Eat your way through its many authentic ethnic restaurants and pick out a unique souvenir at one of its cultural shops.
This neighborhood is also extremely popular among university students. This means that aside from its diverse array of restaurants, bars and concert venues, it's extremely well connected to the city center.
Where to stay: In this part of town you have to book early, because the few rental apartments that exist go quickly!
Do you have a great suggestion for where to stay in Valencia? Any amazing local spots that we missed? We’d love to hear about your discoveries in the comments!
Dany Thijs
Hi Lindsey, thank you for this up to date guide on the best areas in Valencia. We love your blog and whenever you are planning to visit Valencia, we would like to invite you for a stay at our Award winning Bed and Breakfast in the historical center of old tow Valencia: Barrio del Carmen. If you would be interest to come and visit us, please let us know and we would love to host you and show you our local secret gems of Valencia. Kind regards, Dany Thijs @ Bed and Breakfast Valencia Mindfulness Retreat.
Dany Thijs
Thank you for your good article. It´s true: the best location to stay in Barrio del Carmen in the Historical center. We hope to see you one day at our Bed and Breakfast. Warm wishes, Dany Thijs / Bed and Breakfast Valencia Mindfulness Retreat