As the third largest city in Spain after Barcelona and the capital Madrid, Valencia remains a firm tourist favourite since its regeneration in the mid-1990s and has lots to offer, with plenty to see and do.
Valencia is situated on Spain’s south-eastern coast and is renowned for its glorious weather, wealth of culture and its beautiful beaches.
With warm temperatures all year round and plenty of diverse neighbourhoods, Valencia is a city made for exploring.
Valencia is one of the oldest cities in Spain, thought to date back to 138 BC and the architecture reflects this rich cultural heritage, with Roman, Muslim and Christian influences. Culminating in the industrialisation of the 20th Century, there are plenty of incredible sights to see.
The La Llotja de la Seda dates back from the 15th Century and is a towering example of European Gothic architecture, complete with World Heritage status. The Plaza del Virgen offers further examples of stunning building work, peppered by fountains and surrounded by cafes to take in the views.
What’s the best area to experience the city for the first time, tourists, what’s the best district for nightlife or shopping, or where to stay near the beach or when travelling by train? Read on below to find out more best neighbourhoods to stay in Valencia Spain.
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Valencia?
Best for First Time (Sightseeing): Citutat Vella (Old Town)
When visiting Valencia for the first time, why not stay in Ciutat Vella, otherwise known as the Old Town. This area provides some of the best ways to get to know the city as you explore the charming cobbled streets or stop off in a pavement café and soak in the local atmosphere.
1. Ciutat Vella (Old Town)
Ciutat Vella can be one of the best places to stay to explore the city’s heritage. It could be easy to spend an entire visit just meandering through the architectural sites and charming cafes.
There are also a variety of accommodation options and is an area that suits all types of travellers, from couples and families to those wishing to explore Valencia solo.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): One Shot Mercat 09 • Vincci Mercat
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Hotel Cosmo • Sorolla Centro
2. Poblats Maritims (Beach, Port)
The Poblats Maritims area hosts the Mediterranean’s third largest port and offers fun beachside activities, so you can explore the neighbourhood by Segway, visit the zoo and aquarium or take in a traditional flamenco show.
The marina and its palm-tree lined promenade offer plenty of accommodation options and the area is ideal for families looking to enjoy its amazing beaches or couples wanting to stroll through the many museums that this culturally diverse area has to offer. The Poblats Maritims also features Platja de las Arenes, often referred to as the finest beach in Valencia.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Las Arenas Balneario Resort • Hotel Neptuno
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Hotel Boutique Balandret • Hotel Miramar
3. L’Eixample
The L’Eixample district offers plenty of scope for browsing the shops and enjoying a coffee in one of the many cafes. Laid out in a grid design, it is easy to navigate and there are plenty of beautiful architectural sights to take in.
Built in 1841, the Bullring is visually spectacular and holds other cultural events when there are no bullfights scheduled. The Mercado de Colon hosts many different shops and cafes and the interior of this avant-garde structure features a collection of ceramics capturing Valencian country life.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Hospes Palau de La Mar • NH Collection Colón Valencia
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: HoGraFic hotel boutique • Petit Palace Ruzafa
4. Quatre Carreres (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)
Quatre Carreres (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) is close to Las Arenas beach and is a breath-taking cultural complex that includes an IMAX planetarium, an interactive museum and is so vast it can play home to a wide variety of sporting and art events throughout the year.
One of the 12 Treasures of Spain, the complex really is a city in its own right and with so much to explore and do, it is one of the must see destinations of Valencia.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): NH Valencia Las Artes • Hotel Medium Valencia
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Hotel Malcom and Barret • Holiday Inn Express Ciudad de las Ciencias
