Where to Stay in Valencia Spain: Best Areas & Hotels

Wondering where to stay in Valencia, Spain for your first visit? You’re in the right place!

As a travel blogger that lives in Spain and has been to Valencia multiple times, I’ve gotten to know the city’s neighborhoods–and I’m here to help you pick the best one for your trip. 

In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Valencia, what each one is like, and recommend the best hotels in each one. 

Whether you’re looking to be close to the beach, attractions, or nightlife, you’ll find options that suit your travel style. Let’s get into it!

Before we begin, here’s a map to give you an overview of the best neighborhoods to stay in Valencia. You can use this as a reference while reading through the guide.

One important thing to know is that while Valencia looks pretty compact on the map, the beach is not within walking distance of the city center.

The City of Arts & Sciences is also further away.  You can still walk there but it will probably take around 40 minutes. 

Luckily, the public transportation system in Valencia is easy to use, so you can hop on a bus or tram to get around.  Plus, taxis are readily available as well.

Ciutat Vella (Old Town) is my top recommendation for where to stay in Valencia–especially if it’s your first time visiting. 

This is the city’s historic center, and you’ll be right in the heart of the action with top Valencia attractions like Valencia Cathedral, Plaza de la Reina, La Lonja de la Seda, and Mercat Central all within walking distance. 

I stayed here on my last trip and loved how safe, walkable, and full of charm it was. The area is filled with beautiful historic buildings, narrow winding streets, outdoor plazas, and swaying palm trees that give it a classic Mediterranean feel. 

It’s also well connected by public transportation, so getting to places like the beach or the City of Arts and Sciences is easy. 

And within Ciutat Vella, you’ve got areas like El Carmen, a trendy neighborhood known for its street art, bars, and lively nightlife scene. 

Basically, if you want to be close to everything and soak up the city’s atmosphere, this is the place to stay.

Here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay in Ciutat Vella Valencia:

• Only YOU Hotel Valencia: This super stylish hotel has a central location right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the main shopping streets and historic sights. It has a cool, modern vibe with spacious rooms and a rooftop restaurant.

• Casa del Patriarca: I stayed here on my last trip and really liked how central and convenient it was. The building has historic charm, the rooms are simple but cute and comfortable, and you’re just a few minutes from everything on foot. Check out my full Casa del Patriarca review for all the details!

• SH Ingles Boutique Hotel: Set in a beautiful old palace right across from the ceramics museum, this boutique hotel has a great location for sightseeing. The rooms are cozy, and there’s a cute café downstairs if you want to grab breakfast before heading out.

Eixample is another great area to stay in Valencia, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more modern while still being close to the city center. 

This district is just south of Ciutat Vella and is known for its elegant architecture, wide tree-lined streets, and high end shopping. 

It includes the neighborhood of Gran Via, which has a stylish, laid-back vibe with lots of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. 

And one of the highlights of staying here is Mercat de Colón–a market with a beautiful modernist architecture that was inspired by Gaudi. 

While it’s a bit quieter than Ciutat Vella, it’s still very walkable and well-connected by public transport. 

I found this area to be safe, clean, and a great option if you prefer a slightly more relaxed pace without being far from the action.

Here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay in Eixample Valencia:

• Hotel Dimar: This modern hotel is right on Gran Vía, one of the main avenues in Eixample, and super close to Turia Park. The rooms are spacious and comfy, and there’s even a little gym and sauna if you want to squeeze in a workout or relax after a long day.

• Hospes Palau de La Mar: If you’re looking to treat yourself, this boutique hotel is a beautiful mix of historic charm and modern design. It’s set in a restored mansion and has a spa, so it’s a great spot to unwind while still being close to the action.

• SH Colón Valencia: Located on one of the best shopping streets in the city, this hotel is perfect if you want to be near stores, restaurants, and cafes. The rooms are clean and stylish, and there’s an on-site restaurant if you don’t feel like going far for dinner.

Ruzafa (also known as Russafa) is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Valencia and a great option if you want a more local, artsy vibe. 

Technically part of the Eixample district, it’s very hipster and stands out for its creative energy, colorful buildings, and lively mix of cafes, brunch spots, bars, and vintage shops. 

It’s especially popular with younger travelers and digital nomads. 

You’ll still be close to the city center (about a 25-minute walk), and public transportation makes it easy to get around. 

While it’s not as polished as other areas, it’s got a very fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay in Ruzafa:

• Moontels Mercado de Ruzafa: These modern studio apartments are right in the middle of Ruzafa, just steps from the market and tons of cute cafes and bars. Each unit has a little kitchen, so it’s great if you want more of an apartment-style stay with some extra flexibility.

• Petit Palace Ruzafa: Set in a cool old building, this boutique hotel mixes historic charm with a modern, laid-back vibe. It’s pet-friendly, has free bike rentals, and the location makes it easy to explore both Ruzafa and the rest of the city.

El Cabanyal is a good option if your main priority is spending time at the beach, but I wouldn’t recommend staying here if it’s your first visit to Valencia. 

It’s about a 25-minute drive or 40-minute bus ride from the city center, so it’s not the most convenient base for sightseeing. 

This former fishing neighborhood has a unique charm with its colorful tiled houses and a bit of a gritty, bohemian feel. 

The beaches in this area are flat, wide, and sandy–not the most scenic in Spain, but great for laying out, beach volleyball, and water sports. 

There’s also a nice promenade lined with seafood restaurants, beach bars, and cafes where you can relax after a swim. 

If you’ve already seen the main sights and just want a laid-back beach trip, El Cabanyal and the surrounding beach area could be a good fit.

Here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay in El Cabanyal:

• Hotel Neptuno Playa & Spa: This beachfront hotel is literally steps from Malvarrosa Beach, so it’s perfect if you want to wake up to ocean views. It has a small spa, gym, and modern rooms–plus, you’re super close to the marina and beachside restaurants.

• Las Arenas Balneario Resort: If you’re in the mood to splurge a little, this 5-star resort right on the beach is a solid pick. The rooms are elegant, the pool area is gorgeous, and there’s a full spa if you’re looking for some extra relaxation during your stay.

• Malvarrosa Beach Stay: This trendy renovated 2-bedroom apartment offers extra space for extended stays, and is super close to the beach and boardwalk.

The area around the City of Arts and Sciences isn’t the most picturesque, but it can be a good option if you’re traveling on a budget or planning to spend a lot of time exploring the complex. 

The buildings here are more modern and residential, so it doesn’t have the same charm as Ciutat Vella or Eixample. 

That said, hotels tend to be more affordable, and you’ll be just a short walk from Valencia’s most famous attractions like the science museum, Oceanografic aquarium, and Hemisfèric. 

It’s also closer to the beach compared to staying in the city center, which can be a bonus if you want to split your time between sightseeing and relaxing by the sea. 

And public transportation makes it easy to get to other parts of the city. 

While it wouldn’t be my first choice for first-timers, it could work well depending on your priorities.

Here are a few of my top recommendations for where to stay near the City of Arts & Sciences:

• La Novieta Boutique Hotel: This adults-only boutique hotel is in a beautifully restored old house with some serious charm. With just four rooms, it feels super cozy and personal

• NH Valencia Las Artes: A solid, comfortable option just a short walk from the City of Arts and Sciences. The rooms are spacious, there’s a gym and indoor swimming pool, and it’s easy to get to both the beach and city center by bus.

• Sercotel Valencia Alameda 41: This modern hotel is right by the City of Arts and Sciences, so it’s a great pick if that’s high on your list. The rooms are sleek and comfy, and you’ll be surrounded by restaurants and close to the beach too.

Here are a few tips for booking your stay in Valencia Spain:

• Check the reviews for noise complaints: Some areas, especially in the Ciutat Vella or nightlife spots, can be noisy at night. Make sure to read reviews to see if previous guests mention street noise or thin walls.

• Check for heating and air conditioning: Not all accommodations in Valencia have both, and temperatures can get chilly in winter and very hot in summer. Double-check the listing so you’re comfortable during your stay.

• Check for elevators: Many buildings in historic areas don’t have elevators, which can be inconvenient if you have heavy luggage or mobility concerns. Always confirm if there’s an elevator, especially for upper-floor apartments.

• Book in advance: Valencia is becoming more popular, and hotels in the best areas can fill up fast, especially during weekends or holidays. Booking early gives you more choices and often better rates.

• Avoid Las Fallas in March if you’re not visiting for the festival: Accommodation prices skyrocket and the city gets extremely crowded. Unless you’re specifically going for Las Fallas, it’s better to plan around it.

• Avoid visiting in August: Many locals leave the city during this time, and some small businesses may close. It can also get super hot so if you’re visiting in August, make sure your accommodation has strong air conditioning.

• Look for luggage storage options: It’s really helpful if your hotel or rental can store your bags before check-in or after check-out. Trains and flights don’t always line up with check-in times, so this can save you a lot of hassle.

I hope this guide helped you figure out where to stay in Valencia, Spain for your first visit!

Whether you want to be in the heart of the city, near the beach, or somewhere a little more local and trendy, there’s a neighborhood that’ll match your travel style. 

If it’s your first time here, I still recommend Ciutat Vella as the best area to stay in Valencia to be close to the main sights and get a feel for the city.

But no matter where you stay, Valencia is super easy to get around and full of amazing things to see, eat, and experience.

READ NEXT:

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