Valencia sits on the banks of the Turia, on Spain's Mediterranean east coast, and its compact centre means you can spend most of a short trip on foot. The old riverbed, now a long green ribbon of gardens and paths, curves around the historic core and separates it from the newer city and the port.
For a visitor, the practical choice is between the historic centre and the areas around it. Staying in or near the Old Town means you will hardly need transport, unless you go to the beach. This guide covers the areas the sources name, what each is like to base yourself in, and how the accommodation tiers differ.
Best areas to stay in Valencia
1. Ciutat Vella (Old Town)
The historic core, including the Carmen area and the streets around the Lonja and Mercat Central. This is the most convenient base for a first visit: you are within walking distance of the cathedral, the market and the main sights, and you will hardly need transport unless you head to the beach.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to walk everywhere. You find hostels, small family-run hostals and boutique hotels here, including places in quiet alleyways and on the squares. Expect some street noise in the livelier parts.
2. City of Arts and Sciences area
The modern eastern edge of the city, around the City of Arts and Sciences. This suits travellers who want contemporary surroundings and easy access to the complex, with mid-range and upscale hotels nearby.
It is away from the historic centre, so you will rely on transport to reach the Old Town, but it puts you closer to the port side of the city.
3. Eixample
The grid of streets north of the old centre, including the Gran Via. This is a good middle ground: quieter and more residential than the Old Town, with mid-range and upscale hotels, and it keeps you within reasonable reach of the centre.
4. Poblats Maritims (the beach area)
The coastal side of the city, around the Passeig de Neptú and the beach. This suits travellers who want the sea on the doorstep, with mid-range and upscale hotels facing or near the water.
It is further from the historic sights, so plan on using transport to get into the centre.
5. Benicalap and the northern outskirts
Areas on the northern edge of the city, including Benicalap near the Palacio de Congresos and Benimàmet near the Les Carolines metro stop. These suit travellers with a car, conference visitors, or anyone prioritising parking and quieter surroundings over walking distance to the sights.
They connect to the centre by metro, and several places here offer free or private parking.
6. Camins al Grau and Nuevo Centro
Areas between the centre and the port, including around Nuevo Centro and Avinguda del Port. This suits travellers who want to be within reach of both the City of Arts and Sciences and the centre, with mid-range and upscale options and parking available.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels with dorm beds and shared facilities, often in the city centre and the Carmen area, plus small hostals with private rooms and shared or private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi and bed linens are common; towels may cost extra.
- Mid-range: modern hotels and family-run hostals with private bathrooms, often with an onsite bar or restaurant, fitness centre or pool, and breakfast available for an extra charge. Found in the centre, near the City of Arts and Sciences, and in the beach area.
- Splurge: larger hotels and restored historic buildings with spas, pools, restaurants and fitness centres, including a five-star property facing the sea. Private parking is usually available for a daily fee.
Best area for a first visit
Ciutat Vella, the Old Town, is the best base for a first visit. Staying in or near it means you will hardly need transport unless you go to the beach, and the main sights are within walking distance. It also gives you the widest choice across budget, mid-range and splurge accommodation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car if I stay in the Old Town?
No. Staying in or near the Old Town means you will hardly need transport, unless you go to the beach.
Which areas are convenient for the beach?
The Poblats Maritims area along the coast puts you by the sea, and there are hotels facing the water there. It is further from the historic centre, so you will need transport to reach the main sights.
Where can I stay if I want parking?
Several hotels on the northern outskirts and in the Camins al Grau and Nuevo Centro areas offer private or nearby parking, sometimes free. In the centre, parking is more often paid and public.
What kinds of places can I book in the centre?
The centre has hostels with dorm beds, small hostals with private rooms, and boutique hotels, including some in quiet alleyways and on squares near the market and the Lonja.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.