Valencia is the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona so there is much to see and do. The city is an excellent choice for expats, students and tourists alike. It combines a laid-back beach vibe with a bustling up-and-coming city vibe. It is becoming one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads and expats in Europe.
There are a number of amazing neighborhoods throughout the city so there is definitely one that can cater to your needs. Here we list some of the best neighborhoods and who they are most suitable for.
Best neighborhoods in Valencia to stay as a tourist
So you’re in Valencia for vacation and you’re wondering where you can stay? We’ve got you covered, here are the best districts for tourists.
El Carmen
Situated north of the city center, the old-town district of El Carmen is one of the most popular choices for accommodation in the city. Here you will find the medieval gates ‘Torres de Serranos’ and ‘Torres de Quart’ once part of the old city wall, and now a popular tourist attraction. The narrow streets of El Carmen are home to cafés, tapas bars, souvenir shops as well as night clubs. Expect to find bustling streets, busy restaurants and packed terraces here.
- Pros: Great restaurants, centrally located, lots of museums and great nightlife.
- Cons: It’s quite noisy at night, small apartments and pricier than other districts.
Russafa
To the south of the city-center you will find the district of Russafa. Popular for tourists and expats alike, Russafa is filled with coffee shops, American-style bakeries, cafes with terraces, late-night bars and clubs, and restaurants serving an array of cuisines, from Japanese to Mexican, and of course – Spanish! The streets are dotted with small art galleries, clothing boutiques, and organic food shops, while stalls in the Mercat de Russafa are piled with fresh produce.
- Pros: Great restaurants and nightlife, fashionable boutiques, lots of English-speaking establishments.
- Cons: Expensive accommodation, bars and restaurants can be pricey and it is geared towards younger travelers.
Best neighborhoods in Valencia for expats
If you have decided to make this great city your home, check out these excellent neighborhoods to live in as an expat.
Cabanyal
El Cabanyal, an old fisherman’s quarter, sits next to a line of sandy beaches with beautiful palm trees lining the promenade. The nearby streets are full of traditional restaurants and humble bodega bars which give this neighborhood a unique vibe.
- Pros: Authentic area, next to the beach, great restaurants, affordable accommodation.
- Cons: Has a ‘rough’ reputation, lacks a Metro station.
L’Eixample
Upscale L’Eixample is laid out in long streets, like Calle Colón, which has department stores, quirky boutique stores and a variety of great restaurants. Colon Market, Estacio Del Nord and the Bullring are all located here so there is plenty to see and do.
- Pros: Great shopping options, trendy and upmarket restaurants, centrally located.
- Cons: Expensive accommodation, expect to pay more for drinks and food.
Best neighborhoods in Valencia for families
Some neighborhoods are very well set up for expat families. They have access to parks and good schooling options while being very safe for families to live.
Mestalla
Mestalla is an upcoming neighborhood which boasts a great location, a thriving local restaurant and bar scene and the Mestalla stadium. This neighborhood is affordable and almost equidistant from the beach and the city center.
- Pros: Affordable accommodation, Great public transport and located between the beach and the city center
- Cons: Lack of International restaurants, not a lot of English-speaking establishments.
City of Arts and Sciences
The neighborhoods surrounding the amazing City of Arts and Sciences buildings are very modern and well suited for families. There are a lot of high-rise apartment blocks with pools, gyms and playgrounds located within. This safe area also boasts an upcoming restaurant scene and some great shopping malls.
- Pros: Lots of family-friendly apartment compounds, next to the amazing Turia Park, upscale restaurants
- Cons: Not well-connected to the rest of the city, pricey accommodation and lots of office buildings
Best neighborhoods in Valencia for students
Valencia has established itself as the place to be for Spanish and international students. Each year there are thousands of Erasmus students moving to Valencia and here are the best neighborhoods to stay in.
Benimaclet
Benimaclet is a great choice for both Spanish and international students. It is located relatively close to the Universities and is well-connected via public transport. It also has very affordable accommodation and a great student nightlife scene. It is a very trendy and chic neighborhood with a thriving art scene.
- Pros: Student area, well-priced accommodation, good restaurants and nightlife
- Cons: Not in walking distance to the beach or the city-center
Algirós
If you want to live near the University area, Algirós may be your best bet. Lots of students end up living here as there are parks, bars and restaurants aplenty. There is a lot of accommodation aimed at students so you should find an affordable option. It is located near the campuses of Blasco Ibáñez and the Taronjers of the University of Valencia.
- Pros: Affordable accommodation, great student nightlife scene, close to the beach
- Cons: Lack of English-speaking services, not in walking distance to the city center
Valencia is a beautiful city with lots of interesting neighborhoods. I hope this article will help you choose the best neighborhood for you.