Valencia offers the historical backdrop and cosmopolitan buzz of bigger cities like Barcelona in a tighter, similarly coastal package.
“Valencia is a perfect blend of Old World charm and modern vibrance, from its golden beaches to its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences,” Fora Advisor Patricia Caruso said. “Whether you want to be in the heart of history, by the sea or in a buzzing nightlife district, it has something for everyone!”
Here’s where to stay in Valencia, Spain, by neighborhood (barrio), plus our travel advisors’ hotel picks for each.
Ciutat Vella (a.k.a. Old City)
Image courtesy of Palacio Santa Clara, Autograph Collection
Historic areas like Valencia’s Old City are great additions to any Spain bucket list. Ciutat Vella is the beating heart of Valencia; its streets are a charming maze of history and vibrant plazas. Staying here means you're steps away from iconic landmarks like the Valencia Cathedral, the bustling Central Market and diverse dining options.
El Carmen is a subdistrict of Ciutat Vella offering more of a local vibe. An eclectic blend of local businesses, street art, medieval architecture and lively tapas bars define its labyrinthine cobblestone streets. Notably, the local flair extends to El Carmen’s eateries, and you’ll find more authentic options here compared to other parts of Ciutat Vella.
Highlights: The Serranos Towers, Valencia Cathedral and Central Market of Valencia
Ciutat Vella’s allure revolves around its historical landmarks and buzzing Central Market. The Serranos Towers and Quart Towers, for instance, are both remnants of a bygone era, when the risk of attack from not-so-friendly neighbors was ever present. The Gothic towers almost feel out of place amid the contemporary shops and eateries that surround them.
The Central Market of Valencia, however, bridges the historic with the contemporary. Behind a beautiful Modernista façade, you’ll find a mix of stalls and shops selling everything from local produce and fish to homemade goods. Though the options are extensive, everything is neatly organized by category (e.g. wine, fashion, snacks). Fora X Advisor Marisa Schwab loves the Central Bar, where you can dine on “market-fresh dishes in a vibrant, traditional setting.”
Where to stay in Ciutat Vella, Valencia: Palacio Santa Clara, Caro Hotel or Only YOU Hotel
Image courtesy of Palacio Santa Clara, Autograph Collection
Ciutat Vella hosts many of Valencia's best hotels, both in terms of location and amenities. Marriott’s Palacio Santa Clara offers the vibe of an upscale boutique hotel with the familiar service of an established brand. The aesthetic is equal parts contemporary and historic, with vintage-inspired furnishings and local art in the rooms and common spaces. It's barely a block from Carrer Colón, one of Valencia’s liveliest streets, with tons of restaurants and shops.
Caro Hotel — Patricia’s first pick for Cuitat Valle — is in a quieter corner of the barrio. A historic façade conceals an otherwise contemporary hotel. While the building housing the hotel is new, it was built on an archeological site. Distinct elements of Roman, Moorish and Gothic architecture are still present in exhibits and the occasional wall or support column.
If you prefer a property near Cuitat Vella’s border with the neighboring Eixample barrio, choose Only YOU Hotel. At this luxe but cozy property, rooms and common spaces are thoughtfully designed for comfort and eye appeal (parquet flooring, functional but intricate lighting elements, bold pops of color in the fabrics).
“Only YOU Hotel Valencia is amazing, with its ultra-modern interiors, amazing service and fantastic central location!” Patricia said.
Fora’s Marriott LUMINOUS partner perks at Palacio Santa Clara, Autograph Collection include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, a room upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora’s Preferred Platinum partner perks at Only YOU Hotel Valencia include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, a room upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Eixample
Image courtesy of Hospes Palau de la Mar
The barrio of Eixample is where to stay in Valencia, Spain, if you prefer a stylish modern setting with historical throwbacks along wide, tree-lined avenues. Chic boutiques, trendy cafés and gourmet restaurants abound. The barrio’s central location and excellent transport links make it a convenient base for exploring both neighboring Ciutat Vella and Valencia’s contemporary attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences (see below).
Highlights in Eixample: Russafa and La Gran Via
Eixample is made of two different subdistricts, Russafa and La Gran Via. The two areas represent the different aspects of modern life in Valencia. The latter is an affluent area packed with Michelin-Star restaurants, refined bars and local boutiques. The former has more of an indie, hipster vibe.
“Russafa can be considered Valencia’s version of Brooklyn — artsy, trendy and full of life!” Patricia said. “It is a bohemian hotspot known for its colorful buildings, hip cafés and vibrant nightlife.”
Where to stay in Eixample, Valencia: Hospes Palau de la Mar
Image courtesy of Hospes Palau de la Mar
Hospes Palau de la Mar is an upscale boutique hotel in a restored historic building. Stay in stylish rooms and explore the hotel’s other amenities, including a high-end spa and a gourmet Valencian restaurant. Like the district it calls home, much of the design is contemporary and fresh. However, nods to its historical past are visible in its ornate façade and carried through in small details, like Modernista stained-glass details in the atrium and grandiose columns leading up to the lobby.
Fora’s Design Hotels partner perks include welcome amenities, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
El Cabanyal and La Malvarrosa
El Cabanyal and La Malvarrosa are beachfront subdistricts of the larger Poblats Marítims barrio. El Cabanyal offers a glimpse into Valencia’s working-class past and emerging urban renaissance. It was once a fishing district, but now features a mix of colorful houses and lively streets decorated with local art and murals. Explore authentic local markets, enjoy traditional seafood restaurants and experience the neighborhood’s deep-rooted maritime culture.
La Malvarrosa is synonymous with Valencia’s beachfront lifestyle with its expansive, golden sandy beach and bustling promenade. Enjoy a leisurely day soaking up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean or savor a meal at one of the many chic seaside restaurants and cafés. (Although, you’ll find more authentic Valencian cuisine in neighboring El Cabanyal.)
“Malvarrosa is perfect if you want to be right on the Mediterranean coast and enjoy the beachy, laid-back vibe,” Patricia said.
Where to stay in La Malvarrosa: Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Valencia
Image courtesy of Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Valencia
Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Valencia is an elegant beach resort on El Cabanyal’s Las Arenas Beach. Sea-facing rooms and suites — many with private balconies — offer plenty of space and excellent views. The property’s design is stately, but the atmosphere is laid-back and private. The beach itself is a short trek through the resort’s manicured grounds, but if you’re not up for the walk, there are indoor and outdoor pool options. Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Valencia also has a high-end spa, formal dining options that explore different parts of the Mediterranean, a children’s club and fitness center.
Quatre Carreres
Quatre Carreres is where to stay in Valencia if you’re mostly interested in exploring the city’s massive City of Arts and Sciences complex, a futuristic, architectural and cultural hub for art, science and entertainment. The complex features an interactive Science Museum, the Oceanographic (Europe's largest aquarium) and an IMAX theater. There are also many green spaces for burning off energy, and the area is well connected if your family wants to explore other parts of Valencia. The site has earned Valencia a spot among the best European trips for families, and is a must if you’re visiting Spain with kids.
Accommodations across Quatre Carreres range from modest to mid-range, so if you’re looking for something more luxurious, stick to Eixample, El Cabyanal or Cuitat Vellas, any of which are still less than 15 to 20 minutes from the complex by car.
Fora Advisors’ tips for where to stay in Valencia, Spain
Read on for more tips to consider when planning your stay in Valencia.
Local meal times are hours later than you may be used to
Valencia follows a traditional Spanish meal schedule. Locals typically enjoy breakfast between 9 and 11 am, lunch between 2 and 3:30 pm and dinner no earlier than 9 pm. Late afternoon snacks — mariendas — are the norm. Most eateries that cater to locals — the most authentic options — typically follow these patterns and may even be closed outside these times. Other eateries geared toward international guests (like hotel restaurants), are usually open all day.
“Valencia is a city that wakes up late, dines even later and never runs out of sunshine and good vibes!” Patricia said.
It’s easy to get around
Valencia’s barrios, especially those in the city center and toward the coastline (i.e., the neighborhoods mentioned above), are easily walkable. For longer distances, the city's efficient public transport system — including buses, a metro and tram — are reliable. Bike lanes and rentals are found throughout the city, too. Alternatively, the city has a bike-share program, Valenbisi, that allows you to borrow bikes from stands found all over for a modest fee.
Try horchata and paella
Horchata de chuffa and paella are both famously associated with Valencia. The latter, in its authentic form, is a rice dish that incorporates Spanish saffron, olive oil, rabbit, chicken, tomato, flat green beans and lima beans. The former, a plant-based drink with a refreshing, nutty flavor, was likely brought to Valencia by the Romans and adapted with local ingredients, particularly tiger nuts. You’ll find a take on each virtually anywhere in the city.
Reserve three to four days in Valencia (though you may wish to stay longer)
Three to four days is generally enough time to enjoy Valencia’s highlights. If you want to save time to wander, add an extra couple days. The City of Arts and Sciences, for example, easily offers enough to warrant at least a day or two. Stay somewhere in Valencia’s city center to minimize travel times.
March to May and September through October are the best months to visit
Spring and early autumn, under Valencia’s Mediterranean climate, offers the best balance of comfortable temperatures and crowds. Pleasant weather creates the perfect setting to enjoy alfresco dining, leisurely strolls through historic streets and lively local festivals without the intense heat or peak crowds of summer. However, summer — Valencia’s busiest time of year — may be the best time if you’re mostly interested in local beaches. In contrast, while less lively, winter brings mild temperatures, sparse crowds and the best rates (outside of the holiday season).
Valencia is safe for travelers
Valencia’s central neighborhoods experience little crime outside of petty theft. Exercise normal travel precautions and you should have no issues. If you’re concerned about theft of belongings, though, consider getting travel insurance beforehand.
High-speed trains can take you to other destinations like Barcelona
Regular AVE and Euromed high-speed rail services efficiently link Valencia to other cities worth visiting across Spain, such as Madrid and Barcelona (from these cities you can also reach other destinations in Europe). The ride from Valencia to Barcelona, for example, takes around 2.5 to three hours. Taking the train is also cheaper than renting a car and paying for fuel, and makes multi-destination trips far more feasible (see where to stay in Barcelona or where to stay in Madrid, Spain).
Valencia offers access to the Balearic Islands by ferry
Valencia-based ferries sail to ports in Mallorca and Ibiza (both great options for Spain bachelorette parties). Voyages typically take five to eight hours. Flying is certainly faster, taking around three hours on average, including baggage and security times. But the ferries are more comfortable, with onboard services and lower rates.
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