Where to stay in Valencia: 7 Best neighborhoods

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Sunshine, paella, beach days, and a city that mixes modern vibes with a rich history, what's not to love about Valencia? But before you start dreaming about your first glass of horchata, there’s one big question: where to stay in Valencia?

Trust us, choosing the right base can make or break your trip. Some Valencia neighborhoods are all about beachy vibes, others are buzzing with art, culture, and late-night vermouth. This guide, brought to you with our partner VLC Host, breaks down the best neighborhoods Valencia has to offer.

Meet VLC Host – the perfect home in Valencia

If you're searching for the perfect place to stay in Valencia, look no further than VLC Host. VLC Host offers a curated selection of high-quality, design-forward apartments located in the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Each property is handpicked for comfort, style, and convenience, so whether you’re here for a short city break or a longer stay, you’ll always feel at home.

1. El Carmen

El Carmen is one of the best-known Valencia neighborhoods. Nestled on the northwest side of Old Town, this area has a lot of character. There you’ll find cobblestone alleys, Roman and Moorish architecture, funky street art, and bars tucked inside historical buildings.

Atmosphere: Historic, artistic, and lively after dark.

Best for: First-time visitors, history lovers, night owls, and culture seekers.

Highlights:

Grab a café con leche at Café de Las Horas (don’t miss the agua de Valencia).
Walk the medieval Serranos Towers.
Lose yourself in the many alleys and stumble into art galleries, bookshops, or unexpected live music.

2. Ruzafa

Ruzafa (or Russafa if you're keeping it Valenciano) was once a working-class district, but has blossomed into the city’s most dynamic and eclectic neighborhood. This is the neighborhood where creatives, expats, and entrepreneurs have put down roots. If you’re into brunch spots, vinyl shops, and murals, this is where to stay.

Atmosphere: Trendy, artistic, multicultural.

Best for: Digital nomads, foodies, boutique shoppers, LGBTQ+ travelers.

Highlights:

Visit Mercado de Ruzafa, a market perfect for sampling local produce and observing daily life.
Spending a night out? Head to Ubik Café for bookish wine lovers or La Fábrica de Hielo for live tunes.

3. El Cabanyal

You like sand between your toes? Fresh seafood at your doorstep? Colorful old fishermen’s houses with the right amount of grit and charm? Say no more, El Cabanyal is your spot. What was once a fisherman’s quarter is today undergoing a cultural revival, attracting artists and young families.

Atmosphere: Seaside, vintage, a little quirky.

Best for: Beach lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and sun-seeking travelers.

Highlights:

Brunch with a sea view at La Más Bonita.
Sunset stroll on Malvarrosa Beach.
Explore the vibrant tiled facades and Instagram them all.

4. Benimaclet

If you want to skip the tourist stuff and get straight to the heart of the city’s spirit, Benimaclet is the right place. A mix of young locals, students, and long-time residents give this spot a strong community vibe.

Atmosphere: Laid-back, local, effortlessly cool.

Best for: Travelers on a budget, backpackers, and long-term visitors.

Highlights:

Sunday paella at a local square.
Tiny bars with live music.

5. L’Eixample

Want to stay somewhere elegant but still walking distance from all the fun? L’Eixample is all about grand buildings, elegant townhouses, and posh boutiques. If you’re in town for shopping and upscale tapas, this is where to base yourself.

Atmosphere: Polished, central, elegant.

Best for: Couples, shoppers, those who like the finer things.

Highlights:

Visit Mercado de Colón for wine tastings and top-tier snacks.
Shop on Calle Colón, Valencia’s prime shopping avenue.
Dinner at El Poblet, a two Michelin star restaurant.

6. Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

You’ve probably come across photos of Valencia’s most iconic architectural complex. This area feels like stepping into the future, and it's where science, nature, and architecture collide. Plus, it’s perfect if you want a quiet home base with loads of green space and easy access to major sights.

Atmosphere: Modern, calm, clean.

Best for: Families, architecture enthusiasts, science fans.

Highlights:

Visit L’Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, home to over 500 marine species.
Cycle through the Turia Gardens (a park built on a former river).
Catch an IMAX movie or planetarium show.

7. El Botànic

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, El Botànic is a hidden gem tucked near the Jardí Botànic. It’s central, but peaceful, offering a quiet refuge just minutes from the historic center.

Atmosphere: Quiet, green.

Best for: Writers, nature lovers, and couples seeking peace and quiet.

Highlights:

Chill in the botanical gardens with a book.
Walk into the center in under 10 minutes, then retreat when you’re done.

So, where should you stay in Valencia?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and each neighborhood offers something unique. You’ve got history, beaches, art, nightlife, and neighborhood charm. So, no matter your travel style, there’s a Valencia neighborhood that fits.

And with VLC Host, finding the perfect place to stay is stress-free. Whether you’re in town for 48 hours or planning a month-long escape, they’ve got curated homes in all the best neighborhoods Valencia has to offer.