Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. With its diverse neighborhoods, the city offers something for everyone, whether you’re an expat, student, family, or investor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through Valencia’s top 7 neighborhoods, each with its unique character and advantages.
1. Ciutat Vella: The beating heart of Valencia
Ciutat Vella, Valencia’s historic center, is divided into six distinctive neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern urban life.
El Carmen
- Borders the green Turia Park
- Access via the impressive Torres de Serranos
- Bohemian atmosphere with trendy bars and restaurants
- Popular among young professionals and artists
La Seu
- Home to iconic squares: Plaza de la Virgin and Plaza de la Reina
- Central location of Valencia Cathedral
- Ideal for architecture and history enthusiasts
El Mercat
- Heart of the district: the famous Mercado Central
- La Lonja de la Seda: UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Vibrant street life and authentic Valencian atmosphere
El Pilar
- Quieter living while maintaining the city center feel
- More affordable housing market compared to other central districts
- Walking distance to all central attractions
La Xerea
- Most affluent part of Ciutat Vella
- Home to the beautiful Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas
- Luxury shops and high-end restaurants
Sant Francesc
- Business heart of the city with Plaza del Ayuntamiento
- Proximity to Estació del Nord train station
- Mix of historic buildings and modern offices
Accessibility Ciutat Vella:
- 20 minutes cycling to Malvarrosa beach
- 20 minutes by car to Valencia Airport
- Excellent public transport with metro and bus connections
Ideal for: Culture lovers, young professionals, tourists
2. L’Eixample: Elegance and modernity combined
L’Eixample, literally ‘the extension’, bridges old and new Valencia. This area is known for its elegant streets and modernist architecture.
Pla de Remei
- Exclusive shopping area with luxury brands and boutiques
- Location of the beautiful Mercat de Colón
- Stately buildings and wide avenues
Ruzafa (Russafa)
- Valencia’s hippest neighborhood
- Vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene
- Popular among young creatives and international residents
- Numerous galleries, vintage shops, and coworking spaces
La Gran Via
- Prestigious avenue with impressive architecture
- Green zones and parks for a pleasant living environment
- Proximity to important cultural institutions
Accessibility L’Eixample:
- 15 minutes cycling to Malvarrosa beach
- 20 minutes by car to the airport
- Good connections with bus and metro
Ideal for: Shoppers, foodies, young professionals, expats
3. Benimaclet: artistic village feel in the city
Benimaclet offers a unique mix of village charm and urban amenities, making it particularly attractive to a diverse group of residents.
- Former village with retained village character
- Popular among students due to proximity to University of Valencia
- Vibrant art scene with many murals and galleries
- Affordable rental and purchase properties
- Proximity to Jardins del Real and Mestalla stadium
Accessibility Benimaclet:
- 15 minutes cycling to the beach
- 20 minutes by car to the airport
- Good tram connections to the center and beach
Ideal for: Students, artists, families, expats
4. Campanar: Loads of Green Space and Parks
Campanar, located in the northwest of Valencia, offers a perfect balance between urban comfort and quiet living.
- Mix of historic buildings and modern apartments
- Home to Bioparc, Valencia’s modern zoo
- Proximity to large shopping centers like Nuevo Centro
- Many green spaces and parks
- Business district with modern office buildings
Accessibility Campanar:
- 15 minutes by car to the beach
- 10 minutes by car to the airport
- Good metro and bus connections
Ideal for: Families, professionals, nature lovers
5. Benicalap: Affordable Living for Everyone
Benicalap is an up-and-coming neighborhood that’s becoming increasingly popular due to its affordability and improving amenities.
- One of the most affordable neighborhoods in Valencia
- Large municipal park Benicalap
- Proximity to Palau de Congressos for events
- Growing supply of shops and restaurants
- Good connections to the University of Valencia in Burjassot
Accessibility Benicalap:
- 25 minutes drive to the beach
- 20 minutes drive to the airport
- Connected to the center via metro and bus
Ideal for: First-time buyers, students, young families
6. Camins Al Grau and Quatre Carreres: Between city and beach
These adjacent neighborhoods offer a perfect mix of city life and beach pleasure, with many modern amenities.
- Home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences
- Popular shopping area along Avinguda de França
- Large shopping centers such as Aqua Multiespacio and El Saler
- Proximity to the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium
- Modern apartments with good facilities
Accessibility Camins Al Grau and Quatre Carreres:
- 10 to 20 minutes cycling to the beach
- 20 to 25 minutes drive to the airport
- Good bus and tram connections
Ideal for: Young professionals, families, tourists
7. Poblats Marítims: Living on the mediterranean sea
For those dreaming of a life by the sea, Poblats Marítims is the perfect choice. This area consists of several former fishing villages, each with its own character.
El Cabanyal
- Protected historic district with unique architecture
- Authentic fish restaurants and cozy tapas bars
- Growing artist community
Malvarrosa and Patacona
- Long sandy beaches with palm-lined promenades
- Water sports facilities and beach clubs
- Popular among expats and digital nomads
El Grau
- Home to the marina and cruise terminal
- Modern apartments with sea views
- Proximity to Marina Real Juan Carlos I
Accessibility Poblats Marítims:
- Directly on the beach
- 25 minutes by car to the airport
- Connected to the center via tram and bus
Ideal for: Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, hospitality entrepreneurs
Valencia’s diverse neighborhoods offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for historic charm in Ciutat Vella, hip city life in Ruzafa, quiet living in Campanar, or a life by the sea in Poblats Marítims, Valencia has it all.