Valencia is a city where you can have it all: a Gothic old town, a park running through the middle and a long sandy beach. Choosing where to stay depends on how you want to split your time between them.
The quick answer
- First trip: Ciutat Vella, the old town.
- Food and nightlife: Ruzafa.
- Families: around the City of Arts and Sciences, or by the beach.
- Beach holiday: Las Arenas and the Malvarrosa.
Ciutat Vella (old town)
The historic centre, inside the old walls, has the Cathedral, La Lonja, the Central Market and the lanes of the Barrio del Carmen, behind the Torres de Serranos. Everything is on foot, but streets can be lively at night.
Ruzafa and the Eixample
South of the old town, the elegant Eixample has wide avenues and the Colón market, and Ruzafa next door is Valencia’s trendiest district, full of cafés, restaurants and bars.
The City of Arts and Sciences
At the eastern end of the Turia Gardens, the City of Arts and Sciences area has modern hotels, many with pools, close to the Oceanogràfic – a good choice for families.
Las Arenas and the Malvarrosa
The city beaches stretch north of the port. Hotels here are right by the sand, the promenade is lined with rice restaurants, and the tram links you to the centre.
Tips for choosing a hotel
- A pool is a real plus from June to September; they are more common outside the old town.
- Book early for the Fallas in mid-March, when the city is full and very noisy.
- Rent a bike: the city is flat, and the Turia Gardens connect almost everything.
Ready to choose? See the 5 best hotels in Valencia and the 5 best family hotels in Valencia, and plan your time with Valencia in 3 days.
