Where to Stay in Valencia, Spain: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

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Wondering where to stay in Valencia? You’re in the right place.

Valencia has a lot to offer, and it’s just spread out enough that choosing the right area really matters. If you stay in the old town, you’ll be surrounded by landmarks and tapas bars, but if you base yourself in Eixample or Ruzafa, you’ll be closer to nightlife and a more local feel. And then to complicate things further, there are also more coastal options, or you can go for a cultural stay near the City of Arts and Sciences. 

So how do you choose? Well, that’s where we come in! To make life easier, we’ve rounded up the four best areas to stay in Valencia, plus hotel picks for every budget. 

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Valencia

One of the things we love the most about Valencia is how liveable it feels. However, it’s also quite spread out, which is why it’s really important to choose the right area. We think of the city as having four main “home zones”, and each one has its own vibe and reason to stay.

Ciutat Vella is the historic heart of the city and where you’ll find most of Valencia’s major landmarks. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors, but Eixample, especially around Ruzafa, is another good option, with great shopping and nightlife. 

If beach time is high on your list, El Cabanyal and Malvarrosa put you right by the sea, and then you’ve also got Quatre Carreres, which is home to the City of Arts and Sciences. This is quieter and more modern, so it would be our top pick for families or museum lovers.

The old town itself is very walkable, but you can’t realistically stroll everywhere, especially if you’re heading to the beach or the arts complex, since these sit a few kilometres out from the center. Luckily, getting around is easy thanks to Valencia’s red EMT buses. Line 95 loops around the historic center, while lines 5, 19, 31, and 32 run out toward the beach. 

To reach the City of Arts and Sciences, buses 35 and 95 work well, as does Metro line 10. The main train station also sits right near the bullring and the city center, and taxis are easy to grab for quick, affordable rides when you don’t feel like navigating public transport.

• Ciutat Vella (Old Town) – Best for first-time visitors & history – A lot of Valencia’s main sights and plazas are here, so we think it’s the best area for first-time visitors and those keen to discover the city’s history. Hotel Conqueridor is a comfortable hotel that makes an excellent base for sightseeing.

• Eixample & Ruzafa – Best for shopping & nightlife – This area has a more local feel, and it’s a great choice if shopping and nightlife are your main priorities. Soho Valencia is a stylish, well-priced hotel that puts you close to the action while still promising a good night’s sleep.

• El Cabanyal & Malvarrosa – Best for beach days – This is where you should stay if you’re dreaming of beach days and a relaxed coastal vibe. Hotel Boutique Balandret is a lovely beachfront stay that won’t break the bank.

• Quatre Carreres (City of Arts & Sciences) – Best for families & museums – This modern area is quiet and spacious, with tons of museums and cultural attractions to check out. Holiday Inn Express Ciudad de las Ciencias is a practical, good-value option.

Where to Stay in Valencia

Ciutat Vella (Old Town)

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS & HISTORY

Pros

• Walking distance to Valencia’s main landmarks, restaurants, and plazas
• Lively atmosphere day and night without needing transport

Cons

• Can feel busy, especially in peak season
• Limited parking and narrow streets, so not ideal for cars

Ciutat Vella is the best place to stay if it’s your first time in Valencia and you want to be right in the middle of it all. This is the city’s historic core, and it’s where a lot of the must-see landmarks are. Staying here means that you can step out of your hotel and immediately start sightseeing! We stayed here on our first trip to Valencia, and we loved wandering through the winding streets and stopping for tapas whenever we felt like it.

As for what to see around here, Valencia Cathedral, the Central Market, and La Lonja de la Seda immediately come to mind. The famous Turia Gardens also start just outside of the old town, so it’s easy to escape into greenery whenever you want a break from the more urban landscape.

We think that Ciutat Vella suits travellers who value convenience above all else. It does tend to be one of the more expensive parts of the city to stay in, but if you’re only in Valencia for a few days, then basing yourself here will really help you to make the most of your time. It’s very walkable and well-connected to other areas of the city by public transport, so staying here makes exploring Valencia an absolute breeze! 

Only YOU Hotel Valencia – $$$

Only YOU Hotel Valencia is a super stylish hotel right in the heart of Ciutat Vella. It’s super central, and it definitely delivers a bit of wow factor alongside its prime location. 

Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of the cathedral, the Central Market, and plenty of restaurants and bars, so it’s very easy to explore the old town on foot. And inside, we like how it feels modern and polished without being stuffy.

The common spaces boast a lively atmosphere, and there’s a very cosmopolitan, social feel to this property. Rooms typically start from around €230 per night during the busier seasons.

Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here! 

If Only YOU Hotel Valencia is fully booked, MYR Palacio Vallier is a beautiful boutique option in a historic building close to the cathedral, and we also love Caro Hotel because it offers a super unique stay that blends luxury with layers of Roman and medieval history.

Hotel Conqueridor – $$

Hotel Conqueridor is a reliable hotel that we think is a great choice for first-time visitors. It offers a central base without paying luxury prices, and since it sits on the edge of the old town, you’re close to the main sights but a little removed from the busiest streets.

The rooms are simple, comfortable, and practical, making this a good choice if you plan to spend most of your time out exploring rather than hanging around the hotel. It’s also well connected to public transport, which is handy if you’re planning day trips or heading out to the beach or the City of Arts and Sciences.

Expect to pay around €180 to €220 per night for a double room in peak season.

Take a look at availability and current rates here!

If Hotel Conqueridor is booked out, SH Colón Valencia is a modern alternative near the main train station, while Catalonia Excelsior is another reputable hotel that offers great value in the city center.

Petit Palace Plaza de la Reina – $

Petit Palace Plaza de la Reina is a wonderful budget-friendly option if you want to stay right in the old town and aren’t worried about fancy extras. It’s a compact property but with chic, modern decor, so it doesn’t really feel budget, despite its affordable price tag. 

And the location of this property is hard to beat! It’s just steps from Plaza de la Reina, the cathedral, and tons of great restaurants and cafes. We think that this hotel suits travellers who plan to be out all day sightseeing and just want a clean, comfortable place to come back to at night—that’s definitely us a lot of the time!

Prices usually start from around €120 to €150 per night, depending on the time of year.

Check availability for this budget-friendly stay here!

If Petit Palace Plaza de la Reina is unavailable, Casual Socarrat Valencia is an upbeat, adult-only hotel nearby. We also like Ad Hoc Monumental 1881 because it offers a quieter and more traditional stay close to the Turia Gardens.

Eixample & Ruzafa

BEST FOR SHOPPING & NIGHTLIFE

Pros

• Great mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife
• Feels more local and lived-in than the old town

Cons

• Fewer headline landmarks within walking distance
• Can be noisy at night, especially around Ruzafa

Staying in Eixample and Ruzafa is a great choice if you want to experience a more modern but everyday side of Valencia. This area sits just outside the old town and feels noticeably more local. Along its wide boulevards, you’ll find a lot of independent boutiques, as well as a strong food and nightlife scene. Ruzafa in particular has a slightly bohemian edge and is one of the city’s trendiest neighbourhoods – in fact, it’s the place to be in the evenings! 

Shopping is one of the big draws here. You’re close to Colón Street, which is Valencia’s main shopping drag, and there are also plenty of smaller stores and markets dotted around the area. And when it comes to eating and drinking, there’s no shortage of options – believe me! So if you like to go out a lot in the evenings and don’t want to travel far, we highly recommend staying here.

Eixample and Ruzafa also really suit travellers who have already ticked off the main sights or don’t mind hopping on public transport to reach them. You can still walk to the old town in about 15 to 20 minutes, and buses and metro lines run frequently through the area. It’s a lively place to stay, though, so if you’re sensitive to noise, then it’s definitely worth choosing your hotel carefully.

Senator Parque Central – $$$

Senator Parque Central is a smart hotel that offers a polished stay just outside the busiest parts of the city. It sits near Parque Central, so the area feels a little calmer than Ruzafa itself, but you’re still close enough to walk to shops and nightlife when you feel like exploring. 

The rooms here are spacious and modern, so we think that this is a good pick if you like a bit more breathing room after a busy day out. It’s also a solid option if you’re arriving by train, as it’s close to the main station and well connected by public transport. 

Rooms generally start somewhere between €220 and €260 per night during peak season.

Check current rates and availability here!

If Senator Parque Central is all booked up, we also like YOURS boutique stay—it’s a smaller alternative, but it’s very chic. Meanwhile, Hospes Palau de La Mar is a gorgeous upscale option set in a beautiful historic building.

Soho Valencia – $$

Soho Valencia is a great mid-range option if you want to stay close to both Eixample and Ruzafa, but on a fairly modest budget. The location is ideal for shopping and eating out, and you can even walk to the old town from here if you don’t mind a slightly longer stroll.

This hotel has a clean, minimalist design that feels chic rather than sparse. It’s well priced for the area and super comfortable! You’re also only a few minutes’ walk from the train station, so exploring Valencia via public transport is easy if you stay here.

You can expect prices for Soho Valencia to sit at around €160 to €220 per night during peak season.

Read the stellar reviews and book your stay here!

If Soho Valencia is booked out, Petit Palace Ruzafa is another excellent modern hotel that’s closer to the heart of the neighbourhood, while Hotel Dimar is a large and well-established 4-star property with a bit more of that “classic hotel” feel.

MD Modern Hotel – Jardines – $

MD Modern Hotel – Jardines is a solid budget-friendly choice that’s well located between Eixample and the Turia Gardens. It’s a simple hotel that prioritises location and value over frills, although there are a couple of boutique design touches around. It doesn’t feel sparse at all – it just keeps things straightforward!

Best of all, the hotel is in a great location, so guests can walk to shopping streets and public transport. The rooms are fairly compact but comfortable, so if you plan to spend most of your time out and about, we think that staying here is a great way to save yourself some Euros.

Prices usually start from around €145 per night.

Check all the details and secure your stay here!

If MD Modern Hotel – Jardines is sold out, Hi Valencia Canovas is another affordable option in a similar location.

El Cabanyal & Malvarrosa

BEST FOR BEACH DAYS

Pros

• Right by the beach!
• Great seafood restaurants

Cons

• Not within walking distance of the main historic sights
• Limited nightlife compared to the city center

El Cabanyal and Malvarrosa are the best areas to stay in Valencia if beach time is high on your priority list! This part of the city sits along the coast and feels very different from the historic center. There’s definitely a slower pace here, and its location means that there’s a strong seaside atmosphere.

El Cabanyal is the older of the two neighborhoods. It was once a fishing district, and you can still see evidence of those roots to this day! The area is known for its colorful buildings, so it’s a lovely place to wander around.

Meanwhile, Malvarrosa is more open and resort-like, stretching along the main city beach. In fact, Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the city, and the area also boasts a long promenade that’s lined with restaurants and cafés. It’s one of the best spots in Valencia for seafood, especially paella! 

El Cabanyal and Malvarrosa really suit travellers who want a more laid-back, vacation-style stay rather than a trip packed with sightseeing. However, it’s still possible to mix sightseeing in with beach days because while you won’t be close to the main landmarks if you stay here, you’ll still be easily able to hop on a bus or tram to the city center.

Las Arenas Balneario Resort – $$$

Las Arenas Balneario Resort is a classic beachfront favourite. If you want to stay right by the sea in style, this is the place! 

The location here is a big draw because once you step out of the hotel, you’re essentially on Playa de la Malvarrosa! But as well as close proximity to the sand, the promenade, and a ton of amazing seafood restaurants, this hotel boasts bright white beachy decor with huge windows that look right out onto the sand. It’s gorgeous! 

The hotel feels a bit more grown-up and refined than many beach properties. Staying somewhere like this is really the main event of your trip – we would happily lounge around by the gorgeous pool all day! So if you’re really looking for that seaside holiday vibe, this is without a doubt our top pick.

Rooms generally start at around €300 during peak season.

Book your stay at this beachfront favorite here!

Las Arenas Balneario Resort is popular, so if it’s booked up already, Hotel Neptuno Playa & Spa is another excellent choice in a similar beachfront location. 

Hotel Boutique Balandret – $$

Hotel Boutique Balandret is one of our favorite hotel picks right by the beach. It sits steps from Malvarrosa Beach, which means you’re close to sand, sea, and the promenade without having to rent transport! The vibe here feels a bit more local and authentic than some of the bigger resorts, and we love that it manages to feel contemporary and stylish without trying too hard.

The rooms are comfortable and well-styled, with touches that make the place feel a bit more special than your average mid-range stay! For travellers who want a beach base that’s still walkable to good restaurants and cafés, this is a really strong choice! Double rooms typically cost around €250 during peak season.

Have a look at availability and current rates here!

If Hotel Boutique Balandret is sold out, Casa Bassa Hotel is another reputable beachside pick with a boutique feel, while PAMPHYLIA HOTEL is another stylish alternative with top-notch service.

Sol Playa – $

We think that Sol Playa is an excellent budget option for travellers who want to stay near the beach without paying a premium. It’s a simple but practical property—it offers comfortable rooms in a great location, and it’s great for those who are planning to be out and about most of the time. 

Sol Playa isn’t fancy, but it’s clean and bright, and most of the rooms offer at least a glimpse of the sea, which is a lovely bonus for the price. The location really is what makes this place worth it because you can walk straight to Malvarrosa Beach, and there are loads of bars and seafood spots nearby.

Prices usually start from around €150 per night during the warmer months.

Find the best rates for Sol Playa over at Booking.com!

If Sol Playa is booked up, El Globo is a cheerful and well-located alternative just a short stroll from the beach. Livensa Living Studios Valencia is a simple but sleek option that’s still easy on the wallet.

Quatre Carreres

BEST FOR FAMILIES & MUSEUMS

Pros

• Right next to Valencia’s biggest museums and attractions
• Quieter and more spacious area with modern hotels

Cons

• Not much nightlife or atmosphere in the evenings
• Less traditional character compared to the old town

Quatre Carreres is the best area to stay in Valencia if you’re travelling with family, or if you’re especially interested in museums and modern architecture. This neighbourhood is best known for being home to the City of Arts and Sciences, which is one of the city’s most iconic attractions and a huge draw for visitors of all ages! Trust me, you’ve got to check it out while you’re in the city, even if you don’t stay in the area.

Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of places like the Science Museum, the Oceanogràfic, and the Hemisfèric. Needless to say, it’s incredibly convenient if these are high on your itinerary! The area itself feels modern and open, with wide streets and plenty of green spaces, which can be a welcome change if you’re travelling with kids or just prefer somewhere a bit calmer.

Quatre Carreres isn’t the most atmospheric part of Valencia, especially in the evenings, but that’s not really why people stay here. It suits travellers who want a low-stress base with space to move around and attractions close by. While you won’t be able to walk to the historic center from here, buses and the metro make it easy to get into the old town or out to the beach when you want to mix things up.

Holiday Inn Express Ciudad de las Ciencias – $$ 

Holiday Inn Express Ciudad de las Ciencias is a practical and comfortable option if you’re staying in Quatre Carreres, especially if you’re visiting Valencia with family or planning to spend a lot of time at the nearby museums. The biggest advantage here is the location. You’re within easy walking distance of the City of Arts and Sciences, which makes mornings with kids (or busy itineraries) a whole lot easier.

And as for the hotel itself—it’s nothing super fancy, but it boasts clean, modern rooms and everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, and we think it works really well if you’re more focused on sightseeing anyway.

Rooms typically cost between €130 to €250 per night during peak season, depending on the room category you opt for.

Check current rates and availability here!

If Holiday Inn Express Ciudad de las Ciencias is booked up,  Hotel Medium Valencia is a slightly more stylish alternative nearby, while NH Valencia Las Artes is spacious and modern, but still well priced.

Hotel Malcom and Barret – $

We think that Hotel Malcom and Barret is a really solid budget-friendly choice if you want to stay near the City of Arts and Sciences. It’s a modern hotel that feels fresh and welcoming, and it’s stylish but not flashy. Honestly, I think it delivers excellent value for money! 

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the overall vibe is relaxed and practical rather than flashy. While it’s not right next to Valencia’s main sights, there are good bus connections nearby, so getting around the city is still easy. Rooms usually cost between €120 and €150 per night, depending on the season.

Check current rates and availability here!

If Hotel Malcom and Barret are booked up, B&B HOTEL Valencia Arena is another dependable budget option nearby, while HQ Arena Hotel is a newer alternative with a more modern feel.

Related Read: To help you plan your days, we’ve also put together a detailed three-day Valencia itinerary that covers must-see sights, great food stops, and easy ways to get around.

Top Activities to do in Valencia

Now that you’ve picked the best area to stay in Valencia and found a hotel that suits your travel style, it’s time to start planning what to do! From food-focused experiences to outdoor adventures and city sightseeing, Valencia has something for every kind of traveler. Here are a few of our top activity picks!

• Make authentic paella in Valencia – Paella might be Valencia’s most famous dish, but learning to make it ourselves took things to another level! This small-group cooking class starts at a local market, includes tapas and sangria, and teaches you the secrets behind true Valencian paella (yes, even socarrat!).

• Eat your way through Valencia’s Old Town – For history and food in the best way possible, this walking tour combines them both. You’ll explore landmarks like the Cathedral and La Lonja de la Seda before ending with a 10-course tapas feast and local wines in a hidden Old Town dining spot.

• See the city on a private Segway tour – This Segway tour is a fun, effortless way to cover a lot of ground. Glide through Turia Gardens, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the historic old town while your guide shares stories, history, and photo-worthy stops along the way.

• Swim in thermal springs and waterfalls – Cooling off in nature is what this full-day tour does best! Swim beneath waterfalls, float in natural thermal pools, try a cliff jump if you’re feeling brave, and explore stunning canyon scenery for a refreshing escape from the city.

• Float through the Caves of San José – This half-day trip takes you to Europe’s largest underground river, where you’ll cruise by boat through dramatic caves and hidden chambers. With transport and skip-the-line entry included, it’s an easy and unforgettable adventure from Valencia.

Related Read: Looking for even more great ideas? Check out our detailed guide on the best things to do in Valencia here for in-depth tips, must-see sights, and personal recommendations.

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Choosing where to stay in Valencia really comes down to how you want to experience the city. From the historic streets of Ciutat Vella to the nightlife of Eixample and Ruzafa, the beachy vibe of El Cabanyal, or the modern calm of Quatre Carreres, each area offers something a little different. Once you match the neighborhood to your travel style, the rest falls into place—just be sure to book early, as the best hotels don’t stay available for long!

Before you go, be sure to check out all of our Spain travel blogs here for even more tips, itineraries, and hotel recommendations. We’ve also linked a few of our favorite guides below to help inspire your next stop along the way!

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