Cost Of Travel In Valencia
Spain is not among the most expensive countries to travel in Europe, but neither it is among the cheapest. The city is definitely cheaper than some other Spanish destinations such as Barcelona or Madrid.
One can expect moderate prices for food and eating out in the city and it is surroundings. You can easily enjoy a menu del dia on weekdays for around 10 euros, while on weekends you can spend between 15 to 20 euros in most restaurants with drinks included. Groceries on the other hand, are just slightly cheaper than countries like France or Germany.
Transport in the city is very efficient, widely available and moderately priced. The city counts with a complex transport network, including metro, trams and buses. Taxis in Spain are cheaper than in most Western European countries.
Quatre Carreres Where To Stay In Valencia On A Budget
Quatre Carreres, or the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias as it is also known, is the cultural capital of Valencia. It consists of seven small barrios which are: Na Rovella, Monteolivete, Malilla, La Punta, Font de San Lluís, En Corts, and the City of Arts and Sciences.
Here you will find the largest aquarium in Spain, an interactive science museum, an opera house, a 3D cinema, and a massive open-air garden.
Situated about three kilometers from the old town, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is for sure where to stay in Valencia if you are on a budget. Here you can find not only some of the cheapest accommodation options but also some of the coolest!
Valencia Is Not For Everyone
Valencia may be Spains third-largest city, but most tourists barely give it a second chance. Rick Steves, whose European travel guides are read by millions, doesnt even mention it in his 1,000-plus page guidebook on Spain.
Why?
Is Valencia worth visitinga secret stud of a city thats being unfairly overlooked? Or is it a dud of a destination?
Heres what weve learned from living there for three months and how to decide for yourself.
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Where To Stay In Valencia On A Budget
Unlike many cities, Valencia has several good budget hotels that are in prime locations convenient to the city’s top tourist attractions and ideal for sightseeing. Hotel Sorolla Centro sits on the outer edge of the Old Town, just one block from the Plaza de Toros and North Station and under five minutes’ walk to Plaza Ayuntamiento.
Rooms are spotless, and since the hotel is in a pedestrian area there is no traffic noise, so you can open the door to your balcony to let in the evening breeze.
Guest rooms are well-soundproofed at Hotel Adhoc Carmen, a wallet-friendly option located near the Torres de Serranos, the Archaeological Museum, and the cathedral. Also close to the riverbed park, it is within walking distance of the Museo de Bellas Artes and has numerous restaurants close by.
The hotel’s 21 rooms are housed in a beautiful historic building with enormous wooden doors and rustic touches of exposed beams and brick. This is a smoke-free hotel, and offers free Wi-Fi, private balconies, and bicycle rentals for guests.
Ciutat Vella The Perfect Base Camp For First
Right in the heart of Valencia, the Old Town is a great starting point if youve never visited the city before.
The area is home to some of the most popular sights of Valencia.
The ancient stone buildings and cobbled streets will give you a good idea about what the birthplace of paella used to look like centuries ago. Youll be right around the corner from the mind-boggling Valencia Cathedral or the famous Plaza de la Reina.
The winding, narrow streets will keep you entertained with their vibrant shops, cozy restaurants, trendy bars, and exciting galleries.
The Old Town is well-connected with the rest of the city via public transport. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or a scooter and explore at your own pace.
Our recommendations: Just a short walk from the Cathedral, the Central Market, and several museums, Only YOU Hotel Valencia is a great choice for your first time in the city. The edgy interior design, the staff friendliness, and the perfect location rank it amongst the best places to stay in Valencia. Looking for a more luxurious experience? Then, book the 5* Caro Hotel. Housed in a 19th-century palace, the accommodation is right next to the ancient Plaza de la Virgen and the medieval La Lonja de la Seda. An outdoor pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and elegant, modern rooms will pamper you during your stay.
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A Quick Glance At Valencias Recommended Neighbourhoods
Ciutat Vella ancient yet happening, this area will welcome you with stunning architecture, varied rentals and plenty of fun
LEixample ritzy and entertaining, it is a neighbourhood with exclusive accommodation, food and divertissement
Extramurs relaxed and authentic, this district will gratify the foodies, those traveling on a budget or as a family
Poblats Marítims laid-back and lazy fun, it is the coastal district with diverse rentals, perfect for a beach holiday
How To Get Around
Valencias public transport system includes both Metro and buses, and youre gonna need both to explore the city.
To get around Ciutat Vella , you can either walk or use buses. Surprisingly, the Metro is only convenient when you want to move between different neighborhoods of the city.
Another option to consider is a bike rental. With about ten different rental companies, its a super popular way to get around the city.
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Where To Stay In Valencia: What You Need To Know
Valencia, capital of the Comunitat Valenciana region and one of the most important cities of the Spanish Mediterranean coast, is one of the most historically significant cities in the Iberian Peninsula.
With a history that goes back to 138 BC, and some of the most innovative and avant-garde buildings of the new millennium, Valencia is a city with architecture for all tastes.
Thanks to its geographical location by the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia is a wonderful and fresh city.
But Valencia is not only a paradise for architecture junkies. In Valencia, you can find shopping, culture, cinema, theater, music, museums, business and much more. Valencia is a hub for international and avant-garde design, as well as being one of the most attractive fairs and congress cities in Europe.
In addition, fine sand, clean water, open sea and the proximity of the coastal mountains give the Valencian coast a unique character.
In Valencia, there are a lot of things to see and do, among the most popular are the visits to the Central Market, the Old Turia River Channel, the Bioparc Zoo and the imposing City of Arts and Sciences .
If you prefer to enjoy the outdoors, you can visit the different beaches such as the Malvarrosa, or the Perellonet, or even visit the Gulliver Park, the Oceanogràfic aquarium.
Valencia is also a foodies paradise, with rice dishes and the universally-known paella as the regions main dishes.
This is a list of the best areas to stay in Valencia.
Algirs The Best Place To Feel The Energy Of The City
Similar to Benimaclet, the lively student atmosphere defines Algirós. The difference is that this fashionable, hip district has always been a part of the city.
This means Algirós doesnt have a small-town vibe. It features wide boulevards and long avenues, as well as modern constructions and big residential buildings.
The district is sandwiched between the seacoast and Túria Park and offers a chance to explore both.
The hip squares Xúquer and Cedro entice with countless bars and restaurants, serving both local and international cuisine. The popular tapas route includes several diners around the two squares, where you can sample small-plate delicacies, paired with locally produced wines.
Our recommendations: In line with the student spirit of Algirós, Residencia Universitaria Damia Bonnet has arranged a study area in its cozy studios. A common fitness center and a gaming room provide opportunities to socialize with other travelers.
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The Old Town Best Area To Stay In Valencia For Sightseeing
Being a coastal city, you might be tempted to think you should stay somewhere close to the beach. But unless you plan to get the perfect tan, staying in the Old Town will help you mix in a bit of everything.
The Old Town is the heart of the city. Its divided into several smaller neighborhoods, which add great diversity into a relatively compact space.
El Carmen proudly preserves a distinct charm from a bygone era. San Francesc hosts the City Hall and some of the best department stores and shopping streets in Valencia. La Seu is home to the Cathedral. While El Mercat is organized around the Central Market and the UNESCO heritage site of La Lonja.
The Old Town has many pedestrian streets and a wealth of nooks and crannies worth exploring. The best places to visit in Valencia are within walking distance. You are never too far from a good restaurant or tapas bar. Plus some of the best hotels in Valencia are here as well.
Airport connections: Metro lines 3 and 5 connect the Old Town with the airport in approx 20-25 minutes.
Best places to stay in Valencias Old Town
As one of the best places to stay in Valencia, the Old Town has the highest concentration of hotels and apartments. You are really spoiled for choice here.
Best luxury accommodation in the Old Town
Best mid-range hotel in the Old Town
Best apartments in the Old Town
Best budget hotel in the Old Town
Where To Stay In Valencia For Families
Families who want to focus on the historic sites will love the welcoming Petit Palace Ruzafa, located in the center of the Old Town, just a few blocks from the Mercado Central and La Lonja. Kids are welcomed with little gifts and thoughtful accessories, like step stools in the bathrooms. Comfortably sized family rooms have bunk beds for the kids, and coffee is available all day for the parents. The hotel also has a limited number of bicycles that guests may borrow free of charge, and this is a pet-friendly lodging.
Although a bit removed from the center, Hotel Melia Valencia is only four blocks to the old riverbed and the old town attractions just beyond. Occupying the tallest building in Valencia, it has fantastic views from its affordable rooms and suites, which are updated and modern. Hotel amenities include a well-equipped fitness center, indoor pool, business center, concierge, and room service. Guest rooms include mini-fridges and electric kettles for tea and coffee.
Nearby tourist attractions include the Palacio de Congresos Valencia and the family water park Piscina Parque Benicalap, and there is an abundance of restaurants within a two-block radius.
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Where To Stay In Valencia: El Cabanyal E La Malva
Coastal neighborhoods, El Cabanyal and La Malva-Rosa are perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and feeling the atmosphere of an old fishing village. Over time, the architecture has blended between the village aspect and buildings that are mostly historic and preserved. While in El Cabanyal, it is worth exploring its traditional seafood restaurants. The neighborhoods are about 4 kilometers from the center of Valencia.
Best Location For The Beach: El Cabanyal
El Cabanyal was traditionally an old fishing area on the seafront. However, with its perfect location, right behind Malvarrosa Beach and the promenade, it quickly became a residential area and a famous spot to enjoy good dinners.
This picturesque neighborhood is the best spot in summer to spend time on the beach and swim. By going there youll enjoy plenty of cafes, eateries, souvenir shops and secret spots for nightlife. Its also one of the favorite places for young travelers since you can enjoy in El Cabanyal many beachside bars and beachfront hotels.
Dont worry, in this busy area, you can also find a quieter and more residential vibe, in the area behind the beach, which is also really nice if you want to relax.
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Ruzafa Where To Stay In Valencia For The Best Nightlife
Ruzafa is a small barrio located just outside of the historic old town. With bars seemingly everywhere and two of the hottest nightclubs in Valencia, its no doubt where to stay in Valencia if you are a fan of nightlife.
Joining a local pub crawl is a sublime way to meet new people if you are traveling solo. Alternatively, if you are traveling with friends or as a group, a fun way to spend the evening is by creating your own pub crawl route!
Besides nightlife, this area is also magnificent for foodies. There are many restaurants, including some of the top-rated ones in the city! The Ruzafa Municipal Market also has many food stands if you are looking for a quick pit stop where you can grab a tasty snack to go.
Drinking is part of the custom in Spain and deep routed in the culture not just alcohol, but coffee too. I recommend brushing up on some travel tips for Spain so you can get a better feel for the customs before heading on a night out.
Things To See And Do In Ciutat Vella :
- Wander through the Old Town and get lost amongst the locals.
- Visit the cathedral for a chance to catch a glimpse of the holy grail.
- Climb the 207 steps to the top of the Miguelete tower.
- Go inside La Lonja de la Seda . Its a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of local history.
- Explore the Central Market. Its a great place to try a local snack or buy a handmade souvenir.
- Grab something to eat or drink in the hip and bohemian Barrio El Carmen.
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The Marina Beaches And The Cabaal Neighbourhood
This area is ideal to enjoy Valencian cuisine with a sea breeze and spectacular views. The Valencia Marina is a famous area with plenty of space to walk, ride a bike, enjoy the local cuisine and do water sports. The Cabañal and Malvarrosa beaches, the promenade and the Cabañal seafaring neighbourhood area trendy areas due to their lifestyle.
It is a large area with a varied leisure and cuisine offer, therefore we recommend you take your time when visiting it. You can go for a swim at the beach, ride a bike, try a Valencian paella and enjoy the lively atmosphere on the terraces next to the beach.
Best Area For Restaurants
Centered on Plaza del Ayuntamiento, an attractive square anchored by its eponymous town hall, the southern half of the Old Town is busier, more modern and more commercial than the northern half of the walled city.
Besides a couple of interesting museums Museo del Patriarca and Museo Nacional de Cerámica and appealing Modernista buildings, particularly in the eastern half of this neighborhood, this is a good part of town to shop for contemporary art, sip a cocktail at a stylish bar, or dine at one of many excellent restaurant on anything from Argentinian steak to Hawaiian poke.
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Quatre Carreres City Of Arts And Sciences
The residential district of Quatre Carreres is best known for the museum complex of the City of Arts and Sciences . Here you will find several attractions such as the Science Museum, the opera house Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia and the aquarium LOceanogràfic. The neighborhood also borders the southern part of the Jardín del Turia park and nearby you will find a large shopping center, El Saler. The good transport connections to the city center and the sea are also fantastic.
The neighborhood is a good choice if you want to get to the museum complex quickly. Most of the accommodations are private apartments, often quite inexpensive, located in the citys residential buildings.
Best Accommodations & Hotels:
- Vacation rental: The Apartamento en la Ciudad de las ciencias is a spacious vacation rental just across the street from the City of Sciences. The free parking is also fabulous.
- Apartment: The Valencia Centro WiFi scores with good value for money. Guests also appreciate the location near the park.
Best Apartment In Poblats Varitims: Walk To The Seashore From A Colorful Boho Loft
This adorable one-bedroom loft is located super close to the beach and the marina in the barrio of el Cabanyal. The interior design has a bohemian atmosphere and is full of fun creative touches. Thanks to the high wood-beamed ceilings, the apartment feels extra spacious. The cozy outdoor patio is full of plants and has a table which is a marvelous place to have breakfast and a morning coffee before heading to the beach!
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Palacio Del Marqus De Dos Agas: Valencia Through The Ages
This time-worn palace has changed through the ages but remains fit for royalty. A baroque facade contrasts the rococo interior, and while the details of the building are enough to amaze any visitor, a treat of historic ceramics awaits inside. Some of the most detailed craftsmanship is exhibited through the traditional pottery on display, and the museum gives a platform to the under-appreciated art form in surprising ways. Also, the Valencia Cathedral is just around the corner.
Where Not To Stay In Valencia
Valencia is definitely not a dangerous city and most of the neighborhoods are really safe there. The crime rate in Valencia is low and there arent many pickpockets in the city, so you shouldnt have trouble going there.
Of course, if youre going out late at night and partying hard itd be better to take care as in every big city in the world. However, if you had to avoid only one place it would be Malva Rosa. This district had some troubles because of drug trafficking and its better not to spend too much time there.
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