A city brimming with Catalan history, modern architecture, sunny beaches and mouth-watering food. Yes, amigos, I’m talking about Valencia!

Valencia is home to an eclectic mix of cultures and vibes. From the historic Old Town to the futuristic City of Science and Arts – you can feel like you’re living in the past, present and the future all in one city. 

If you’re a foodie, Valencia has some of the best Spanish food around. You can’t visit Valencia without trying its founding dish, the iconic Paella. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, go for the authentic version with chicken, rabbit and snail.

Often, travellers decide to head to Barcelona over Valencia. However, if you’re after a more authentic Spanish experience with fewer crowds – you’ll want to opt for Valencia. As much as I’d like to claim that as an “insiders tip”, more people are starting to catch onto this. Each year, the city greets millions more visitors than the year before (word is getting out!). 

When deciding on where to stay in Valencia, I know that it can often feel overwhelming. There are so many neighbourhoods that each offers something unique.

But don’t worry, that’s why I’ve created this ultimate Valencia area guide. I’m here to help you find the best place to stay in Valencia no matter what your travel style or budget.

So, let’s get to it…

Colourful paper mache falla with the face of salvador dali in the centre at the festival of the fallas in Valencia
The weird and wonderful in Valencia
Photo: @Lauramcblonde

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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Valencia?

Looking for a place to stay in Valencia, but don’t have much time? From luxury Valencia hotels to budget-friendly backpackers, here are my top picks for the coolest accommodation options in town!

MYR Plaza Mercado & Spa | Best Hotel in Valencia

Living room in Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa Valencia Spain

The Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa is a stunning hotel in the centre of Valencia. If you are searching for the quintessential luxury hotel getaway, look no further! Not only do they have huge rooms and comfortable beds, but they have a full spa on-site.

The spa has a Turkish steam bath, a relaxing pool, a jacuzzi, a cold tub, a relaxing area, and even massage treatments available. To top it all off, there are endless bars and restaurants near the hotel. This is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in town.

Home Youth Hostel Valencia by Feetup Hostels | Best Hostel in Valencia

Cool, quirky shared space in Home Youth Hostel Valencia by Feetup Hostels

The Home Youth Hostel Valencia is a fantastic place to stay in the city centre for those who are looking for the ultimate balance of affordable prices and a terrific location. They offer both female-only and mixed dorm rooms of different sizes, as well as twin private rooms for two.

For a fun touch, all of the rooms are uniquely decorated with creative art-deco decorations. Their slogan is “Don’t be a tourist, be a traveller”, and they do everything they can to make sure you have a stand-out experience with them while you’re backpacking in Europe.

Most Desirable Area w/Big Terrace | Best Apartment in Valencia

Beautiful, vibrant terrace space at the Airbnb: Most Desirable Area w/Big Terrace

This place takes the cake for the coolest Airbnb in Valencia. The apartment has a feel-good vibe with its open, bright & sunny floor plan. It has a kitchen, dining table, and sofa area that opens to the terrace where you can fully enjoy Valencia’s outdoor lifestyle.

There are typical Spanish, complete black-out blinds on the outside of all windows & doors, so you can opt for a mid-day siesta or just a big ol’ sleep-in. You’re in the hip area of Ruzafa in this apartment so you won’t be short of eateries and coffee shops to enjoy.

Valencia Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Valencia

FIRST TIME IN VALENCIA
A paella in Granada, Spain
FIRST TIME IN VALENCIA

Ciutat Vella (Old Town)

Ciutat Vella, which translates to “the old town”, is the heart and soul of Valencia. It is made up of six small barrios which are: La Seu, La Zerea, El Carmen, El Pilar, El Mercat, and Sant Francesc.

NIGHTLIFE
Ruzafa, Valencia
NIGHTLIFE

Ruzafa

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, it’s no doubt where to stay in Valencia if you are a fan of nightlife.

FOR ART LOVERS
The city of science and arts in Valencia
FOR ART LOVERS

Quatre Carreres (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)

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.

FOR BEACH BUMS
Cabanyal beach in Valencia, Spain
FOR BEACH BUMS

El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa

El Cabanyal and La Malva-Rosa are Valencia’s most popular beach attractions, with oceanfront restaurants and bars serving superb tapas. The marina is a fantastic spot to explore by bike or on foot, especially when the sun goes down—it’s a vibe you won’t want to miss.

Valencia is a very big city (the third-largest city in Spain, in fact), but it packs a lot into its intimate districts. This vibrant city is missed off too many travellers’ Spanish backpacking itineraries – it has loads to offer.

Most areas are easy to get around as Valencia is a super walkable city – and the bus and metro system makes it easier to see all the sites without a car. However, each district has something different and unique to offer, as well as being close to some major attractions.

Plant yourself in Ciutat Vella, the epicentre of the action, where you can soak up all the city’s best bits without breaking a sweat. It’s a place full of culture, super cool festivals, restaurants, and markets, and even has a group of buildings, La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia, that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s perfect for if you’re going to visit Valencia on a fleeting trip and every minute counts and let’s face it, you don’t want to waste time figuring out where the cool stuff is. Spoiler alert: it’s all right here.

winning falla in 2021 at the festival of the Fallas in Valencia. Colourful people in masquerade dress
Don’t miss the Festival de las Fallas if you visit in March.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde

Quatre Carreres, or City of Arts and Sciences, is a little outside of the centre and is full of cool places to stay for those on a budget. Overall, travelling in Spain isn’t too expensive but it’s nice to be able to save a few Euros here and there. With museums, botanical gardens and libraries, this area is great for history buffs and artsy folks alike.

Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, Ruzafa is the ultimate playground for young adventurers. This neighbourhood has more bars than you can count, each one bursting with youthful energy. When night falls, dive headfirst into a nightclub and dance your heart out until six in the morning. Trust me, sleep is overrated.

If you want to spend as much time as possible soaking up the sun at the beach, El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa are the areas for you. Valencia has huge beautiful beaches and all of the ones found within the city limits are here in this area. If you are travelling with kids, there are many outstanding family-sized homes in this area.

Valencia’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Now that I’ve briefly introduced you to each area in Valencia to stay in, let’s look at each area in more detail. If you’re looking for an apartment, condo, hostel, or hotel in Valencia – I’ve found the best places in each district.

Go take a look!

1. Ciutat Vella (Old Town) – Where to Stay in Valencia for Your First Time

Ciutat Vella, which translates to “the old town”, is the heart and soul of Valencia. It is made up of six small barrios (neighbourhoods) which are: La Seu, La Zerea, Barrio del Carmen, El Pilar, El Mercat, and Sant Francesc.

The architecture in the area is stunning and the narrow cobblestone streets are the perfect place to wander around and get lost. You will truly feel like you are back in time when you stay in Ciutat Vella – it just OOZES old world charm.

A paella in Valencia
Me + Paella = A damn good time.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short

Valencia is a super walkable city but this area in particular is cram-packed with tourist attractions. The Central Market is the largest and most famous in Valencia and it’s an absolute must-visit to go shopping. Make sure you go with an empty stomach so you can sample a wide variety of local market food and drinks!

The Cathedral de Valencia is also located within this area, and it is one of the most important places to visit in all of Spain. With all this and much much more, Ciutat Vella is without a doubt where to stay in Valencia if it’s your first time in the city. It’s also home to some of the best hotels in the city meaning you can grab an absolute gem in the heart of all the action.

MYR Plaza Mercado & Spa | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ciutat Vella

MYR Plaza Mercado & Spa Valencia Spain

The Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa is a stunning hotel in the centre of Valencia. If you are searching for the quintessential luxury hotel getaway, look no further! Not only do they have huge rooms and comfortable beds, but they have a full spa on-site.

The spa has a Turkish steam bath, a relaxing pool, a jacuzzi, a cold tub, a relaxing area, and even massage treatments available. To top it all off, there are endless bars and restaurants near the hotel. This is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in town.

Home Youth Hostel Valencia by Feetup Hostels | Best Hostel in Ciutat Vella

Home Youth Hostel Valencia by Feetup Hostels

Home Youth Hostel is the ultimate cheap hostel in Valencia. They not only have some of the cheapest rates in the city centre but also an excellent family-like atmosphere. You can stay in a three or four-bed dorm, or a private room if you desire a little more privacy.

Throughout the week they host fun nightly events for guests such as “free dinner night” or “free sangria night”. If you are travelling solo and looking for a safe place to meet as many people as possible, this is the place for you!

Very Central, Stunning Views, Sunny Terrace, Wifi! | Best Airbnb in Ciutat Vella

Very Central, Stunning Views, Sunny Terrace, Wifi! Valencia Spain

This charming one-bedroom penthouse apartment is centrally located in the heart of the old town. The Central Market is right next door, and all of the other major tourist attractions are within walking distance. The apartment has a modern design that uses a lot of wood and is full of giant windows.

The living room is almost all window and has out-of-this-world city views. For even better views, head outside to the enormous wrap-around terrace. It’s a delightful place to enjoy a meal or watch the sunset!

Things to See and Do in Ciutat Vella (Old Town)

The streets of Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Valencia
Wandering the streets of the Old Town
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
  1. Wander through the Old Town and get lost amongst the locals.
  2. Experience the most delicious tapas and drinks in Valencia on an evening tour.
  3. Visit the cathedral for a chance to catch a glimpse of the “holy grail”.
  4. Climb the 207 steps to the top of the Miguelete Tower.
  5. Stay in one of many gorgeous bed and breakfasts in Valencia.
  6. Go inside La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of local history.
  7. Enjoy wine, tapas and a guided tour of the city with a knowledgeable local.
  8. Pedal through the streets and learn the history of the old town on a bike tour of Valencia.
  9. Combine a few activities in one and take a guided tour of Valencia including the Cathedral, St Nicholas, and Lonja de la Seda.
  10. Go shopping at the little boutique shops that the Old Town has to offer.
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2. Ruzafa – Best Area to Stay in Valencia For Nightlife

Ruzafa is a small barrio just outside the historic old town, and it’s buzzing with energy. This place is packed with bars and the hottest nightclubs in Valencia. When night falls, Ruzafa truly comes alive.

If you’re kicking it solo, joining a local pub crawl is the best way to meet new people here. Travelling with pals? Even better. Create your own pub crawl route and let the good times roll. In Ruzafa, the night is always young.

Ruzafa is a digital nomad’s dream in Spain. This place is packed with cosy, laptop-friendly spots where you can crank out some work while sipping on artisanal espresso. Need a breather from the urban chaos? Turia Garden is your go-to escape. This lush park slices right through the city, serving up a perfect green oasis to recharge your batteries. I honestly could spend weeks here.

Ruzafa, Valencia

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 deeply 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.

YOURS boutique hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ruzafa

YOURS boutique hotel Valencia Spain

This fabulous boutique hostel offers both standard rooms as well as suite-style apartments. The apartments include private kitchens and beautiful terraces. The property has a lovely zen design and a peaceful atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Additionally, there is a heavenly indoor swimming pool located in the centre of the hotel. If you are a couple and looking for a romantic getaway, this is my number one choice in Valencia.

Cantagua Hostel | Best Hostel in Ruzafa

Cantagua Hostel Valencia Spain

Cantagua Hostel is an eco-friendly hostel in the heart of Ruzafa. They have 10-bed and 8-bed mixed dormitories, as well as 4-bed female-only dormitories. All of the dorm rooms have “cave” style beds which feature private curtains that can be closed for extra privacy.

There is a shared kitchen for guests to use, as well as a phenomenal common room which is a great place for socializing. If you are travelling alone and want to meet some travel buds, this is one of the best options in Valencia.

Most Desirable Area w/Big Terrace | Best Apartment in Ruzafa

Most Desirable Area w/Big Terrace Valencia Spain

I love this Airbnb and its huge ass terrace! The apartment has a feel-good vibe with its open, bright & sunny floor plan. It has a kitchen, dining table, and sofa area that opens to the terrace where you can fully enjoy Valencia’s outdoor lifestyle.

You’re in the hip area of Ruzafa in this apartment so you won’t be short of eateries and coffee shops to enjoy. Sit back and relax, you can spend your days sipping coffee and people-watching in this funky little area. It’s a great option for those rockin’ that digital nomad lifestyle who want to be centrally located in Ruzafa.

Things to See and Do in Ruzafa:

Parque Jardin del Turia in Valencia
The beautiful Turia Garden
  1. Immerse yourself in a world of citrus on a guided tour of an orange farm running since 1870 in Valencia.
  2. Join a bar crawl or make your own! There are more bars in this area than you can count.
  3. Visit the colourful and authentic Ruzafa Municipal Market.
  4. Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. The Turia Garden that runs through the city is a brilliant place to ride away from vehicles.
  5. Head on the ultimate waterfall and thermal springs tour to shower under the Bridal Veil 60-meter waterfall.
  6. Try a tasty horchata de chufa. Valencia is where this popular Spanish drink originated.
  7. Join a Valencia City highlights guided bike tour.
  8. Eat an authentic traditional paella in one of the many delicious restaurants.

3. Quatre Carreres (City of Arts and Sciences) – Best Place to Stay in Valencia For Art Lovers

Quatre Carreres 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. The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is like stepping into a sci-fi movie. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this place is a futuristic playground for culture, science, and art.

There’s L’Hemisfèric, a stunning IMAX cinema and planetarium built like a huge eyelid. Then you have Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, an interactive science museum that resembles a whale skeleton.

The city of science and arts in Valencia
Is this… the future?
Photo: @danielle_wyatt

Stroll around L’Umbracle, an open-air garden that also serves as an art gallery, with stunning views and contemporary sculptures. The Assut de l’Or Bridge and El Àgora, architectural buildings that hold concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions, add a touch of culture to the complex’s sci-fi vibe.

Quatre Carreres, located just three kilometres from the old town, is the place to go in Valencia if you’re on a tight budget. This region is jam-packed with some of the best hotels and budget-friendly places to stay. It shows that you don’t have to empty your pockets to have an amazing time in Valencia.

Sercotel Valencia Alameda 41 | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Quatre Carreres

Sercotel Valencia Alameda 41

This modern hotel offers a huge selection of wonderfully designed rooms to choose from. They have elegant studios which are fabulous for those travelling as a couple. Or, big family rooms which can sleep up to five people for larger groups. If you like to cook your own food, some of the rooms even have private kitchens.

If not, there is a restaurant inside the hotel that serves breakfast every morning. Additionally, it is right next door to the Science Museum and is a superb home base for exploring all the top attractions in Qautre Carreres!

Cantagua Hostel | Best Hostel in Quatre Carreres

Cantagua Hostel Valencia Spain

Cantagua Hostel is an epic Spanish hostel in Quatre Carreres. It’s a great home away from home for travellers looking for a place to feel ‘en casa’. It’s right in the heart of the vibrant neighbourhood, full of cafes, delicious eateries, live music and groovy shops. The hostel prides itself on being eco-friendly and it has mixed dorms and female-only dorms. Each bunk bed comes with a curtain, so you’ll be able to enjoy that added bit of privacy.

Ciudad de las Ciencias! Habitacion | Best Airbnb in Quatre Carreres

Ciudad de las Ciencias! Habitacion Valencia Spain

This two-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse apartment is one of the best deals you will find in Valencia. Whether you are travelling alone, as a couple, or as a group of friends, this is a terrific option.

The base price is one of the cheapest in the whole city, and they only charge a relatively small fee for each additional guest. On top of that, the location is fantastic and it’s only a three-minute walk to get to the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

Things to See and Do in Quatre Carreres (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias):

Modern museum at Ciudad de las Artes in Valencia on a sunny day.
Insane modern architecture.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
  1. View an educational film on the enormous 900-meter concave screen at the Hemisfèric digital 3D cinema.
  2. Discover the City of Arts in style! Hop in a tuk-tuk for an entertaining and informative tour of the area.
  3. Explore the fun and interactive Science Museum. Their number one rule is “Not touching is prohibited!”
  4. Join a City of Arts and Sciences Segway Tour.
  5. Visit the Palau de les Arts Opera House. If you are here in October or November you can try and see a live performance!
  6. Stroll around the Umbracle, a giant open-access garden where you can discover many different types of Mediterranean plants.
  7. Discover the Caves of San José and explore the underground cave system by boat.
  8. Feel like an ant at “el Parque Gulliver.” It’s inspired by the classic novel, Gulliver’s Travels.
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4. El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa- Best Neighborhood in Valencia for Beach Bums

El Cabanyal and La Malva-Rosa are Valencia’s most popular beach attractions, with oceanfront restaurants and bars serving superb tapas. The marina is a fantastic spot to explore by bike or on foot, especially when the sun goes down—it’s a vibe you won’t want to miss. The beaches here are super family-friendly and give other epic islands in Spain a run for their money.

Most people think Valencia is all about the coast, but with a city this sprawling, getting to the beach can feel like a trek, especially if you stay in the city centre. Expect a 45-minute ride to the beach on one of the many bus or metro lines.

Poblats Varitims beach in Valencia
Get me to the beach!

That’s why it’s crucial to know your stuff before you visit, so you can pick the perfect area for your stay. Personally, I could spend a whole week renting a Spanish beach house lounging on Las Arenas Beach alone. If you plan on soaking up the sun a lot, El Cabanyal and La Malva-Rosa are definitely areas you’ll want to stay in in Valencia. Trust me, Las Arenas Beach is a gem you won’t want to miss.

Las Arenas Balneario Resort | Best Mid-Range Hotel in El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa

Las Arenas Balneario Resort Valencia Spain

The cleanliness, setting, design, light and bright atmosphere, and grounds of this resort are all excellent. The resort boasts exceptional rooms with a stunning view of the hotel gardens and beach. The breakfast is an experience not to be missed since it includes honeycomb from the hotel’s own bees!

Lindala | Best Luxury Hotel in El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa

Lindala Valencia Spain

Lindala is a cute and attractive hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Malvarrosa Beach, the most popular beach in Valencia. Courtesy of the pastel colour palate, wood, and bamboo, this hotel makes you feel like you are staying on a tropical island. Which is why it’s one of the best Valencia hotels around.

Furthermore, they have an amazing open-air courtyard with a terrific garden in the middle of the property. The garden also features a gigantic terrace with a handful of tables, which is the perfect place to relax at the end of a long day.

Urban Youth Hostel | Best Hostel in El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa

Urban Youth Hostel Valencia Spain

The Urban Youth Hostel is a new hostel located in the centre of Poblats Varitims, right next to the Marina. It is the closest hostel to the beach in all of Valencia and has a massive selection of dorms and private rooms to choose from.

Also, there is a wonderful communal area that has foosball, board games, and a projector and is the perfect place to socialize and meet new people. In addition, they have a lively bar where you can grab a drink or two with your new friends before heading out to explore the local nightlife.

Things to See and Do in El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa:

Palm trees reach into a sunny blue sky
Happier under palm trees
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
  1. Go for a walk or a bike ride around the Marina of Valencia.
  2. Get out of the city and take a day trip to the Albufera Natural Park.
  3. Relax and work on your tan at the beautiful sandy Malva-rosa Beach.
  4. Enjoy an authentic flamenco show at the Palosanto Flamenco Theater.
  5. Visit the quiet and peaceful El Saler Beach to get away from the crowds.
  6. Hit up the popular Playa de las Arenas Beach.
  7. Explore the natural paradise of Montanejos and take a guided hike through the mountains, along the Mijares River to the Chorro and the pools.
  8. Unwind and relax on a daytime or sunset catamaran cruise on the Mediterranean Sea.
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FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Valencia

Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Valencia and where to stay.

What To Pack For Valencia

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
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Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
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Is it better to stay on the city or beach in Valencia?

It really depends on what you want out of your stay. The main tourist attractions are in the city so if you’re a history buff I’d go for there. If you’re looking for a beach break then obvs the beaches are the way to go! Either way, the two are super interconnected with metro and bus lines, so you’ll be able to visit both during your stay.

Is Valencia a walkable city?

Yes for sure! Not only is the main city centre super walkable, but the city boasts 60 bus lines, 5 metro lines and 4 tram lines. Meaning if your two feet can’t get you there, public transport certainly can. There’s no need to rent a car here if you don’t want to!

Where is the best place to stay in Valencia near the beach?

El Cabanyal & La Malva-Rosa is the area to be for any beach bums heading to Valencia. Spend your days soaking in the sunshine on the STUNNING beaches and then hit the beachside restaurants and bars at sundown. Holiday mode will be activated here.

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Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Valencia.

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Valencia

Valencia is certainly one of the most underrated cities in Spain, but it won’t be for long! As more and more people set their eyes on Valencia for their next travel destination, planning and preparation help to beat the crowds and have a memorable stay.

I hope this guide helped you to decide on the best area to stay in during your Valencia trip. Remember, if it’s your first time, staying in the historic Ciutat Vella area is a good idea as it’s super close to all the main attractions.

If you’re still not sure where to stay, I’d recommend booking at one of the best hotels in Valencia: MYR Plaza Mercado & Spa. It’s modern, comfy and in an ideal location in Ciutat Vella. It also has a bloody epic spa with a Turkish steam bath, a relaxing pool, a jacuzzi, a cold tub, a relaxing area, and even massage treatments available. Like come on, does it get better than that?

If you’re backpacking through Spain, Home Youth Hostel Valencia by Feetup Hostels is a great choice. It’s super social and the facilities are great. There’s not much more you’d want in a hostel, it’s one of my favourite hostels in Spain!

Wherever you decide to stay in this Mediterranean coastal city, you’ll no doubt get to experience some of the best of the best. In terms of food (you have to try Paella), the most interesting museums, and witnessing the most impressive modern architecture – I’m jealous already!

Dani and Harvey about to have Seafood Paella in Spain
Did you really go to Valencia if you didn’t have Paella?
Photo: @danielle_wyatt

So, did you decide on where to stay in Valencia? Let me know in the comments!

Looking for more info on travelling to Valencia and Spain?

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the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
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