Once you are in Valencia you will notice that each neighborhood has it’s own vibe and character. That is why we have made this short list of the most popular neighborhoods in Valencia, so you get an idea of each area.
1. El Carmen | Ciutat Vella Valencia’s old heart
Ciutat Vella is the historic centre, the old town wrapped in narrow streets, sunny squares and centuries of history. It is split into several smaller barrios, but the two you will hear about most are El Carmen. You can easily spend a full day here, visiting the cathedral, climbing the Miguelete tower, popping into the Central Market, and just letting yourself get lost. In the evening, the area wakes up again for dinner, tapas and drinks, especially around El Carmen.
Insider tip
With numerous bars, clubs, and trendy restaurants lining the streets, El Carmen is known for its nightlife scene!
2. Ruzafa | Hipster Vibes
Ruzafa (Russafa in Valencian) sits just south of the centre in the Eixample district and has become the cool neighbourhood. Think independent coffee shops, brunch spots, vintage shops, small art galleries and a buzzing evening scene. At the heart of it is the Mercado de Ruzafa, a covered market where locals actually shop, full of fruit, fish, cheese and small bars.
If you enjoy strolling around, grabbing a bite to eat, and taking your time over a cup of coffee, then this spot is perfect for you! Daytime is great for browsing shops and the market, while nights are for tapas, cocktails and late dinners. It feels younger and more local than the very touristy parts of the old town, but still super accessible.
3. El Cabanyal & Malvarrosa beach | Seaside life
If you picture Valencia only as an old town, El Cabanyal and Malvarrosa will surprise you. These are historic fishermen’s barrios by the sea, with colourful tiled houses, narrow backstreets, seaside promenades and long sandy beaches. El Cabanyal feels more raw and authentic, with traditional houses that are slowly being restored, simple taverns and small tapas bars hiding in residential streets. Malvarrosa, just a bit up the coast, is the spot for a nice big beach, beach bars called chiringuitos, and some great seafood restaurants right by the water.
It is the perfect area for a slow afternoon or full beach day. You can walk along the promenade, stop for paella or fresh fish, and then just lie on the sand watching the locals play volleyball.
4. Algirós | Student energy
Algirós sits closer to the university area and has a big student population, which gives it a different energy to the more touristy parts of the city. Here you will find casual bars, affordable eateries and venues for small concerts and live music. It is not the prettiest neighbourhood in a classic sense, but if you want to see where students hang out, this is where to go.
5. Camins al Grau | La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències
Camins al Grau is a more modern, mostly residential area that sits between the centre and the sea. You likely wouldn’t visit just to explore, but this area is next to Valencia’s major landmark, the City of Arts and Sciences. This is the ultra-modern complex of white, futuristic buildings, including the science museum, opera house and the oceanarium, set along pools of water and landscaped paths.
The neighbourhood around here feels more local, with apartment blocks, shops and everyday life, which makes it a good base if you want something less touristy but still close to major sights. It is also well connected to both the old town and the beach.
