Living in Valencia: Everything you need to know about buying houses in Spain

Living in Valencia – City, Beach, Culture, and Daily Life

Valencia is located on the east coast of Spain and is the country's third-largest city after Madrid and Barcelona. The city combines a historic center, kilometers of city beaches, large green spaces, universities, public transportation, and a wide range of cultural activities.

It is precisely that combination that makes Valencia appealing to a variety of residents.

You can live there:

• right in the heart of the historic center;
• in a lively neighborhood like Ruzafa;
• close to the beach in Cabanyal;
• in a quieter residential neighborhood like Campanar;
• or outside the busiest part of downtown, where there's more space.

For people who want to emigrate to Spain, Valencia is therefore a completely different living option than, for example, a smaller coastal town on the Costa Blanca.

Why live in Valencia?

Valencia offers a combination that not many Spanish cities have.

There you will find:

• a large city center;
• the beach;
• universities;
• international residents;
• comprehensive health care;
• subway, tram, and bus;
• bicycle infrastructure;
• the park;
• gastronomy;
• cultural events;
• and an international airport.

At the same time, Valencia feels less crowded than Madrid or Barcelona in many areas.

This might appeal to those who enjoy city living but also value the ocean and the outdoors.

Valencia City or living on the Costa Blanca?

That's an interesting comparison.

The city of Valencia offers, above all:

• urban life;
• plenty of public transportation;
• universities;
• culture;
• employment;
• large hospitals;
• and ways to be less dependent on a car.

The Costa Blanca actually has much more to offer:

• villas;
• urban developments;
• private swimming pools;
• smaller coastal towns;
• golf;
• and quieter residential areas.

If you're looking for an apartment in a lively city, you might find Valencia appealing.

If you're looking for a villa with a pool and more outdoor space, you'll often find what you're looking for in places like Ciudad Quesada, Rojales, Torrevieja, or other parts of the Costa Blanca.

Historic Center of Valencia

Valencia has a large historic center with buildings from various periods.

Well-known attractions include:

• Valencia Cathedral;
• The Miguelete;
• Plaza de la Virgen;
• Serranos Towers;
• Torres de Quart;
• The Silk Exchange;
• Central Market;
• in Barrio del Carmen.

The historic city stands in stark contrast to the modern complex of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

It is precisely this combination of the old and the modern that characterizes Valencia.

The Silk Exchange

La Lonja de la Seda is one of Valencia's most famous historic buildings.

The former Silk Exchange is an important example of late Gothic civic architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The building is a reminder of the time when Valencia was an important trading center on the Mediterranean.

La Lonja is located directly across from the Mercado Central, making it easy to visit both during the same walk.

Valencia Cathedral (El Miguelete)

The Valencia Cathedral is located in the historic center on Plaza de la Reina, near Plaza de la Virgen.

The building features architectural elements from various periods.

Next to the cathedral stands El Miguelete, or El Micalet in Valencian.

Anyone who climbs the tower will be rewarded with a view of a large part of the old town.

Central Market

The Mercado Central is one of Valencia's most famous market halls.

Here you'll find, among other things:

• vegetables;
• fruit;
• meat;
• vis;
• cup
• herbs;
• rice;
• and local products.

The building itself is also a fine example of Valencian Modernism.

For people who live in the city center, a market like this isn't just a tourist attraction, but also a place to do their daily shopping.

Colón Market

The Mercado de Colón is also worth a visit.

This former market hall is now home primarily to restaurants and gourmet shops.

As a result, it's more of a place to have coffee, have lunch, or grab a bite to eat than a traditional fresh market like Mercado Central.

City of Arts and Sciences

One of Valencia's most famous modern attractions is the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

The futuristic complex is located at the eastern end of the Turia Gardens.

Among other things, you'll find:

• Museum of Science
• Hemispherical;
• Palace of the Arts
• CaixaForum
• in Oceanographic.

This area is also great for families.

Oceanographic

The Oceanogràfic is part of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and bills itself as the largest aquarium in Europe.

The complex showcases various marine ecosystems and features, among other things, large aquariums, an underwater tunnel, and educational programs.

Opening hours and admission prices change by season, so I wouldn't put them on your page as fixed information.

Turia Gardens

One of Valencia's biggest highlights is the Jardín del Turia.

The park is located in the former bed of the Turia River and stretches for kilometers through the city.

There, you can:

• hiking;
• running;
• cycling;
• exercise;
• picnicking;
• and play with children.

There are several major facilities and attractions along the park.

As a result, it is not only a tourist attraction but also a genuine part of daily life in Valencia.

Gulliver Park

For families with children, Parque Gulliver is a well-known spot in the Turia Gardens.

The enormous play structure depicts Gulliver from the story Gulliver's Travels.

Children can climb on the sculpture and slide down on various slides.

It pairs well with a day at the Turia Gardens or the City of Arts and Sciences.

Bioparc Valencia

On the other side of Turia Park is Bioparc Valencia.

This animal park is designed according to the principle of integrating visible barriers into the landscape as much as possible.

For families, it can be a full-day activity.

It's also relatively close to the historic center.

Beaches of Valencia

One key difference from many other major Spanish cities is that Valencia is located right on the Mediterranean Sea.

The most famous city beaches include:

• Malvarrosa;
• Shed;
• and, a little further north, Patacona.

The beaches are accessible from various parts of the city by public transportation, bicycle, or car.

Malvarrosa Beach

Malvarrosa is Valencia's most famous city beach.

A wide promenade runs along the beach, featuring:

• restaurants;
• cafés;
• sports facilities;
• and residential buildings.

For people who like to live close to the sea but still want access to a major city, this part of Valencia is worth considering.

Patacona

Just north of Malvarrosa lies Patacona.

Patacona is actually part of the municipality of Alboraya, not the city of Valencia.

As a visitor, you'll hardly notice the border.

The area has a beach, a boardwalk, restaurants and bars, and a relatively large number of apartments.

Cabanyal – Living Close to the Beach

El Cabanyal-Canyamelar is a historic fishing neighborhood located right behind the coast.

The neighborhood has undergone many changes in recent years.

There you'll find a combination of:

• traditional facades;
• old fishermen's cottages;
• renovated homes;
• restaurants;
• cafés;
• and modern developments.

For people who like to combine beach life with city life, Cabanyal might be an interesting option.

On the other hand, streets within the same neighborhood can vary considerably in character.

That's why you should always check the exact location.

Ruzafa – lively and centrally located

Ruzafa, known as Russafa in Valencian, is one of the most popular neighborhoods among young professionals and international residents.

The neighborhood is known for:

• restaurants;
• cafés;
• local stores;
• Ruzafa Market;
• nightlife;
• and creative enterprises.

It's a lively neighborhood.

Those who are primarily looking for peace and quiet and easy parking will probably prefer to consider other neighborhoods.

The document also explicitly describes Ruzafa as a creative and popular neighborhood.

El Carmen – Living in the Heart of the Old City

El Carmen is located in Ciutat Vella, the historic center.

Here you will find:

• medieval streets;
• monuments;
• museums;
• restaurants;
• bars;
• squares;
• and a lot of tourist activity.

It might appeal to someone who wants to live literally in the heart of the city.

For families looking for plenty of peace and quiet, a private parking space, and modern floor plans, other neighborhoods might be a more practical choice.

Benimaclet – Students and Local Character

Benimaclet offers a blend of traditional neighborhood charm and student life.

Its location near university campuses and good public transportation connections make it popular with students and young residents.

It's less touristy than Ciutat Vella or Ruzafa.

That might appeal to people who want to live in the city but not right in the heart of the tourist district.

Campanar – Residential Living

Campanar is located further west and has a much more residential feel.

Here you will find:

• larger residential buildings;
• modern apartments;
• schools;
• the park;
• stores;
• and everyday necessities.

For families looking for more space but who don't want to leave the city of Valencia, Campanar might be an option.

Nonsense

Patraix is also a more residential neighborhood.

The area is located outside the tourist center and therefore has a more local feel.

For permanent residence, this can be an attractive option if you don't place much importance on living right next to major tourist attractions.

The Botanist

El Botànic is located on the west side of the historic center and owes its name to the botanical garden.

The location offers a middle ground between:

• center;
• quiet residential streets;
• Turn
• and everyday necessities.

This might be of interest to anyone who likes to live close to the old town without being right in the heart of El Carmen.

Plan of the Remedy on Gran Via

For the higher-end segment, you might want to consider, among others, Pla del Remei and parts of Gran Vía.

Here you'll find stately apartment buildings, wide streets, and a central location.

Prices are generally significantly different from those in more distant residential neighborhoods.

That is why it is important not to refer to “Valencia’s housing prices” as a single, average market.

Which neighborhood in Valencia is right for you?

Very broadly speaking, you can think of it as:

Lively and full of restaurants and bars: Ruzafa.

Historic: El Carmen / Ciutat Vella.

Beach: Cabanyal in Malvarrosa.

Students and young audiences: Benimaclet.

Families and residential facilities: Campanar and Patraix.

Central upper segment: Pla del Remei and Gran Vía.

But even within the same neighborhood, streets can vary greatly.

That's why you should always visit a home at different times of the day before you buy it.

Public Transportation in Valencia

One major advantage of Valencia is that in many parts of the city, you can get by just fine without a car.

The city has:

• meter;
• tram;
• city buses;
• regional trains;
• taxi;
• bicycle infrastructure.

When it comes to everyday housing decisions, the distance to a subway or tram stop may be more important than the distance to, say, city hall.

Cycling in Valencia

Valencia is relatively flat and has an extensive network of bike paths.

As a result, many residents use bicycles for their daily commutes.

The municipal bike-sharing system is called Valenbisi.

The original text uses “Valencia enBici”; I would change that.

The Turia Gardens are also one of the main bike routes through the city.

Sport in Valencia

Valencia has a strong sports profile.

Popular sports include:

• running;
• cycling;
• soccer;
• basketball;
• fell;
• tennis;
• lines;
• soups;
• and various water sports.

Its location by the sea and its large green spaces make outdoor sports relatively easy.

Valencia Marathon

The Valencia Marathon is internationally renowned for its relatively flat and fast course.

Around the time of the marathon, the city is particularly busy, and thousands of international runners flock to Valencia.

For residents, it has become one of the major annual sporting events.

Valencia CF at Mestalla

Soccer plays a major role in the city.

Valencia CF plays at Mestalla.

The stadium is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by public transportation.

The original page correctly mentions Valencia CF and Levante UD, but I would remove the statement that Valencia CF “regularly qualifies for the Champions League” because it is too time-sensitive.

Levante UD

Levante UD also has strong ties to Valencia.

The club plays at the Ciutat de València Stadium.

I wouldn't include information about the clubs' divisions or current athletic achievements on a timeless regional page.

No More Formula 1 Grand Prix in Valencia

This passage in the current text needs to be removed.

Between 2008 and 2012, Valencia hosted the European Grand Prix on a street circuit around the harbor.

That is no longer an annual event.

So, stating that Valencia “is regularly used for the Valencia Grand Prix as part of the Formula 1 Championship” is therefore outdated.

Watersports at the Port of Valencia

Around the harbor and along the coast, you can, among other things:

• lines;
• soups;
• windsurfing;
• kitesurfing;
• and participate in other water sports.

Valencia hosted the America's Cup in 2007 and 2010, which brought the harbor area additional international attention.

Today, the marina is a recreational and urban area featuring restaurants and events.

Nature Around Valencia

Valencia is a large city, but several nature areas are surprisingly close by.

The best known is Parc Natural de l'Albufera.

The Albufera

L'Albufera is located south of Valencia and is a protected nature reserve featuring:

• decay;
• rice paddies;
• wetlands;
• birds;
• and traditional villages.

Important: In the original text, it is referred to as a national park. That is incorrect.

It is a Parque Natural / Parc Natural.

The area also plays an important role in rice cultivation in the Valencia region.

El Palmar in Paella

The village of El Palmar is located in the heart of the Albufera region.

Here you'll find many restaurants that specialize in rice dishes.

Valencia is strongly associated with paella valenciana, which traditionally has a different composition than many tourist “seafood paellas.”

For food lovers, L'Albufera is therefore not only a nature reserve but also a place of cultural interest.

Calderona Mountain Range

North of Valencia lies the Parque Natural de la Sierra Calderona.

This mountainous region is of interest to:

• hiking;
• mountain biking;
• nature;
• and day trips.

The contrast with the flat city and beaches is striking.

For people who live in Valencia, this means that the city, the coast, and the mountains are all within easy reach.

Climate in Valencia

Valencia has a Mediterranean climate.

Summers are hot and can feel humid.

Winters are generally relatively mild.

Spring and fall are often great times for outdoor activities.

I wouldn't use the repeated claim of “more than 300 sunny days a year” as a hard marketing figure.

For a real estate listing, it’s more interesting to explain that the climate allows for outdoor living for much of the year, but that July and August can get quite hot.

Health Care in Valencia

As a major city, Valencia has an extensive network of public and private medical facilities.

Major hospitals include:

• La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital
• University General Hospital;
• and various other specialized centers.

The current text also mentions those two hospitals as important facilities.

However, who is actually entitled to public health care depends on personal circumstances.

That's why I wouldn't simply write that “everyone receives free health care.”

For more information, see our guide on health care in Spain and hospitals and clinics in Spain.

Education in Valencia

Valencia offers a wide range of educational options for families.

There you will find:

• public schools;
• concertado schools;
• private schools;
• international schools;
• vocational education;
• and universities.

In public schools, Valencian plays a role alongside Spanish.

The specific language of instruction may vary by school and program.

International Schools

There are several international schools in Valencia and the surrounding municipalities.

Anyone emigrating to Spain with children would be wise to consider school and housing locations together.

A school outside the city can mean a much longer commute each day than it appears on the map.

Universities

Valencia is a major college town.

Key institutions include:

• University of Valencia
• Polytechnic University of Valencia
• and various private universities and colleges.

As a result, students have a significant impact on the rental market in certain neighborhoods.

Benimaclet and the areas surrounding the university campuses are examples of this.

Shopping in Valencia

Valencia offers plenty of shopping options.

Well-known areas include:

• Colón Street;
• area around the Town Hall Square;
• Ruzafa;
• Central Market;
• Colón Market;
• Aqua Multiespacio;
• El Saler;
• and various shopping districts outside the city center.

For people who occasionally visit Valencia from the Costa Blanca, the city is also a popular destination for a day of shopping.

Dining in Valencia

Valencia has strong ties to rice dishes.

The best-known one is, of course, paella valenciana.

In addition, you'll find the following in the city:

• rice dishes;
• covers
• vis;
• seafood;
• horchata;
• fed up
• local wines;
• in modern gastronomy.

The nearby town of Alboraya is particularly well-known for its horchata.

Las Fallas

One of Valencia's biggest annual events is Las Fallas.

In March, huge works of art are being set up all over the city.

The days leading up to March 19 include, among other things:

• firecracker display
• parades;
• fireworks;
• music;
• parties;
• and finally, the burning of the fallas during La Cremà.

It's spectacular for visitors.

For residents, this also means:

• closed streets;
• a lot of noise;
• fireworks;
• crowd;
• and a completely different daily routine.

Anyone considering living in the heart of Ruzafa or downtown should really experience it during Fallas.

Living in Valencia with Children

Valencia can be an attractive destination for families thanks to the combination of:

• schools;
• the park;
• beach;
• sports clubs;
• public transportation;
• museums;
• Bioparc;
• Oceanographic
• and playgrounds.

For many families, the Turia Gardens play a major role in their daily outdoor activities.

When choosing a home, I would also consider the following:

• route to school;
• traffic;
• lift;
• outdoor space;
• parking lot;
• and neighborhood noise.

Living in Valencia Without a Car

That's certainly possible in many areas.

Especially in centrally located neighborhoods, you’ll often find:

• supermarket;
• school;
• family doctor;
• hospitality industry;
• meter;
• bus;
• and stores

within walking or biking distance.

That's a big difference from some villa developments along the Spanish coast, where a car is practically a necessity.

Parking in Valencia

On the other hand, a home in the city center without a parking space can be a challenge for someone who uses a car every day.

When purchasing an apartment, we would therefore carefully consider the following:

• private parking space;
• nearby parking garage;
• regulated on-street parking;
• and access during events.

Practical considerations like these may ultimately be more important than a beautiful view.

Cost of Living in Valencia

The original page describes Valencia several times as cheap or affordable.

I would phrase that in a much more nuanced way these days.

Valencia may still be cheaper than Madrid, Barcelona, or some Northern European cities in certain respects, but housing prices and rents have changed significantly in recent years.

There are also huge differences within Valencia itself.

Ruzafa, Pla del Remei, Cabanyal, Patraix, and the suburbs cannot be summed up with a single average.

That is why we always recommend looking at the current market conditions in each neighborhood.

Buying an Apartment in Valencia

Apartments make up the majority of the housing supply in the city of Valencia.

When making a purchase, we would consider the following, among other things:

• lift;
• floor;
• outdoor space;
• orientation;
• parking space;
• community;
• year of manufacture;
• condition of the building;
• sound;
• and its location in relation to public transportation.

In older neighborhoods, the building's structural condition is also important.

New Construction in Valencia

Valencia also has new construction, but the selection varies greatly by neighborhood and development area.

For new construction, the following are among the important factors:

• completion date;
• location;
• energy performance;
• shared facilities;
• parking space;
• payment schedule;
• and what is actually included in the price.

Be sure to check out our current new construction projects.

Existing home in Valencia

Existing housing offers much more choice in established neighborhoods.

You can sometimes find beautiful historic apartments there.

But be sure to check carefully:

• condition of the building;
• any renovations;
• pipes;
• electric;
• lift;
• community;
• and scheduled work.

An inexpensive apartment in an older building can end up being expensive if the homeowners' association has to carry out major facade or elevator work shortly thereafter.

Moving to Valencia

Would you like to emigrate permanently to Spain and are you considering Valencia?

In that case, the city is especially interesting for people who:

• I'd like to live in the city;
• consider public transportation important;
• want culture and dining options nearby;
• work or study in the city;
• and still want to keep the beach accessible.

For those looking primarily for peace and quiet, a villa, and a private pool, a coastal region outside the city might be a better fit.

Administrative Procedures for Emigration

If you are a permanent resident, you may encounter issues such as:

• NIE;
• residence;
• standard;
• health care;
• taxes;
• banking;
• car;
• and insurance.

For more information, see NIE and Residence Permits in Spain and our emigration checklist.

Investing in Valencia

Valencia is also attracting a lot of attention as a city for investment.

But I would phrase the original passage on this subject much less categorically.

The text now mentions returns of 4–7%, strong appreciation, and “excellent rental potential.”

Those kinds of figures become outdated quickly and vary greatly from one property to another.

When investing in Spanish real estate, the following are important:

• purchase price;
• transfer fees;
• renovation;
• response from children;
• funding;
• rental price;
• vacancy;
• taxes;
• regulations;
• and future marketability.

Long-term rentals in Valencia

There is a demand for long-term rentals among students, professionals, and families.

But here, too, not every neighborhood or home performs the same.

For a long-term tenant, for example, the following are important:

• meter;
• university;
• areas of practice;
• bedrooms;
• lift;
• air conditioning;
• and energy consumption.

Vacation Rentals in Valencia

Anyone buying a home specifically for vacation rentals should be extra careful.

Vacation rentals are heavily regulated, and rules are subject to change.

Check before purchasing:

• whether tourist rentals are permitted at that location;
• what municipal regulations apply;
• which regional registration is required;
• what the community allows;
• and which rental model is legally permitted.

So never buy a home just because an ad says it’s “perfect for Airbnb.”

What to do in Valencia?

The current page rightly features a very large section on places of interest. I would make that a more compact selection.

1. City of Arts and Sciences

Valencia's most famous modern complex and a great destination for architecture, science, and families.

2. Oceanographic

Europe's largest aquarium and one of Valencia's most famous family attractions.

3. Turia Gardens

Kilometers of green space throughout the city, perfect for walking, biking, running, and picnicking.

4. Central Market

A market hall for fresh produce and local cuisine.

5. The Silk Exchange

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Valencia's most important historic buildings.

6. Valencia Cathedral (El Miguelete)

Cathedral and bell tower in the historic center.

7. Barrio del Carmen

A historic neighborhood full of narrow streets, museums, restaurants, and street art.

8. Torres de Serranos in Torres de Quart

Two important surviving city gates from medieval Valencia.

9. Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas

A striking historic palace that houses the national ceramics museum.

10. Bioparc Valencia

A popular family attraction at the western end of the Turia.

11. Malvarrosa in Cabanyal

Combine a day at the beach with lunch or dinner along the coast.

12. The Albufera

Nature, rice paddies, boat tours, and sunsets just a short distance from the city.

13. Colón Market

Architecture, restaurants, and local ambiance.

14. Plaza de la Virgen

One of the most famous historic squares.

15. San Nicolás

The Church of San Nicolás is known for its richly decorated interior.

Flamenco in Valencia

Historically, flamenco is primarily associated with Andalusia.

You can certainly attend flamenco performances in Valencia, but I wouldn't present it as if flamenco were specifically a Valencian tradition.

A flamenco show can be a fun evening activity, but for a taste of typical Valencian culture, the Fallas, music, cuisine, and local traditions are more relevant.

Day Trips from Valencia

From Valencia, you can also easily take day trips to:

• The Albufera
• Sagunto;
• Xàtiva
• Requena;
• Sierra Calderona
• Gandía;
• and various coastal towns.

This also makes Valencia a great base from which to explore a larger part of the Comunidad Valenciana.

Visit Valencia Before Buying a Home There

Are you considering buying a home in Valencia?

Then don't just plan tourist outings.

Try it in your everyday life, too.

For example:

• going grocery shopping in the morning;
• on the subway during rush hour;
• Taking a walk through the neighborhood in the evening;
• parking nearby;
• browse schools;
• Test the beach route;
• and compare multiple neighborhoods.

A neighborhood that feels fantastic during lunch on Saturday can be a completely different place on Monday morning.

Valencia or Alicante?

Alicante is a logical comparison.

Valencia is larger and offers:

• more universities;
• a wider range of cultural offerings;
• more extensive public transportation;
• and a more metropolitan character.

Alicante is smaller and more compact and serves as the gateway to many towns along the Costa Blanca.

If you're looking for a truly big city, Valencia might be a better fit.

Those who want to combine a city visit with a search for villas and coastal developments in the area may find Alicante and the Costa Blanca more interesting.

Valencia or the Costa del Sol?

The Costa del Sol also has large urban areas.

Málaga is perhaps the best comparison to Valencia in terms of its combination of city, beach, and airport.

Both are true cities by the sea, but their culture, climate, housing market, and surrounding coastal regions are clearly different.

Buying a Home in Valencia with Casas Palmeras

Are you interested in buying a home in Spain and considering Valencia or the surrounding coastal region?

Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian buyers in their search for a suitable home in Spain.

In doing so, we look not only at the house itself, but also at:

• neighborhood;
• accessibility;
• daily life;
• schools;
• public transportation;
• intended use;
• and plans for the future.

View our current listings, our available new construction projects, or learn more about our approach.

Are you planning to move there permanently? If so, be sure to check out our information on emigrating to Spain, health care in Spain, and NIE and residencia.

Would you like us to help you find a home that fits your budget and your desired lifestyle? If so, please fill out the home search questionnaire or feel free to contact Casas Palmeras.

Valencia is particularly interesting because you don’t have to choose between a big city and the Mediterranean outdoors. You can live surrounded by historic buildings, bike through a city park that stretches for kilometers in just ten minutes, and be sitting on the beach that same day. At the same time, neighborhoods like Ruzafa, Cabanyal, Campanar, and El Carmen are so different from one another that choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing Valencia itself.