Where to live in Valencia? Best Neighborhoods in Valencia
Barrio La Seu
La Seu, part of the Ciutat Vella (old town), is probably the oldest and more central neighborhood of the city. It is home to Valencia’s 13th century Cathedral, where you get to admire the famous chapter house; Chapel of the Holy Chalice. La Seu is where you’ll also find most of the main tourist attractions of the old town, among them two beautiful squares; Plaza de la Virgen, with the Turia Fountain, and Plaza de la Reina ,both ideal for some after class relaxation with your Erasmus friends. If you feel like shopping, you should head to Carrer dels Cavallers for all kinds of souvenirs or Carrer de la Pau for unique fashion boutiques!
Barrio Del Carmen
Ciutat Vella (old town) is an easily navigated district that includes many of Valencia’s landmarks and is divided by five smaller neighborhoods. El Carmen, located in the northeast part of the old town is undoubtedly the most famous of all five. It is Valencia’s historical center; a surprising cocktail of old and new architecture, visible through its narrow cobbled streets, pretty squares and museums -including Institut Valencia d’ Art Modern. You will find street art in almost every corner, tons of fashion houses, cafeterias and a variety of night bars and live music halls around Calle de Caballeros that students swear by. El Carmen is where you can explore Torres de Serrano and Torres de Quart, the two emblematic, medieval gates of Valencia, and enjoy panoramic views from the top!
Barrio De Russafa
What used to be an infamous part of the city, forms now one of the most upbeat districts of Valencia. With fresh air and an instant charm, Russafa is the main hipster hangout neighborhood full of young people. From experimental art spaces and thrift stores to eccentric bakeries and vegan restaurants you should expect to find all kinds of things in this area. Highlights include the colourful Mercat de Russafa, where you can try Moroccan and Turkish specialties and the bullring, Placa de Toros, where you can either watch a bullfight or enjoy a concert with your Erasmus buddies.The best way to feel a part of Russafa is to simply stroll around the streets and sense the atmosphere or explore the vibrant nightlife in one of the many bars.
Benimaclet
Benimaclet is a student-claimed, multicultural district that houses many University campuses and has great transportation links with the city center. That, in addition to the lively night scene and low rents is what makes this neighborhood a youngster favourite. Plaza de la Iglesia, the main square, is the usual hangout spot for Erasmus students and international interns, as well as the host of many concerts and festivals. The old romantic streets, all around, are a nostalgic reminder that ,not so long ago, Benimaclet used to be an independent village, which integrated into Valencia in 1972!
Quatre Carreres
Quatre Carreres district lies at the end of the Turia Gardens and is dominated by the spectacular multicomplex “City of Arts and Sciences” ,designed by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava. This unique place houses the biggest aquarium in Europe; “Oceanografic” -with more than 500 different species, divided in 7 individual marine environments. There you can also find the Science museum, one of important research value, the performing arts center “Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia” and an IMAX theater. This enormous multicomplex makes a perfect add on to your “student activities in Valencia” list!
El Cabanyal
Valencia, as a Mediterranean city, benefits from an ideal climate and crystal blue waters. El Cabanyal, lying just behind “Playa Las Arenas”, is an up-and-coming neighborhood, dedicated to those who believe that summer is a feeling and dream about living next to the beach. This seaside paradise is in perfect alignment with your goals for a fun Erasmus summer semester. It is true that this area still gives off an “old fisherman’s town” feeling, yet you’ll be surprised at how innovative and progressive it is. Old, bright-coloured buildings and some of their extraordinary facades are very well maintained and many of them are now housing cool hipster bars and coworking spaces that attract digital nomads. Being a lively and safe neighborhood, only 2 km away from the city center, El Cabanyal is suitable for all ages and budgets, from exchange students to young families.
El Grau
In walking distance from El Cabanyal, the modern port deserves a visit for its interesting architecture and of course a stroll around the busy marina. El Grau is where you’ll find all types of boats; small fishing punts, huge cruise ships and sailing boats. In a variety of bars near the marina you can enjoy a great selection of seafood with a glass of white wine. Don’t miss out on a celebration of culture and food at the Vales e Vents venue, a gastronomical “it” spot with live music and art events!
