Neighborhoods of Valencia: Ciutat Vella and Eixample

Valencia is made up of 19 districts. Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish them, especially if you’re not familiar with the city. Also, some districts are more fun, popular, and safe than others. Today we will take you to Ciutat Vella, the historic center of Valencia, and L'eixample. These are two of the most popular neighborhoods in Valencia.

Ciutat Vella

To begin with, the old town is full of culture. There isn’t a building without a story linked to it. Ciutat Vella is exactly where the city center used to be. Some historic buildings even belong to the UNESCO World Heritage.

This district was once a walled city and is made up of five small neighborhoods. The best known is El Carmen. This neighborhood is a mix of old and new. These beautiful cobblestone streets house many museums, cafés, and vintage shops.

For nightlife, this is also the ideal place. You’ll find all kinds of nightclubs and bars, as well as some live music venues.

Ciutat Vella hosts palaces, monasteries, churches… all around the Mercat Central and the Cathedral. Today, it is largely pedestrianized, which attracts many tourists to the center of Valencia.

The neighborhood is super lively thanks to all the restaurants, bars, and dance cafés in this area. The small, narrow streets have walls covered with art from local creators. This adds a fun touch to the area.

Since the streets are narrow, buildings are built very close to each other. This means that usually the lower floors don’t get much sunlight. The historic center is a wonderful place for sightseeing. However, you won’t find many supermarkets here.

Also, it is a safe area, even at night. The area rarely has security issues for residents. If you want to immerse yourself in Spanish and Valencian culture, Ciutat Vella is a good place to live. You can live here among old buildings and wake up to the Cathedral bells. Just keep in mind that in summer tourists visit you.

L'Eixample

L'Eixample is a neighborhood where Valencians traditionally aspire to live. It is divided into three zones: Ruzafa, Gran Vía, and Pla del Remei. It is close to the center of Valencia but at the same time a residential area.

The streets here are wider, which means apartments tend to get more sunlight, even on the first floor.

First, we have Ruzafa, located south of Ciutat Vella. It used to be a working-class neighborhood, but thanks to renovations it became one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Valencia.

The area hosts many vintage shops, large bars, and some amazing restaurants. If you’re looking for a more modern and hipster neighborhood, this is your place! Also, this area is very well connected by public transport, such as bus and metro.

Advantages: Very multicultural neighborhood and super close to the historic center.
Disadvantages: Few green areas, difficulty finding parking, and expensive rents.

Next: the Gran Vía area. This zone is more expensive as it is elegant and upper class. Here you’ll find many private schools as well as luxury residences. One of the incredible attractions of Gran Vía is the beautiful Mercado de Colón. It is an old market where you can find many bars. Of course, we can’t forget Conde Altea in Gran Vía, which hosts some of the best restaurants in the city.

Advantages: Quiet residential area, located near the city center. If you have a good income, this is the perfect neighborhood.
Disadvantages: Difficult to park here and rents are expensive.

Last but not least, we have El Pla del Remei. Here you’ll find plenty of public transport, such as bus and metro stations. Like Gran Vía, it is an elegant and upper-class neighborhood, which means you won’t find cheap rents here either.

Advantages: Close to Turia Park and the city center.
Disadvantages: Expensive rents and difficulty finding parking.

The Eixample area is also very popular among foreign buyers thanks to its location and traditional façades. Additionally, it has a large network of bike lanes, ever since Valencia expanded its system! Do you want to invest in one of these neighborhoods? Contact Bluekey. They will assist you at all times.

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