Although they often used as interchangeable terms, El Carmen and the Old Town (also called Ciutat Vella) are not the same thing.

Ciutat Vella is a district in Valencia, formed by six neighbourhoods. One of those neighbourhoods is El Carmen.

Barrio del Carmen is a neighbourhood in Ciutat Vella, Valencia’s Old Town district. It is a must for anyone interested in sightseeing, known for its mediaeval remains, century-old streets and houses, museums, and street art.

Ruzafa is a neighbourhood in Valencia’s Eixample district. It is the hippest area of the city, known for its art galleries, American-style cafes, quirky bars, and artisanal businesses.

Valencia’s city centre and most popular areas coincide with the Old Town and Eixample districts.

Valencia’s historical centre is the Ciutat Vella (meaning Old Town) district. In particular, the Seu, Carmen, and Mercat neighbourhoods are the oldest parts of the city.

The Ciutat Vella and Eixample districts are the most popular districts. In terms of neighbourhoods, the ones you’e going to hear about the most during your stay in Valencia are El Carmen and Ruzafa.

The areas most appreciated by students are Blasco Ibáñez, Ciutat Universitaria, and Benimaclet. A considerable number of international students also live in Ruzafa.

Ruzafa is the cool neighbourhood par excellence in Valencia. Other beloved (and slightly lesser-known) hip areas are Benimaclet and Blasco Ibáñez.

With variations depending on the type of crowd and vibe you are looking for, Ciutat Vella, Ruzafa, and Benimaclet are all good places to have a drink.

The area surrounding Colón metro stop is known for its many shops and big brands. If you are looking for smaller businesses, artisanal shops, or even second hand stores, you’ll have more luck in other areas, like El Carmen or Ruzafa. For local markets, you can go to Benimaclet.

El Cabanyal is a neighbourhood by the sea, in the Poblats Marítims district. It is famous for its quiet pedestrian streets, picturesque and colourful houses, and casual bars and cafes.

Benimaclet is the name of a district in Valencia, as well as one of the neighbourhoods in said district. The area has maintained its small-town feel and a laid-back atmosphere, despite its closeness to the city centre. You can expect a lot of street markets, inexpensive bars and restaurants, and a multicultural crowd.

Blasco Ibáñez is the area, as defined by locals, surrounding Avenida Blasco Ibáñez. It is known in Valencia for its quiet yet upbeat atmosphere, with hip cafes, college bars, tapas eateries and its student population.

Valencia’s beaches are Platja del Cabanyal, Playa de la Malvarrosa, Playa de Las Arenas, Playa Patacona. They are all in the Poblats Marítims district.

The Pla del Remei and Gran Vía neighbourhoods in Eixample are some of the most expensive commercial and residential areas in Valencia.