Northeastern area
Northeastern area
Much like the southeastern area, the northeastern area is not a district in itself either. With this name, we are grouping together nearby districts and neighbourhoods.
In this area, we include the Benimaclet district, the Ciutat Universitaria neighbourhood, and the area surrounding Avenida de Blasco Ibáñez.
This part of Valencia, while not as central as others, is extremely well connected and lively, mostly due to its young population and universities. We recommend this part of Valencia for those interested in a local vibe and relatively un-gentrified neighbourhoods.
Being a little away from the centre, we recommend you bike or take public transport rather than walk. Metro, trams, and buses are all excellent options with plenty of lines and stops in the area. If you prefer, electric scooters or taxis are also viable solutions.
Benimaclet
Benimaclet is the name used to refer to one of the 19 Valencian districts, as well as one of the barrios within that district. The area, today integrated as part of the city, was formerly a separate village on the outskirts of Valencia.
Despite its proximity to the city, it has maintained its traditional identity, with a laid-back atmosphere, plenty of street markets, pedestrian streets, and a geographical closeness to the cultivated fields of Valencia (the Huerta).
Locals here all know one another and older ladies can often be seen setting up chairs on the sidewalk to chit chat.
Many of those that visit the area agree that Benimaclet feels more like a small town than part of a city. When you visit, you’ll certainly notice the low white houses, the small streets, and the tile decorations.
While there are no major sights to visit here, the nightlife is thriving, with international and inexpensive bars and restaurants all around. We also recommend you pass by on Friday morning to see the street market, where you can find anything from shoes to fresh produce.
If you’d like to know more about this area of Valencia, you can check out our article about Benimaclet.
Blasco Ibáñez and Ciutat Universitaria
These two areas are known in Valencia for their quiet yet upbeat atmosphere, with hip cafes, college bars, tapas eateries and of course university students, who make up most of their population.
A note about the two areas must be made. Ciutat Universitaria is an officially registered neighbourhood belonging to El Pla del Real district. Blasco Ibáñez, on the other hand, is neither a recognised district nor an official neighbourhood. Rather it is the area, as defined by locals, surrounding Avenida Blasco Ibáñez (between El Pla del Real and Algirós districts).
In this part of the city, you’ll find large avenues and buildings, as well as lots of greenery and a park-like feel thanks to Avenida Blasco Ibáñez, which is lined up with trees on either side.
In spite of the geographical difference from Benimaclet, the area still managed to remain more subdued and laid-back than the city centre, all without losing its liveliness.