EDITOR PICKS: 5 OF THE BEST HOSTELS IN VALENCIA

Close to Turia, one of the largest urban parks in Spain, and perfect for those who wish to have the city’s top sights within close reach, Purple Nest Hostel also has convenient transport links connecting to areas throughout the city and to the beach. With 300 days of sunshine, visitors need the air conditioning that is on offer in all rooms and there is even heating in the winter months when temperatures dip a little. A welcoming atmosphere spreads through the hostel’s functional spaces, which include a terrace, kitchen and lounge. Friendly staff organise regular activities and host special events throughout the week making the hostel a top choice for those looking to meet other travellers during their stay.

Centrally located in barrio El Carmen, Hôme Youth Hostel offers great value, clean, cozy dorm rooms sleeping a maximum of four people. Its excellent location and close proximity to almost all top sights: El Mercado Central, La Lonja, the Cathedral, Plaza de la Virgen, Plaza de la Reina, is a key factor in its popularity with guests. Staff are helpful and the hostel has both a tour desk and bike rental service available to all guests. For those returning from a day in the city, the relaxed atmosphere of the hostel encourages lazing around in its lounge area or creating a home cooked meal in its fully equipped kitchen.

Situated less than 300 metres from the lively Plaza de la Virgen, the Center Valencia Hostel is named accordingly. Visitors have easy access to many destinations and staff at the hostels tour desk are happy to offer assistance with organising activities. Proximity to nightlife makes this a popular choice for young guests who want a social experience; it has varied shared spaces including large common areas with televisions, an outdoor terrace and cafe. Self-catering dining facilities make it easy to cook any home cooked meal here and other amenities include wifi, breakfast, laundry (for a small additional fee), and air conditioning in every room.

Whilst most hostels are concentrated in the Old Town, Urban Youth Hostel offers an escape from the centre, neighbouring the beach instead. A new hostel in Valencia, it is ideal for those wanting to take a breather from busy city life. Close to the marina, the popular City of Arts and Science is still within reach on foot or guests can opt to jump on nearby public transport to access the city centre. Encased in its original façade, the clean rooms have access to many modern amenities: air conditioning, washing machines and wifi, as well a fully equipped kitchen, social spaces and several terraces. There is even a library that offers book exchanges so visitors can stock up on their beach reading material. The new young team are keen to offer local knowledge on what to do, giving advice on festivals, events and attractions.

This family run hostel attracts those who wish more privacy, providing a quiet atmosphere that is normally difficult to find in budget accommodation. Popular for families and tourists as well as those on short business trips, little differentiates this hostel from a hotel; offering only private rooms with free wifi and a basic breakfast, which can be upgraded for an additional charge. Individual as well as family size rooms for three people are available for varying types of guests but all are without air conditioning. Buried amongst the thriving shopping district of Valencia, many top shops are close to Hostal Moratin and a selection of museums are only a few minutes away by foot.