Maybe not the first district you think of in Valencia, but really worth a visit is ‘El Pla del Real’. In this area you will find the of Valencia C.F., Mestalla, and one of the most expensive hotels of the city, including an amazing spa.
Must-see highlights
The El Pla del Real district lies just east of Valencia’s historic center, across the Turia Park. One of its top attractions is the Mestalla Stadium, home to Valencia CF, one of Spain’s top football clubs. Want to know more about Valencia CF or even catch a match? Check out everything about the team and the Mestalla stadium here.
Right next to the stadium, you’ll find the elegant Westin Hotel, a five-star stay in a stunning modernist building. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth walking by, or better yet, stopping for a drink in the hotel’s beautiful patio. The surrounding streets are full of restaurants and bars where you can dive into the authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
Relax and unwind
El Pla del Real borders both Turia Park and Jardines del Real, two perfect spots for a leisurely stroll, reading a book in the sun, or enjoying a picnic. In Jardines del Real, you’ll find an aviary, a small nature museum, and in summer, a kiosk where you can sip a cold drink on the sunny terrace. For kids, there’s even a miniature traffic park, complete with streets and traffic lights, where they can safely run, ride bikes, or play.
Culture fix
Rainy evening or just in the mood for a movie? Head to Babel Cinema, one of the few theaters in Valencia showing films in their original language. Most are in English, but you’ll also find German, Dutch, or French films, all with Spanish subtitles, perfect for language lovers! And here’s a tip: every Wednesday, tickets are just €3.90.
Just next to Jardines del Real, you’ll find the Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts). With its historic building, beautiful dome, and fascinating collection, it’s a must for art lovers. Expect rotating exhibitions alongside a permanent collection of historical paintings and the best part? Admission is free.
Food & Drinks in El Pla del Real
La Principal
For truly authentic Spanish cuisine, La Principal is the place to be. The quality of the ingredients the chefs use is outstanding and you can taste it in every bite. The staff is incredibly friendly and happy to help you pick the perfect wine pairing. Must-tries? The brie and truffle croquettes and the tuna tartare. Visiting as a couple? Try to snag a spot at the bar for that true local experience.
- Carrer de Polo y Peyrolón 5
- Website
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 13.30 – 16.00
Thursday till Saturday: 13.30 – 16.00 & 20.45 – 00.30
Belmonte
At Belmonte, you can indulge in great food and drinks. The menu is packed with classic Spanish tapas, but you’ll also find plenty of meat, fish, and rice dishes to choose from. The restaurant’s stylish interior, complete with beautiful wall decorations, makes it a lovely spot for lunch or dinner. You’ll find Belmonte right next to the five-star Westin Hotel.
- Carrer de general Gil Dolz 16
- Website
- Monday till Saturday: 12.00 – 16.00 & 20.00 – 23.00
Sunday: 12.00 – 16.00
Bodega Albarizas
Ever wanted to step inside a wine barrel? At Bodega Albarizas, you can! In fact, the entire restaurant is designed like one big barrel. And of course, that means you can enjoy some truly delicious wines while you’re there. Pair your drink with one of their tasty tapas, including a nice selection of cheeses, for the perfect experience.
- Carrer d’Antoni Suárez 29
- Website
- Monday till Saturday: 12.00 – 16.00 & 19.00 – 23.30
Time to go to sleep in El Pla del Real
El Pla del Real offers some comfortable sleeping accommodations. Underneath we have listed a few of them, ones that we would definitely recommend.
Silken Puerta Valencia
This unique and modern four-star hotel was designed by Spanish designer Javier Mariscal. His signature style is visible in the façade of Silken Puerta and in the many artistic details throughout the hotel. The hotel also offers a restaurant and parking facilities. Aragón metro station is just a few hundred meters away, and from Silken Puerta Valencia, you can easily walk to both the historic city center and the City of Arts and Sciences. Check out more details, current rates, and availability at Silken Puerta Valencia.
Apartamentos FV Flats
Right next to the Mestalla football stadium, you’ll find the modern and well-maintained FV Flats apartments. These stylish apartments feature three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, and a cozy living room. The nearest metro station with a direct connection to the airport, is just a 5-minute walk away, and the city center is also within easy walking distance. Plus, you’ll reach great restaurants and bars in just 10 minutes. Check more details, current rates, and availability at Apartamentos FV Flats.
Westin
The stunning five-star Westin Valencia is the perfect base for an unforgettable holiday in the city. The hotel features a luxurious, spacious spa, a Mediterranean restaurant, a stylish bar, and even a cocktail club. Everything about the hotel exudes elegance, from the breathtaking architecture to the chic interior design. There’s also a lovely courtyard garden, perfect for enjoying a quiet drink away from the city buzz. The historic city center is just a 15-minute walk away. Fun fact: the Westin is a favorite stay for many professional sports teams and international artists. Check out more details, current rates, and availability at Westin Valencia.
How to get to El Pla del Real
The easiest way to get to this district is by foot. It will only cost you a couple of minutes from the city centre, depending on your start location of course. Just cross the Alameda bridge and you arrive in El Pla del Real. Another great way of transport is to go by bike. The metro is another option. If you go by metro, then get off at the stations Alameda or Aragón.
Tips
- At the end of Avinguda d’Aragó, when you step into Turia Park, you’ll find the Palau de la Música. This beautiful music hall is the perfect spot to take a stroll, relax by the large fountain, or simply unwind on the grass. If you’re a classical music lover, be sure to check the schedule, you might catch a performance during your stay in Valencia.