Buying or Renting in Valencia - A Guide for Families
A City Designed for a Balanced Life in Valencia and Surrounding Neighborhoods
Why Valencia is Perfect for Families
Relocating with your family is a big decision, and finding the right place to call home is about more than just the number of bedrooms or proximity to schools. It’s about creating a balanced life where both parents and children can thrive. Valencia, with its sunny climate, safe environment, and emphasis on family values, is increasingly becoming a favorite destination for families from around the world.
But it’s not just the city center that attracts families. The surrounding neighborhoods—such as L’Eliana, Godella, Rocafort, Paterna, and La Canyada—offer the perfect combination of space, nature, and proximity to the city. At Iberbiz, we work closely with families to help them find the ideal place to rent or buy, whether they prefer a vibrant city neighborhood or a quieter suburb that still provides easy access to everything Valencia has to offer.
Why Families Love Valencia
Valencia’s appeal for families lies in its perfect mix of urban amenities and outdoor activities. The city itself is designed with families in mind, featuring a wealth of parks, playgrounds, family-friendly restaurants, and top-tier schools. Whether your children are young or entering their teenage years, Valencia’s educational system offers excellent options, including international and bilingual schools. Furthermore, the city’s walkability, reliable public transport, and proximity to the beach make it easy for families to enjoy quality time together.
However, the magic of family life in Valencia extends beyond the city limits. Nearby neighborhoods like L’Eliana, Godella, Rocafort, Paterna, and La Canyada are popular choices for families who want a bit more space while still being close to the action. These areas provide excellent schooling, safe communities, and a wide range of property options, from modern townhouses to spacious villas with gardens.
Valencia City: Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
For those who prefer the excitement and convenience of city life, Valencia’s central neighborhoods offer fantastic options for families, with the added benefit of being close to the city’s cultural landmarks, schools, and services.
1. Ruzafa: A Vibrant Neighborhood with a Family Focus
Ruzafa is one of Valencia’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its mix of traditional charm and modern flair. It’s a lively area, filled with cafes, parks, and family-friendly spaces. Despite its bustling atmosphere, Ruzafa is popular with families because of its sense of community and excellent amenities. The nearby Turia Gardens, a massive green space running through the city, offers children plenty of room to play, cycle, or enjoy a weekend picnic. The area is well-serviced by public transport, schools, and healthcare facilities, making it a practical and exciting option for family life.
2. Pla del Real: A Quiet, Upscale Neighborhood Near the City Center
Pla del Real is a quieter, upscale neighborhood, perfect for families who want to stay close to the city center while enjoying a more peaceful atmosphere. With its proximity to the University of Valencia and some of the city’s best schools, this neighborhood attracts families looking for a safe and refined environment. Pla del Real is also near the Turia Gardens and the Jardines del Real (Royal Gardens), offering easy access to green spaces where children can play and parents can relax. Properties in this area include spacious apartments and luxury homes.
3. La Seu: The Heart of Valencia’s History and Culture
For families who want to live at the very heart of Valencia, La Seu offers a unique opportunity. This historic neighborhood, home to iconic landmarks like the Valencia Cathedral and Plaza de la Virgen, provides a living experience steeped in culture. Though it’s in the city center, La Seu offers charming, quiet streets perfect for families. While properties here often have a traditional feel, the area’s proximity to some of Valencia’s top schools, museums, and parks makes it an attractive option for parents who want to raise their children in a culturally rich environment.
4. Cánovas: A Sophisticated and Lively Area
Cánovas is known for its sophisticated vibe, with wide, tree-lined streets, elegant apartments, and an array of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. For families who appreciate a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Cánovas is a great choice. It’s close to some of the best schools in Valencia and offers easy access to parks and recreational areas. The area is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to commute or explore the rest of the city. The mix of urban elegance and family-friendly amenities makes Cánovas a top option for those looking to settle in Valencia.
1. L’Eliana: A Family-Friendly Suburb with Plenty of Space
L’Eliana, located just 20 minutes from Valencia city center, is one of the top choices for families who want more space without losing access to urban amenities. Known for its expansive parks, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere, L’Eliana offers a relaxed suburban lifestyle that many families find ideal. Whether you’re looking to rent a modern apartment or buy a villa with a large garden, L’Eliana has a range of properties that cater to family needs.
One of the reasons why families love L’Eliana is its sense of community. It’s easy to meet other families, and there’s a strong network of local clubs, sports activities, and cultural events for children of all ages. With easy access to the CV-35 highway, commuting to Valencia is quick and convenient, making it perfect for parents who work in the city but prefer to live in a quieter, more spacious environment.
2. Godella: A Picturesque Village with Excellent Schools
Godella is another fantastic option for families, especially those seeking a more traditional village feel while still being just 15 minutes from Valencia. The village is known for its peaceful streets, historic architecture, and a strong sense of community. Families with children particularly appreciate the top-tier international schools in and around Godella, making it an excellent choice for expatriates or those seeking bilingual education for their children.
Godella’s mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences is perfect for families who want a more relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing access to good schooling and city amenities. Whether you choose to rent or buy in Godella, you’ll find that the area offers plenty of options, from quaint townhouses to larger properties with private gardens.
3. Rocafort: A Charming Suburb with a Strong Community Spirit
If you’re looking for a charming, quieter environment with a short commute to the city, Rocafort is another neighborhood worth considering. Just 10 kilometers from Valencia, Rocafort offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle that’s especially popular with families. It’s home to several excellent international schools, such as Cambridge House Community College, making it an attractive option for families who prioritize education.
Rocafort’s leafy streets, local markets, and strong community spirit make it a lovely place to raise children. Properties here range from spacious villas with swimming pools to modern homes with ample outdoor space, perfect for growing families. Whether you’re renting or buying, Rocafort’s friendly atmosphere and proximity to Valencia make it a top choice for family life.
4. Paterna: A Thriving Area with Great Infrastructure
For families who want easy access to Valencia while enjoying a more residential, peaceful setting, Paterna is a fantastic option. Located just 6 kilometers from Valencia, Paterna is known for its excellent infrastructure, with schools, parks, and recreational facilities all within easy reach. It’s also well-connected to the city via public transport and major roads, making the commute easy for working parents.
Paterna offers a range of property options, from modern apartment complexes to larger homes with gardens. Families love the area for its balance of convenience and community spirit. There’s always something to do here, whether it’s spending the weekend at the local park, taking part in neighborhood activities, or visiting nearby shopping centers. For those looking to rent or buy, Paterna provides a great mix of affordable housing and quality living.
5. La Canyada: A Quiet, Green Neighborhood with a Strong Family Focus
Just a little further out, La Canyada is a peaceful, green neighborhood that’s incredibly popular with families. Located about 12 kilometers from Valencia, La Canyada is known for its quiet streets, large properties, and easy access to outdoor activities. It’s surrounded by natural parks and green spaces, making it a haven for families who love the outdoors.
Families who move to La Canyada often choose it for the spacious homes, many of which have large gardens, perfect for children to play in. Schools in the area are highly regarded, and the strong community focus makes it easy for families to settle in and build a support network. Renting or buying in La Canyada is ideal for those who want the best of both worlds—proximity to the city combined with the tranquility of suburban life.
How We Help Families Find Their Perfect Home
At Iberbiz, we understand that finding the right home for your family is about much more than just square footage or location—it’s about finding a place where your children can grow up happy and safe. Our team specializes in helping families find homes that meet their specific needs, whether it’s proximity to top schools, access to parks, or simply having enough space for everyone.
We offer a personalized approach, working closely with you to understand what’s most important for your family’s lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to rent a modern apartment in Paterna or buy a villa with a pool in La Canyada, we guide you through the process with empathy and professionalism, ensuring that every detail is taken care of. From handling viewings to negotiating contracts, we make sure that your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Testimonials
“Moving to Valencia with our two children felt like a huge leap, but François made the transition so easy for us. We found a beautiful home in L’Eliana, with plenty of space for the kids and close to their new school. François was incredibly supportive, helping us navigate every step of the process. We feel so lucky to have found such a great community here.”
— Sophie & Tom W., Manchester, UK
“We were looking for a place where our family could settle long-term, and François found us the perfect home in Godella. The proximity to international schools and the quiet, friendly atmosphere have been perfect for our kids. We never imagined the process of buying a home in Spain could be this seamless, but the Iberbiz team made it a reality.”
— Ana M., Vancouver, Canada
Why Iberbiz is the Right Choice for Families
At Iberbiz, we’re committed to helping families find homes that not only meet their needs but enhance their lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, our deep knowledge of Valencia and its surrounding neighborhoods ensures that we can guide you to the perfect family home. From L’Eliana to La Canyada, we’ve helped countless families find their ideal property, and we’re ready to help you do the same.
If you’re ready to explore your options in Valencia and its family-friendly neighborhoods, contact us today. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most—your family’s happiness.