With golden beaches, thriving cities, peaceful countryside and property that offers genuine value, Valencia continues to attract overseas buyers of all kinds. Here’s how to turn this sun-drenched corner of eastern Spain into your own home abroad.
From long lazy lunches in the city’s palm-lined squares to quiet mornings on your sea-view terrace or brisk hikes through orange-scented hills, Valencia offers a lifestyle that feels like a permanent holiday – and a property market that still delivers. Whether you’re planning to relocate, invest or find the perfect escape for family holidays, this guide will walk you through what to expect, where to look and how to make a safe, confident purchase.
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Contents
- Why buy in Valencia?
- Valencia’s climate
- Getting to Valencia
- Where to buy in Valencia
- Is property in Valencia a good investment?
- The property market
- How to buy property in Valencia
Why buy in Valencia?
Valencia offers a rich combination of heritage cities, pristine beaches and quiet inland towns. More and more overseas buyers are turning to Valencia as a smart alternative to the higher prices in Madrid and Barcelona.
Valencia city, Spain’s third largest, has carved out a reputation as a cultural hub with fewer crowds and lower property prices than its better-known cousins. For lifestyle seekers, the region caters for all tastes: from beach lovers and golfers to those looking for a relaxed pace in a traditional village.
Valencia’s climate
If sunshine is high on your wish list, Valencia won’t disappoint. The region enjoys over 300 sunny days a year, with warm summers and mild winters. January averages 15°C in the daytime, while August regularly reaches 31°C – kept bearable by sea breezes.
Getting to Valencia
The region is exceptionally well connected. For the Costa Blanca, Alicante International Airport is your gateway, offering regular budget flights throughout the year. For Valencia city and surrounding areas, Valencia Airport is just 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes by train from the centre.
Valencia is also on the European high-speed rail network, with Paris to Valencia doable in a single day.
Where to buy in Valencia
Peñíscola, Costa del Azahar
Valencia city
A city with character and ambition, Valencia blends medieval heritage with modern design. Landmarks include the La Lonja de la Seda and the City of Arts and Sciences. The city boasts seven kilometres of beaches – many of which have Blue Flag status – vibrant food markets and independent shops.
It’s also one of Europe’s greenest cities, aiming to be carbon neutral by 2030, with public gardens, cycle lanes and electric transport leading the way.
If you’re moving with children, the city has a range of international schools and work opportunities.
Valencian countryside
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful life surrounded by orange groves and mountains, inland Valencia offers excellent value. You’ll find rustic townhouses and traditional fincas, often for under €100,000.
Look out for villages in the official list of Los Pueblos más Bonitos de España – these are recognised for their beauty and heritage.
Costa Blanca
With over 200 kilometres of coastline, this is Spain’s most popular region for international buyers. Beach resorts like Benidorm, Dénia, Jávea and Calpe offer a mix of family fun, nightlife and golf. Inland towns like Orihuela and Torrevieja have large expat communities and excellent rental potential.
Costa del Azahar
North of the Costa Blanca, the Costa del Azahar is quieter and more affordable. Its name – the Orange Blossom Coast – hints at the scenery: citrus groves, hills and whitewashed villages. Peñíscola is the standout town, with a castle, old quarter and wide beaches. Gandía is also popular – it’s split between a working city and a lively coastal resort.
| Area | What it offers | Popular with |
|---|---|---|
| Valencia city | Historic centre, urban beaches, culture, schools | Families, professionals, city lovers |
| Costa Blanca | Beaches, golf, expat communities, nightlife | Retirees, holiday homeowners, rental investors |
| Costa del Azahar | Quieter resorts, nature, traditional towns | Buyers seeking value and tranquillity |
| Inland villages | Traditional lifestyle, rural charm, bargain properties | Budget-conscious buyers, keen renovators |
Is property in Valencia a good investment?
While purchase tax on resale homes is 10%, higher than the 7% in Andalusia, the lower overall property prices often balance this out. In many areas, you can secure a larger or better-located home for the same price.
Rental yields are promising. The coastal resorts and city centre attract year-round visitors. However, Valencia is tightening its rules – licences for short-term holiday lets aren’t transferable, so new owners must reapply. Always speak to a lawyer before committing to a rental strategy.
The property market
There’s a broad spectrum of property types and price points. In towns like Oliva or Gandía, €100,000 could buy an old but habitable townhouse. In Valencia city, modern one- or two-bedroom apartments typically start at €200,000. For new builds, focus your search on Valencia city, Alicante, or Costa Blanca hotspots like Benidorm, Calpe or Orihuela.
If you’re after luxury, you’ll find penthouses with sea views, spacious villas with pools and contemporary statement homes.
How to buy property in Valencia
- Do your research: get familiar with different areas and match your wish list to your budget. Use our property listings portal to explore what’s available.
- Build your team: work with an independent lawyer, a local estate agent and a currency specialist like Smart Currency Exchange. You may also benefit from financial or mortgage advice.
- Visit in person: book a viewing trip and plan your itinerary. Valencia is large – journey times matter. Take notes and compare properties before making your decision.
- Make an offer: once accepted, you’ll sign a reservation contract and pay a small holding fee. If you want a survey, this is the time to arrange it.
- Exchange and completion: sign the purchase contract (escritura pública), pay the 10% deposit and settle legal fees, taxes and notary costs. Your lawyer will oversee the process and register the sale.
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