When people think about moving to Spain or investing in real estate there, two cities often come up in discussions: Valencia and Barcelona.
Each has its own charm, atmosphere, and housing market specifics, attracting both expatriates and investors. Between a dynamic metropolis and a more peaceful Mediterranean city, the choice can quickly become complex.
At Buenapart, we support many French-speaking buyers with their property projects in Valencia, whether they want to live there, prepare for expatriation, or make a rental investment. That’s why it’s essential to objectively compare these two cities in order to better understand their respective opportunities and choose the destination that best fits your project and lifestyle.
The City of Arts and Sciences embodies Valencia’s dynamism and attractiveness.
Property prices: Valencia more affordable than Barcelona
If you’re looking to buy an apartment or a house, the price difference between Valencia and Barcelona is significant.
Barcelona: According to Idealista, the property market is very tight. Apartments in the city center often sell for over €4,500 per m², and popular neighborhoods like Eixample or El Born show even higher prices. Small apartments can cost almost as much as a large property in Valencia.
Valencia: According to Idealista, the city offers properties between €2,000 and €3,500 per m² depending on the area. This allows buyers to purchase a larger or better-located home for the same budget. Neighborhoods such as Ruzafa or El Carmen offer great opportunities for those looking for a balance between historic charm and modern amenities.
At Buenapart, we see that many French-speaking buyers choose Valencia for its excellent value for money and the possibility of enjoying recent or renovated properties without overspending, while staying close to the sea and the city center.
Daily life: sunshine, beaches, and local atmosphere
Beyond real estate, quality of life plays a key role when choosing a city.
Barcelona is a lively city with an intense cultural life, many restaurants and bars, but also high density and sometimes a stressful pace. The beach is nearby, but tourist areas are very crowded, especially in summer.
Valencia offers a more relaxed lifestyle. With its quiet beaches, mild climate all year round, and the famous Turia Garden, Valencia uniquely combines city life and nature. Local gastronomy, such as the famous paella, neighborhood markets, and sunny terraces, creates a friendly and warm atmosphere. The cost of living is also lower: restaurants, cafés, and leisure activities are more affordable than in Barcelona, making daily life more pleasant.
Transport and mobility: flexibility vs. hustle and bustle
In Barcelona, the metro and bus network is dense, but traffic jams and circulation can make daily travel more stressful. Cycling is possible, but you need to stay alert due to heavy traffic.
Valencia is a more compact city and pleasant to explore on foot or by bike. The tram and metro are more than enough to reach all key areas of the city, from the beaches to historic districts. Even in the city center, getting around remains simple and fast — a real advantage for families or anyone who wants to enjoy every moment.
Conclusion
Valencia offers the perfect balance between attractive property prices, quality of life, and local atmosphere. It particularly appeals to French-speaking buyers who want to enjoy a pleasant lifestyle, an accessible real estate market, and reliable services.
Barcelona remains an iconic city, ideal for those looking for intense and cosmopolitan urban life. But if you want to combine smart investment with a peaceful daily life, Valencia with Buenapart’s support is an option worth considering. With affordable property, quiet beaches, charming neighborhoods, and local gastronomy, Valencia attracts more and more French expatriates and investors every year.