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Benimaclet and Pla del Real have historical origins that reflect Valencia's evolution. Benimaclet dates back to the Muslim era, where it was an agricultural settlement known for its production of vegetables and grains. Its Arabic name, "Beni Maklet," means "sons of Maklet." As the city grew, this small village integrated into the urban landscape, preserving its traditional essence through narrow streets and squares that host local festivities.
On the other hand, Pla del Real began as part of the lands of the old Valencia orchard. Its development accelerated in the 19th century with the construction of classical and modernist-style buildings. The Jardín de Viveros, designed in the 18th century, became an important green space. Today, both districts have transformed from peripheral areas to vital parts of Valencia's urban life, combining a rich cultural legacy with modernity.
Living in Benimaclet y Pla del Real
Living in Benimaclet and Pla del Real immerses you in a vibrant and diverse experience that captures the essence of Valencia. In Benimaclet, the streets are alive with a bohemian atmosphere, where cafés and bars serve as gathering spots for artists and young creatives, and local festivities foster a strong sense of community. Strolling through its narrow alleys, you can breathe in history and authenticity. In contrast, Pla del Real offers a serene refuge with the majestic Jardines de Viveros, perfect for escaping the urban hustle. Here, the elegance of its buildings and proximity to the Museo de Bellas Artes enrich the cultural life, inviting residents to enjoy exhibitions and events. Both districts, with their excellent transport connections, make it easy to explore the city, creating an ideal balance between social activity and relaxation in a natural setting, turning each day into a new adventure.
Public transport in Benimaclet y Pla del Real
Public transportation in Benimaclet and Pla del Real is efficient and well-connected, featuring metro lines L3 and L9 that link to the center of Valencia and key areas like the airport and the university. Benimaclet has both metro and tram stations, providing easy access to the beaches, while Pla del Real boasts the Facultats station near Blasco Ibáñez. Additionally, both districts are well-served by bus lines and Valenbisi bike-sharing stations, promoting quick, eco-friendly, and convenient mobility throughout the city.
Metro: the city of Valencia has a shared metro and tram service, both transports complement each other. That is, if you transfer from the metro to the tram, or vice versa, it will count as a single trip. The city is divided into 4 zones and has 9 lines of this service. Zone A is where all the tourist attractions, universities and most central neighborhoods are located. As for its price, it varies depending on the use you make of transportation. There is the option of purchasing a single ticket, a round-trip ticket, or a bonus meter. Check the rates and download the map on the Metrovalencia website.
Bus: Valencia has 59 bus lines, 44 of them regular and 13 at night. They are the fastest way to get around the city, since in Valencia it is more common to use the bus than the metro. In addition, thanks to 'Calculate your route' and 'Know when your bus arrives', within the EMT Valencia page, it will be very easy to plan your route and your time.
Cercanías train: the surrounding area of Valencia offers an efficient rail network that connects the city with the surrounding area. This network provides a convenient and fast way to travel between Valencia and its neighboring towns, facilitating access to places of interest and various activities. The main stations in the city are Valencia Nord, Valencia Cabanyal and Valencia Fuente de San Luis.
Services in Benimaclet y Pla del Real
The districts of Benimaclet and Pla del Real stand out for their wide range of services that meet all the needs of their residents, from access to local shops and healthcare centers to top-tier educational and cultural institutions. Both neighborhoods provide an excellent quality of life, combining the charm of community living with proximity to Valencia’s main points of interest, ensuring comfort and well-being in the daily lives of their inhabitants.
Here are some of the most notable services offered in Benimaclet and Pla del Real:
Everyday shooping
Benimaclet offers an authentic local shopping experience, with markets like the Friday Market, which operates only on Fridays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Additionally, there are traditional small businesses, such as bakeries and fruit shops, that preserve the neighborhood's spirit. In Pla del Real, residents enjoy specialty stores and supermarkets like Mercadona or Consum, perfect for quick shopping trips.
Health and wellness
Both Benimaclet and Pla del Real districts are well-equipped with a wide range of public and private healthcare services. In Benimaclet, the Benimaclet Health Center provides both primary and specialized care, complemented by several local pharmacies. Pla del Real is home to the renowned Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, offering high-quality care, along with private clinics that enhance the healthcare options. Both districts have quick access to emergency services and specialized consultations, ensuring convenient and efficient medical care.
Schools and libraries
Benimaclet and Pla del Real offer excellent educational opportunities. In Pla del Real, schools like the German School and Colegio Guadalaviar stand out. Both districts benefit from their proximity to major universities, such as the University of Valencia with its Blasco Ibáñez campus located in Pla del Real and the Polytechnic University of Valencia, near Benimaclet. Additionally, Benimaclet features the Carola Reig Salvà Municipal Library, providing educational resources and activities for all ages.
Cultural centers
In Pla del Real, the cultural offerings are more institutional, highlighted by the Valencia Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most important art galleries in Spain, featuring works by artists such as Velázquez and Goya. Just a short walk away, the Palau de la Música hosts a diverse program of concerts and performances. The proximity of these cultural centers allows residents of both districts to enjoy a rich artistic and cultural life, with options ranging from the most alternative to the most classical.
Public services
Benimaclet boasts nearby municipal administrative offices, including the Municipal Exhibition Board. In terms of sports and leisure, the Benimaclet Sports Center and the Jardines del Real Sports Complex in Pla del Real offer modern facilities for various physical activities. Both districts feature an excellent public transportation network, connected by metro and bus lines that provide quick access to the city center and other key areas of Valencia.
Having fun in Benimaclet y Pla del Real
What to do in Beniclamet y Pla del Real?
Benimaclet and Pla del Real offer a fascinating contrast for those looking to enjoy leisure activities in Valencia. Benimaclet, with its history as an independent village until the 19th century, retains its vibrant and alternative neighborhood character, filled with cozy bars, street markets and a cultural calendar that always surprises with local events. One interesting fact is that it hosts popular festivals like the "Trobada de Música Tradicional," where Valencian traditions blend with more modern proposals. On the other hand, Pla del Real, formerly a recreational area for Valencia's royalty, is famous for its impressive gardens, such as the Viveros, where bullfights were once organized in the past.
Eating out
Benimaclet and Pla del Real offer a diverse gastronomic scene that reflects their vibrant character. In Benimaclet, La Murta Vins y Tapes stands out for those seeking creative tapas paired with a carefully curated selection of wines, while Saigon Saigon provides an exotic twist with authentic Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for international flavor enthusiasts. In Pla del Real, Flor de Tapa is the go-to spot for traditional tapas in a relaxed setting, and Batumi Mestalla combines Georgian cuisine with Mediterranean options, offering a unique and varied culinary experience in the city. Both districts allow residents and visitors to explore everything from local tapas to international dishes without leaving the neighborhood.
Parks and green areas
Pla del Real is known for its expansive green spaces, with the Viveros Gardens serving as the district's lungs. This historic park provides perfect areas for walking, exercising, or enjoying a picnic amidst nature. Meanwhile, Benimaclet is close to the Orriols Park and features small, tree-lined squares that invite relaxation. Additionally, its proximity to the old Turia riverbed offers easy access to this vast urban park, ideal for cyclists, runners or families seeking a day outdoors.
Cultural activities
Benimaclet and Pla del Real offer a rich cultural agenda for their residents. In Benimaclet, the Olympic Stadium of Valencia City is a point of interest, as it not only hosts sports events but also serves as a venue for concerts and festivals, becoming a dynamic space for the community. Meanwhile, Pla del Real is home to the Valencia Museum of Fine Arts, a cultural gem that houses one of the most important art collections in Spain, featuring works by artists like Velázquez and Goya. Additionally, at the nearby Mestalla Stadium, football fans can experience the passion of Valencia CF, which offers guided tours to explore the club's history. This combination of cultural activities and sporting events provides residents with a comprehensive and enriching experience in both districts.
Going out
Nightlife in Benimaclet and Pla del Real is diverse and lively, offering options for all tastes. Jardines del Real Nightclub stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and live music sessions, becoming a popular meeting point for those looking to dance and enjoy a fun night out. On the other hand, Azza Valencia provides a more exclusive experience with its elegant decor and carefully curated cocktail selection, making it ideal for those seeking a sophisticated place to socialize.
Benimaclet is a district known for its bohemian atmosphere, filled with bars, markets, and a rich cultural scene that celebrates its traditions. In contrast, Pla del Real is characterized by its tranquility, expansive green spaces like the Viveros Gardens, and proximity to educational and cultural institutions, offering a more residential and serene lifestyle.
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