Valencia, Spain

• Introduction
• Getting Around
• Study
• Eating Out
• Out on the Town
• Day Trippin'
• Student Accommodation

Introduction to Valencia

Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona, yet is catching up as one of Spain’s most desirable tourist destinations. The city has everything to offer. A buzzing metropolitan centre in a beautiful seaside location, also benefiting from a close proximity to a beautiful coastal mountain range making Valencia the place to be! The climate is controlled by the Mediterranean: hot summers, mild winters and an average of only forty-four rainy days a year, means Valencia is known for having some of the best weather in Spain.

Its architecture is hard to rival. The City of Arts and Science attracts four million visitors annually. The brainchild of Valencia-born Santiago Calatrava contains Europe’s largest aquarium, an opera house, an IMAX theatre and a science museum. There is also an impressive structure leading towards these buildings; a long, arched walkway called ‘L’Umbracle.’ In contrast, the old town has remains from very remote periods, as far back as the year 138 B.C.. The main cathedral is a major tourist point and inside is a number of paintings by many eminent artists. It is without dispute that Valencia combines the new with the old in a fabulous way.

In addition to all of this, Valencia has placed itself firmly on the map as a key party destination. Las Fallas, a five day festival in March, involves copious amounts of fire and fireworks, parades, music, dancing and alcohol. Valencia’s population is said to quadruple during the festival. Valencia recently hosted the 32nd America’s Cup. The port underwent a huge revamp in preparation for this and the million of visitors who flocked to experience the huge sailing competition. Even more visitors are expected this year, as Valencia has been included on the Formula One racing circuit. The excellent gastronomy and busy nightlife in the old-town allows everyone to enjoy their stay.