5 Reasons Why You Should Study in Valencia

by Mandy

Beautiful Valencia. Photo source: media.melia

Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, is a popular choice for those deciding to study abroad. Warm weather, a beautiful beach, good universities, rich history and delicious food – what more could you ask for? Spotahome broke down 5 reasons why you should study in Valencia to make your decision to move abroad easier. And if you’re stuck on finding accommodation, scroll to the bottom of the page and browse through some of our favorite student rooms in Valencia!

1. Because life’s a beach in Valencia.

The University of Valencia has a definite advantage over other Spanish universities as it’s located just a few moments from the beach. It couldn’t get any more perfect! With miles and miles of sand, waves and plenty of beach bars on the boardwalk, it guarantees you will have a fantastic time abroad. And if you ever happen to get bored of Malvarrosa beach, you can take a trip to some less populated beaches around the area, such as El Saler, Port Saplaya, Sagunto beach and Cullera. What a perfect way to de-stress! Studying on the beach while listening to a calming sounds of the sea? Yes please!

Valencia beach. Photo source: plumdeluxe

2. Rich history, waiting to be explored

Valencia’s attractions are beloved and visited by many – from the Science Museum, Oceanografic and Plaza del Mercado, to historical Plaza de la Virgen, Palacio del Marques de Dos Aguas, Torres de Serranos and many more. There are plenty of sights for you to discover and explore their rich history. With its cobblestoned streets and historical buildings, it’ll make you feel like you stepped into a different century.

Valencia offers plenty of free walking tours and sports enthusiasts will be ecstatic over Valencia’s long park, offering plenty of activities, from an outdoor gym to yoga and pilates.

Torres de Serranos Photo source: urbevalencia

3. It will make all foodies happy and satisfied

Paella. Photo source: dondeviajar

Paella, a rice dish with its roots dating back to mid-19th century, is often mentioned when one talks about Valencia. Valencia can brag as being the ultimate birthplace of Paella – don’t listen to other towns, they’re just jealous. Here, you’ll be able to find most authentic and delicious paella dishes.

Furthermore, Valencia is also the home of Pestiños– orange and aniseed flavored pastry, folded in thirds. This delicious pastry can be found in various bakeries around the city.

Pestiños. Photo source: static.hogarmania

Another Valencia favorite is Gazpacho, a tomato-based soup made of raw vegetables, usually served cold and an ideal dish to cool off during a hot summer.

Recommended paella restaurants in Valencia:

La Matandeta– A family owned restaurant with great customer service and one of the best paellas in the city.

Address: Carretera CV-401, km 4, 46910 Alfafar, Valencia, Tel: 962 11 21 84, Opening hours: Tue – Sun 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Bodego de la Sarieta– Located right in Valencia city centre, close to Catedral de Valencia, this restaurant continues to impress with numerous authentic dishes that will make you come back for more.

Address: Calle de los Juristas, 4, 46001 Valencia, Tel: 963 923 538

Spotahome’s tip on how to spot a good paella: The best and most authentic paellas take a long time to prepare and cannot be cooked in individual portions as they lose their crispiness. Reputable restaurants often take paella requests the day before you decide to have your lunch.

4. It’s a student party in Valencia

Valencia’s partying tends to be different than partying in Madrid or Barcelona. Various parties are mostly hosted on Saturdays in smaller bars and pubs, with a variety of music being played through the night. Blasco Ibanez, the area around University of Valencia, tends to be a popular choice for students, with many happy hours and karaoke nights to be held.

Valencia’s bars have a great music variety that will please even the hardest critics, from indie to electronic. Fans of indie music should definitely stop by El Tornillo, one of the most famous clubs with great music throughout the night. Outside the university campus, popular party areas tend to be Barrio del Carmen, Canovas, Aragon, Malvarrosa and Heron City, each filled with different clubs and bars.

Don’t forget to try Agua de Valencia, a famous Valencian cocktail made from cava, orange juice, vodka and gin.

Agua de Valencia. Photo source: agualuna

5. Valencia is a traveler’s paradise

Not only is Valencia exciting and an excellent choice for studying abroad –  it’s also well connected to other popular Spanish cities. You’ll have easy access to the central train station that will take you to various parts of the country, including Madrid, Barcelona and Granada, in just a few hours. If you do ever get tired of Valencia you can just easily hop on a train and enjoy a weekend getaway exploring other Spanish cities and their cultures.

Ready to book your student accommodation?

Spotahome has several student apartments and rooms for rent to make your move to Valencia easier. Our top 3 recommended student accommodations are:

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