Valencia is a city with a unique atmosphere, where past, present, and future collide. The city’s history dates back to ancient times, and beautiful architecture from the Middle Ages, as well as from the Modernist period and the city’s great heyday, has been preserved. The modernist complex of buildings, the City of Arts and Sciences, has become the city’s contemporary symbol.
Although Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain, its size is unobtrusive. Its intimate neighborhoods and relaxed atmosphere make most people feel at home from the very first day they arrive. In 2020, the city earned the honor of first place in the Inter Nations Expat Insider ranking and was named the best city to live in the world!
Valencia is a city that prioritizes culture and creativity, distinguished by its commitment to innovation and sustainable development. The year-on-year growth of startups and creative companies provides an excellent environment for a first internship or for honing your skills and developing your career.
Valencia is a city of orange and sunshine, boasting an average of 320 days of sunshine per year! Thanks to its location on the Mediterranean Sea and its pleasant climate, it’s a perfect destination any time of year. Beautiful, wide urban beaches just minutes from the city center, friendly people, and numerous local festivals and events are the city’s hallmarks.
The biggest event of the year, attracting nearly a million tourists, is Las Fallas (the Festival of Fire). Officially, the festival lasts from March 15th to 19th, but in reality, it begins in early March. Statues (fallas), often two or three stories high, are placed in the streets, themed around current local issues and social concerns. On the last day of the festival, they are burned, creating an incomparable fiery spectacle. Las Fallas also features fireworks, music, and traditional dances; this is a festival unlike any other, inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible World Heritage List.
Valencia is also a paradise for foodies. Its location on the Mediterranean Sea and excellent weather most of the year ensure access to high-quality produce: seafood, fish, vegetables, and fruit. It’s worth visiting the Mercado Central market hall to discover a full range of local delicacies. Spain’s national dish, paella, also originates from Valencia, and you absolutely must try it when in Valencia!