Valencia is the third largest city in Spain and if you’re going to live an experience abroad here, well...congratulations! You’re about to have one of the greatest adventures ever. Explore the city with us and discover what to do in Valencia during your Erasmus or your internship (and we also have some tips to make the visit special to your family or friends).

What is Valencia known for? 

If you live in the centre of Valencia, you’ll find out quite soon how incredibly magical is the historical charm of this city. But it is not over! Valencia boasts an incredible nightlife, exciting outdoor activities and modern cultural attractions. Get a look at our suggestions about what to do in Valencia in order to make your stay here unforgettable!

1. Amazing beaches in Valencia

Golden sandy beaches, stretching for many kilometers, accompanied by chiringuitos bars and restaurants. These blue-flag beaches, such as La Malvarrosa, are clean and offer the perfect location for having fun with your international friends or relax on your days off.

2. Valencia Old Town  (Ciutat Vella)

By living in the historical heart of the city, you’ll be surrounded by pure beauty, cultural sights, lovely cafés and quality restaurants. Here you have the chance to admire pretty squares, churches and many attractions such as La Lonja de la Seda or the main Cathedral in Valencia.

3. Try the authentic paella valenciana

If you didn’t know yet, now it’s time to discover the birthplace of the worldwide famous Spanish dish: the paella. Well, here we are! Valencia (most precisely, la Albufera region) is where this tasty rice-based dish was created. In the city you’ll have plenty of amazing options, but, if you really want to explore the origins of paella, our tip is to have a quick day-trip to La Albufera.

4. Street festivals in Valencia

Spanish culture is famous for its vibrant spirit, for its party and cherish vibes. If you haven’t had the chance to attend a Spanish street festival, Valencia is the perfect place to start: here you’ll attend two of the wildest yet fun events, such as La Tomatina and Las Fallas. This is the kind of “what to do in Valencia?” things that you can’t miss at all!

5. Modern architectural features in Valencia

Beside the enchanting historical attractions pop up all around the city centre - a real treasure dated back to Roman, Moorish and then Gothic time -, Valencia boasts great modern landscapes. You may know the City of Arts and Sciences, an outstanding architectural complex signed by the worldwide famous architects Calatrava and Candela.

6. Museums for a very cheap price in Valencia

When in Valencia, you have the chance to access cultural activities for a very affordable price. Museo de las Bellas Artes, Museo Taurino and many others have a very cheap entrance, discounts for students or a free on Sundays.

7. Food markets in Valencia

In the Spanish culture, food and wine are a real thing. Gastronomy is taken very seriously and in Valencia you’ll see it! Go to Mercado Central and get amazed by the huge and colorful variety of prime quality food, by the bustling vibes and the enchanting architecture, made of ceramic tiles.

8. Valencia nightlife

Another important part of Spain’s culture is the night entertainment. Folks here really know how to party, how to create incredible events, to make people live unforgettable experiences. Valencia will surprise you with many discos, but, most importantly, with amazing beach clubs...among the most beautiful ones in the country!

Unusual activities in Valencia

If you’re gonna spend a semester or year abroad, we assume you’re willing to live like a local at some point of your experience. Well, here we listed for you some unusual things to do in Valencia that will make you truly part of their own culture: 

- Get amazed by street art in barrio del Carmen.

- Be part of “Las Fallas” local street festival.

- Get into a tomato fight with “La Tomatina”.

- Visit the little “Casa de los gatos”.

- Check out music festivals at the City of Arts and Sciences.

- Enjoy an underwater lunch at the aquarium (Ciutat de les Arts i Ciències).

- Explore the lovely bookshops/cafés in the Ruzafa neighborhood.

- Enjoy your free time in Turia Gardens.

We truly hope this brief overview of what to do in Valencia is going to be helpful for you to make the most of your stay!