Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city, on the Mediterranean coast, and the capital of the autonomous community of the same name. Its reputation as a compromise is deserved: the sea and the climate of the south, with rent noticeably below Barcelona’s — €16.3/m² against €20.2/m² (idealista, August 2026). Below: districts, prices, transport and what to weigh if you are moving with children.
About the city
Valencia is a city that combines ancient Spanish history with modern architecture. Founded around 2,000 years ago, it has kept its historic roots, which makes it unique among Spanish cities. Walking around the old town, you can see sights such as Valencia Cathedral with its famous bell tower, as well as the Serranos Towers, which are part of the old city walls.
Today Valencia is known as an important cultural and scientific centre. In the mid-1990s the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) was built here, and it has become an outstanding masterpiece of modern design and architecture. The complex, which includes a science museum, an oceanarium and a planetarium, attracts many tourists and children, sparking interest in science and art through engaging exhibitions. The city’s scientific reputation does not rest on this complex alone: Valencia’s universities, the classic University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University, welcome students from all over the world.
Climate and weather
Valencia has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. This makes the city attractive to travellers all year round. The average temperature is around 30°C in summer and around 10–15°C in winter. For those who like warmth, the best time to visit Valencia is from May to October, when the weather is ideal for the beach and for walks. Autumn and spring are also good times to visit, as temperatures remain pleasant and there are far fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the city’s atmosphere without the crowds.
Knowing what the weather in Valencia is like will make it easy to plan your time and activities. For example, festivals and markets here often take place in sunny weather, which makes them even more appealing.
How to get there
There are several ways to get to Valencia.
By plane
Valencia has an international airport just 8 kilometres from the city centre. Valencia Airport (VLC) handles many domestic and international flights connecting the city with destinations across Europe and the world. You can get into the city by taxi, bus or metro. The metro takes about 20 minutes, and the bus about 30 minutes.
By train
If you are in other major Spanish cities such as Madrid or Barcelona, the train is an excellent option. Valencia has convenient rail links with these cities, and AVE high-speed trains get you to your destination quickly and comfortably. A train journey will leave you with plenty of good impressions of the scenery along the way.
By car
For those who prefer to drive, Valencia sits at the junction of the main A-3 and A-7 motorways, which makes the city easy to reach from both Madrid and Barcelona. Travelling by car lets you enjoy the views and stop at interesting places on the way to your destination.
By bus
Bus routes are also available from various Spanish cities. Valencia’s bus station is right in the city centre and offers many routes connecting the city with other major towns.
By ferry
For true sea travellers, Valencia can also be reached by ferry from neighbouring countries such as Italy. The ferry from Genoa sails regularly, and this option will appeal to those who prefer sea travel and spectacular views.
Where to stay
Valencia offers many accommodation options, and several neighbourhoods are especially popular:
- The old town (El Carmen) is the heart of Valencia, with narrow streets, historic buildings and many cafés and restaurants. Here you can find both budget guesthouses and more expensive hotels.
- L’Eixample is a district known for its wide streets and modern buildings. It is an ideal place for those who prefer a calmer atmosphere. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants.
- The seafront (La Malvarrosa) is for those who want to be close to the beach and the sea. There are both Russian-run and Spanish hotels offering services for a comfortable stay.
- The City of Arts and Sciences area (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) is a special zone that suits those who want to be close to modern architectural landmarks and museums. It also has many accommodation options for both tourists and business travellers.
Each of these neighbourhoods has its own character, so you can choose the one that suits you best. If you are choosing a district to live in rather than to visit, see prices, incomes and profiles of every district in Valencia neighbourhoods. If you are seriously considering Valencia as a place to live rather than a stop on your itinerary, our relocation map of Spain’s regions helps compare it with other options by climate, prices and job market.
Getting around the city
Valencia offers various ways of getting around, which makes it convenient for tourists and residents:
- Public transport: Valencia has a well-developed bus and metro network. The bus network covers almost every part of the city, making journeys convenient and affordable. The metro also has lines connecting outlying districts with the centre.
- Bicycles: bike hire is growing fast in the city and is becoming a popular way to get around. Valencia has many cycle lanes, and cycling is a great option for those who want to enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
- Taxis and ride-sharing: you can hail a taxi in the street or call one by phone. Ride-sharing services are also popular and help you avoid high taxi fares.
- Walking: many sights are in the city centre, and it is easy to walk between them. Strolling through the narrow streets, you can soak up Valencia’s atmosphere and discover plenty of interesting places and cafés.
Sights
Valencia has many interesting sights worth visiting:
- The City of Arts and Sciences: an architectural complex that includes a science museum, an aquarium and a planetarium.
- Valencia Cathedral: a Gothic cathedral with Romanesque and Baroque elements. It houses the Holy Grail chalice, which many believe to be the true one.
- The Serranos Towers: medieval fortifications that once served as a gateway to the city and are an important part of Valencian history.
- The bridges of the Turia: picturesque bridges over the river that winds through the city, creating stunning views.
- Turia Park: a large green park created on the site of the former river bed, an excellent place for walks, picnics and outdoor activities.
- Colón Market: a unique Art Nouveau building where you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a local market and discover the city’s culinary traditions.
These places are a must-see to soak up Valencia’s atmosphere and understand why it is so popular with tourists.
Beaches
Valencia is known for its beautiful beaches, ideal for a Mediterranean holiday:
- La Malvarrosa beach: one of the city’s most popular beaches, close to the centre of Valencia. There are many bars and restaurants where you can try fresh seafood.
- Los Molinetes beach: a quieter, less crowded spot, ideal for those who want to enjoy peace and nature.
- Patacona beach: known for its opportunities for active leisure, including water sports and scooter hire.
Each of these beaches is a distinctive place to relax and gain wonderful memories.
What to try from the local cuisine
Valencia offers many local dishes worth trying:
- Paella: one of Valencia’s best-known dishes, made of rice cooked with seafood, chicken and vegetables. There are many variations of the dish, and every restaurant offers its own recipe.
- Tapas: small snacks served in bars and restaurants alike. Tapas are varied and let you try many different flavours.
- Fideuà: a dish similar to paella, but made with pasta instead of rice. It will make your experience even more varied.
- Crema catalana: a popular local dessert similar to crème brûlée, with a crunchy caramel top.
Trying the local cuisine, you will discover the richness of Spanish culinary traditions.
What souvenir to buy
After a trip to Valencia you may want to bring home not only memories but also souvenirs. Here are some interesting ideas:
- Ceramics: traditional ceramic items such as tiles and pots with the characteristic Valencian pattern. They are perfect for decorating your home.
- Football merchandise: if you love football, items bearing the Valencia CF club emblem make an excellent souvenir.
- Sweets, such as “tartaletas” or other traditional confectionery, which will remind you of Valencia while you enjoy the treats.
- Local produce: ingredients such as olive oil and spices used in local cooking can make an excellent gift for your family.
- Antiques and collectables: at the Sunday Rastro and in Plaza Redonda. Opening times and how to export your purchase are covered in our guide to antiques in Spain.
Conclusion
Valencia is not only Spain’s third-largest city but also a unique place with huge opportunities for living, working and leisure. Its rich history, modern architecture, delicious food and wonderful beaches make it an ideal choice for those looking for a new place. In terms of rent relative to income, Valencia consistently ranks in the top three, as our ranking of Spanish cities shows; specific monthly amounts are given in our calculation of the cost of living budget in Spain. Nearby, in the same region, there are cheaper options: Castellón and Elche.
The nearest full-scale resort to Valencia with its own railway station is Cullera. What it offers for living and for buying property, and where it falls short, is set out in the piece on moving to Cullera.
Frequently asked questions
How much does renting in Valencia cost?
The city average is €16.3/m² against €20.2/m² in Barcelona (idealista, August 2026). That gap is the main argument for Valencia, given a similar climate and the same sea.
What language do Valencian schools teach in?
Valencian, a variety of Catalan, and the share of subjects taught in it depends on the school and the programme. Spanish is present more widely than in Catalonia, but counting on teaching in Spanish alone is unwise.
Is Valencia cheaper than Barcelona?
Yes, and noticeably: €16.3/m² against €20.2/m² on rent (idealista, August 2026). And it is still the country’s third-largest city, with the sea, an airport and universities — the saving does not buy provinciality.
Do you need a car in Valencia?
Not in the city itself: the metro, trams and buses work, and the city is more compact than Madrid or Barcelona. A car is for those choosing coastal towns or the suburbs.
Can you move to Valencia without a residence permit?
No. Beyond 90 days in any 180 you need a legal basis — a residence permit or a long-stay visa. The city comes after the basis, not before it.
Is Valencia good for moving with children?
Yes, and families choose it most often: the city is compact, the sea is within the city limits, and the gap in rent with Barcelona frees up budget for schooling. The language of instruction still has to be checked school by school.
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