Best Things to Do in Valencia for Students
Are you moving (or considering moving) to Valencia to study? You should! Valencia is a wonderful and extremely beautiful city. Although it’s the third most populated area in Spain, Valencia takes on a quieter charm and is a far more affordable place to live than cities like Madrid or Barcelona.
And it’s not short on history and culture either! There are plenty of incredible things to do in Valencia – with a naturally sunny climate and estimated 300 days of sunshine a year, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore the best the city has to offer while you’re studying here.
This article will cover Nido’s top 10 things to do and see in Valencia, including:
- Discover the Valencian Gothic architecture
- Visit the best museums
- Kick back in Valencia’s relaxing green spaces
- Explore the best beaches
- Enjoy the cultural activities on offer
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Visit the Torres de Serranos
If living somewhere beautiful is important to you, you won’t find a more breathtaking city than Valencia. A big part of this is that the architecture here was influenced by the Valencian Gothic style that became popular at the beginning of the Renaissance.
One of the best places to visit in Valencia to absorb the stunning architecture is the Torres de Serranos, or Serranos Towers. This defensive structure was constructed in 1392 as part of the city’s walls, and when the walls were demolished later on, it was saved from being destroyed. With an interesting and complex history, the Torres de Serranos are truly a unique attraction.
Visit the Valencia Cathedral
Speaking of beautiful buildings, one of the top places to visit in Valencia is the Valencia Cathedral. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries in that signature Valencian gothic style, Valencia Cathedral offers a mysterious atmosphere and lessons on Valencia’s religious history. The Chapel of the Holy Chapel, in particular, is a point of interest – a bejewelled cup that some believe to be the Holy Grail is on display here.
We consider the Valencia Cathedral to be one of the best places to visit in Valencia because of the Micalet Belltower – for an extra €2.50, you can climb over 200 steps up this ornate tower for spectacular views of your new home.
Explore the Best Museums
The museums in Valencia are extraordinary, if you are looking for the best history-related things to see and do in Valencia, we would recommend visiting these museums:
Carme Contemporary Culture Centre (CCCC): The Carme Contemporary Culture Centre (CCCC) is, as its name suggests, Valencia’s centre of culture. Based in an old monastery in Del Carmen (a neighbourhood home to some of the best bars in Valencia), the CCCC offers something for everyone, featuring exhibits that range from fine arts to performance art and music. Oh, and did we mention that it’s free to enter?
The Valencia Museum of the Enlightenment and Modernity (MuVIM): Created with the intention of “spreading the ideas which have made the modern world possible”, the Valencia Museum of the Enlightenment and Modernity offers a unique museum-going experience. Enjoy the fascinating regular exhibits (including a medieval tower in the basement) and expect an eye-opening collection of temporary exhibits, too.
La Almoina Archaeological Museum: This museum is a testament to Valencia’s colourful history. Once part of the Roman Empire, Valencia was then taken over by Visigoths, Muslims and once again reclaimed by Christians. La Almoina Archaeological Museum chronicles this history with a deft hand, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Valencia.
Explore the Best of the Art Scene
You may have already noticed, but the arts scene in Valencia is incredible. From fine arts to ceramics, there are many disciplines with strong roots here. We recommend visiting museums like the Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia, the Museum of Ceramics and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art to discover this history.
If you’re looking for something more active, however, why not try a Valencian Art Nouveau Walking Tour? Guided walking tours are readily available, and making your way around the city on foot is a fantastic way to appreciate the art nouveau-inspired architecture. If you have no idea where to start with sightseeing when you first move to Valencia, this is a great way to get to know the city.
Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is a landmark like nothing else – built between 1996 and 2009, this modern complex was designed to make use of a dried-up riverbed. It now hosts some of the best things to do in Valencia, including:
- L’Oceanogràfic, the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe, built in the shape of a water lily.
- Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, an opera house that offers a range of theatre-going opportunities.
- L’Umbracle Terraza, a 4,000m² outdoor garden home to over 5000 different plants for you to enjoy.
These are just a few of the things to do within the City of Arts and Sciences – take a group of friends here on a weekend for an unforgettable day out!
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Otherwise, we highly recommend visiting La Lonja de la Seda – built in the late 1400s to early 1500s, La Lonja de la Seda is one of the most ornate buildings remaining from Valencia’s Golden Age that isn’t religious in purpose. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a feast for the eyes, offering not only valuable insight into Valencia’s culture and history, but also has one of the best flea markets around (it runs every Sunday).
This is one of the best places to visit in Valencia because, like the Torres de Serrano, it only costs €2 (€1 for students with a Jove Card) to visit – we call that value for money!
Relax in the Plaza de la Virgen
Around the corner from the Valencia Cathedral, you’ll find the Plaza de la Virgen. This picturesque town square, featuring the intricately sculpted Turia Fountain, features some of the best cafes in Valencia. Imagine yourself lounging by the fountain on a sunny afternoon, swanning through the neighbouring bars with your friends, or working in one of the onlooking cafes to finish your next essay – doesn’t that just sound perfect?
Have Your Pick of the Beaches
The unique appeal of Valencia over other cities in Spain, such as Seville, is its beachside location. If you aren’t soaking up as much sunshine as possible on the beaches, you’re missing out! Here are some of the best places to visit in Valencia for the perfect beachy experience:
Waterfront Promenade: Starting North of Valencia’s coastal stretch and spanning all of the beaches mentioned below, Valencia’s waterfront promenade is not only the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, bike ride or jog but also hosts some of the best restaurants in Valencia.
Las Arenas Beach: Close to the harbourside and decorated with blue and white candy-striped huts, this golden sandy beach is blissful. This is only a short walk from the city centre. While you’re here, consider visiting the Leisure Port for an afternoon well-spent.
Patacona Beach: While technically bordering on Alboraya, we would be remiss not to mention Patacona Beach. The numerous facilities here include parasols and hammocks you can rent, and horchata flows like water. This beach boasts an area for people with reduced mobility, making it a fantastically accessible option!
Malvarrosa Beach: It’s no wonder we chose Nido Malvarrosa as our Valencia residence – Malvarrosa Beach is Valencia’s most famous. It’s inspired songwriters and novelists with its beauty, and now it can inspire you. Stroll down here when you need a break from studying and do some sunbathing. Don’t forget that proper breaks are essential to both your productivity and well-being!
Go Shopping
The markets in Valencia are incredible. Central Market, for instance, is Europe’s largest fresh produce market – open every day except Sundays, this impressive indoor market features over 200 stalls selling everything from fruit and vegetables to fresh seafood. This is the place to pick up the finest ingredients if you want to treat yourself to a special meal, or host a little dinner party with your closest friends!
There is also Plaza Redonda (Round Square), a circular plaza that was initially constructed in 1840 and restored to its current pristine state in 2012. It offers a number of independent shops – from traditional craft shops with long, detailed histories, to stalls selling lace and fabric, there is plenty in this little corner of Valencia for students with an artistic streak.
Relax in the City’s Green Spaces
Valencia does parks and gardens the way it does everything else: glamorously. If you want somewhere to read in on a sunny afternoon and simply enjoy the greenery, there are many places to visit in Valencia to get you back to nature.
The Vivers Royal Gardens, for instance, are all that remains of the former Royal Palace, which was destroyed in the War of Independence against the French. This park has many ornate fountains and manicured lawns (which make for perfect picnic grounds), as well as a small lake full of friendly ducks.
There is also Turia Park, one of the largest urban parks in Spain. This band of greenery runs 9km around the city centre – it’s a popular choice for cyclists and runners and features several leisure and sports areas. Turia Park is bordered by several cafes – take a seat in one and watch the world go by. You’ll understand why this is one of the best places to visit in Valencia.
Conclusion
So what do you think? Can you envision yourself living here? If you’re looking to study in Valencia and need somewhere to live, we can help.
Nido Living provides student accommodation residences all across Europe. When you stay with us, you’re guaranteed The Nido Difference – this means that from great value rooms to exclusive facilities, we will do everything we can to ensure your new home is a comfortable and inviting space.
Start your Spanish adventure and book a tour of Nido Malvarossa!