Valencia is Spain's third largest city and one of Europe's most underrated destinations for young people. Mediterranean, affordable, bicycle-friendly and bursting with culture — here's everything you need to make the most of your time here.
Climate
300+ sunny days. Winters mild (12–18°C), summers warm (28–35°C). Ideal for outdoor life year-round.
Cost of Living
€800–1,000/month total. Shared flat: €300–450. Much cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona.
Getting Around
Metro, tram, buses + 200 km of bike lanes. Valenbisi public bike: €30/year annual pass.
Beach Life
Malvarrosa beach: 20 min from city centre by tram. Free, clean and busy from April to October.
Best neighbourhoods to stay
🎨 El Carmen & Russafa — the cultural heart
These two neighbourhoods are the coolest areas in Valencia. El Carmen (in the Old Town) has medieval walls, street art and independent bars. Russafa is trendier, with coffee shops, vintage stores and international restaurants. Both are very walkable and central — ideal for your Erasmus+ accommodation.
🌊 Cabanyal & Malvarrosa — beach neighbourhood
The beach neighbourhoods are undergoing an exciting creative revival. Cheaper rents, authentic Valencian atmosphere and direct tram access to the beach. A great option for longer stays or volunteering placements.
🎓 Benimaclet — student area
The traditional student neighbourhood, near the University of Valencia campus. Affordable, quiet and with a strong community spirit. Popular with long-term Erasmus students.
Must-do experiences
- 🏛️ Visit the City of Arts and Sciences — futuristic architecture by Santiago Calatrava
- 🛒 Saturday morning at Mercat Central — Europe's largest fresh produce market
- 🚲 Cycle the Turia Garden — a 9km linear park in the old riverbed
- 🥘 Eat authentic paella at a local restaurant (not in the tourist area)
- 🎭 Explore Museo de Bellas Artes — free entry, world-class collection
- 🌅 Sunset at Bombas Gens or the beach promenade
💡 Local tip from CLAVE
The best paella in Valencia is eaten at lunchtime on Sundays at family-run restaurants in the Albufera area or in the Plaça de la Reina neighbourhood — not at tourist restaurants near the cathedral. Ask CLAVE and we'll point you to our favourites!
Practical tips for your stay
- SIM card: Get a Spanish prepaid SIM on arrival — Vodafone, Orange and Movistar all have €10/month plans with data.
- Banking: Open a free online account with Revolut or N26 before you arrive to avoid international transaction fees.
- Language apps: A bit of Spanish goes a long way. Locals appreciate any attempt at Spanish, even basic phrases.
- Safety: Valencia is very safe. Keep your bag closed on the beach and be aware in very crowded tourist areas.
- Healthcare: Your EHIC card (EU) or equivalent covers you for public health services. CLAVE also arranges insurance for all programme participants.
CLAVE in Valencia
CLAVE Youth 2 Can Act is based in Valencia and runs Erasmus+ youth exchanges, European Solidarity Corps volunteering and non-formal education training throughout the year. When you participate in a CLAVE programme, you get not just an amazing learning experience — you get a team of people who know this city deeply and are here to support you.
Come to Valencia with CLAVE
Check our current programmes and start your Valencia adventure — fully funded by the EU.