Erasmus Experience in Valencia, Spain by Kristýna

Why did you choose to go to Valencia, Spain?

I always wanted to go to Spain. And Valencia won, also because of the branch of study was very similar to mine.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I got a scholarship for one semester January - June. I received approx. 450€/months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Valencia?

I studied in UPV, campus is great. Full of students life. There are a lot of possibilities for sport activities. A lot of cafes with reasonable prices. ESN is taking good care of Erasmus students, they organize parties, trips and many other activities.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Valencia to other students?

Definitely yes. It was one of the greatest experiences in my life.

What is the food like?

Well, the food in student canteens is not very good for every day. But generally in Valencia, there are good possibilities to find good, fresh food. There is big market with fresh fish, sea food and vegetables. Mercadona supermarket on every corner. And numbers of restaurant with special offers. And what I will personally never forget - the taste of valencian oranges :)

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Valencia?

I spent around 275 Euro/ months. But I had very nice room. You can find rooms from 200 Euro.

How much does it cost to live in Valencia?

Valencia is not as expensive as Barcelona or Madrid. The main outcome is accommodation. Food and drink process are average. Then I spent more money for travelling.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Sure, there are various language courses. In the beginning, there is a web test and it gives you level of language course you are advised to take.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Valencia from your city?

From Prague I took a plane to Barcelona - Wizzair. To Valencia I took a train. During winter, there are no direct flights Prague - Valencia.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Valencia?

There are million possibilities.Bars on Blasco Ibanez street, discos in the port area or Umbracle, which is nicely located in Ciudad le las artes y sciencias.

Center of Valencia is also beautiful during the night.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Valencia?

There was a very good pasta restaurant in Plaza de la Reina. What is a must, is to have paella in one of the beach restaurants.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I liked the view from the tower of Plaza de la Reina. Oceanografico is very nice.

Then I recomend trip to Albufera. And of course Andalucia.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Valencia in the future?

If you stay in Valencia during the winter, don't underestimate the weather. There is usually no good heating system in buildings as for example in central Europe. You would need really good blanket and winter clothes :)