Erasmus Experience in Valencia, Spain by Łukasz

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Why did you choose to go to Valencia, Spain?

I was always dreaming about having my Erasmus experience in Spain. The biggest question was which city should I choose. I took Valencia because I heard it's one of the most intentional city in Spain and it has more friendly atmosphere than f. e. Barcelona. And of course the location at the seaside was a big issue.

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

The scholarship duration depends of how long do yo want to stay aboard, so from one semester up to one academic year. The amount of money which you get depends of your home university. Normally it should be enough for paying the rent and all monthly charges. Sometimes you get more, even for the whole living cost.

What is the student lifestyle like in Valencia?

It's hard to describe how amazing it is. The whole international atmosphere at the campus is great. All people are really friendly, you are studying together, you are partying together, you are eating together, almost everything you are doing together - one big happy family.

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

Yes, I would recommend it without any doubts. One of the best places in Europe and I have seen a lot. And the UPV Campus is amazing in comparison with other cities.

What is the food like?

Food is good but not amazing. Spanish cuisine is simple and tasty but it's not really special, anyway Spanish people know how to delight every day with food, especially in Andalusia. In Valencia I liked the most international meetings, when all the students prepared dishes from their countries. Valencia's restaurants are good but not mind-blowing.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Valencia?

No, I found an ad on Facebook few weeks before the arrival. But there are accommodation offices, but I'm not recommending it - they are more expensive.

How much does it cost to live in Valencia?

It depends how do you will live there. I was partying few times a week, eat often in restaurants, travelling a lot, shopping and having fun everyday, so I spent every month 800-1000 EUR, but it's possible to live even with 500 in your pocket if you will be more reasonable.

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

There are courses available at the University. I came to Valencia with basic knowledge of Spanish and now I speak fluent and even learned some Valenciano. It's the easiest language which I ever learned. If you are gonna use it every day and make some subjects in Spanish you will grip with it fast.

And remember that Spanish people speak English pretty bad, so you will need to learn Spanish if you wanna survive.

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

Take the flight to Alicante (Alacant) or Barcelona and after travel with train or bus to Valencia. There are not any direct flights.

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

Almost everywhere it's worth to go at least one time. My favorites places were: Las Animas del Puerto, Umbracle, Mia, High Cube, Deseo 54, La Tres. There are a lot of great clubs, just search a bit and choose something for you! When the nights are warm the best clubs are on open air.

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

I don't remember names of restaurants. Just don't choose places made for tourists.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Ciudad de las Ciencias y las Artes, theatres, especially the main one in Carmen and all Valencian festivals like f. e. Fallas.

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

If you are still thinking where you should go for your Erasmus just throw away all ideas and choose Valencia, you won't regret that decision.

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