Roberto's Experience in Valencia, Spain

What attracts you to living in Valencia? Do you recommend it? What's it like?

It's a big city but on a small scale. You have everything you need there. It's quite comfortable. Lots of people get about by bike as it is a completely flat city, and there's also buses and a subway, although the metro service isn't the best, it's very slow and a train comes every 10/15 minutes.

There is quite a party, the people are very open and friendly and it is one of the cities in Spain with the highest number of Erasmus.

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What's the student lifestyle like in Valencia?

One of the best things that the city has is student atmosphere. There are numerous Erasmus parties, organised trips and easy connections with other cities in Spain to organise trips with friends. There are a large number of Italian, French, Belgian and English students.

How much does it cost to live in Valencia?

It is a cheap city when compared with the other major cities in Spain (Madrid and Barcelona). You can find room rentals for between 120 and 350 euros, but the average is about 225 if you want something decent. The student accommodation is not recommended as it is extremely expensive for students, although if you have no problem paying for it and you want to meet lots of people, it is another option (€600 to €1, 000 per month). You can get a bus ticket for €1. 50 for a single trip, or 10 trips is €8. You can also get a monthly student pass for €30.

A weekly shop costs about 30 to 35 euros for a student.

Most meals in restaurants can cost between 9 and 20 euros depending on the restaurant and a basic breakfast in a cafe can cost between €2. 50 and €4.

Going out is quite cheap. In most places, the entrance to nightclubs can be free before a certain hour and then between 6 and 12 euros after that which includes one drink.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Valencia? Can you give some advice?

It is quite easy. I recommend searching once you're in Valencia. Spend a few days at a hostel so that you can do flat viewings in person.

What's the country's food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is pretty good, there's something for everyone. The typical dish is a Valencian paella, but there are many more very good dishes.

What places do you recommend visiting in Valencia?

City of Arts and Sciences

El Carmen neighbourhood

Torres de Serrano and Quart

Turia River

The lagoon

Header Park

Ruzafa Neighbourhood

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Mercado de Colón

Central Market

The Lonja

Plaza de la Virgin

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What about eating out in Valencia? Where are you favourite places?

Lotelito, Cletic, Copenhagen (restaurants are a bit expensive but for more formal occasions they are very good)

And for the day to day there are lots of different types of restaurants, I couldn't pick just a few because there is so many!

Where do you recommend for nightlife in Valencia?

La 3, Nylon

Do you have any advice you want to give future students in Valencia?

Enjoy the experience to the fullest, and take advantage to travel around Spain from Valencia because the transport is quick and easy.