Valencia ยท Spain
Overview
Valencia is the kind of city where you start by planning a short stay and find yourself looking for an apartment to call home permanently.
Valencia offers an irresistible combination of relaxed beach living and urban sophistication, making it a top tier choice for remote workers globally. The cityโs culture revolves around slow afternoons, exceptional local gastronomy, and a strong sense of community that thrives in plazas and neighborhood cafรฉs. Whether you are working from a terrace in the historic center or cycling to the beach, the atmosphere is consistently welcoming and laid back.
Nomads gravitate here for the excellent infrastructure, which keeps the Cost of living manageable compared to other major European capitals. With a Climate that boasts over 300 days of sunshine, your work-life balance naturally leans toward outdoor activities, from jogging in the Turia Gardens to weekend excursions to the nearby Albufera wetlands.
History
Founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC, Valencia has served as a cultural crossroads for over two millennia.
Founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC, Valencia has served as a cultural crossroads for over two millennia. It has been shaped by the influence of Roman, Visigoth, and Islamic civilizations, with the latter leaving an indelible mark on the regionโs agriculture and irrigation systems that still function today.
Following the Reconquista in 1238 by King James I of Aragon, the city entered a Golden Age in the 15th century, becoming one of the most important Mediterranean trading ports. Today, visitors can still see remnants of this prosperity in the city's impressive Gothic architecture and the preserved Silk Exchange, which stands as a monument to its medieval economic power.
138 BC
Roman FoundationThe city of Valentia was founded by Roman consul Decimus Junius Brutus Callaicus.
714
Islamic ConquestThe city fell to Moorish forces, leading to a significant expansion of urban infrastructure and agricultural systems.
1238
ReconquistaKing James I of Aragon captured the city, marking the beginning of the Christian era.
1400s
Golden AgeValencia became a major Mediterranean hub for commerce, literature, and art.
2000s
Modern TransformationThe completion of the City of Arts and Sciences cemented Valencia as a hub for modern architecture and culture.
Where to Stay
Choose your base camp
Distinct neighbourhoods, different rhythms. Pick the one that fits your work-life balance.
Hip & Vibrant
Ruzafa
The trendiest neighborhood in town, filled with art galleries, craft beer bars, and eclectic eateries. It is popular with young professionals and digital nomads.
Historic Heart
El Carmen
Stay here if you want to be surrounded by history, street art, and nightlife. It is walkable, though the streets are narrow and busy.
Budget Favourite
Patraix
A more local, quiet residential area that offers great value for long-term rentals. You will get a more authentic neighborhood experience here.
Beach Life
Malvarrosa
Perfect for those who want to wake up to the sound of the ocean. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with quick access to the city center via tram.
Places to Go
The experiences that will make you never leave
These aren't tourist checkboxes โ they're the experiences that reset your sense of what's normal.
Top Pick
City of Arts and Sciences
An architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava, this complex is a centerpiece of modern Valencia. It houses an aquarium, an opera house, and a science museum within stunning futuristic structures.
Visit Valencia
Malvarrosa Beach
The city's most famous beach is a long, wide stretch of sand perfect for relaxing after work. It is lined with restaurants offering some of the best paella in the country.
Wikipedia
Central Market
This modernist gem is one of the oldest running food markets in Europe. It is the perfect place to grab fresh local ingredients, cheeses, and hams.
Official Tourism
Turia Gardens
Once a river that flooded, the riverbed was diverted and turned into a lush 9-kilometer park that winds through the city. It is the lungs of Valencia and a favorite spot for runners and cyclists.
Wikipedia
Valencia Cathedral
Famous for housing a chalice widely considered to be the Holy Grail, the cathedral features a mix of architectural styles. Don't miss climbing the Miguelete tower for panoramic views.
Visit Valencia
El Carmen Quarter
The historic heart of the city, characterized by winding narrow streets and colorful street art. It is the place to be for nightlife and bohemian cafรฉ vibes.
Official Website
IVAM Museum
The Valencian Institute of Modern Art is one of Spain's most important contemporary art museums. It focuses on the development of art in the 20th century.
Official Tourism
Albufera Natural Park
Just a short trip from the city, this lagoon is the birthplace of paella and a protected nature reserve. The sunsets over the water are world-renowned.
Wikipedia
La Lonja de la Seda
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Gothic-style silk exchange is a testament to Valencia's mercantile past. The spiraling columns in the main hall are truly impressive.
Official Website
Bioparc Zoo
An innovative zoo that utilizes invisible barriers to create immersive habitats for African animals. It focuses on environmental education and conservation.
Work & Connectivity
Stay connected wherever you work
The nomad community here is real โ cafรฉs and coworking spaces where you can work and meet others.
WayCo
A popular coworking chain with beautiful, plant-filled spaces. Excellent for meeting other international remote workers.
Las Naves
A large, professional hub focused on innovation and collaboration. Perfect for those looking for a quiet, focused environment.
Ruzafa OFC
Situated in the coolest part of town, this space is ideal for creative professionals. The community here is very active.
Budget & Costs
What it costs to live in Valencia
Choose your lifestyle tier. Comfortable = furnished accommodation, local + occasional Western food, transport, leisure.
$1679
per month ยท USD ยท comfortable lifestyle
ModerateFurnished studio, local restaurants, transport, and weekend trips.
Exchange rates
Check xe.com or your bank for current USD to local currency.
Check xe.com or your bank for current USD to local currency.
๐ Rent 45%$756/mo
๐ฝ๏ธ Food 25%$420/mo
๐ Transport 5%$84/mo
๐ก Utilities 7%$118/mo
๐ญ Leisure 12%$201/mo
๐ฅ Health 6%$101/mo
Connectivity
Well connected to the world
Internet and transport options for remote workers.
๐ถ
Internet
Good โ fibre common
Check local providers.
๐ข
Coworking
From ~$80/mo
Dedicated spaces available.
๐
Local Transit
8 / 10
Mรณbilis card; Turia park bike path + beach; very flat and bikeable
VLC
Valencia Airport
9 km from centre
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Safety & Visa
Safe, welcoming, and easy to enter
Safety Score8 / 10
โ Night Safe๐ 112
Visa
Check your entry options
Many nationalities get visa-free or visa-on-arrival. Check official government sources for your citizenship before travel.
Culture & Festivals
Local soul, nomad-friendly
Multiculturalism6/10
Foodie Scene8/10
๐ฟ Temperate๐ท Cafe Culture๐๏ธ Coastal๐๏ธ Historic๐ Premium๐ Four Seasons๐ฅ Top Nomad Pick๐ฅ Paella๐ Great Transit๐ฒ Bikes
Mar
Las Fallas
An intense and loud celebration featuring giant sculptures that are set on fire throughout the city.
Aug
La Tomatina
Held in nearby Buรฑol, this is the world's most famous and chaotic tomato-throwing festival.
Sep
International Paella Competition
A showcase of culinary mastery where chefs from around the world compete to make the best paella.
Valencia is a city that grows on you the longer you stay. Its proximity to both mountains and the sea means weekend trips are always an option, whether you prefer hiking or relaxing on the coast. The local culture is deep, so take the time to move past the tourist sights and visit the local neighborhood markets.
Food & Nightlife
A feast for every mood
From street food to cafรฉs and nightlife โ every meal is an event.
Authentic Experience
Paella Valenciana
Always eat your paella at lunch, never dinner. Look for traditional places near the beach or Albufera.
Street Food
Bocadillos
The local way to grab a quick, hearty lunch. These sandwiches are available in almost every corner bar.
Cafรฉ Culture
Horchata in Alboraya
Head to the nearby town of Alboraya for the city's best tiger nut milk and fartons (sweet pastries).
Climate
Best months: Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Avg humidity65%
Avg AQI45
The best time to visit is during the spring months of March, April, and May, when the weather is mild and the city celebrates the spectacular Las Fallas festival. Summer brings warm beach days and events like La Tomatina in nearby Buรฑol, while the autumn months of September and October remain balmy and perfect for exploring the city streets without the summer crowds.
January is generally considered the month to avoid if you are chasing warmth, as it is the coolest period of the year. Throughout the rest of the year, the city maintains a steady rhythm of cultural life and outdoor festivals, ensuring there is always something happening regardless of when you arrive.
Monthly temperatures ยฐC
BestAvoidShoulder
Practical Info
Everything you need to know
๐ฅ
Healthcare
Valencia has excellent public and private healthcare facilities. As a nomad, ensure you have private travel health insurance that covers your stay.
๐ฑ
Money
Spain uses the Euro. While cards are widely accepted, it is always wise to keep some cash for smaller bars and traditional local markets.
๐
Internet
The city boasts exceptional fiber optic internet coverage. You will rarely struggle to find high-speed connectivity in coworking spaces or private rentals.
Tips
Quick tips
- Learn basic Spanish phrases; it is appreciated by locals.
- Get a monthly transit pass to save on bus and metro travel.
- Try the 'Menu del Dia' at lunch for a high-quality three-course meal at a budget price.
- Respect the siesta hours; some smaller shops may close in the afternoon.
- Cycle everywhere; the city is flatter than you think.
- Drink the tap water; it is safe despite what some might say about the taste.
- Explore the Turia Gardens by bike on a Sunday morning.
- Join local nomad Facebook groups to find meetups.
Further Reading