Whether you come for one or two months or for a longer period of time, Valencia city and region has plenty to keep you inspired, entertained, and connected during your remote work getaway. With its Mediterranean beaches, charming historic center, and thriving startup scene, Valencia is the perfect launchpad for your location-independent lifestyle. In this guide from Palma Coliving, you’ll discover Valencia’s best coworking spaces, cafes, events, day trips, and more. We’ll help you make the most of your 1-2 months in one of Spain’s most affordable and livable cities. From our prime location near the beach, we’re your local experts on getting settled and making friends in Valencia’s thriving expat community. Let’s dive in!
Why Valencia Is the Perfect City for Digital Nomads
Valencia has everything a digital nomad could want. For starters, the cost of living here is affordable, especially compared to other cities in Spain. Rent won’t break the bank, and with fresh produce, the Mediterranean diet is budget-friendly.
The weather is ideal for enjoying life outside of work hours. Mild winters mean you can cycle along the Turia riverbed gardens any time of year. And with over 300 days of sun, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to work from the beach or rooftop terraces.
Valencia also has a thriving expat and startup community. Co-living spaces and co-working offices help you connect with like-minded nomads. The city is fast becoming a tech hub, with many meetups, conferences, and networking events.
Getting around is a breeze. An efficient bus and tram system, along with bike-sharing and scooters, make it simple to explore the city without a car. Valencia’s location on Spain’s east coast places you within a few hours of Barcelona, Madrid, and the Balearic Islands by train.
Whether you want to spend weekends learning to sail, immersing yourself in art at the City of Arts and Sciences, or enjoying the nightlife, Valencia seamlessly blends work and play. With its perfect trifecta of ideal weather, low cost of living, and active community, Valencia is a digital nomad’s dream destination.
Why choose Valencia?
- Big airport with good connections.
- Two train stations with high-speed trains to all of Spain and Europe.
- Beach, mountains, and city vibes combined.
- International tourism and a big community of digital nomads.
- Is the 3rd biggest city in Spain, guaranteeing multiple cultural plans.
- 300 days of sun a year
- Cheaper cost of living than other beach destinations like Ibiza.
- Medium-sized city with everything you may need in a 30-minute ride max.
- Multicultural: you’ll make friends from all over the world!
- No language barrier compared to other cities in Spain.
Valencia: A City Rich in History and Culture
The Romans established Valencia, calling it Valentia Edetanorum. They turned it into an important agricultural center, growing crops like olives, grapes, and wheat. The city later became a strategic port for trade and commerce.
In 714 AD, the Moors invaded and ruled Valencia for centuries. They brought economic prosperity and cultural advancements like new agricultural techniques and architecture. The city became a center of learning, with universities and libraries. Valencia’s architecture, religion, language, and cuisine were heavily influenced by the Moors during this time.
King Jaume I led the Christian reconquest of Valencia in 1238, marking the start of Aragón’s rule. This era saw political stability and economic growth. New buildings like the Silk Exchange and the Cathedral of Valencia were constructed. Valencia became a maritime power, with a booming silk industry and agriculture.
Valencia has undergone major changes in recent decades. The dry riverbed was transformed into a cultural park. The City of Arts and Sciences, with futuristic architecture, was built. Valencia has a vibrant cultural scene, hosting events like the Fallas Festival and Formula 1 Grand Prix. While embracing progress, Valencia still cherishes its rich history and traditions.
Getting Around Valencia: Transportation Tips
If you are coming to Valencia you should know that it’s a beautiful city which you can walk very easily (all places are quite close and it’s a flat city). But if you are considering moving around a lot, you might find this information about public transportation very useful. Valencia has an efficient public transit system, so you’ll have no trouble exploring the city without a car. The metro and bus systems provide access to all major points of interest.
Valencia By Metro
The metro is a fast and easy way to travel around Valencia. It has many lines that connect different parts of the city, as well as nearby towns and the airport. The metro stations are marked with a big “M” sign, and the trains are clean and comfortable. To use the metro, you can buy a ticket at the station or get a travel card if you plan to use it a lot. The travel card can be purchased at tobacconists, kiosks and EMT customer service offices.
Valencia By Bus
Buses in Valencia are another great way to get around. The city’s buses are red and run frequently, covering almost every part of the city. There are also special night buses called “NitBus” that run when the regular buses stop. You can buy bus tickets directly from the driver or use a travel card. The travel card can be purchased at tobacconists, kiosks and EMT customer service offices.
Valencia By Bike
Valencia is very bike-friendly, with lots of bike lanes and paths. Riding a bike is a fun and healthy way to see the city. You can rent bikes from various shops, or use the city’s bike-sharing service called Valenbisi. With Valenbisi, you can pick up a bike at one station and drop it off at another.
Valencia By Taxi
Taxis are available all over Valencia. They are white with a green light on top when they are free. You can hail a taxi on the street, find them at taxi ranks, or call for one. Taxis are a bit more expensive than buses or the metro, but they can be very convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or need to get somewhere quickly.
Walking around Valencia
Valencia is a very walkable city. Many of the main attractions, like the old town and the Turia Gardens, are close to each other, so walking is a great way to explore. Walking lets you see more of the city’s charming streets, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the local atmosphere. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
With so many transport options, you’ll have the freedom to explore Valencia at your own pace. And the city’s Mediterranean climate means you can sightsee comfortably for much of the year. Now get out there and discover all the magic Valencia has to offer!
TOP Beaches Close to Valencia
The Mediterranean coastline near Valencia offers some of the best beaches in Spain. As a digital nomad, you’ll appreciate being just a short trip from these seaside escapes.
Playa de la Malvarrosa
Only a 10-minute bus ride west of the city, La Malvarrosa is Valencia’s most popular beach. Stretching nearly 2 miles, it has soft golden sand and gentle waves perfect for swimming or paddle boarding. Rent a beach chair and umbrella to relax, or join locals playing volleyball. When hunger strikes, the beachfront promenade has lots of options like Freshco for fresh seafood or Creperia Bretonne for sweet crepes.
Playa de l’Arbre del Gos
About 30 minutes south of Valencia near the village of El Perelló, this secluded beach is ideal if you’re seeking tranquility. Surrounded by dunes and pine forests, the half-mile stretch of fine sand sees few visitors. Pack a picnic, bring a good book, and spend a leisurely day enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The shallow, calm waters are safe for kids and stand-up paddle boarding. To get there, drive south on the V-31 highway and follow signs for El Perelló/Playa Arbre del Gos.
Playa de Jávea
If you feel like renting a car and having a day trip, we recommend going to the town of Jávea. This town has the most spectacular beaches in the area, Cala de La Granadella being one of the most incredible with crystal clear waters and colorful fish. On the way, you can also pass by its mountain: “El Montgó” and other beautiful beaches. After enjoying the day, we recommend that you spend the afternoon and evening in the town of Jávea, it has a unique vibe and incredible places to eat like the “La Siesta” restaurant.
Calpe Beach
Another incredible beach that we recommend you visit if you have the possibility of renting a car is Calpe. This town is 1 hour and a half from Valencia and is one of the treasures of the Valencian Community. Its Peñon (mountain) can be climbed, for hiking lovers, it is of medium/high difficulty but the views are completely worth it. You will find a beach with calm waters and soft sand with views of the rock. On the other side, you will find a stone cove with many colorful fish, ideal for snorkeling.
Portet Beach
Portet Beach in Moraira, is a jewel of the Costa Blanca. This town is just 1 hour away from Valencia and has a lot to offer! It’s a beautiful cove with fine sand and calm, crystal-clear waters that is ideal for family bathing since it is shallow and its bottom lacks sharp slopes. Therefore, in the summer months, its occupancy is usually high. On the promenade that surrounds it, there are many beach bars where you can end a wonderful morning of sun and beach with food.
La Devesa Beach
This beach is just 30 minutes away from Valencia City Center. If you don’t like crowds, this beach is for you. With almost 5 kilometers, it is difficult for someone to get next to you. You will be a few meters from the Albufera and it is perfect for a swim after a bike ride. It is important to mention that this beach is considered “nudist”, although over time it has been losing strength within the naturist community.
Whether you want to join the lively beach scene or find solitude, Valencia’s shores have a spot for you. Take advantage of your flexibility as a digital nomad and plan beach days whenever you need an escape from work. Your trip won’t be complete without visiting at least one of these sun-drenched havens.
Check out our complete TRAVEL MAP to discover our TOP recommended places in Valencia!
TOP Mountain and Hikes Close to Valencia
Are you a nature lover and want to take advantage of your time in Valencia to go hiking? Well, this destination is perfect for you! With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and almost no rainy days, the Valencian community has some of the most beautiful routes to enjoy during your stay.
Puig Campana
Puig Campana is one of the most stunning hikes near Valencia, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline. This scenic trail ascends to the summit of a rocky limestone peak. The moderately difficult 6-mile hike takes 3 to 4 hours round trip. You’ll pass through fragrant pine forests and rocky terrain with stunning sea vistas along the way. The rewarding 360-degree view from the top is worth the climb. This popular trail can get crowded, especially on weekends, so go early.
Buñol
Buñol Trail is only 36 minutes away from Valencia City Center. Here you will enjoy the pleasant riverside path and the traces left by water on the landscape on a 7.2 km circular route. It is suitable for beginners and can be done in approximately two and a half hours. The trail begins in the town of Buñol, in San Luis Park, continuing on through farmland and a forested area until it reaches the river and Turche Cave. Another pleasant surprise along the way is the Cueva del Turche Viewpoint, a spectacular overlook offering a fine panoramic view of this typically Mediterranean natural environment.
Chulilla
Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes (also called Ruta de Los Calderones) was one of my first hikes in Valencia and its surroundings. It can be translated to English as The route of the hanging bridges of Chulilla. Nowadays, it is one of the most popular hikes in the Valencia province. The official sources claim that since 2019 there’s a 1 euro fee to be paid in order to access Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes, but the last time I visited this trail in 2016 it was completely free. There are different hiking trails in the area depending on the length at Wikiloc – I’ve done this 15.8km route.
Most Beautiful Small Towns to Discover Next to Valencia
Valencia has a lot to offer, not just incredible beaches and breathtaking hikes. It also has many old, small towns where you can go explore and discover Spanish culture like a true local. Its small streets where cars cannot enter, its houses made of stone and its local producers will make you fall in love!
Albufereta
Just 15 minutes south of Valencia city center, Albufereta is a quaint beach town perfect for a quick escape. With its Mediterranean vibe, cobblestone streets, and cute cafes, you’ll feel miles away from the bustle of the city. Take a stroll along the long promenade, sunbathe on the sandy beach, or rent a bike to explore the surroundings. A great spot for a sunset picnic, Albufereta is ideal for solo travelers or digital nomad couples looking for a romantic getaway.
El Saler
Nestled within Albufereta Natural Park, El Saler is a natural oasis flanked by sand dunes, pine forests, and the sea. Besides its scenic wooden boardwalks and birdwatching spots, El Saler is known for paella – sample authentic Valencian paella at restaurants like La Matandeta and El Palmar. For adventure, you can go hiking, cycling, or even horseback riding through the park’s trails. A perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, El Saler lets you unplug from technology and reconnect with the environment.
Sagunto
Just 30 minutes north of Valencia, the historic town of Sagunto is a hidden gem. At the top of a hill, Sagunto Castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The archaeological remains of the Roman Theater, built in the 1st century BC, are an impressive sight. Stroll through the charming historic center, with its cobblestone streets, ancient walls and Baroque churches. For such a small town, Sagunto packs in a lot of history and culture. A great day trip destination, especially for history buffs and culture vultures.
Best Neighborhoods in Valencia
If you’re looking for a hipster paradise, head to Russafa. This lively neighborhood is filled with quirky bars, vintage shops, and street art. It has a Brooklyn-esque vibe and is popular with young creatives.
For a more upscale area, check out L’Eixample. This posh district is home to many stylish cafes, gourmet restaurants, and designer boutiques. The architecture is stunning, with many Art Deco buildings. It’s an ideal place if you want an elegant pied-à-terre in Valencia.
Beach lovers should consider living in El Cabanyal, Valencia’s former fishing village. Just a short stroll from Las Arenas beach, this picturesque neighborhood has retained much of its maritime charm. You’ll find weathered fishermen’s cottages, colorful facades, and outdoor cafes serving fresh seafood.
Families and those seeking a quieter pace of life often choose Benimaclet. This residential enclave has a village feel, with leafy streets, neighborhood parks, and a historic church. While still well-connected to the city center, Benimaclet offers an escape from the hustle and bustle. An excellent choice if you want the best of both worlds in Valencia.
In the end, Valencia has something for everyone. Whether you’re a hipster, a beach bum, a culture vulture, or a homebody, you’ll find your perfect place in this city. The diverse neighborhoods each have a distinct character, so take your time exploring to find the area that matches your needs and personality. The ideal base for your Valencian adventure awaits!
Summer in Valencia: 10 reasons Why is The Best Destination in Spain
Valencia’s summers are hot but oh-so vibrant. The city comes alive from June to August, buzzing with festivals, nightlife, and beach activities. Here are 10 reasons why Valencia should top your list for a summer escape:
- The Mediterranean coastline offers miles of beaches where you can soak up the sun and go for a swim. Head to the Malvarrosa beach, only a 10-minute bus ride from the city center. Rent a beach umbrella and chair, grab an ice-cold drink from one of the many beach bars, and settle in for a relaxing day.
- Valencia hosts one of the biggest music festivals in Spain, the Rototom Sunsplash European Reggae Festival. For a week in August, the city is filled with the sounds of reggae and dub music. Even if you don’t have tickets to the main festival, there are many free side events and concerts around town.
- The City of Arts and Sciences complex is especially enchanting at night during the summer. Take an evening stroll around the futuristic buildings, then catch an IMAX film at the Hemispheric or an open-air concert at the Palace of Music.
- Valencia’s bar and club scene comes alive in the summer. Head to the historic Carmen district or hip Ruzafa neighborhood to bar hop late into the warm summer nights. Look for rooftop terraces to enjoy a cocktail under the stars.
- The summer also brings some of Valencia’s most colorful festivals, like the Falles festival in March and the Tomato Fight in August. Experience Valencian culture by attending one of these lively celebrations.
Want to make new friends in Valencia? Join our Facebook group here!
Not active on Facebook? No problem! Join our Whatsapp group here!
Best Day Trips From Valencia for Slow Travelers
Valencia’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Within an hour or two of the city, you’ll find gorgeous beaches, charming towns, scenic natural parks and more. Here are a few of the best day trips from Valencia for slow travelers and digital nomads.
About an hour south of Valencia, the coastal town of Gandia offers over 15 kilometers of sandy beaches with warm, swimmable water well into October. It’s an easy day trip by bus or train and perfect for sunbathing, swimming or beachcombing at a more leisurely pace. The historic center, with its winding streets, shops and cafes, is also worth exploring.
For a taste of Valencian history, head to Sagunto, a town dating back over 2,000 years with an ancient Roman theater, castle ruins and archaeological museum. The well-preserved theater hosts performances, plays and concerts throughout the summer. Sagunto is only 30 minutes north of Valencia by train.
Inland from Valencia, Requena is a charming town amid vineyards growing the region’s signature Bobal grape. Sample the local wines at picturesque bodegas, then stroll the historic center with its churches, convents and traditional houses. Requena is about an hour west of Valencia, best reached by bus or rental car.
With its scenic trails, rock climbing routes and picnic spots, the Sierra Calderona Natural Park is perfect for an outdoor escape. Just 45 minutes west of Valencia, the park’s pine forests, rivers and hiking trails offer opportunities for cycling, birdwatching, rock climbing and more. Entry to the park is free, but some trails may require permits. A rental car is recommended for the easiest access.
Living in Valencia Long-Term: Finding Accommodation and Co-Living Spaces
As a digital nomad staying in Valencia for an extended period, finding suitable accommodation is key. Coliving spaces, where you rent a private or shared room and share common areas like a kitchen or workspace with other residents, are popular options.
Palma Coliving offers furnished rooms and apartments five minutes from the beach and close to the City Center. We organize social and work events and provide high-speed WiFi, and access to co-working spaces.
Finding a place to live where you feel comfortable is key and we recommend you search with some time to guarantee the best possible option. But one thing is real… once you come to this city you will want to stay! Valencia is perfect for digital nomads and remote workers. The expat community here is very large and you will have no problems making friends and getting along perfectly with English or other languages.
Nightlife in Valencia: The Best Places to Enjoy the Evening
Valencia is known for its nightlife, offering a mix of bars, cocktail lounges, and nightclubs. Prepare yourself to enjoy the different experiences that a city like Valencia has to offer, there are plenty of places to enjoy a night out in this city. Here are some of the best spots to experience the nightlife in Valencia, including how to get there and the price range.
Barrio del Carmen
Barrio del Carmen is one of the most popular areas for nightlife in Valencia. Located in the old town, this neighborhood is full of narrow streets, historic buildings, and a wide variety of bars and clubs. It’s a great place to start your night with a cocktail or two.
How to Get There: Barrio del Carmen is easily accessible by bus (lines 5, 7, and 28) and by metro (lines 1 and 3 to Ángel Guimerà station).
Price Range: Cocktails range from €5 – €10, and beer from €2 – €4.
Radio City
Radio City is a must-visit bar in the heart of Barrio del Carmen. It’s famous for its live music, flamenco shows, and atmosphere. Whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink, Radio City has something for everyone.
How to Get There: It’s located at Carrer de Santa Teresa, 19. You can take the metro to Xàtiva station and walk for about 10 minutes.
Price Range: Drinks here range from €3 – €8.
Café Negrito
Another unique location in Barrio del Carmen is Café Negrito. This bar has a unique outdoor terrace where you can enjoy a variety of cocktails and tapas. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed evening with friends.
How to Get There: Located at Plaça del Negrito, 1. It’s a short walk from Torres de Serranos, which can be reached by bus lines 4, 6, and 8.
Price Range: Cocktails are about €7 – €10, and tapas are €3 – €6.
L’Umbracle Terrace
For a more fancy experience, head to L’Umbracle Terrace. Situated within the City of Arts and Sciences, this rooftop bar offers stunning views and a luxurious ambiance. It’s ideal for enjoying a cocktail while overlooking the futuristic architecture of Valencia.
How to Get There: Located at Av. del Professor López Piñero, 7. Take bus line 95 or 99 to the City of Arts and Sciences stop.
Price Range: Cocktails range from €10 – €15, and entry fees for the club area can be around €15 – €20.
Marina Beach Club
If you prefer a beachside setting, Marina Beach Club is the place to be. This stylish venue offers both daytime and nighttime entertainment with a pool, beach access, and a club area. It’s perfect for those who want to dance with their feet in the sand to enjoy the real summer vibe.
How to Get There: Located at Carrer de la Marina Real Juan Carlos I. You can take bus lines 19, 32, and 92 to the Marina Real stop.
Price Range: Cocktails are priced between €8- €15, and there might be an entry fee of €10 – €20 depending on the event.
Plaza de Canovas
Plaza de Canovas is another public nightlife hub. This area is known for its high concentration of bars and pubs, making it a great place to hop from one spot to another. It’s popular among both locals and tourists.
How to Get There: Plaza de Canovas is accessible by bus lines 2, 19, and 79, and by metro (lines 5 and 7 to Colón station).
H4: Price Range: Drinks in this area typically range from €3 – €8.
Building Connections and Enjoying Nightlife
For those planning a longer stay in Valencia and are not only interested in a one-night out, joining a community like Palma Coliving can be a great way to build connections. Palma Coliving, with one of its locations in Valencia, Villa Huerta, not only provides a comfortable living space but also hosts regular social events and activities that help residents meet new people. These events can be a perfect way to find companions to explore Valencia’s vibrant nightlife together, making the experience even more enjoyable and memorable.
Tips for Enjoying Nightlife in Valencia
- Timing: Most bars in Valencia get busy around 10 PM and clubs start filling up after midnight. Plan your evening accordingly.
- Dress Code: Some more fancy places like L’Umbracle Terrace and Marina Beach Club might have a dress code, so dress smartly.
- Safety: Valencia is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to stay in groups and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Transportation: Night buses run on weekends, making it easier to get around after the metro closes, check here your route for more information.
Valencia’s nightlife offers something for everyone, it doesn’t matter if you prefer a chill evening with cocktails or an active night of dancing. Enjoy the amazing scene of Valencia nightlife and make the most of your time in this city!
So there you have it, friends – everything you need to know to make the most of your digital nomad adventure in Valencia! With stunning beaches, quaint towns, scenic hikes, and bike rides, and endless foodie and cultural experiences, this sunny seaside city has it all. Follow the tips and links in this guide to plan your travels, book tickets, and accommodations, and fill your days with the sights, sounds, and tastes of Spain. And don’t forget to enjoy the community and convenience of Palma Coliving, the perfect home base for digital nomads and slow travelers alike. Valencia is waiting, so pack your bags, grab your laptop, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in this Mediterranean paradise!
