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FACTS IN VALENCIA

People on a crowded street

One fact concerning Valencia is that the city centre can become very crowded. Depending upon the day of the week or the time of day, tourists flock to this once best kept secret location.

The season also makes a big difference, as do major events such as the Fallas. Beyond the visitors, some 830,000 people live in Spain’s third largest city after Madrid and Barcelona.

The daytime population of the city increases a little during the week with a daily influx of commuters arriving by train or car from outlying towns and villages. Trade fairs and congresses also attract professionals from across the country and overseas.

The city’s universities also play a role in local demographics. The higher educational institutions attract students from near anf far, especially the EU. located in the city.

Some 350,000 cars are registered in Valencia with both locals and commuters contributing to busy thoroughfares at times. Emergency services in the city are highly efficient and respond quickly to incidents requiring medical attention.

Valencia is a dynamic economic centre and is focussing on various innovative commercial areas such as climate change and sustainability. A notable, local entrepreneurial spirit has already resulted in a number of successful startups.

Beyond it’s famous oranges and other citrus exports, the automotive industry plays a highly important economic role. Valencia is also developing into a major telecommunications centre.

Expats are also blessed by Valencia’s characteristics. One of the world’s healthier locations benefits from a low ecological footprint, over 7 hours of sun each day, average daytime temperatures of almost 23º and air purified by the sea and the city’s expansive foliage. Improved wellbeing and a long life expectancy are the result. Presumably happiness or contentment too.

By Vincent Green, Mar 25 2024

WALKING IN VALENCIA

Walking in Valencia reveals a compact city centre that is pleasing on the eye, with architecture from many periods. The expansive beach invites with its smooth sand and distant horizon. The Turia offers greenery, blossoms and shade on hot summer days.

Mountainous scene

HIKING IN VALENCIA

Hiking and trekking in the Valencia region is initially a matter of transport. Areas of interest for hiking are some 60 kilometres and more away from the city. They include Calles, Chelva, Navajas, Xativa, Chulilla and Montanejo.

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GOING OUT

It's easy for international residents to feel spoilt for choice when going out. Cafes, tapas bars, restaurants, bistros, bars, pubs, speciality and horchaterias are all in abundance.

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PARKS

A green lung skirts the northern
and eastern flanks of the inner city.
It is by far the main attraction.
The former bed of the river Turia has become a vast park several kilometres
in length.

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