Valencia: green city to study?
Valencia, known for its sunny beaches and delicious paella, now boasts a new title: Green Capital of Europe. This distinction not only highlights the city's commitment to sustainability, but also makes it an even more attractive destination for international students. Let's explore what makes Valencia a unique city and why it might be the perfect place for your exchange.
A sustainable urban oasis
Valencia is not only a beautiful city, but also an example of sustainable urban planning. With 5 million square meters of green spaces, the city offers its residents and visitors an exceptional quality of life. Imagine studying in a place where:
- 97% of residents live less than 300 meters from a large green area
- The Turia Natural Park, an old riverbed transformed into a park, crosses the city for 9 km
- The famous Mediterranean beaches are just a short stroll away.
This green infrastructure not only improves quality of life, but also provides numerous opportunities for students in areas such as urban planning, the environment, and sustainability.
Sustainable mobility and active lifestyle
Valencia is a paradise for cyclists and pedestrians, making it ideal for students seeking a healthy and affordable lifestyle. The city invested heavily in:
- Expansion of bike lanes, increasing them by more than 50%
- Implementation of a public bicycle system
- Expansion of the metro network
- Creation of more areas for pedestrians
Not only do these initiatives make the city more enjoyable, but they also provide practical opportunities for engineering, urban planning, and sustainable mobility students.
Local and sustainable cuisine
For food lovers, Valencia is a dream. The city is surrounded by La Huerta, an area of more than 120 km² of orchards and vegetable gardens. That means:
- Access to fresh, local fruits and vegetables
- Opportunity to try the famous rice in the Valencian paella
- Explore the Central Market, a treasure trove of modernist architecture and local products
Students of gastronomy, nutrition or sustainable agriculture will find in Valencia a living laboratory for their studies. Ao Study and Work in Spain, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in this unique and sustainable food culture.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite its advances, Valencia faces challenges that may be interesting for students:
- Tourism management: The city seeks to balance tourism growth with sustainability
- Traditions vs. sustainability: The Las Fallas festival is adapting to be more ecological
- Politics and environment: Changes in local administration bring debates about environmental policies
- Port expansion: Discussions about how to expand the port while maintaining sustainable practices
- Use of technology: Implementation of “heat maps” to manage the flow of tourists
These challenges offer unique opportunities for students from diverse fields, from political science to information technology.
Best time to visit or study
Valencia has a pleasant Mediterranean climate all year round. However, to make the most of green spaces and beaches, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal. The Las Fallas festival in March is a unique cultural experience, but remember that the city is packed during this time.
Be Easy
Ready to be part of Valencia's green revolution? A Be Easy Exchange can help you make that dream a reality. Our exchange programs in Spain provide the perfect opportunity for you to study in one of the most sustainable cities in Europe, while experiencing a rich and vibrant culture. Contact us today and start planning your educational journey in Valencia, where sustainability and tradition meet!
