Valencia is the third largest city in Spain with a population of approximately 1 million people. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it enjoys a privileged climate and 322 days of sunshine per year. It does not endure the severe winters of the north or the high summer temperatures of the south. Valencia's geographical location makes it an exceptional place with an annual average temperature of 18ºC. The coast of Valencia is 485 Km in length of which more than half are the highest quality beaches in the littoral

The European Union has granted it 82 blue flags in 2001, a far superior number from other Communities in the peninsula. Its candidature to the Cultural Capital of Europe title in 2001 is justified by its history and rich heritage. This 2000-year-old city has been enriched by the presence of Iberians, Carthaginians, Romans, Muslims, and Christians. Numerous monuments are preserved in its historical centre, such as the Cathedral and its tower, the Miguelete (Valencia's emblem). The Miguelete took this name from one of its bells, the Marques de Dos Aguas Palace (today this is national Ceramic Museum). The city doors, Serrano tower, Torre de Quart (the old prison), the old silk merchant gallery (the only one in Europe), and it fantastic market all give testimony to Valencia's varied influences. The old traditions are maintained through the numerous festivals that take place throughout the year in the city and surrounding towns. Without a doubt the Fallas festivals, a unique and universal festivity that no one should miss, are a high point of the year.

Valencia's numerous parks, palm trees, and gardens make it a city full of life and colour. Its infrastructure is well developed. The international airport offers direct connections to every major city in the world. Its network of highways links Valencia directly to any other city in Spain. Its port, one of the major ports in Spain, invites you to short escapes to Ibiza and Mallorca by the ferryboats. We should not forget Valencia's world-renown gastronomy, specially the Paella dish. It also has excellent fruits. The citric fruits are of particular importance, making up a total of 80% of the national production. It produces legume, a great variety of fish, shellfish, and excellent wines. Finally, Valencia offers you the ideal conditions to know the country and its culture, to meet its people, and of course to learn Spanish.