About Immersion in Valencia

Historic home to paella, war hero El Cid, the supposed real Holy Grail and the famously raucous Las Fallas festival, Valencia is one of Spain's most visited cities. Plus, these days a city-wide cultural renaissance has rejuvenated the city's atmosphere and given it even more claims to fame!

Its population - totaling approximately 800,000 - is a happy bunch, which probably has a little something to do with living in a historic yet modern city that boasts great weather, fantastic food and seemingy endless things to do and see. Along with the beach Valencia is a city packed with historic sights ranging from the tight alleyways of the Cármen neighborhood to original city gates dating back centuries, an impressive Gothic cathedral and the incredible castle-like Silk Exchange.

While Valencia without a doubt celebrates its history, it's a city that also likes to be on the cutting edge. The result? An eclectic yet harmonious mix of new and old, of traditional and modern. Beautifully-kept parks grace the cityscape, where you'll also find a funky moderniste-style market, a modern port and the massive City of Arts and Sciences. Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, it's one of Spain's most visited attractions and boasts a top-notch opera house, an interactive science museum that wows visitors of all ages and one of the world's largest aquariums.

Between the weather, the beach, the parks and the compact city center, valencianos spend a huge chunk of their time out and about on the streets strolling, socializing and just having a good time. All of these factors - especially when added to the historical, cultural and tourist sights - make for an excellent destination for a linguistic and cultural immersion program abroad. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Spain's intriguing "renaissance city" while enjoying the beach, hitting up the nightlife and - of course! - improving your Spanish by leaps and bounds. After all, studies only comprise one part of a study abroad experience; travel and having fun are two major pluses and Valencia will not disappoint!