Valencia is a vibrant Mediterranean city on the Spain’s eastern coast. As the capital of the Valencian Community and Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia offers a unique combination of historic heritage, contemporary architecture, culture, gastronomy, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Getting to Valencia

Valencia is well connected by air, rail, road, and public transport, making it easy to reach from Spain and other European destinations. Valencia Airport is located approximately 8 km from the city centre and offers regular connections to major European cities. The airport is linked to the city by metro, bus, and taxi. Valencia is also well served by high-speed rail, with direct connections to Madrid and other major Spanish cities. The main railway station, Estació del Nord, is located in the city centre, while Joaquín Sorolla station serves high-speed trains.

Getting Around

Valencia is a compact and accessible city, making many of its main attractions easy to reach on foot. The city also has an extensive public transport network, including metro, tram, and bus services. Cycling is another convenient way to explore Valencia, with dedicated cycle lanes and routes connecting the city centre, beaches, parks, and major attractions. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also widely available.

Public Transportation

Metro and Tram – Metrovalencia is a modern, safe, and efficient network connecting the city centre with residential areas, the airport, the beaches, and surrounding towns. Services generally operate from early morning until late evening, with extended operating hours on some weekends and public holidays. Valencia Airport is served by Metrovalencia Lines 3 and 5, providing a direct connection with the city centre. Tickets and travel cards can be purchased at metro stations, with ticket machines offering information in several languages.

Buses – The city’s urban bus network is operated by EMT Valencia and provides extensive coverage throughout the city. Services run frequently during the day, with night routes available on selected lines. Many bus stops provide real-time arrival information. Tickets can be purchased on board, while travel cards and multi-journey tickets may offer better value for visitors making several trips.

Taxis – Taxis are widely available throughout Valencia and can be found at designated taxi ranks, major transport hubs, and tourist areas. They can also be booked by telephone or through taxi apps. Official taxis are generally white and operate with a taximeter.

Climate

Valencia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, generally dry summers and mild winters. The city benefits from abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it an attractive destination in every season. Rainfall is generally limited, although autumn can be wetter, with occasional periods of heavy rain.

Language

The official languages of the Valencian Community are Spanish and Valencian (Valencià). English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and other services used by international visitors.

Currency and Payments

The currency is the euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment is available at most hotels, restaurants, shops, and public transport services. ATMs are readily available throughout the city.

Time Zone

Valencia follows Central European Time (CET, GMT+1) during the winter and Central European Summer Time (CEST, GMT+2) during daylight saving time.

Electricity

Spain uses a 230-volt AC electrical supply at 50 Hz. European two-pin plugs are used, with Type C (Europlug) and Type F (Schuko) sockets being standard. Visitors from countries with different plug types will need an appropriate travel adapter.

Public Holidays and Opening Hours

Shops, museums, restaurants, and public services may have different opening hours, particularly on Sundays and public holidays. Visitors are advised to check opening times in advance, especially when planning visits to museums, attractions, and public institutions.

Medical Care and Emergency Services

Valencia offers a comprehensive network of public and private healthcare services, including hospitals, clinics, and medical centres. The European emergency number 112 provides free access to emergency services, including medical assistance, police, and fire services. Hotels can generally assist guests in arranging medical care or contacting a doctor. Holders of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may access medically necessary public healthcare under the applicable conditions. Private healthcare and international medical insurance services are also widely available.

Accessibility

Valencia is increasingly accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with accessible public transport, pedestrian areas, hotels, attractions, and other visitor services available throughout the city. Specific accessibility requirements should be confirmed with individual venues and service providers in advance.

Security

Valencia is generally considered a safe destination for visitors. As in any major tourist city, travellers should take normal precautions and remain aware of their belongings, particularly in crowded areas, on public transport, and around major tourist attractions. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited by law in public transport and enclosed public spaces in Spain. Additional restrictions may apply in certain outdoor areas, depending on current legislation. Visitors should follow local signage and venue-specific regulations.

Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory in Spain, but it is appreciated when service has been good. In restaurants and bars, a tip of around 5–10% may be left for satisfactory service, although there is no fixed rule. In taxis, tipping is not generally expected, but rounding up the fare is common.

VAT and Tax-Free Shopping

Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in the prices displayed in shops, restaurants, and other businesses. Visitors who reside outside the European Union may be eligible for a VAT refund on qualifying purchases made at participating retailers. Tax-free shopping is subject to specific conditions and procedures, so eligible visitors should ask the retailer about the applicable process and retain the required documentation.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Spain is part of the Schengen Area, which comprises 29 European countries with no routine internal border controls between participating states. Visa requirements depend on your nationality, the purpose and duration of your stay, and your individual circumstances. Citizens of EU and EEA countries and Switzerland generally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Visitors from other countries may require a Schengen visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Participants are responsible for checking the entry and visa requirements applicable to their nationality before travelling.

Visa Applications

If you require a visa to attend the conference, we strongly recommend starting the application process as early as possible. Visa appointments and processing times can vary considerably depending on the country and consulate. Please note that the conference organisers are unable to expedite visa appointments, influence consular decisions, or intervene in the visa application process. Participants are solely responsible for submitting their applications, providing the required documentation, and following up with the relevant embassy or consulate.

The conference organisers can provide appropriate supporting documentation for registered participants where applicable, but this does not guarantee the issuance of a visa.

Travel Documents

All international visitors must carry valid travel and identification documents when entering Spain. Depending on nationality, this may include a valid passport, visa, residence permit, or other required documentation. Before travelling, participants are advised to check the latest entry requirements and ensure that their travel documents meet the applicable validity requirements.

For more information check the following pages:
https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/seul/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/inicio.aspx
https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/seul/ko/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Condiciones-de-entrada-en-Espana.aspx
https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/index.html