After living in the Valencian Community for six months, I’ve noticed many newcomers aren’t familiar with the urban layout of this region, including the Valencia Football Club. Today I’m putting together an overview of the main cities in the Valencian Community, hoping it helps everyone.
Overview of the Valencian Community
The Valencian Community is located on Spain’s eastern Mediterranean coast and is the country’s fourth-largest autonomous region. The entire region is divided into three provinces: Valencia, Alicante, and Castellón. Each province has its own distinctive cities, with mild climates that make them very suitable for living.
Main Cities by Province
The table below lists the main cities and population figures for the three provinces:
| Province | Capital City | Major Cities | Approximate Population |
|---|
| Valencia | Valencia | Torrent, Gandía, Sagunto | 790,000 |
| Alicante | Alicante | Elche, Orihuela, Torrevieja | 330,000 |
| Castellón | Castellón | Villarreal, Benicàssim | 170,000 |
Cities Worth Noting
Valencia city, as the regional capital, is Spain’s third-largest city and features landmarks like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Oceanogràfic. When comparing Valencia and Barcelona, you’ll find each has unique characteristics. Alicante is close to the airport with excellent transport links and beautiful beaches. Castellón is relatively smaller but has lower living costs, ideal for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle.
Elche is famous for its palm groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Torrevieja is a popular coastal resort city where many Northern Europeans choose to retire. Gandía’s beaches are particularly lively in summer, attracting many young people.
Living Recommendations
If you’re considering moving to the Valencian Community, including areas near the Valencia City Stadium, I recommend determining your work location first. Rent is expensive in big cities - actually, rents are rising across all cities now. Valencia and Alicante offer relatively more job opportunities, but smaller cities have a slower pace of life with their own advantages.
Regarding transportation, the three provincial capitals are connected by intercity trains, and driving along the A7 highway is very convenient. Most cities are close to the coast, so you can head to the beach anytime on weekends.
Each city in the Valencian Community has its own character - where you choose to settle mainly depends on your personal needs. Feel free to share your own living experiences in these cities.
