Making the Most of Your Mid-Term Stay
An express guide to getting the most out of Valencia.
By Isabella — October 7, 2025
You took the leap! You did it — you finally took the leap and touched down in Valencia (well, probably Madrid, but that didn’t sound as catchy). Now, you’re headed to a new neighbourhood, disorientated, jet lagged, overwhelmed… but then, you remember! You found your ideal mid-term rental through Stepping Stone Rentals, and it’s waiting for you on arrival!
Fast forward a week, and you’re getting your bearings, starting to feel at home and loving your wonderful apartment (and helpful rental managers). So now it’s time to get into what this post is really about — how to make the most out of your mid-term stay in Valencia.
Many of you that choose to trust in Stepping Stone Rentals are looking for a lily pad to land on — a trial period or a smooth transition into life in Valencia (or the surroundings) — so knowing how to maximise that experience can be the key to setting up your life here in the best way. Or, figuring out what is right for you, finding your communities, activities, interests… There are a lot of things we can’t find for you — like your favourite spot for una tostada y café con leche — there are just some things you have to figure out on your own.
Buuut… there are a few things we can recommend.
1. Finding a Language Academy That’s Right for You
What better way to make the most of your stay than immersing yourself in the language? Of course, in Valencia, you’ll encounter plenty of Valenciano, but diving into Spanish classes is a great place to start. Your 50-day streak on Duolingo isn’t going to cut it when you experience your first face-to-face with Spanish bureaucracy.
Aside from the obvious reasons, joining a Spanish academy is one of the keys to making the most of your stay. Not only will you gain confidence, vocabulary, and the ability to chat with neighbours and get involved in conversations, but it’s also a great way to give some structure to your new life that might feel a little up in the air. Sometimes, having endless options can become overwhelming, and giving yourself some responsibilities can help you feel productive and grounded. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people and start to build a social circle.
Recommended Language Schools:
Or, visit Visit Valencia for a full list of language academies.
2. Setting Up Your Social Framework
Another great way to make the most of your stay is to throw yourself into creating your own social framework. The key is to make what you want of it. For my fellow introverts — you might not like the sound of a silent disco tour through El Carmen with 20 strangers, but to others, that’s their ideal Thursday afternoon. The point is, you can find what’s right for you — and luckily there are plenty of options to suit almost anyone.
One of the easiest ways to connect is through Facebook groups and by keeping an eye on what’s coming up through pages like Visit Valencia or our Stepping Stone Instagram!
Some great groups to check out:
- IWC Valencia — brings together women from over 45 countries, hosting weekly activities, monthly coffee meetings, brunches, and cultural excursions. They’re also great for recommendations — from Spanish teachers to coffee spots or even advice on insurance, banking, and dog sitters.
- Valencia Excursions — small group trips to local gems like the Hanging Bridges of Chulilla, the Roman Aqueduct of Peña Cortada, the thermal waters of Montanejos, and the caves of Bocairent.
3. Becoming a “Regular”
This is the advanced step — where you become the one making the recommendations. Your local bar, café, market, beach, or favourite paella spot (Casa Navarro, FYI — in my opinion 😉). Depending on how long you have, your go-to places will change, but when you start to build your own list of favourites, that’s when you know you’re really settling in.
Becoming a “regular” in your local gym, café, or greengrocer helps you understand the rhythm of the city, build relationships with locals, and feel more at home no matter where you are.
This is your turn now — I can’t give you many recommendations here. But trust me, this is a crucial step in understanding where is right for you. Most people find that Valencia is exactly that — the right place for them. Creating your own routines, habits, and lifestyle is a great way to make the most of your stay.
For all enquiries, visit our contact page.
